Global markets slipped last week as renewed U.S.–China trade tensions and cautious central bank signals weighed on sentiment. The White House’s sweeping new tariffs reignited inflation concerns, while gold hit record highs on safe-haven demand and oil fell on weaker growth prospects. With policymakers striking a measured tone and key economic data ahead, investors are watching for fresh clues on inflation and global momentum.

lobal decarbonisation efforts gained pace this week as Microsoft and Amazon advanced major renewable energy deals, Barclays backed innovative carbon removal, and Germany launched a €7 billion industrial emissions plan. ESG data firm Diginex also expanded its sustainability intelligence through the acquisition of Matter, highlighting growing demand for transparent climate reporting.

Global markets opened October on firmer ground, led by UK equities and record highs in precious metals. While U.S. gains were steadier, renewed political tension in Europe and volatile oil prices kept investors cautious. Inflation in the euro area edged above target, reinforcing expectations that central banks will hold steady as markets navigate a delicate start to the fourth quarter.

This week shows ESG in action across data, supply chains, climate tech, infrastructure, and finance — from IBM’s emissions tools to Brineworks’ frontier carbon capture, with corporates like Levi’s and Amazon turning pledges into practical initiatives

Markets ended September with diverging performances, as UK equities outpaced global peers while U.S. indices split between industrial strength and tech weakness. Safe-haven demand lifted gold to new records, while oil prices fluctuated on supply headlines. Central bankers struck a cautious tone, with the Bank of England signalling confidence in disinflation and the ECB describing inflation as “reasonably benign.”

Global markets diverged last week as U.S. equities gained while UK shares slipped. The Bank of England held rates steady and slowed QT, Eurozone inflation stayed at target, and the ECB hinted at a “contingency cut.” Gold hit record highs, oil prices firmed, and Climate Week NYC drew record participation. Looking ahead, investors eye U.S. GDP and PCE data, UK flash PMIs, and Germany’s Ifo survey for fresh signals.

From nutrition and net zero to sustainable AI, this week’s ESG in 5 highlights how global leaders are turning bold commitments into measurable impact. PepsiCo is advancing its pep+ strategy, Microsoft and Rolls-Royce are cutting carbon with low-emission fuels, and Sustainability Magazine has named the world’s top 250 sustainable companies. New initiatives from the Rainforest Alliance and Land O’Lakes show how agriculture is tackling climate and food waste.

Markets rallied as inflation concerns eased and central banks held steady. UK retailers warned of rising food prices ahead of the autumn Budget, while US inflation hit its fastest pace this year. The ECB kept rates unchanged amid mixed signals, and the EU simplified sustainability reporting rules. With key data releases ahead, investor focus remains on policy direction and economic resilience across regions.

Netflix turns to forests, Microsoft bets on nuclear, and a Dutch pension fund pulls $34B in mandates over weak ESG integration. With new sustainability tech deals and fresh certification standards for coffee, ESG momentum is driving change across finance, energy, and agriculture.

Markets opened September with mixed results, as UK equities inched higher while U.S. indices diverged. Commodities strengthened on supply risks and central bank policy expectations, while UK housing and inflation developments added to uncertainty. Investors now turn to key inflation data, GDP figures, and central bank decisions in the week ahead.