News & Views

Markets delivered a mixed performance last week, with UK and US equities diverging as tech weakness weighed on major indices. Key regulatory, inflation and commodities news shaped sentiment, while central-bank commentary and progress on ESG and global climate negotiations added to the macro backdrop. Ahead, investors look to key data releases in the US, UK and Eurozone for clearer signals on year-end momentum.

This week’s ESG highlights reflect growing accountability and innovation in sustainability. Airlines pledge to curb greenwashing after EU scrutiny, while HSBC reinforces its net-zero goals. IKEA launches a major forest restoration project, Morocco commits to ending coal power by 2040, and Shell and Mitsubishi invest in carbon capture startup Avnos—signalling progress toward a more transparent, low-carbon global economy.

Global markets ended the week subdued as investors weighed mixed economic data and shifting central bank signals. U.S. equities led declines amid rising yields and tech weakness, while the FTSE 100 was steadier, supported by defensives. Commodities strengthened, with gold near record highs. As inflation eases and rate cuts loom for 2026, markets remain cautious ahead of key data releases.

Global climate action gained momentum this week as Microsoft signed a major carbon-removal deal, Heineken unveiled a renewable heat project in Portugal, and Google expanded its clean-energy investments. Meta boosted its solar portfolio in Texas, while Brazil cut Amazon deforestation to an 11-year low — a strong signal of progress ahead of COP30.

Global markets began November on a cautiously positive note as resilient earnings, easing trade tensions, and stable inflation supported risk appetite. Equities advanced across regions, led by U.S. technology shares and improving eurozone sentiment. In the UK, focus turned to the upcoming Bank of England meeting and November Budget, with investors weighing potential policy easing against tighter fiscal guidance. Overall, sentiment improved as growth and inflation appeared to

Global markets advanced in September 2025 as the Fed cut rates for the first time this year, while the BoE and ECB held steady. Strong performances in commodities and China-focused sectors powered broad equity gains, with the Netherlands and Peru leading the way. Despite persistent inflation, improving sentiment and policy support lifted the Balanced portfolio Index by 1.58%, signalling renewed investor confidence.

Renewable energy has surpassed coal globally for the first time, marking a major milestone in the clean energy transition. Across sectors, companies are accelerating climate action—from Siemens and Airbus decarbonising UK sites to Google launching carbon reporting for advertisers. Meanwhile, sport and business partnerships, including Liverpool FC, Real Betis, Mars, and Cargill, are embedding sustainability into their core operations.

Recent trade tensions between the United States and China triggered brief market turbulence following new tariff and export control announcements. Despite initial volatility, conciliatory statements from both sides have calmed investor sentiment, with markets showing signs of stabilisation and optimism for future dialogue—particularly ahead of the APEC Summit.

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.