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.

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.