News & Views

Global markets strengthened this week as easing inflation expectations and resilient earnings supported risk sentiment. The UK Budget dominated headlines, while commodities gained and central banks highlighted emerging financial-stability risks. Geopolitical cooperation also advanced, contributing to a more balanced outlook as investors assess momentum heading into 2026.

Markets strengthened in October as the Federal Reserve’s first rate cut of the year and resilient global growth supported sentiment. While the Bank of England and ECB held policy steady amid persistent inflation, equities rose broadly, led by strong gains in tech-driven Asian markets. Healthcare and Technology outperformed on continued demand for AI and biotech innovation, reinforcing momentum across growth sectors.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

Rate Cuts, Rebounds, and Renewed Optimism Markets gained in August as global equities rose and the Balanced portfolio Index added 0.27%. The BoE cut rates to 4.00%, while the Fed and ECB held steady. Denmark rebounded 5.03%, and Colombia surged 9.7% amid easing inflation and election optimism. Latin America benefited from strong commodities, while India fell on new US tariffs. Diversification and nimble positioning paid off.