News & Views

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.

Markets ended August on a cautious note as inflation remained a key theme across regions. UK services costs stayed elevated, while US data showed cooling headline inflation but persistent core pressures. The eurozone held steady with balanced price signals. Central banks signalled a slower pace of easing, and commodity prices edged higher. ESG and trade developments added to the mix as investors look ahead to September.

Global equities steadied last week as investors balanced Powell’s cautious Jackson Hole remarks with stronger US manufacturing data and stubborn UK inflation. We review the latest market moves, policy signals, commodity trends, ESG updates, and geopolitical shifts shaping sentiment heading into September.

Global markets in July showed resilience but faced sharp volatility. Strong earnings and steady growth lifted equities in the U.S., UK, Eurozone, and Japan, yet trade tensions, rising public debt, and mixed inflation created uncertainty. Bond yields climbed, currencies weakened in key regions, and late-month policy concerns reminded investors how quickly sentiment can shift.

Markets gained on fresh trade optimism, while central banks signalled a cautious stance on further rate cuts. ESG headlines saw major investment in green hydrogen, and geopolitical tensions with China remain in focus. All eyes now turn to earnings season and the ECB’s next move.

Markets climbed last week as the Nasdaq 100 led gains and US job growth beat expectations. Trump’s rare earth agreement with China, the ECB’s rate cut, and a UK inflation data blunder also made headlines. Meanwhile, Japan’s Nippon Steel unveiled a massive investment to cut steel emissions. Here’s what to know and what’s coming next.

Markets gained in May 2025 despite confusion over U.S. tariffs. A brief pause sparked optimism, with Austria and Taiwan surging, but legal wrangling quickly clouded the outlook. Meanwhile, the Bank of England cut interest rates again, the Fed held steady amid inflation concerns, and global sectors like tech and financials led the charge. Read the full review to unpack this complex investment landscape.