News & Views

Markets rallied in July 2025 as trade tensions eased and central banks diverged in policy direction. A new US–EU tariff agreement boosted investor confidence, while global equities surged—led by Hong Kong and Thailand. Despite inflationary pressures, diversified portfolios benefited from strong sector performance in Financials and Technology.

Markets showed mixed signals last week, as investor optimism clashed with rising inflation and geopolitical unease. Tech-heavy US indices saw gains on central bank reassurance, while UK inflation and European trade tensions tempered global confidence. With earnings season heating up and key central bank meetings on the horizon, this week is set to test the resilience of markets - and policy makers alike.

In this week’s Clevers Market Review, we look at how global markets reacted to rising trade tensions and central bank commentary. Industrials led gains in a shortened trading week, while food inflation climbed in the UK amid extreme weather. We also cover key geopolitical developments, Nestlé’s ESG initiative, and what to watch in the week ahead as tariff deadlines and economic data releases loom.

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.

IMarkets rallied following a shift in U.S. trade rhetoric, boosting equities across the board. This week’s review explores the impact of easing tensions, inflation expectations, and central bank commentary. We also highlight major moves in commodities, ESG investment news from United Airlines, and the latest geopolitical developments involving Ukraine and Russia. Get insights into what’s ahead for markets with GDP and inflation data due in the coming days.

Global markets stumbled in March amid rising inflation expectations and renewed trade tensions. The Balanced portfolio returned -2.09% as U.S. tariffs sparked fears of a trade war, prompting caution among investors. While Europe cut interest rates and inflation cooled slightly in the UK, pressure remains on central banks. Equity markets were volatile, with tech and key Asian markets underperforming, while some financial sectors showed resilience.

Markets trended sideways in February amid rising inflation and geopolitical uncertainty. The Balanced portfolio returned -0.37% as UK and EU rate cuts contrasted with the US Fed’s cautious stance. Inflation rose across regions, with UK CPI hitting 3.00% and the ECB reassuring that disinflation remains on track. While developed and emerging markets showed mixed performance, China led gains. Volatility persists, but history suggests potential progress as the year unfolds.