News & Views

This week in ESG: Microsoft doubles down on sustainability with new investments in regenerative agriculture and green cement, while OMV greenlights one of Europe’s largest hydrogen plants. Meanwhile, TotalEnergies powers up its biggest solar project yet in Spain—delivering clean energy to over 150,000 households.

Markets gained ground last week, led by tech stocks as nVidia's earnings impressed. Despite a dip in U.S. GDP, investor sentiment held firm amid tame inflation data and rising consumer spending. In Europe, ECB speculation stirred debate, while escalating U.S.-China trade tensions returned to the spotlight. Plus, Google backs a major ESG water-saving project. Here's your essential market breakdown for the week ending 2nd June 2025.

Trade tensions dominated headlines this week as President Trump extended EU tariff talks amid threats of a 50% levy. UK markets remained resilient despite sharp inflation rises, while US indices fell on renewed economic concerns. Plus: Meta’s latest renewable energy deal, a surge in silver prices, and new military developments in South Asia.

Discover how leading global brands like Microsoft, Google, Air New Zealand, and L’Oréal are stepping up their sustainability commitments—through carbon removal, climate targets, and green innovation.

Markets rallied this week with gains in the Nasdaq 100 and S&P 500, while the Dow dipped slightly. Moody’s downgraded the US credit rating amid concerns over rising debt. Inflation showed modest signs of easing, though uncertainty remains. The ECB may cut rates as trade tensions pose risks, while New York launched a $1 billion climate initiative. Wheat prices rose on favorable weather, and trade negotiations remain a key focus.

This week’s ESG highlights include Converge’s $22 million push to decarbonise concrete using AI, Microsoft’s landmark biochar carbon removal agreement and sustainability tools for Azure users, and FedEx’s first large-scale U.S. investment in sustainable aviation fuel.

Discover how leading global brands like Microsoft, Google, Air New Zealand, and L’Oréal are stepping up their sustainability commitments—through carbon removal, climate targets, and green innovation.

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.

In this week’s ESG in 5, Microsoft takes the lead with two major sustainability deals—boosting sustainable aviation fuel and carbon removal efforts. Viking Cruises unveils plans for the world’s first hydrogen-powered cruise ship, and TotalEnergies expands its global renewable energy footprint with acquisitions across Europe, Africa, and Canada. Stay informed with the latest ESG and sustainability news highlights.

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.