News & Views

Chancellor Rachel Reeves delivered the 2025 Budget, stating “We are rebuilding our economy.” The plan raises £26bn by 2029/30, expands fiscal headroom, and keeps Labour’s tax pledges. Forecasts show modest growth and falling inflation. Measures include frozen tax thresholds, ISA changes, higher wages, business incentives, housing investment, NHS upgrades, and new duties on vehicles, tobacco and gaming.

Markets softened last week as investors faced delayed US economic data, cautious central-bank signals and ongoing adjustment after November’s pullback. UK and US equities declined, with tech and growth names under pressure. Commodities were mixed, while geopolitical talks and COP30 outcomes added to a complex backdrop. Attention now turns to upcoming inflation releases, PMIs and policy updates across major regions.

Global markets began November on a cautiously positive note as resilient earnings, easing trade tensions, and stable inflation supported risk appetite. Equities advanced across regions, led by U.S. technology shares and improving eurozone sentiment. In the UK, focus turned to the upcoming Bank of England meeting and November Budget, with investors weighing potential policy easing against tighter fiscal guidance. Overall, sentiment improved as growth and inflation appeared to

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.