News & Views

Markets moved higher over the week as investor sentiment improved across both UK and US equities. Gains were supported by renewed appetite for risk assets, although investors continued to monitor inflation pressures, higher energy prices and ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. The week also highlighted the growing economic importance of climate-related disruption, with the UK heatwave adding pressure on infrastructure, public services and household costs.

Markets delivered another constructive week overall, with technology stocks continuing to lead gains as investor sentiment improved across US equities. Political developments in the UK, inflation concerns across Europe, and ongoing geopolitical tensions surrounding Iran and the Strait of Hormuz remained key drivers for markets, while central banks continued to signal a cautious approach toward interest rates amid persistent inflationary pressures.

Global markets continued to show resilience over the past week, with equities moving higher and investor sentiment improving despite ongoing geopolitical tensions and persistent inflation pressures. Strength in US markets, particularly within technology, helped drive gains, while commodities remained elevated amid supply concerns. At the same time, central banks maintained a cautious stance, reinforcing expectations that interest rates may stay higher for longer as policymake

Markets began March with a firmer tone, as improving risk appetite supported UK equities and a rebound in technology shares, even as geopolitical tensions in the Middle East introduced fresh uncertainty. Alongside steady disinflation trends in the US and renewed volatility in commodity markets, this week’s developments highlight the delicate balance between economic resilience and evolving global risks.

Global markets navigated a mixed week as investors balanced resilient UK equity performance against softer US returns and persistent inflation pressures. Fresh US inflation data reinforced the view that price growth remains above target, while central bank commentary signalled a continued data-dependent approach to policy. Meanwhile, shifts in US sustainability regulation and renewed diplomatic developments in the Middle East added further layers to an already complex global

Global markets moved cautiously higher in mid-January as investors weighed resilient economic data against persistent inflation, policy uncertainty and geopolitical risks. UK equities outperformed, while US gains were modest and uneven, with technology stocks lagging. Inflation dynamics, central-bank independence and safe-haven demand remained in focus, while upcoming inflation data and business surveys are set to shape expectations for monetary policy in the weeks ahead.

2025 was marked by shifting policy, geopolitical tension and rapid changes in investor sentiment. While easing inflation and cautious rate cuts supported markets, trade tensions repeatedly triggered volatility. Sharp sell-offs—most notably in April following US tariff announcements—were followed by swift recoveries, underscoring market resilience. The year reinforced the value of diversification, discipline and a long-term approach as leadership rotated across regions, sector

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.

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.