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 opened September with mixed results, as UK equities inched higher while U.S. indices diverged. Commodities strengthened on supply risks and central bank policy expectations, while UK housing and inflation developments added to uncertainty. Investors now turn to key inflation data, GDP figures, and central bank decisions in the week ahead.

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.