News & Views

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

Global markets entered November amid a delicate balancing act, as central banks held interest rates steady while inflation continued to ease but remained above target. Investors navigated mixed economic signals, sharp regional divergences, and a clear rotation in sector leadership, with defensive areas gaining favour as technology stocks lagged. In this uncertain environment, diversified portfolios showed resilience, highlighting the value of balance during a period of policy

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.

June 2025 saw strong market gains driven by a temporary US-Israel-Iran ceasefire, easing inflation, and tech sector outperformance. While the ECB cut rates, the Bank of England and Federal Reserve held steady amid persistent inflation. Norway and Korea led regional gains, with technology driving sector performance. Despite optimism, mixed signals from trade policy and inflation trends underline the need for a diversified investment approach. Read the full monthly market revie

Markets retreated this week amid rising geopolitical tensions, with only the FTSE 100 posting gains. Trump and Starmer signed a partial UK–US trade deal at the G7, while the ECB and BoE signalled caution amid inflation concerns. Oil prices rose on Middle East escalation. Meanwhile, Lululemon deepened its ESG commitment through a new recycled materials deal.

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.

Interest rate cuts in the UK and Europe, U.S. trade tensions, and shifting inflation trends shaped a volatile April. Discover how markets and sectors responded.

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.