News & Views

From nutrition and net zero to sustainable AI, this week’s ESG in 5 highlights how global leaders are turning bold commitments into measurable impact. PepsiCo is advancing its pep+ strategy, Microsoft and Rolls-Royce are cutting carbon with low-emission fuels, and Sustainability Magazine has named the world’s top 250 sustainable companies. New initiatives from the Rainforest Alliance and Land O’Lakes show how agriculture is tackling climate and food waste.

Markets soared following a breakthrough ceasefire, while inflation and GDP revisions kept investors on edge. In ESG, major players like Microsoft and Coldplay made bold climate commitments. Discover this week’s key market moves and sustainability headlines in under 5 minutes.

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.