News & Views

This week’s Weekly Market Review highlights a more cautious tone across global markets as equities moved lower amid rising geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. We also look at the unexpected rise in Eurozone inflation, the sharp surge in oil prices driven by concerns around energy supply routes, and the latest policy signals from central banks. In addition, we explore the EU’s new long-term emissions target and the key economic data releases investors will be watching i

2025 was a strong year for global equities, with most major regions delivering double-digit returns. Asia ex-Japan led on AI-driven tech gains and China stimulus, while Europe benefited from ECB rate cuts and Germany’s €500bn investment plan. Japan attracted foreign inflows following policy normalisation and corporate reform. Despite tariff volatility, resilient earnings and easing monetary policy supported positive returns across North America and the UK.

2025 marked an inflection point for the global economy. Markets navigated geopolitical tension, US trade shocks and political uncertainty, yet proved resilient amid easing monetary policy, strong earnings and AI enthusiasm. Volatility peaked around April’s tariff turmoil before a broad recovery took hold. As growth slows modestly into 2026, investors face a world shaped by shifting alliances, technological transformation and persistent uncertainty—where discipline, perspectiv

Recent trade tensions between the United States and China triggered brief market turbulence following new tariff and export control announcements. Despite initial volatility, conciliatory statements from both sides have calmed investor sentiment, with markets showing signs of stabilisation and optimism for future dialogue—particularly ahead of the APEC Summit.

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.