News & Views

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 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 showed mixed signals last week, as investor optimism clashed with rising inflation and geopolitical unease. Tech-heavy US indices saw gains on central bank reassurance, while UK inflation and European trade tensions tempered global confidence. With earnings season heating up and key central bank meetings on the horizon, this week is set to test the resilience of markets - and policy makers alike.

This week’s review highlights a mixed performance across major markets, a surprise GDP dip in the UK, moderating U.S. inflation, and central bank caution. We also explore key ESG developments, including big tech's nuclear energy pledge, and rising geopolitical tensions as Trump prepares peace talks with Putin. Plus, what to watch ahead of key Fed and Bank of England decisions.