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 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.

Markets gained ground last week, led by tech stocks as nVidia's earnings impressed. Despite a dip in U.S. GDP, investor sentiment held firm amid tame inflation data and rising consumer spending. In Europe, ECB speculation stirred debate, while escalating U.S.-China trade tensions returned to the spotlight. Plus, Google backs a major ESG water-saving project. Here's your essential market breakdown for the week ending 2nd June 2025.

Trade tensions dominated headlines this week as President Trump extended EU tariff talks amid threats of a 50% levy. UK markets remained resilient despite sharp inflation rises, while US indices fell on renewed economic concerns. Plus: Meta’s latest renewable energy deal, a surge in silver prices, and new military developments in South Asia.

Markets rallied this week with gains in the Nasdaq 100 and S&P 500, while the Dow dipped slightly. Moody’s downgraded the US credit rating amid concerns over rising debt. Inflation showed modest signs of easing, though uncertainty remains. The ECB may cut rates as trade tensions pose risks, while New York launched a $1 billion climate initiative. Wheat prices rose on favorable weather, and trade negotiations remain a key focus.

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.