-
US equities remain near all-time highs despite signs of a weakening labor market and rising inflation. Investors are awaiting key consumer inflation data, which could trigger a market correction if inflation heats up. JPMorgan warns that upcoming Fed rate cuts may not stimulate growth as expected.
-
The Bank of England plans to slow its bond sales from £100bn to around £70bn, aiming to reduce borrowing costs amid rising long-term yields. Meanwhile, UK house prices show signs of cooling, and global markets remain volatile amid geopolitical tensions and US Federal Reserve signals. These developments impact UK fiscal policy and investor confidence.
-
Gold has reached a record inflation-adjusted high in September 2025, with analysts forecasting prices above $4,000 by year-end. The rally is driven by economic uncertainty, geopolitical tensions, and central bank buying, making gold a key safe haven asset amid rising inflation and interest rate cuts.
-
Major pharmaceutical firms have paused or canceled over £2bn in UK investments this year amid concerns over drug pricing policies, US pressure for price parity, and a deteriorating investment climate. Industry warnings highlight risks to future drug development and supply chains.
-
US markets declined Wednesday amid fears of a prolonged government shutdown, with private jobs falling and safe-haven assets like gold reaching new highs. Historically, markets have shown resilience during shutdowns, but current political tensions and economic uncertainty are heightening investor anxiety.
-
Recent political developments in France, Japan, and the US have heightened market volatility. France's bond risk rose after a government resignation, Japan's yen plunged amid a new prime minister's election, and gold prices hit record highs amid inflation fears. These events signal increased economic uncertainty.
-
Hamas releases seven hostages amid US-brokered ceasefire in Gaza. The White House signals openness to talks with China over trade tensions. Markets fluctuate as tensions and diplomatic efforts unfold today, December 2, 2025.
-
On October 8, 2025, IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva warned that global economic resilience is untested amid rising uncertainty. Despite 3% growth forecasts and easing tariffs, gold prices hit $4,000 an ounce as investors seek safe havens. She urged the US to address federal debt and highlighted risks from trade tensions and geopolitical instability ahead of IMF-World Bank meetings.
-
HSBC plans to buy out the remaining shares of Hang Seng Bank for HK$155 per share, delisting it and maintaining its brand. The move aims to streamline operations, address rising bad debts from Hong Kong’s property slump, and reinforce HSBC’s commitment to Hong Kong’s future as a financial hub. The deal is expected to close in mid-2026.
-
President Trump’s renewed tariff threats against China have reignited fears of a global economic slowdown, amid rising debt levels and stock market resilience. Key international meetings in Washington will focus on trade tensions, Argentina’s debt, and global economic stability, as policymakers grapple with uncertain prospects.
-
Global markets showed mixed reactions after US President Trump’s conciliatory comments on China, following a weekend of heightened trade tensions. US stocks recovered from Friday’s sharp losses, gold hit new highs, and European markets edged higher amid ongoing geopolitical uncertainty and economic data delays.
-
Silver prices have risen sharply this year, gaining 70% due to supply constraints and increased investor demand. Gold has also surged, driven by geopolitical uncertainty and central bank buying. Market liquidity for silver has dried up, raising concerns about future stability and the role of precious metals in global reserves.
-
Investors are increasingly betting on assets like gold, silver, and bitcoin amid fears of currency devaluation, rising debt, and inflation. The 'debasement trade' reflects concerns over government spending and monetary easing, with assets surging as a hedge against currency erosion. Experts debate its sustainability.
-
The IMF reports that the global economy is expected to grow by 3.2% in 2025, slightly higher than July forecasts, amid ongoing trade tensions and tariffs. While growth is better than feared, uncertainties from tariffs and protectionism continue to weigh on long-term expansion.
-
Hong Kong's stock exchange is experiencing a surge in listings, with over 300 companies in the pipeline, driven by Chinese tech firms expanding globally. Despite geopolitical tensions, the market has seen record fundraising and index gains, positioning HKEX for a strong year ahead.
-
Gold prices surged to record highs above $4,380 per ounce in October 2025, driven by geopolitical tensions, inflation fears, and central bank buying. Since then, prices have corrected sharply, falling about 8% from the peak amid profit-taking and a stronger US dollar. Despite the pullback, gold remains up 50% year-to-date, with demand shifting among investors and jewelers adapting to higher costs.
-
Russia's MOEX index hit its lowest since December 2024, falling over 3% amid new US and EU sanctions targeting key energy firms. Oil prices surged, and Russian oil giants Rosneft and Lukoil saw significant declines, reflecting heightened geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainty.
-
UK retail sales unexpectedly rose 0.5% in September, driven by tech launches and gold demand, defying forecasts of decline amid economic pressures. Online sales hit new highs, but overall volumes remain below pre-pandemic levels. Experts warn this trend may not continue as economic headwinds persist.
-
UK markets experienced volatility amid political tensions and fiscal policy uncertainty. The pound weakened due to fears over upcoming budget plans, while bond yields fluctuated. Gold prices surged on global economic concerns, reflecting investor demand for safe assets. Economic data and political developments continue to influence market sentiment.
-
The Bank of England is conducting a stress-test on private credit and equity markets, which have grown significantly and now support around two million UK jobs. The exercise aims to assess risks from less regulated private markets amid recent firm collapses and economic uncertainties. Results expected in early 2027.
-
Iranians are increasingly buying gold, silver, diamonds, cryptocurrencies, and other assets as economic sanctions, regional tensions, and currency depreciation threaten savings. Demand for portable, value-preserving assets has surged, driven by fears of inflation, war, and economic instability, prompting a shift from real estate to precious metals and gemstones.