Britain’s Big Four retail and commercial bank
Retail volumes have risen in May as hot weather and promotions boosted demand. Online sales and department stores led the gain, while food retailers fell. The three-month trend remains mixed amid shifting consumer behavior.
Global oil majors are posting higher first‑quarter profits as supply disruptions, including the Strait of Hormuz tension and related price spikes, bolster trading and refining margins. Shell and BP report earnings well above forecasts, while Aramco highlights a critical export artery from its east coast to the Red Sea, helping cushion markets.