Reported 24 days ago
The Bank of England held interest rates steady at 4.25% as it expressed concerns about a weakening labor market and rising energy prices due to escalating conflicts in the Middle East. The Monetary Policy Committee's decision, voted 6-3, highlighted the highest unemployment rate since 2021 and slowing wage growth. While inflation forecasts remained largely unchanged, the central bank warned of potential future rate cuts if energy prices continue to rise.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 24 days ago
German firms Deutsche Telekom, Ionos, and Schwarz Group's IT subsidiary will submit individual bids to the EU for an AI data processing centre, after failing to reach a consensus on a joint proposal. This comes as the EU plans to allocate $20 billion for AI data centres in a bid to compete with the U.S. and China. Although SAP initially collaborated with these firms, it will no longer take part in the bidding process.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 24 days ago
MicroStrategy (MSTR), recently rebranded as Strategy, has made headlines by investing $1 billion more into Bitcoin, totaling 592,100 coins as the cryptocurrency market thrives. The company, which has a market cap of $104.5 billion, combines pro-Bitcoin policies and increasing ETF inflows with significant upside potential, despite facing challenges like a notable net loss in Q1 2025. Analysts have a 'Strong Buy' consensus on MSTR, indicating substantial growth potential as the company's focus on Bitcoin could redefine its market value.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 24 days ago
The Swiss National Bank (SNB) has expressed concerns over high economic uncertainty stemming from trade tensions and suggested that regulatory weaknesses should be addressed to bolster UBS's resilience. In its 2025 Financial Stability Report, the SNB noted several risk factors, including global debt levels and high asset valuations. While Swiss banks demonstrated improved profitability and maintained stable capital ratios, the SNB emphasized the need for measures aimed at strengthening the financial system, particularly after UBS's acquisition of Credit Suisse.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 24 days ago
The Bank of England has decided to keep the main UK interest rate at a two-year low of 4.25%, as announced on June 19, 2025.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 24 days ago
Despite China's condemnation of Israel's actions against Iran, President Xi Jinping shows no urgency in providing military support to Tehran. While maintaining economic ties, China opts for a non-interventionist approach reminiscent of its relations with Russia, prioritizing stability over direct military involvement. As U.S. pressure mounts, Beijing's strategy remains focused on diplomatic engagement rather than substantial military aid, reflecting its desire to avoid entanglement in foreign conflicts.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 24 days ago
Ball Corporation (BALL), a major player in aluminum packaging with a market cap of $15.3 billion, has experienced mixed financial results recently. Although the stock has returned 8.7% in the last three months, it has dropped 9.4% over the past year, underperforming compared to its sector. Analysts maintain a moderate optimism, giving it a 'Moderate Buy' rating, despite concerns around geopolitical factors and aluminum price fluctuations affecting its growth.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 24 days ago
Global IPO activity has significantly decreased in 2025, affected by U.S. tariffs, increased market volatility, and rising interest rates that have deterred issuers. Data shows a year-on-year drop of 9.3% in global IPO volume to $44.3 billion, marking the lowest level in nine years. While U.S. IPO volumes fell by 12% and Europe by 64%, Asia-Pacific saw a 28% increase. Despite concerns, some analysts anticipate a potential recovery in the second half of the year as certain companies prepare for listings.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 24 days ago
The UN trade agency reports a significant decline in global foreign direct investment for the second consecutive year, with fears that 2025 may be worse as trade tensions undermine investor confidence. Although certain regions saw temporary increases in investment flows, this does not translate to productive investment, while geopolitical factors and tariffs pose risks to long-term growth.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 24 days ago
Intel noticeably reduced and later suspended its dividend in 2024 due to ongoing financial difficulties, accumulating a significant debt exceeding $50 billion while sustaining negative cash flow from manufacturing investments. Although the company aims to stabilize its operations and enhance its product market share under new leadership, experts predict that a return to dividend payments may not occur for several years until these goals are achieved.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 24 days ago
China's major electric vehicle producer BYD has begun flooding Brazil with affordable EVs, prompting fears among local industry leaders and labor groups that this surge could harm domestic production and job creation. The influx sharply contrasts with Brazil's historical response to foreign imports, leading to calls for increased tariffs on Chinese vehicles amidst concerns about the lack of local production investment. As Brazil's green-car movement is still developing, the dependency on Chinese imports represents a challenging balance between facilitating EV adoption and protecting local industries.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 24 days ago
The Bank of England has maintained its interest rate at a two-year low of 4.25%, citing a 'highly unpredictable' geopolitical climate, particularly due to escalating tensions between Israel and Iran. Although three policymakers voted for a rate cut, the bank anticipates that inflation will remain elevated. Experts suggest that further developments in the Middle East could influence inflation and lead to cautious policy adjustments in the future.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 24 days ago
Nippon Steel Corp. is weighing the option of a capital increase to fund its $14.1 billion acquisition of United States Steel Corp., as confirmed by its vice chairman Takahiro Mori. While the company seeks to avoid diluting existing investors' shares, it acknowledges the significant capital requirements for the deal, which was finally approved by the White House after 18 months of waiting. Nippon Steel aims to retain management control despite conditions from U.S. authorities and sees the acquisition as pivotal for its global expansion amidst domestic market challenges.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 24 days ago
Norway's central bank unexpectedly lowered its policy interest rate by 25 basis points to 4.25% on Thursday, citing a more favorable inflation outlook and hinting at potential future cuts. This decision surprised economists, leading to a temporary weakening of the Norwegian crown. The governor indicated that rates could drop further to 4.0% or 3.75% by year-end, with projections suggesting a target rate of around 3% by the end of 2028. The move, praised by Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stoere ahead of upcoming elections, contrasts with the actions of other Western central banks.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 24 days ago
Oil prices have shown volatility as investors remain cautious regarding President Trump's potential military involvement in the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran. Brent crude is trading near $77 per barrel, reflecting increased concern over geopolitical risks, particularly around the critical Strait of Hormuz. While Trump has hinted at possible military action, senior US officials are still assessing the situation, with some analysts estimating a $10 geopolitical risk premium on oil prices.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 24 days ago
Switzerland's central bank has reduced its target interest rate by a quarter percentage point to 0%, citing easing inflationary pressures. The Swiss National Bank noted that inflation has dipped into negative territory and expects annual inflation to rise slightly in the coming years. The decrease is attributed to falling prices in the tourism and oil sectors, while globally, economic growth is anticipated to weaken.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 24 days ago
President Trump has centered his administration's focus on trade, but with just weeks left to finalize numerous bilateral deals, time is running short. Despite some agreements with the UK and China and ambitious claims from his economic team, Trump has struggled to deliver on promised negotiations. His recent early departure from the G7 summit to address escalating conflicts in the Middle East further complicates his trade agenda. Without successful deals, Trump risks facing economic repercussions, including rising inflation and a potential recession.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 24 days ago
As more companies enforce return-to-office policies, jeans are becoming a staple of workplace attire, according to UBS analysts. The casual dress codes, influenced by rising demand for comfortable clothing and cultural trends like Beyonce's country album, are leading consumers to prioritize denim over formal wear. Younger workers are particularly embracing this shift, contributing to projected growth in the denim market, with brands like American Eagle and Levi's well-positioned to benefit from this trend.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 24 days ago
Russia's investment envoy Kirill Dmitriev stated that Russia, the US, and Saudi Arabia could collaborate to stabilize the oil markets if necessary. This comes amid rising oil prices triggered by Israeli attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities and growing concerns over potential conflicts in the Middle East that may affect crude supply. Dmitriev recalled past joint efforts in 2020 when leaders from these countries worked together to manage a similar situation.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 24 days ago
Shell CEO Wael Sawan has warned that a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz could significantly impact global trade, particularly in oil and gas, as the region is crucial for around a quarter of the world's oil trade. He highlighted Shell's contingency plans amid escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, which could lead to severe supply disruptions. The company is cautious with its shipping operations in the Middle East due to recent jamming incidents affecting navigation signals. As the situation evolves, potential U.S. involvement could further heighten risks in the area.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 24 days ago
Ameren Corporation (AEE), based in Saint Louis, Missouri, is under scrutiny as its stock performance is evaluated against the S&P 500 Index. Though Ameren’s stock, with a market cap of $25.5 billion, has dropped 5.4% in the past three months compared to the S&P 500's 6.5% gain, it has shown resilience over the longer term, with a YTD gain of 5.9% and a 34.5% increase over the past year. Analysts generally recommend a 'Moderate Buy' for Ameren, expecting a 10.2% price increase from current levels.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 24 days ago
Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party has pledged to secure a cumulative 50% increase in workers' pay by 2040 alongside a goal to expand the economy to ¥1 quadrillion ($6.9 trillion). The party aims to raise real wages by 1% and nominal wages by 3% annually, targeting an increase of ¥1 million in annual pay by 2030. In response to inflation issues, the party plans to distribute cash handouts to low-income individuals and families. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba will lead this initiative ahead of the upcoming upper house elections.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 24 days ago
Grab's plan to acquire GoTo and form a leading ride-hailing and food delivery service in Southeast Asia is encountering regulatory obstacles in Indonesia. The government is analyzing the merger's impact on employment and market competition, amidst protests from drivers against potential monopolies. While Grab emphasizes no current agreements are in place, they have raised significant funds, and the merger discussions continue under scrutiny.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 24 days ago
McCormick & Company, a leader in the flavor industry, has been underperforming in the stock market, trading 15.1% below its recent 52-week high and dropping nearly 10% in the last three months. Its performance has lagged behind the Dow Jones Industrial Average, with a year-to-date stock decline of 4% compared to the Dow's modest dip. Although the company anticipates slight volume growth and demand improvements, its recent earnings report indicated lower-than-expected profits. Analysts maintain a 'Moderate Buy' rating with a price target suggesting a potential upside.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 24 days ago
China is anticipated to keep its benchmark lending rates unchanged following a recent reduction aimed at invigorating the economy. This comes amid a framework agreement on tariffs between the U.S. and China, which has fostered optimism for recovering business activity. A Reuters survey indicated that market experts unanimously expect rates to remain steady, as recent economic data suggests a need for further stimulus while stabilizing the economy hinges more on the outcomes of trade negotiations.
Source: YAHOO