Piero Cingari
Economy
Bank of Japan hikes interest rates: Is a global bond crisis looming?
The Bank of Japan lifted interest rates to their highest level in three decades, signalling further tightening ahead. The shift is reviving concerns over rising global bond yields and the risk of capital repatriation from Japanese investors.
Economy
France's economic outlook for 2026: How heavy is the debt burden?
France’s economic outlook for 2026 remains constrained by rising debt, high deficits, and political deadlock. Growth is set to recover modestly, but limited fiscal consolidation and reform fatigue continue to weigh on the economy.
Markets
European banks' best year on record: What's the outlook for 2026?
European bank stocks posted their strongest year on record in 2025, fuelled by resilient growth, high margins, and capital returns. Looking to 2026, the focus is now shifting to earnings growth, efficiency gains, and sustained shareholder payouts.
Markets
Why are European natural gas prices tumbling despite the cold winter?
European gas prices are tumbling despite cold weather and below-average storage, as surging US LNG flows flood the market. The TTF-Henry Hub spread, the price difference between European and US natural gas, has narrowed sharply.
Markets
European markets often soar in December, but what’s behind the rally?
December has historically delivered strong gains for European stocks, with the EURO STOXX 50, DAX, and CAC 40 often rallying in the second half of the month. Driven by fund manager behaviour and seasonal trends, this “Santa rally” remains a reliable market pattern.