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Markets
Magnificent Seven widen gap over Europe's giants as AI race heats up
The US ‘Magnificent Seven’ have pulled far ahead of Europe’s corporate giants, driven by massive AI growth. While US tech surges, Europe’s top firms—mostly in traditional sectors—struggle to keep pace in the new innovation-driven economy.
Markets
Trump's 30% tariffs threaten to burst Europe's bullish trade
Trump's threat of a 30% tariff on EU goods from 1 August puts Europe’s bullish growth narrative at risk. With investors heavily positioned in eurozone assets, Goldman warns of a 1.2% GDP hit, raising fears of a sharp reversal if tensions escalate.
Economy
Germany’s economic sentiment hits highest level since early 2022
Germany's economic sentiment hit a 3-year high in July, with the ZEW index rising to 52.7 amid hopes of a US-EU trade resolution and German stimulus. The eurozone's outlook also improved, while markets stayed cautious after new US tariff threats.
Markets
Here's why a strong euro could be bad news for European companies
The euro’s sharp rise in 2025 is putting pressure on European corporate earnings. Second-quarter reports are expected to show weaker profits, while a stronger currency and softening demand weigh on sales and margins across key sectors.
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Economy
European spending drops as trade tensions hit consumer wallets
Eurozone retail sales fell sharply in May, marking the steepest drop since 2023, as consumers showed caution amid rising trade tensions with the US. Fears over looming tariffs and economic uncertainty are weighing on spending across Europe.
Economy
Lagarde says ECB 'will not rest' as eurozone inflation hits 2% in June
Eurozone price pressures rose in line with expectations in June, reaching the ECB’s 2% target. ECB President Christine Lagarde struck a cautious tone in her opening remarks at the central bank’s annual symposium in Sintra.
Economy
Eurozone business activity stalls in June: Will the ECB cut again?
Eurozone business activity stalled in June, with PMI data showing flat growth linked to weak services and manufacturing. Germany improved slightly, while France declined. Persistent service-sector cost pressures and renewed energy concerns may cloud ECB rate cut prospects.
Economy
Could China’s rare earth pivot ease strain on the automotive sector?
China has approved some rare earth export licences, offering slight relief to strained global supply chains. Yet with shipments still down sharply and licensing opaque, Europe's auto sector remains exposed to Beijing’s strategic resource grip.
Economy
German economic morale soars in June: 'Confidence is picking up'
Germany’s economic sentiment soared to 47.5 in June, its highest since March, driven by stronger demand and policy support. But European stocks fell as Israel-Iran tensions escalated, oil prices rose, and investors awaited the Fed’s policy decision.
Economy
Israel-Iran crisis: How vital is the Strait of Hormuz for oil market?
Tensions between Israel and Iran have raised fears of disruption in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for global oil and LNG. Experts warn that even the threat of closure could rattle markets and push energy prices sharply higher.
Markets
Israel launches major strike on Iran: What is the market fallout?
European stocks fell sharply after Israel struck Iranian nuclear sites, fuelling fears of wider conflict. Oil and gold surged on safe-haven demand, while bank shares dropped. Markets are pricing in higher geopolitical and energy supply risks.
Economy
Investing in metals: Will silver surpass its 2011 all-time high?
Silver has surged to its highest level since early 2012, fuelling speculation that it might surpass its all-time high of near $50. With strong industrial demand, tightening supply, and rising investor interest, the metal may be in the early stages of a renewed bull run.
Economy
Eurozone economy grows by 0.6%: Lagarde shuts door on July rate cut
The eurozone gross domestic product grew by 0.6% quarter-over-quarter in the first quarter of 2025, marking the strongest pace of growth since late 2022. ECB's President Christine Lagarde hinted that a July pause in rate cuts may be warranted.
Economy
Eurozone inflation falls below ECB 2% target in May: Rate cut in sight
Eurozone inflation fell to 1.9% in May, below forecasts, boosting expectations of an ECB rate cut on Thursday. Core inflation also eased to 2.4%. The euro slipped and bond yields fell as markets priced in a 25bp rate cut to 2.0%.
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