Piero Cingari
Economy
German economic sentiment edges higher but recovery remains fragile
Germany’s ZEW economic sentiment slightly rose in October, yet annual inflation accelerated to 2.4% last month, driven by rising service costs. Markets fell, with the DAX down 0.9%, as renewed US-China trade tensions weighed on sentiment.
Economy
France's political turmoil drags on: What are the economic risks?
France’s political crisis is fuelling economic and market uncertainty, with risks to growth and compliance with EU borrowing rules. Bond spreads have widened, reforms are stalled, and analysts warn the ECB may need to act if the situation continues to deteriorate.
Markets
Magnificent Seven surpass EU GDP: Is this a tech bubble warning?
The combined market value of the US 'Magnificent Seven' tech giants has surpassed the EU’s GDP, raising concerns of a tech bubble. While valuations are high, comparisons to the dot-com era suggest this may be a structural shift.
Economy
Eurozone inflation hits 5-month high: ECB expected to stay cautious
Eurozone inflation rose to 2.2% in September, its highest in five months, driven by services and energy. Core inflation held at 2.3%, suggesting underlying pressures remain firm. The data reinforces the ECB’s stance to keep rates on hold for now.
Economy
German business sentiment drops: Is the ambitious fiscal plan at risk?
Germany’s business sentiment fell in September, raising doubts over recovery despite fiscal stimulus. Execution delays, labour shortages, and sector bottlenecks risk dragging on growth. Meanwhile, European stocks trail Wall Street as investor focus shifts.
Markets
Why investors are turning bullish on European markets again
European fund managers are turning more optimistic as trade tensions ease, inflation fears fade, and central banks start to cut interest rates. Despite US labour concerns, growth hopes remain firm, with investors favouring defensives and betting on a soft landing.