Strategists at RBC Capital Markets LLC. issued a report on the negative impact of Middle East conflicts on oil prices and US stock valuations. Experts warn that the S&P 500 index could fall by 20% in the event of escalating geopolitical tensions and rising inflation in the United States.
Ryan Sweet of Oxford Economics believes that a prolonged conflict between Israel and Iran could push the US Federal Reserve (Fed) to cut rates earlier than expected.
US President Donald Trump and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer signed an official agreement to lower tariffs on imports from the United Kingdom. However, the issue of duties on steel and aluminum remains unresolved, as reported by Reuters.
According to the OPEC+ monthly report, eight member states involved in the current agreement increased oil production by just 154,000 barrels per day (bpd) last month, which is below the planned 411,000 bpd target.
Bank of America (BofA) continues to maintain a bullish outlook for gold, despite the lack of significant upward momentum amid tensions in the Middle East. A group of analysts led by Michael Widmer estimates that the precious metal has every chance of reaching $4,000 per ounce.
The European Central Bank (ECB) is getting closer to its 2% inflation target. President Christine Lagarde confirmed this but warned that uncertainty from US tariffs could still pose risks.
No change of the indicator value may reduce the volatility of the related markets.
European natural gas prices have surged as growing Middle East conflict raises concerns about potential energy supply disruptions, Bloomberg reports. Prices increased 2.2% on Monday, as markets react to potential risks to liquefied natural gas (LNG) shipments through the critical Strait of Hormuz.
The Bank of England (BOE) is considering further interest rate cuts amid deteriorating economic and labor market data, Bloomberg reports. The decline in exports caused by US trade tariffs, coupled with higher taxes, has already led to weaker GDP growth in April and significant job losses.
Xiao Han, General Manager of Zhishui Investment Co., shared his prediction for gold prices in the second half of 2025. He thinks the lowest point for the precious metal during this time will be around $3,000. Meanwhile, the resistance level will be close to $3,800.
The world of business and finance is constantly changing. What trends and directions are relevant today? The answer to this question is key to successfully navigating in a trading and investment environment and better assessing the risks involved.
The global economy can be greatly impacted by major events, causing stock markets and exchange rates to plummet. The repercussions of one nation's crisis may extend to other countries, creating a butterfly effect with far-reaching consequences. While these events may be frightening for some, traders and investors use them as a chance to generate profits amidst a crisis.
Financial institutions act as intermediaries between borrowers and lenders. This group typically includes banks, as well as non-bank organizations such as pension funds, insurance companies, credit unions, and pawnshops. By supporting global trade, business growth, and job opportunities, these institutions play a crucial role in maintaining a stable and thriving economy.
All governments serve as regulators for businesses, both domestically and internationally. The economic policies implemented by separate states have a significant impact on their currency exchange rates and living expenses.
Market players are always looking for tools and opportunities to make a profitable investment, which is accompanied by some risks. This is where capital management comes into play, with the goal of minimizing losses and maximizing profits
By closely monitoring worldwide events and economic strategies of the top nations, traders and investors can make well-informed decisions in the financial world
