Market Outlook Supported by Trade Talks and Supply Disruptions Oil prices edged higher on Friday, buoyed by positive sentiment surrounding U.S. trade talks and the potential for increased oil demand, despite concerns over a possible increase in supply from Venezuela. Brent crude futures rose by 20 cents, or 0.29%, to …

Consumer Confidence Falls as UK Faces Economic Uncertainty Consumer confidence in the UK took a hit in July, according to data released by GfK on Friday. The consumer confidence index dropped to minus 19 in July from minus 18 in June, reversing the slight improvement recorded in the previous month. …

The European Central Bank (ECB) decided to keep interest rates on hold on Thursday, pausing after seven consecutive cuts. Policymakers are taking a cautious stance as they await more clarity on the ongoing trade negotiations between the European Union (EU) and the United States, especially as the August 1 tariff …

Oil prices rose more than 1% on Thursday, buoyed by optimism surrounding U.S. trade negotiations and a larger-than-expected decline in U.S. crude inventories. As of 0934 GMT, Brent crude futures gained 79 cents, or 1.15%, reaching $69.30 per barrel, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures climbed 83 cents, …

Composite PMI Falls Below Expectations Amid Trade, Tax, and Wage Pressures The UK economy is facing early signs of stagnation as July’s flash Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) data revealed a decline in business activity at the start of the third quarter of 2025. The composite PMI dropped to 51.0 in …

Manufacturing and Services Performances Diverge as Economic Outlook Remains Mixed Germany’s business activity continued to show marginal growth in July, though at a slightly slower pace compared to June, according to the latest HCOB German flash composite Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI). The index, compiled by S&P Global, dropped to 50.3 …

July Data Shows Limited Growth in France’s Private Sector, Reflecting Weak Demand and Business Confidence France’s private sector activity continued to contract in July, marking the 11th consecutive month of shrinkage, according to the latest S&P Global data. This prolonged downturn highlights the persistent challenges facing the eurozone’s second-largest economy, …

Gold prices dipped on Thursday, continuing a downward trend following recent highs, as a U.S.-Japan trade deal and strong earnings from tech companies boosted risk appetite, reducing demand for safe-haven assets like gold. Market Overview: Spot gold dropped 0.3% to $3,378.93 an ounce. Gold futures fell 0.4% to $3,384.60/oz. Despite …

Oil prices inched higher during Asian trading on Thursday, with data showing a significant drop in U.S. crude stockpiles providing some support, although concerns over U.S. tariffs and trade negotiations ahead of President Donald Trump’s deadline kept investors cautious. Market Overview: Brent Oil Futures for September rose 0.3% to $68.69 …

Wall Street is set to open on a positive note on Wednesday after President Donald Trump announced a trade agreement with Japan, boosting expectations of further trade deals ahead of the August 1 deadline for U.S. tariffs. U.S.-Japan Trade Deal Boosts Market Sentiment The U.S.-Japan trade deal, which slashes tariffs …