Market Update - 20th August 2025

This morning’s inflation data for the UK showed inflation came in hotter than expected for July, rising to 3.8% compared with 3.6% in June. The core rate also increased to 3.8%. A sharp rise in plane ticket prices accounted for a large share of the monthly increase, with fares jumping 30% due to the timing of the summer holiday season.

Week ending 15th August

As you can see from the accompanying table it was another positive week for global equities. There was plenty of economic data for investors to digest as well as key geopolitical developments on Friday in the form of talks between the US and Russia in Alaska.

Market Update - 13th August 2025

On Monday, the UK unemployment rate held steady at 4.7% in the three months to June. While the headline figure suggests stability, underlying data points to a gradual softening in the labour market, with payrolls falling for six consecutive months and job vacancies continuing to decline.

Week ending 8th August 2025

As you can see from the accompanying table markets closed the week on a strong note, buoyed by a weak US July jobs report, a surge in tech stocks, solid quarterly earnings, and optimism over potential progress in peace talks between Russia and Ukraine.

Bank of England Cuts Interest Rates to 4%

The Bank of England has lowered interest rates to 4%, the lowest level in over two years, in a bid to support the economy as inflationary pressures begin to ease.

Market Update - 6th August 2025

Some encouraging PMI data emerged from Asia this week. In Japan, services sector activity picked up pace in July, with the Services PMI rising to 53.6 from 51.7 in June, which marks the strongest expansion since February.