Expert views
Commentary submitted by Susannah Streeter in their own words.
Back to profileTurnaround plan drives Debenhams back to growth
The focus was on the turnaround plan and there are signs that it’s already started gaining traction.
Sweeping tariffs back on the table
The scope is striking, sweeping in dozens of nations, including the European Union, which already has tough laws to counter modern slavery.
UK economy to grow 0.9% this year but outlook cut for 2027 – OECD
The UK economy is set to stay sluggish, with growth of 0.9 per cent this year according to OECD forecasts and just 1.1 per cent next year.
Market report – Footsie gains
There is no concrete progress in Middle East negotiations to hang a hat on, but investors appear broadly optimistic.
AI giant Anthropic files for a stock market listing
AI enthusiasm is still the talk of the town, with Anthropic is joining the listing party.
Tech optimism swirls as Nvidia reveals new chips for AI-powered PCs
While sentiment remains subdued in London, Wall Street is poised for another injection of optimism, given its huge tech exposure. Strong earnings have added fresh momentum to a rally fuelled by expectations that demand for AI infrastructure will remain robust.
FTSE 100 slips as crude prices rise amid Middle East uncertainty
The FTSE 100 has slipped back in a sigh of disappointment at the start of the month as a long-term solution to the Iran conflict appears elusive. Crude moves remain the big gauge of sentiment tied to hopes for peace in the Middle East. Brent crude futures nudged 94 dollars per barrel, partly reversing steep losses as uncertainty crept back into negotiations. A familiar pattern has emerged – reports of progress on a draft deal swiftly followed by fresh military skirmishes.
EasyJet says takeover tilt from US firm would be ‘highly opportunistic’
EasyJet is at the centre of a storm of speculation over a takeover, with the rumours lifting shares sharply in anticipation of a potential deal. The airline has been hit by a severe bout of turbulence sparked by the war in Iran and now private equity firm Castlelake appears ready to pounce. The airline has been battling headwinds from escalating tensions in the Middle East, which have rattled consumer confidence, driven up fuel costs and cast a shadow over the outlook for European travel demand.
Middle East tensions rise as AI boom keeps chip stocks surging
As the standoff in the Middle East grinds on, it’s acting as a drag on indices.
FTSE 100 flat as rising energy bills amid Iran conflict threaten growth
The mood has turned flat, as the stalemate in the Middle East dampens enthusiasm and businesses brace for higher bills which will weigh on spending.
Household energy prices to jump by 13% from July
The rise in the energy price cap in the UK from July is set to weigh on already fragile consumer confidence. Household energy prices will rise by 13% due to soaring wholesale costs, a highly unwelcome change, just as bills had been reducing.
UK endures ‘tropical night’ after heatwave breaks May record for second day
The warmest May night on record is likely to prompt a fresh wave of purchases to help keep households cool in the heatwave. Fans, paddling pools, blackout blinds and ice cube trays will have been filling up real and virtual baskets and could help lift sales at household goods retailers.