Everything you need to know, Simplified! Summary UK gilts (UK government bonds) have come under pressure from a confluence of factors, including rising political uncertainty following Labour’s election losses, a deteriorating fiscal outlook, sensitivity to higher global energy prices amid the conflict in the Middle East and persistent inflation against a backdrop of weak growth Shorter-dated gilts have been more resilient, with current yields offering a cushion and markets ar

Everything you need to know, Simplified! Summary US equities rose as earnings continued to impress, with technology leading on AI-driven demand and improving sentiment helped by signs of easing US‑Iran tensions The US labour backdrop stayed resilient, with payroll growth beating expectations and continuing claims falling, although labour force participation weakened Hard data was firmer than expected, with construction spending and factory orders both surprising on the upside

Everything you need to know, Simplified! Summary Global equities rose 0.76% on the week and 10.15% in April, with the US leading thanks to exceptionally strong and broad‑based earnings The ‘Magnificent Seven’ delivered across-the-board earnings beats, though market reactions were mixed; the group finished the week up 0.45% amid excitement over Artificial Intelligence (AI)‑driven demand offset by scrutiny of rising expenses and investment AI‑related capital expenditure remains

Everything you need to know, Simplified! Summary Equity markets paused after a sharp April rebound, with US strength supported by corporate earnings, while Europe and other regions lagged amid ongoing Middle East uncertainty Oil has surged to $105 per barrel (bbl) but the market has adapted well to the historic supply shock through rerouted flows and emergency supply The energy shock is feeding into inflation, with UK Consumer Price Index (CPI) rising to 3.3%, though pressure