-
Weekly Markets Monitor: Crisis hedge
Last week, global developments were marked by inflationary pressures in advanced economies, uneven growth momentum, and a sharp escalation of geo-political tensions. US price pressures remained firm despite softer activity. Europe posted mixed inflation and patchy demand, China signaled cautious domestic demand, while India’s growth stayed robust. Escalating Middle East tensions disrupted key energy and transport routes, heightening geopolitical and market risks. • Global equity markets closed mixed, benchmark US Treasuries rallied, the US dollar weakened, and oil prices moved higher. • Gold is up c.US$200 ... (full story)