Knowledge and Insight - Economy

In hindsight we underestimated the resilience of the global economy in 2023 and could have advocated taking more risk. But as Rathbones’ Co-CIO Ed Smith explains in this video, global earnings have been falling since January and equity markets have been largely driven by sentiment.

The darkest hour for economic indicators is still approaching; then comes the dawn.

Last week’s round of central bank meetings sent a mainly consistent message. Most held interest rates on hold and suggested rates are now at (or very near) their peaks.

Breakthroughs in AI are exciting for investors, but we also see irrational exuberance.

Will the big central banks making significant interest rate announcements this week follow the ECB’s lead and signal that rates have now peaked? And where might rates settle longer term?

Like virtually everything else, the cost of energy is much higher than it used to be. Combined with higher interest rates, it should keep squeezing economic growth in the coming months.

Hopes for a quiet summer were dashed by difficult-to-read economic data, swinging bond yields and holiday dramas.

We take a look at the crucial role retrofitting needs to play in making buildings more sustainable, the challenges faced and the potential for investment opportunities in this area.

Rather than a slow fade, the American economy produced a surprise surge. Yet with inflation within touching distance of the 2% target, US interest rates may still peak soon.

Interest rate hikes for the US and Europe are almost certain this week. All major central banks are getting close to calling time on rate increases, but the UK is likely to be the last to do so.

We take a look at the impact that heating and cooling buildings is having on climate change, how technology changes can improve future outcomes and what this means for long-term investors.

Inflation is falling nicely in the US, will British CPI follow suit this week? Meanwhile, China battles deflation as its economy stutters.