The US consumer will be in the spotlight as retail sales figures alongside preliminary results from the University of Michigan Consumer Sentiment survey will be released. This will offer a window into American household spending behaviour and confidence.

April unfolded as a month of intense turbulence in financial markets, driven by a barrage of political manoeuvrings, economic uncertainty, and shifting monetary policies. Markets were rattled by elevated tariffs, escalating rhetoric, and retaliatory measures that prompted investors to reassess growth prospects, price in heightened recession risks, and retreat from riskier assets.

The Fed and Jerome Powell’s press conference will be in the spotlight. Markets expect no change in rates, but any shift in tone – especially regarding inflation risks tied to the US trade policy – could jolt expectations for H2 2025.

Direct loans to mid-sized companies have the potential to generate stable returns for investors. This increasingly-relevant investment is now accessible to individuals as well as institutions. 

The Chinese Politburo gathering is expected to provide more insight on potential stimulus and exemptions measures to support its economy. After Alphabet and Tesla this week, keep an eye on ongoing MegaCap Tech earnings (s.a. Amazon, Meta, Microsoft).

With the infrastructure sector poised for growth after a tumultuous period caused by the pandemic and subsequent inflationary boom, which areas could offer investment opportunities?

Markets will continue to scrutinise growing tensions in DC as US President Trump took aim at Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell noting that his "termination can't come soon enough."

PFAS have been widely used for decades due to their unique properties in various domestic and industrial applications. They are resistant to water and virtually indestructible. They are also seen as the poison of the century. Where do we stand in terms of regulation? What are the PFAS-related risks? Where are the opportunities?