Podcasts

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?

The election of Donald Trump, coupled with the Republican Party's control of both houses of Congress, has resulted in a new political landscape in the United States. What key decisions must the new administration make? What impact will these decisions have on the macroeconomic environment, financial markets and investors?

Since the last committee on March 11th, European markets have fallen sharply, due to Donald Trump’s announcements regarding US tariffs on April 2nd.

The bond markets in March were already abuzz with talk of tariffs, as the Trump administration implemented previously delayed tariffs on Canada, Mexico and China. .

Markets remained volatile during the month of March. The primary concern isn’t the weakening economic fundamentals, but rather investors’ doubts about the credibility and stability of the U.S.

April 2025 marks a turning point in the global economic narrative. In the wake of the United States’ sharp tariff escalation – dubbed “Liberation Day” – investors are confronting the ripple effects of a protectionist revival.

Monetary policy decisions from the European Central Bank, Bank of Canada, and Bank of Korea, and reactions to trade tensions and currency disruptions will be high on the agenda.

AI is accelerating scientific research, infrastructure development, communications and finance, as well as contributing to the fight against climate change

According to the Institute for Economics & Peace, there are 56 active conflicts in the world, the greatest number since the end of World War II. Increasingly complex geopolitics and ReArm Europe are keeping investors on our toes, analytically.

Markets will digest the latest news on tariffs and China’s retaliatory measures. Consumer Sentiment and Consumer inflation expectations will provide early signals on upcoming household spending trends, and potential Fed policy shifts.

Navigating fixed income markets can be a daunting task for those unfamiliar with their intricacies. A multitude of factors – fundamentals, valuations and technicals – can impact a wide range of instruments – sovereigns (developed & emerging), corporates (investment grade and high yield) –, contributing to a highly complex financial landscape.

With the new ELTIF structure in Europe making long-term investments accessible to more investors, the private debt market is ready.

Since his return to the White House, Trump has announced a series of country or sectoral tariff increases. If we combine all the measures announced before 2 April (20% on China, 25% on Canada and Mexico with exemption for goods that comply with the USMCA , 25% on steel and aluminum and 25% on automobiles and parts), the average tariff rate on US imports was on course to reach 11% from 2.5% end of 2024.

The US reciprocal tariffs will be announced, following weeks of market volatility. A 25% tariff on imported cars is already set to take effect, which could have significant economic and trade implications, notably on Europe, Japan and South Korea.

Early global economic data on manufacturing and services will offer insights into demand trends in March, potential sector weaknesses, and regional divergence, shaping market expectations.

Released last September, former ECB President Mario Draghi’s report urged the EU to revive and boost its competitiveness. At the end of January, the European Commission presented the Competitiveness Compass to allow Europe to revive economic growth and secure prosperity.

“Uncertainty” was probably the most important driver behind the stock market’s behaviour over the past four weeks.

As economic uncertainties intensify in the United States, European fiscal policies are emerging as a beacon of hope.

The global economy experienced a mild slowdown due to a lower contribution of services to the World PMI and lower consumer participation.