Knowledge and Insight - Economy

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.

Markets and economic data have been sending conflicting signals. Technology shares are being snapped up as new AI applications like Chat GPT burst onto the scene. But most of the rest of the global equity markets remain in the doldrums, and government bonds have had a drubbing. But there are plenty of reasons to be cheerful as we look to relax and enjoy the rest of the summer.

Normally staid bond markets seem highly strung lately, but there are reasons to hope for some loosening up.

Economic data has been confusing for a while. Thankfully, there’s a central bank hiatus just big enough to slip Wimbledon into.

What to do when markets and data seem full of conflicting messages

The Bank of England is throwing the kitchen sink at runaway inflation. Will it be enough, and are there some things that are outside its control?