Knowledge and Insight

US tariffs seems to be reshaping the world. In our lead article this quarter, we discuss how rising trade barriers signal a turning point in US policy, with significant consequences for global economic growth, inflation and investor positioning.

Fresh from her success on Dragon's Den, we are delighted to welcome Laura Harnett, founder of sustainable cleaning brand Seep, to the latest episode of Inspired Sounds hosted by Investment Manager, Elliot Evans. Tune in for behind-the-scenes insights into what it really takes to leave victorious from the BBC’s iconic business show, and hear Laura’s powerful take on why supporting female founders matters now more than ever.

As the property market cools, diversified portfolios of financial assets show their strength.

With tensions in the Middle East and shifting trade policies stirring global uncertainty, Edward Smith, Co-Chief Investment Officer, and other Rathbones experts explore what this could mean for investors in the second half of 2025.

Markets are braced for some big events on the tariffs, tax and spending fronts that have the capacity to shape economic outcomes well into the future.

Major equity indices hit bear market territory on twists and turns in US tariff policy, before responding to news of a partial climbdown. Meanwhile, the oil price rose and fell and the dollar weakened.

Greenbank and Rathbones are delighted to partner with 5x15 for The Earth Convention 2025, a three-part series offering insights into the urgent issues facing our changing world. The third session ‘Land and Soil’ will explore what can we learn from the distant past about the possible future for our land and soil.

We're mindful of geopolitical tensions. That includes the latest escalation of hostilities in the Middle East and the ticking tariff timebomb. But we see reasons to avoid over-reaction. That puts us broadly in the middle, in our appetite for risk.

Stay informed with our latest 10-minute investment update video, exploring the impact of recent geopolitical tensions, oil market dynamics, and global economic trends on your portfolio.

May wasn't short of market-moving news - much of it about tariffs. In response, investor sentiment on the US economy soured - and then sweetened (somewhat) again.

The world is a very noisy place at the moment, and it’s increasingly designed to be that way. It doesn’t seem to matter where you go or what you do, someone or something is always trying to attract your attention. The proliferation of media outlets only increases the competition, potentially distracting us in the short term from longer-term goals.

Some calm has returned to markets amid a temporary truce in the tariff wars, but the clock is ticking and there is plenty of potential for further volatility. Meanwhile, things are less rosy in bond land. Still, as John notes, there is reason to relax and enjoy the bank holiday weekend.