Economic news

European stocks reach new all-time highs as increased defence spending is expected in Europe

The RBA is widely expected to lower the cash rate by 25 basis points to 4.10% in its first meeting of 2025. With Australia’s economy showing signs of stagnation and inflation tracking below forecasts, market expectations for a rate cut have surged.

The Reserve Bank of New Zealand meets for the first time in 2025 on Wednesday 19th of February, with market pricing suggesting it is all but certain the central bank cuts rates.

The US labor market remains resilient despite a smaller-than-expected payrolls increase, with unemployment falling and wages rising. Inflation expectations have surged, prompting a reassessment of the Federal Reserve’s rate-cut timeline.

US stocks lose momentum on Wednesday ahead of the US CPI data release as Powell confirms the Fed is in no rush to cut rates.

Gold faces some resistance as buyers eye the $3,000 psychological level

The Bank of England is expected to cut rates this week amid softer inflation and growth in December.

January’s US Non-Farm Payrolls are forecast to show a 169K job increase, with unemployment steady at 4.1%. Wage growth may ease, influencing Fed policy and market expectations.

European stocks face downside pressure as Trump’s tariff threats weigh on investor sentiment.

Global markets turn risk-off as Trump imposes new tariffs on Mexico, Canada, and China.