This week George Bell and Matthew Henderson reflect on developments in the US, focusing on the region’s recent strong economic growth. They look at how this, alongside positive movements in global equity markets, has affected your investments.

Our Portfolio Manager, Matt Henderson dissects the purchasing manager's index data out of Europe, the US and the UK - which looks at manufacturing and services within the regions. 

Chris Leyland, Director of Investment Strategy, looks at the overnight announcement from the China who pledged to cut banks' reserve requirements by 0.5% in an effort to stimulate their economy. This will release one Trillion Yuan in long term capital. How are markets reacting to this?

This morning our Investment Director Paul Durrans discusses the latest interest rate decision in Japan as well as the policy changes in China to help support their domestic equity markets. In addition, news this morning that the UK government borrowed less in December which may increase the likelihood of tax cuts heading into the  general election.

As we come to the end of a shortened week due to MLK day in the USA, our Investment Directors Kevin Kidney and Paul Durrans review an eventful week in the UK markets and provide some clarity on the issues with the Chinese economy.

Today, Kevin Kidney, Investment Director, takes a look at economic data and how this is impacting current market trends. With data suggesting positive economic growth, why have markets trended downwards?

Chris Leyland, Director of investment strategy, discusses the unexpected rise of UK inflation which is now at 4%. What caused the inflation rate to rise, how has the government responded, and how have asset markets reacted?

Today saw another sharp reduction in UK wage pressures which supports the case for lower interest rates. With inflation on course to be near the Bank of England's 2% target by late spring and with softer wage pressures today, the market is becoming increasingly confident that interest rate cuts could come as soon as May.

This morning our Chief Investment Officer Jeff Casson takes us through the week ahead, looking at the UK inflation report, Chinese 4th quarter GDP information and the release of the FED's Beige Book, and what impact that could have on your investments. 

For the first episode of a brand new series, join Jeff Casson & George Bell as they outline how markets this week have affected your investments, specifically looking at oil prices, mortgage rates and inflation.