Europe’s banks have very little room to absorb shocks
Europe’s banks are heading into 2026 with solid balance sheets, but with less room for error. After an unusually long credit cycle, risks are building just as the economic environment becomes more uncertain, according to Scope Ratings’ European Bank Outlook 2026.
Weather aside, Luxembourg is winning over young bankers
Luxembourg is full of opportunities to explore the world of private banking and make your mark, explain two young bankers at Citi. Despite the country’s dreary climate, they highlight the Grand Duchy as an appealing place for young people starting out in the industry.
‘Coffee prices are excessively high’
Volatile prices make the coffee market an attractive arena for trading. However, downside risks currently dominate, experts warn.
The balance of trade equilibrium
Last week, China’s trade surplus crossed the threshold of one thousand billion dollar for the first time. In the first eleven months of 2025 alone, China exported one trillion dollar more than it imported. It is a milestone that both illustrates the export strength of Chinese industry and exposes the deep problems in China’s growth model, while further fueling calls for protectionism in the rest of the world.
Natixis Wealth Management remains cautious in 2026 as pillars come under pressure
Amid rising volatility, questions surrounding US interest rates, and uncertainty about the technology sector, Natixis Wealth Management is focusing on diversification in 2026, both geographically and across sectors.
Inflation and tight spreads: bonds discouraged for 2026
Stay away next year from “long” government bonds and from corporate bonds, both high yield and investment grade. Profligate governments and poor risk-return profiles will spoil the mood in those markets.
The next generation of private banking still relies on trust, says Quintet's Charles Desnos
As the world of private banking expands to the next generation of clients, non-traditional sectors are rising while the need for a personal touch remains the same, says 27-year-old Charles Desnos at Quintet Private Bank.
Chart of the week: the confrontation
Market sentiment in fixed income is turning quickly. Within just a few weeks, investors and even central bankers have rotated one hundred eighty degrees. Rising inflation risk and an even greater lack of fiscal discipline are pushing yields higher. It is a nightmare scenario for politicians and the run-up to a major confrontation.
Morningstar: AllianceBernstein vs Pimco in high-yield bonds
Prudent risk management is vital in high-yield-bond investing. As this week’s Morningstar fund comparison shows, even strategies operating in the same corner of the market can diverge sharply when stress hits.
India gains recognition as diversification anchor
India is drawing fresh interest from global investors as domestic demand, rapid digitalization and a deepening capital market give it resilience few major economies can match. Emerging market specialists say these qualities are becoming increasingly relevant for diversified portfolios.