Finally, a stir

The stock markets have had a fantastic rally. And while I am all for rising prices, it has also been a bit boring at times. But with the latest set of macro figures, things are getting a bit more exciting again, with a likely good outcome as a result.

I have regularly been called a «permabear» over the past 12 months, if not longer. Because even though the US economy in particular was steaming ahead, the chances of a recession have never been zero, in my opinion. 

ECB begins gradual rate cuts amid persistent inflation

The European Central Bank’s (ECB) decision to cut its benchmark interest rate for the first time since 2019 underscores a strategic but cautious approach to managing persistent inflation in the Eurozone. The move reflects a balance between acknowledging progress made in reducing inflation and recognising that further action may be needed to stabilise the economy.

Les directives en matière de durabilité soulèvent des questions difficiles pour les banques

« Qui décide si une entreprise progresse suffisamment vite dans son plan de transition climatique ? Une institution financière ou le gouvernement ? Les banques se trouvent dans une position quelque peu inconfortable. Et qui veille à l’aspect social, pour garantir que la transition soit équitable pour tous ? »

House prices defy predictions

US house prices have climbed over 6% in the past year, pushing the value of homes nearly 3% above their peak from June 2022. This increase came despite the Federal Reserve’s aggressive interest rate hikes aimed at curbing rampant inflation. Clearly, the traditional models for predicting house prices are no longer reliable.