Author: Fiona Craig

BHP Group Limited (LSE:BHP) has announced its final dividend for the financial year ending June 30, 2025, confirming a payout of 60 US cents per share. The dividend is scheduled for distribution on September 25, 2025. Payments to shareholders in Australia, the United Kingdom, and South Africa will be converted from U.S. dollars into local currencies, based on the relevant exchange rates at the time. This update highlights BHP’s ongoing commitment to delivering value to its investors, while also noting that currency movements will influence the final returns for international holders.

About BHP Group Ltd

BHP Group Limited, headquartered in Australia, is one of the world’s largest resource companies. Its operations focus on the extraction and processing of key commodities including iron ore, copper, coal, and energy products. With a global footprint, BHP continues to emphasize sustainable development and technological innovation in managing natural resources.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or other professional advice. It should not be considered a recommendation to buy or sell any securities or financial instruments. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. You should conduct your own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

Shell plc (LSE:SHEL) has released the euro and British pound equivalents of its second-quarter 2025 dividend, following its earlier declaration of a US$0.358 per ordinary share payout. The dividend, scheduled for distribution on September 22, 2025, was translated from U.S. dollars using prevailing market exchange rates. This update underscores Shell’s continued focus on rewarding investors while advancing its broader strategy around the energy transition and evolving market conditions.

The company’s outlook reflects a combination of resilience and caution. A solid balance sheet and efficient operations remain key strengths, yet pressures from softer revenue and cash flow trends highlight ongoing risks. During its earnings call, management emphasized strategic progress, which was well received, though short-term market signals still point to a need for prudence.

About Shell (UK)

Shell plc is a multinational energy group with operations spanning oil and gas exploration, production, refining, and marketing, alongside its chemicals business. The company is actively reshaping its portfolio to align with net-zero ambitions and to position itself for long-term demand shifts in the global energy landscape.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or other professional advice. It should not be considered a recommendation to buy or sell any securities or financial instruments. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. You should conduct your own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

The dollar slid against major currencies on Friday, trimming its weekly gains as bond markets steadied and traders prepared for the release of U.S. employment data that could reinforce expectations of a Federal Reserve rate cut.

Thursday’s data showing higher-than-anticipated U.S. jobless claims served as a prelude to the upcoming nonfarm payrolls report. Government bonds rallied across the U.S., Europe, and Japan after long-term yields had surged amid fiscal concerns, while the S&P 500 reached a new record high.

“It seems to me that the reaction to the ADP yesterday was a bit too muted,” said Francesco Pesole, FX strategist at ING. “All in all, it is pointing to a probably weak payroll figure today. I was a little surprised to see the dollar holding up yesterday.”

Pesole noted that early weakness in the dollar during European trading could reflect investors offloading greenbacks ahead of the U.S. employment release later in the session.

The dollar index, which tracks the greenback against a basket of major currencies, fell 0.2% to 98.018 on Friday, cutting its weekly gain to 0.2%. The dollar dropped 0.2% versus the yen to 148.14, while the euro rose 0.2% to $1.1682.

In the UK, July retail sales came in stronger than expected but had little effect on sterling, which gained 0.2% to $1.34695, while falling 0.05% versus the euro to 86.74 pence.

Investor caution has been heightened by U.S. President Donald Trump’s interference with Fed policy and unpredictable tariff moves, according to Bart Wakabayashi, Tokyo Branch Manager at State Street.

“The dollar remains very, very underweight,” Wakabayashi said. “I do think there is room for the dollar buying to come back at some point. Maybe investors are just waiting for the rate cut to happen and then pile back in.”

Several Fed officials have indicated that concerns about the labor market continue to support calls for rate cuts, strengthening expectations of an imminent easing. The Fed is scheduled to meet on September 16-17.

Economists surveyed by Reuters expect the Labor Department’s Bureau of Labor Statistics to report 75,000 new jobs in August, up slightly from July’s 73,000. Thursday’s figures had already signaled weaker-than-expected private payroll gains and higher jobless claims at month-end.

“The risk is still tilted to payrolls underperforming U.S. economists’ expectations that will weigh on the USD tonight,” wrote Joseph Capurso, head of international economics at the Commonwealth Bank of Australia.

CME FedWatch shows traders are now pricing in nearly a 100% chance of a Fed rate cut this month, up from 87% a week ago.

Michael Brown, senior research strategist at Pepperstone, said Friday’s report will not significantly alter the Fed’s course.

“The Fed will be delivering a 25-bp cut at the September meeting. A hot report shan’t dissuade them from doing so, given the broader trend of softening jobs data. A cool report shan’t convince them to plump for a larger rate reduction, given lingering upside inflation risks,” he noted.

Meanwhile, Stephen Miran, Trump’s nominee for a Fed seat, assured lawmakers on Thursday that he would “not at all” act as the president’s puppet in making interest-rate decisions.

Trump signed an order on Thursday to implement reduced tariffs on Japanese automobile imports and other products, initially announced in July. Japan confirmed it will continue purchasing $7 billion in U.S. energy products annually, according to a joint statement.

Elsewhere, the Australian dollar climbed 0.4% to $0.6544, and the New Zealand dollar rose 0.6% to $0.58785. Bitcoin advanced 2.16% to $112,796.78, while ether increased 2.1% to $4,398.61.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or other professional advice. It should not be considered a recommendation to buy or sell any securities or financial instruments. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. You should conduct your own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

U.S. stock futures were slightly higher Friday as investors prepared for the release of the closely watched August nonfarm payrolls report. Market participants are eager for clues on the Federal Reserve’s next interest rate move, with expectations largely tilted toward a rate cut later this month. In other developments, ChatGPT developer OpenAI is reportedly planning to produce its own AI chip in partnership with Broadcom.

Futures show modest gains

By early Friday, Dow futures were largely flat, S&P 500 futures had risen about 0.2%, and Nasdaq 100 futures gained roughly 0.4%. Wall Street indices posted gains in the previous session, with the S&P 500 hitting a record closing high. Recent labor market data, showing slower private-sector hiring and slightly higher unemployment claims, have reinforced bets on a Fed rate reduction at the September 16-17 meeting.

Nonfarm payrolls report looms

Economists expect the U.S. to have added around 75,000 jobs in August, slightly above July’s 73,000. A weaker-than-expected reading could solidify market anticipation for a 25-basis point cut, with CME FedWatch pricing nearly a 100% probability. Fed officials face the dual challenge of managing inflation while supporting employment, with recent comments indicating labor market support may be the current priority.

The upcoming report follows a weaker-than-expected prior print, which also included significant downward revisions to May and June figures. That report had drawn criticism from President Donald Trump, who accused the data agency of political bias and later replaced its head with a loyalist.

OpenAI moves into in-house AI chips

OpenAI plans to manufacture its own AI chip starting in 2026, partnering with Broadcom, according to the Financial Times. The initiative aims to meet rising computing demands for AI programs while reducing dependence on Nvidia. Broadcom CEO Hock Tan confirmed a new customer had committed $10 billion in orders, which the FT identified as OpenAI. The chips will be used internally by OpenAI rather than sold externally. The announcement follows Broadcom’s strong Q3 earnings and upbeat guidance, with shares rising more than 6% in after-hours trading.

USMCA renegotiation on the horizon

The Wall Street Journal reported that the Trump administration is preparing to restart negotiations on the U.S.-Mexico-Canada trade deal. The Office of the U.S. Trade Representative is expected to hold public hearings, aiming for a formal renegotiation by the October 4 deadline. While initial consultations will gather input from businesses and unions, the process is expected to extend over several months. Trump’s administration has previously imposed and scaled back tariffs on Canada and Mexico, adding complexity to the talks.

Gold remains near highs

Gold prices were subdued in early European trading as investors awaited the U.S. payrolls report. Spot gold rose 0.1% to $3,547.80 an ounce, while December futures held near $3,607.82/oz. Expectations of a September rate cut have kept the yellow metal close to recent peaks, with broader metals markets also positioned for weekly gains. Lower rates tend to favor non-yielding assets like precious metals by reducing the opportunity cost relative to government bonds.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or other professional advice. It should not be considered a recommendation to buy or sell any securities or financial instruments. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. You should conduct your own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

Gold prices rose in early Asian trading on Friday, hovering near recent highs as investors increased bets on potential U.S. interest rate cuts. Market attention is focused on the upcoming nonfarm payrolls report, which could reinforce expectations of lower rates.

Spot gold advanced 0.4% to $3,559.82 an ounce, while December gold futures gained 0.3% to $3,617.87/oz by 01:04 ET (05:04 GMT). Earlier this week, spot prices touched a record $3,578.80/oz. Broader metal prices also moved higher, reflecting a weaker U.S. dollar amid growing confidence in a September rate reduction.

Gold Set for Third Consecutive Week of Gains

Gold is on track to rise about 3.2% this week, marking its third straight week of solid gains. Investor optimism about a September rate cut has been a key driver, alongside heightened safe-haven demand triggered by concerns over elevated government debt in developed nations and uncertainties surrounding the U.S. economy, including trade tariffs and the Fed’s independence.

Several Federal Reserve officials signaled this week that the central bank may be open to cutting rates in response to a cooling labor market. Recent data on jobless claims and job openings came in weaker than expected, prompting traders to increase expectations for a September rate reduction. CME FedWatch shows markets pricing in a more than 96% probability of a 25-basis-point cut at the September 16-17 meeting.

Industrial Metals Also Rise Ahead of Payrolls

Other metals followed gold’s upward trajectory. Spot platinum climbed 0.6% to $1,383.20/oz, gaining 1.1% for the week. Spot silver rose 0.5% to $40.8615/oz, up nearly 3% for the week.

Among industrial metals, London Metal Exchange copper futures increased 0.7% to $9,957.05 per ton, while COMEX copper rose 0.6% to $4.5932 per pound.

Investors are closely watching the U.S. nonfarm payrolls report, due at 08:30 ET (12:30 GMT), which is expected to show continued weak job growth in August. A soft reading could further support market expectations for a Fed rate cut in September. Lower interest rates generally benefit non-yielding assets such as gold and other metals, as the opportunity cost of holding them versus government bonds decreases.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or other professional advice. It should not be considered a recommendation to buy or sell any securities or financial instruments. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. You should conduct your own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

Oil prices eased in early Asian trading on Friday as market participants weighed uncertainty over potential output decisions by OPEC+, which is scheduled to meet over the weekend.

Crude benchmarks were set for weekly declines, pressured in part by an unexpected rise in U.S. inventories, which sparked concerns about weakening fuel demand.

Brent crude for November delivery slipped 0.2% to $66.83 a barrel, while West Texas Intermediate (WTI) futures fell 0.2% to $62.88 a barrel as of 20:38 ET (00:38 GMT).

OPEC+ Output Uncertainty Clouds Market

Oil was on track for weekly losses of 1% to 1.5% amid worries about rising supply alongside softening demand. OPEC+—the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and its allies—is set to convene this weekend.

Recent reports suggest some members are considering additional production hikes, following the cartel’s increase of around 2.2 million barrels per day so far in 2025. Any further output expansions would continue to reverse the deep cuts OPEC implemented over the past two years, as the group seeks to bolster production and regain market share.

Russian oil production remains a key focus, amid U.S. efforts to discourage major buyers such as India and Europe from sourcing more oil from Moscow. Nevertheless, Russia recently committed to supplying at least 2.5 million metric tons of oil annually to China via Kazakhstan, likely keeping production levels elevated.

U.S. Inventories Rise Unexpectedly

U.S. crude stocks added to market caution after the Energy Information Administration reported a surprise inventory increase of 2.415 million barrels in the week ending August 29, versus expectations for a 2 million-barrel draw.

Distillate inventories also saw unexpected growth, while gasoline stocks experienced a draw larger than anticipated. The figures heightened concerns over cooling U.S. fuel demand, particularly following the end of the busy summer travel season.

Signs of a softening labor market have further fueled worries about domestic fuel consumption in the months ahead. Attention now turns to the U.S. nonfarm payrolls data for August, due later in the day, which could provide additional insight into economic trends and potential interest rate moves.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or other professional advice. It should not be considered a recommendation to buy or sell any securities or financial instruments. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. You should conduct your own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

European equity markets inched up as investors awaited Friday’s U.S. payrolls report, which could influence the Federal Reserve’s upcoming interest rate decisions.

By 08:04 GMT, the pan-European Stoxx 600 had gained 0.3%, positioning it for a modest weekly advance. Germany’s DAX rose 0.1%, France’s CAC 40 also increased by 0.1%, and the U.K.’s FTSE 100 added 0.2%.

Economists predict the U.S. Labor Department’s Bureau of Labor Statistics will report 75,000 new jobs in August, slightly above July’s 73,000. Analysts suggest that a softer-than-expected reading could reinforce expectations of a 25-basis-point rate cut at the Fed’s September 16-17 meeting. CME’s FedWatch Tool indicates nearly a 100% probability of such a reduction, lowering the target range from 4.25%-4.5%.

Fed officials face the dual challenge of maintaining price stability while promoting maximum employment. Recent commentary suggests that supporting the labor market may currently take priority. Lowering interest rates can stimulate business and consumer spending but carries the risk of reigniting inflationary pressures.

Earlier labor data this week also hinted at a slowing U.S. job market. Private-sector hiring decelerated in August, while weekly unemployment claims rose more than expected, pointing to a potential cooling in employment growth.

In company news, Hexagon (TG:HXG) shares jumped following the announcement of a $3.16 billion sale of its design and engineering division to U.S. firm Cadence Design, expected to close in Q1 next year. Conversely, Orsted (TG:D2G) shares fell after the Danish energy company lowered its operating outlook due to weaker-than-expected wind speeds. Temenos also declined following the immediate departure of CEO Jean-Pierre Brulard.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or other professional advice. It should not be considered a recommendation to buy or sell any securities or financial instruments. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. You should conduct your own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

Ashmore Group PLC (LSE:ASHM) has reported positive investment performance, with assets under management reaching $47.6 billion, supported by net inflows into equities and local offices. Despite a 22% year-on-year decline in adjusted net revenue, the company maintained a solid balance sheet and achieved a 36% adjusted EBITDA margin. Strategic initiatives include diversification into equities and investment-grade strategies, expansion in local markets, and capturing capital flows as investors increasingly shift from US markets to emerging markets. Active management has contributed to notable outperformance, positioning Ashmore to benefit from the reallocation trend toward emerging markets.

Robust technical indicators and recent corporate developments contribute to a strong overall stock profile. While profitability and stability remain solid, the decline in revenue and cash flow continues to be a concern. Valuation metrics indicate fair pricing, and a high dividend yield enhances the stock’s appeal for income-focused investors.

About Ashmore Group PLC

Ashmore Group PLC is a specialist asset manager focused on emerging markets. The company provides investment strategies across equities, fixed income, and alternatives, aiming to capture superior economic growth and deliver higher risk-adjusted returns in emerging markets.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or other professional advice. It should not be considered a recommendation to buy or sell any securities or financial instruments. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. You should conduct your own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

Berkeley Group Holdings (LSE:BKG) has reported steady trading for the first four months of the financial year, maintaining its full-year pre-tax earnings guidance of £450 million for the year ending April 2026. The company recently completed its 2011 Shareholder Returns programme and launched the Berkeley 2035 strategy, targeting £2.0 billion in shareholder returns by 2035. Despite challenges in the London housing market, management remains confident in its flexible capital allocation model and ability to create long-term shareholder value through strategic investments and partnerships with government to navigate regulatory and viability hurdles.

The company’s outlook is supported by strong valuation metrics, including a low price-to-earnings ratio and a high dividend yield. While financial performance is stable, concerns remain regarding revenue growth and cash flow generation. Technical indicators suggest a bearish trend, partially offsetting the favorable valuation.

About The Berkeley Group Holdings

The Berkeley Group Holdings plc is a UK-based real estate developer focused on residential property. The company is recognized for ambitious brownfield regeneration projects and investment in build-to-rent (BTR) platforms, aiming to deliver benefits for communities, the economy, and the environment.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or other professional advice. It should not be considered a recommendation to buy or sell any securities or financial instruments. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. You should conduct your own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.

Gear4music (Holdings) plc (LSE:G4M) reported a 27% increase in group revenues for Q1 FY26 compared to the same period last year, fueled by a refreshed growth strategy and favorable market conditions across the UK and Europe. The company is optimistic about its full-year performance for the year ending March 2026, anticipating higher revenues and profits, with additional trading updates scheduled for October and November 2025.

The outlook remains mixed. Strong technical momentum points to potential short-term gains, yet a high price-to-earnings ratio raises valuation concerns, and weak cash flow generation presents ongoing risks. Continued improvement in profitability and cash flow will be critical to support long-term growth.

About Gear4music (Holdings) plc

Gear4music (Holdings) plc is the UK’s largest retailer of musical instruments and music equipment. Headquartered in York with distribution centers across the UK and Europe, the company offers both own-brand and premium third-party instruments and equipment, catering to beginners and professional musicians worldwide. Gear4music has developed a robust e-commerce platform supporting multilingual and multicurrency transactions, enhancing its international reach and customer experience.

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or other professional advice. It should not be considered a recommendation to buy or sell any securities or financial instruments. All investments involve risk, including the potential loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future results. You should conduct your own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.