Author: Fiona Craig

Oil prices in Asian markets edged higher on Monday after slipping to three-week lows, buoyed by news that the United States and the European Union reached a trade agreement easing tariff concerns and raising hopes for stronger energy demand ahead.

By 21:47 ET (01:47 GMT), September Brent crude futures increased 0.3% to $68.66 per barrel, while West Texas Intermediate (WTI) futures rose 0.3% to $65.36 per barrel.

This modest recovery followed last Friday’s dip to three-week lows, which was driven by anticipated boosts in Venezuelan oil exports.

“A trade deal between the US and EU proved positive for sentiment this morning in the oil market. However, attention will likely turn to OPEC+ output policy from September,” ING analysts commented in their report.

Positive Trade Sentiment Fueled by US-EU Framework

Market optimism was lifted by Sunday’s announcement of a broad trade framework between the US and EU. The deal features a 15% tariff on European goods entering the US, a significant reduction from the initially proposed 30%.

Additionally, the EU agreed to purchase $750 billion worth of American energy products over several years. The pact also involves the EU committing to invest $600 billion in the US economy and acquire hundreds of billions of dollars in US military equipment.

By reducing trade frictions, the deal is expected to stimulate economic growth and cross-border trade, both of which drive oil demand through increased transportation and industrial energy consumption.

The energy component of the deal further supported oil prices by reinforcing expectations for sustained US exports, especially of liquefied natural gas and crude oil.

Improved risk sentiment also helped, as fears of an imminent trade war eased. Yet, investors remain cautious as President Donald Trump’s August 1 tariff deadline approaches, seeking clarity on potential shifts in US trade policies.

OPEC+ Supply Adjustments and Fed Meeting in Focus

Despite gains, oil prices remain capped due to expectations of rising supply. The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and its allies (OPEC+) are anticipated to increase production moderately in August. Meanwhile, Venezuelan crude may re-enter global markets should US sanctions be relaxed.

An OPEC+ panel will convene later Monday to assess market conditions ahead of the full committee’s August 3 meeting, where September production targets will be finalized. Media reports suggest another output increase is likely.

“We expect that OPEC+ will at least complete the full return of 2.2m b/d of the additional voluntary supply cuts by the end of September,” ING analysts said.

“This would work out to a supply hike in September of at least 280k b/d. However, there is clearly room for a more aggressive hike,” they added.

Meanwhile, investors are also focused on the Federal Reserve’s upcoming two-day policy meeting starting Tuesday. The US central bank is expected to hold interest rates steady, but market participants will be watching closely for any hints about a possible rate cut later this year.

Key economic data due this week, including the June PCE inflation index and the July jobs report, will further shape market expectations.

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 edged higher following the announcement of a key trade agreement between the United States and the European Union, a move that averts the risk of a potentially harmful trade war. Attention now shifts to the U.S.-China negotiations in Sweden, where reports suggest the world’s two largest economies might extend their current trade truce. Adding to the market’s focus is the looming August 1 deadline for increased “reciprocal” U.S. tariffs on several countries, alongside a busy week filled with major corporate earnings, vital economic indicators, and a highly anticipated Federal Reserve interest rate announcement.

Futures Show Gains

Investors appeared optimistic Monday as futures for major U.S. stock indexes rose, reflecting confidence after significant trade developments and in anticipation of upcoming earnings reports and economic data.

By 03:25 ET, Dow futures had gained 146 points (0.3%), S&P 500 futures added 25 points (0.4%), and Nasdaq 100 futures climbed 127 points (0.5%).

The S&P 500 and Nasdaq, both technology-heavy indexes, ended Friday’s session at record highs, extending Wall Street’s recent positive momentum. Strong quarterly earnings and greater clarity on U.S. tariff policies have helped bolster equities in recent weeks.

European markets also closed at a four-month peak, providing a positive backdrop for U.S. trading.

The U.S.-EU Trade Agreement

President Donald Trump announced on Sunday in Scotland that the U.S. and EU have reached a landmark trade deal including a 15% tariff on European goods entering America.

The agreement covers major EU purchases of U.S. energy and military equipment, as well as substantial investment commitments to the U.S. economy.

“They are agreeing to open up their countries to trade at zero tariff,” Trump told reporters. He added that the EU would “purchase a vast amount of military equipment” from the U.S.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen confirmed the deal includes a 15% tariff applied broadly, which she said would “rebalance” trade between the two major partners. Last year, the U.S. imported $3.3 trillion in goods, with more than $600 billion coming from the 27-member EU.

This agreement should ease investor concerns, especially with the August 1 deadline approaching for Trump’s planned “reciprocal” tariffs. The EU was facing increased duties of up to 30% and had pushed for a zero-for-zero tariff agreement.

U.S.-China Talks Expected to Extend Trade Truce

The U.S. and China are anticipated to extend their tariff truce by another 90 days in trade talks starting Monday in Stockholm, according to the South China Morning Post, citing sources close to the negotiations.

The temporary suspension of most tariffs, agreed in May, is due to expire on August 12.

Sources told SCMP the talks will focus on unresolved issues, including U.S. concerns about China’s industrial overcapacity, rather than immediate breakthroughs.

During this extension, neither side plans to introduce new tariffs or escalate tensions. Beijing is expected to seek clarification on the 20% tariffs imposed in March on Chinese goods over fentanyl concerns.

Trump said Sunday that the U.S. is “very close” to a deal with China but gave no further details. Meanwhile, China’s People’s Daily editorial emphasized Beijing’s commitment to resolving disputes through “equal dialogue and mutual respect.”

The Financial Times also reported that the U.S. has paused tech export restrictions to China to avoid disrupting talks.

A Packed Week Ahead

Analysts at ING describe the coming week as “massive” for the U.S. economy, with possible new trade deals expected before August 1. Major tech giants such as Meta Platforms, Microsoft, Apple, and Amazon are due to release earnings.

Important economic reports include July’s nonfarm payrolls and a closely watched inflation figure, while the Federal Reserve will announce its interest rate decision on Wednesday.

Though Trump has applied pressure on the Fed to cut rates quickly, officials are widely expected to keep borrowing costs steady. Policymakers have indicated a “wait-and-see” stance, partly due to uncertainty over tariff impacts on the economy.

Gold Remains Steady

Gold prices held firm Monday as a weaker dollar offset increased risk appetite following the U.S.-EU trade deal.

Investors exercised caution ahead of the Fed’s interest rate decision, eager to hear guidance on the U.S. economy’s outlook for the second half of 2025.

Spot gold rose 0.1% to $3,340.02 an ounce, with futures up 0.1% to $3,396.67 by 03:29 ET.

Oil prices also benefited from optimism around the trade pact, while improved market sentiment lifted Bitcoin.

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 surged on Monday after the United States and the European Union finalized a trade agreement, easing concerns over a potential tariff war between the two major economic blocs and offering businesses greater certainty moving forward.

By 03:05 ET (07:05 GMT), Germany’s DAX index had advanced 0.8%, France’s CAC 40 jumped 1.2%, and the UK’s FTSE 100 gained 0.5%.

Details of the EU-U.S. trade accord

Over the weekend, U.S. President Donald Trump unveiled a framework trade deal with the European Union, which sets a 15% import tariff on most EU products. In return, the EU pledged investments totaling approximately $600 billion in the U.S. economy.

While the agreed 15% tariff rate exceeded Europe’s initial aim of zero tariffs on both sides, it was broadly welcomed as a better alternative to the previously threatened 30% tariff.

This agreement offers companies much-needed clarity and helps prevent a significant breakdown in trade relations between two blocs that represent nearly a third of global commerce.

The 15% tariff level aligns with a similar deal reached last week between the U.S. and Japan, reflecting the rapid pace at which nations are moving to secure trade agreements with the U.S. before the August 1 deadline for new tariffs on goods from various countries.

Meanwhile, U.S.-China trade talks are scheduled to resume Monday in Stockholm as both economic superpowers attempt to resolve ongoing disputes.

At the same time, oil futures also gained momentum. Brent crude increased by 0.8% to $68.18 per barrel, and West Texas Intermediate rose 0.8% to $65.71 per barrel. The prospect of additional trade deals involving the U.S. has supported energy markets ahead of the looming tariff deadlines.

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.

Valterra Platinum (LSE:VALT) reported a sharp 81% drop in profit for the first half of the year, citing reduced production and financial impacts from its recent spin-off from Anglo American Platinum (LSE:AAL).

The South African producer of platinum group metals recorded headline earnings of 1.2 billion rand ($67.62 million) for the six months ending June 30, significantly down from 6.5 billion rand during the same period in 2023.

PGM sales volumes declined by 25% year-on-year, with the company selling 1.48 million ounces in the first half. The drop in output was largely the result of flooding at its Amandelbult site, which was affected by intense rainfall in February.

In line with the earnings slump, Valterra declared an interim dividend of 2 rand per share—a 79% decrease compared to last year’s mid-year distribution.

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.

OptiBiotix Health plc (LSE:OPTI) reported significant financial growth in the first half of 2025, with gross revenue increasing by 102% and gross profit rising 173% compared to the same period in 2024. The company expanded its customer base notably in Asia and the USA, and expects continued sales momentum driven by new product launches and strategic partnerships.

Cost reductions and improved margins are anticipated to further boost profitability, positioning OptiBiotix for substantial growth in shareholder value.

More about OptiBiotix Health

Founded in March 2012, OptiBiotix Health plc operates in the life sciences sector, specializing in developing compounds that modify the human microbiome to prevent and manage conditions such as obesity, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes. The company collaborates with international food and healthcare supplement firms to integrate its microbiome modulators into a variety of food products and beverages, while also developing its own consumer supplements and health products.

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.

Oxford BioMedica PLC (LSE:OXB) has reported a strong start to fiscal year 2025, with first-half revenues reaching £70-73 million. This represents a 38% to 44% increase compared to the same period in 2024. The company secured £149 million in new orders during H1 2025, more than doubling the previous year’s figures, and has reaffirmed its full-year revenue guidance of £160-170 million.

The company’s multi-vector, multi-site strategy is advancing well, supported by increased demand for its services and a robust order book that provides confidence in future growth. Oxford BioMedica is expanding its manufacturing and development capacity, particularly in late-stage lentiviral programs, and is enhancing its global operations to support clients across different geographies and development stages.

While the company’s strong corporate events and positive technical indicators underpin a favorable outlook, concerns remain regarding financial performance and valuation. Financial stability continues to be a key risk despite Oxford BioMedica’s strategic initiatives and market position.

More about Oxford BioMedica

Oxford BioMedica (LSE:OXB) is a global contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) specializing in cell and gene therapy. With 30 years of experience in viral vectors, the company collaborates with leading pharmaceutical and biotech firms to provide expertise in lentivirus, adeno-associated virus (AAV), adenovirus, and other viral vector types. Oxford BioMedica offers services spanning early-stage development through commercialization, supported by strong quality assurance and regulatory capabilities. The company is headquartered in Oxford, UK, with facilities in the UK, France, and the US.

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.

STV Group plc (LSE:STVG) has announced that its full-year revenue and adjusted operating profit for 2025 are expected to fall well below market consensus. This is due to a downturn in commissioning and advertising markets, which continue to present headwinds for the business.

In response, the company is implementing cost-saving initiatives and anticipates realizing further savings in 2026. The Audience division’s revenue and operating margin are projected to decline, reflecting persistent weakness in the advertising sector. STV Studios has experienced delays in commissioning, particularly affecting its unscripted projects, a consequence of the UK’s economic environment. However, its scripted content remains stable.

Despite these challenges, STV is advancing with strategic initiatives, including the launch of a new radio station and the consolidation of its Broadcast and Digital businesses.

STV Group’s outlook combines a history of robust financial performance with recent revenue pressures. While profitability remains under strain, balance sheet concerns persist due to negative equity and high leverage. The stock’s undervaluation and attractive dividend yield present an appealing proposition for income-focused investors. Nonetheless, mixed technical signals advise caution over the short term. Recent strategic moves and partnerships underpin the company’s potential for long-term growth.

More about STV Group plc

STV Group plc operates within the media industry, specializing in television broadcasting and production. The company provides services including advertising, content creation, and digital broadcasting, primarily targeting the UK market. Its division, STV Studios, produces both scripted and unscripted content, collaborating with major platforms such as Netflix, Apple, Sky, and the BBC.

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.

Computacenter (LSE:CCC) posted strong revenue gains in the first half of 2025, driven mainly by its Technology Sourcing division, with particularly solid results in North America and the UK markets. However, the business encountered difficulties in Germany and France, where political shifts have disrupted public sector projects.

Although net interest income declined following a share buyback, the company’s balance sheet remains healthy. With a substantial product order backlog, Computacenter is well-positioned to navigate the remainder of the year. While geopolitical tensions and macroeconomic challenges persist, there is optimism for a partial rebound in Germany’s public sector activity, though conditions in France continue to pose challenges.

Computacenter’s financial strength and recent corporate developments contribute positively to its stock rating, reflecting strong revenue momentum and a favorable outlook. Nonetheless, bearish technical signals weigh on the overall assessment. The company’s valuation is reasonable, offering moderate income potential.

About Computacenter

Computacenter is a leading independent provider of technology and IT services, supporting major corporate and public sector clients. The company specializes in sourcing, transforming, and managing technology infrastructure to enable digital transformation. Listed on the London FTSE 250, Computacenter employs over 20,000 people globally.

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.

Ceres Power Holdings (LSE:CWR) and Doosan Fuel Cell (USOTC:DOOSF) have officially started mass production of fuel cell power systems featuring Ceres’ solid oxide technology at Doosan’s manufacturing site in South Korea. This launch marks a key milestone, as Doosan becomes the first strategic partner to scale production, focusing on markets such as AI/data centers and commercial power applications.

The partnership aims to address the growing energy demands driven by AI advancements while supporting the global shift toward a low-carbon future. Initial sales will concentrate on South Korea, targeting use cases including stationary distributed power, data centers, renewable energy grids, and maritime shipping.

Ceres Power’s robust revenue growth and strong strategic alliances are promising, though ongoing profitability challenges and valuation concerns temper the outlook. Technical indicators are showing bullish momentum, complemented by positive corporate developments and encouraging earnings call feedback, resulting in a moderately optimistic forecast.

About Ceres Power Holdings

Ceres Power Holdings plc is a frontrunner in clean energy innovation, specializing in fuel cells for power generation and electrolysers for green hydrogen production. Operating with an asset-light licensing model, the company collaborates with major global partners. Ceres’ solid oxide technology plays a crucial role in advancing energy electrification and enabling efficient green hydrogen production, aiding decarbonization efforts in industries like steelmaking and ammonia manufacturing. Listed on the London Stock Exchange, Ceres is recognized as a significant contributor to the transition toward a sustainable green economy.

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.

Kooth plc (LSE:KOO) has released its half-year trading update, highlighting operational progress and key leadership changes aimed at supporting its growth ambitions. Now in the third year of its major contract with the State of California, the company’s Soluna platform has experienced significant expansion, attracting over 128,000 young users.

Despite uncertainties around potential federal healthcare funding cuts, Kooth’s focus on youth mental health remains well-aligned with California’s priorities, helping to sustain demand. In the UK, the company maintains a stable position amid fiscal challenges and is preparing to roll out Soluna to broaden its service offerings.

To support its strategic goals and international expansion, Kooth has bolstered its leadership team, positioning the business for sustainable long-term growth.

About Kooth plc

Kooth plc is a leading digital mental health service provider, delivering accessible and secure platforms for mental wellbeing. The company focuses on early intervention and prevention through a range of therapeutic supports and interventions. Accredited by the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy, Kooth is the UK’s largest provider of mental health support for under-18s. The company is actively expanding internationally, with a strong focus on the growing youth mental health market in the US.

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.