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Savannah Resources (LSE:SAV) has completed the resource-focused portion of its Phase 2 drilling program at the Barroso Lithium Project in Portugal, with the latest assay results delivering encouraging outcomes. The company plans to release an updated JORC-compliant resource estimate in September, which is expected to both expand and upgrade the current resource base. This update will play a key role in advancing the project’s Definitive Feasibility Study and in securing future financing.

The Phase 2 results point to the possibility of higher tonnage at the Pinheiro and Reservatório deposits, while also confirming the continuation of lithium mineralization at greater depths. These findings underline the long-term growth potential of the Barroso Project, which is already regarded as a cornerstone development for Europe’s lithium supply chain.

About Savannah Resources Plc

Savannah Resources is dedicated to the advancement of the Barroso Lithium Project in northern Portugal, recognized as a “Strategic Project” under the European Critical Raw Materials Act. The site represents Europe’s largest known spodumene lithium deposit, positioning Savannah as a key player in the region’s drive for secure and sustainable raw material supply.

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.

Genedrive plc (LSE:GDR) has confirmed the nationwide launch of its Genedrive® MT-RNR1 ID Kit in Scotland, a breakthrough tool designed to prevent hearing loss in newborns through rapid genetic testing in neonatal care units. Backed by funding from the Scottish Government and implemented in partnership with NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, the program will extend to all territorial health boards over an 18-month period. The initiative reflects Scotland’s wider commitment to embedding innovative genetic testing into everyday clinical practice, advancing both personalized treatment and neonatal care. In its first year, the rollout is expected to benefit more than 3,000 newborns, marking a notable step forward in the country’s healthcare system.

On the financial side, Genedrive continues to face hurdles in achieving profitability despite reporting solid revenue growth and maintaining a healthy balance sheet. Technical indicators suggest bearish momentum, and the company’s valuation remains pressured by ongoing losses. Even so, recent corporate milestones could strengthen its competitive positioning and support long-term growth prospects.

About Genedrive plc

Genedrive is a UK-based pharmacogenetic testing specialist focused on developing rapid, cost-effective, and user-friendly point-of-care solutions. Its platforms are designed to give clinicians critical genetic insights that guide safer, more effective medication decisions, particularly in urgent care settings. The company’s key products include the Genedrive® MT-RNR1 ID Kit and the Genedrive® CYP2C19 ID Kit, both created to deliver fast and reliable genetic results that can directly improve patient outcomes. Operating out of Manchester, Genedrive continues to expand both its product line and its market reach.

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.

Cloudbreak Discovery PLC (LSE:CDL) has reported strong results from its first round of sampling at the Darlot West Gold Project in Western Australia. Surface assays revealed gold grades as high as 28.62 grams per tonne, surpassing initial expectations. Encouraged by these results, the company intends to advance exploration efforts to determine the scale of mineralization. Cloudbreak is also considering acquiring full ownership of the project as part of its broader strategy to grow its footprint in the region and strengthen its role in the gold exploration sector.

Despite this promising discovery, the company’s financial picture remains challenging. Cloudbreak currently generates no revenue and continues to post consistent losses, leaving its long-term prospects uncertain. Although some technical indicators point to short-term upward momentum, the overall valuation is unattractive, with a negative P/E ratio. Management’s recent restructuring initiatives may provide a foundation for recovery, but these have yet to show tangible improvements in performance. Investors should approach the stock with caution due to its high-risk profile.

About Cloudbreak Discovery PLC

Cloudbreak Discovery is a resource exploration and project development firm with a diversified approach to minerals and energy opportunities. Its business model is focused on building near-term cash flow and delivering shareholder value through investments in commodities with strong underlying potential.

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.

Bitcoin (COIN:BTCUSD) slipped to a two-week low on Wednesday, as investors trimmed positions ahead of the Federal Reserve’s Jackson Hole symposium and evaluated geopolitical uncertainties, including potential Russia-Ukraine negotiations.

The largest cryptocurrency traded 1.1% lower at $112,870.0 as of 10:15 ET (14:15 GMT), briefly nearing a six-week low of $112,668 earlier in the session. Last week, Bitcoin had surged above $124,000, but recent strong U.S. economic data dampened expectations for a significant Fed rate cut in September.

Market focus on Jackson Hole and potential Russia-Ukraine talks

Investors are closely watching the Fed’s annual symposium in Jackson Hole, where Chair Jerome Powell is set to speak on Friday. A hawkish tone or indications that undercut bets on a September rate reduction could put further pressure on risk assets, including cryptocurrencies. Futures markets now reflect expectations for a 25-basis-point cut, down from earlier forecasts of a larger reduction.

Geopolitical developments added to market uncertainty. U.S. President Donald Trump hosted Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and European leaders on Monday to discuss possible peace initiatives, mentioning plans for direct talks with both Moscow and Kyiv and hinting at a potential trilateral summit. While successful negotiations could bolster global risk sentiment over the long term, the near-term uncertainty weighed on crypto prices.

Fed’s Bowman supports small crypto holdings for central bank staff

Federal Reserve Vice Chair for Supervision Michelle Bowman stated on Tuesday that central bank employees should be permitted to hold small, “de minimis” amounts of cryptocurrencies and digital assets. She argued this would allow regulators to gain practical experience and improve oversight of emerging financial technologies. Bowman acknowledged inherent risks but stressed that benefits should not be overlooked. Her remarks signal a more hands-on regulatory approach toward crypto under the current administration.

China considers yuan-backed stablecoins

China is exploring a policy shift that could authorize yuan-backed stablecoins, aiming to boost international adoption of its currency, Reuters reported Wednesday. The State Council is expected to review a roadmap later this month outlining global yuan usage targets, regulatory responsibilities, and risk management measures. Senior leaders will also hold a study session on yuan internationalization and the role of stablecoins, likely clarifying policy direction. Beijing sees stablecoins as a tool to extend the yuan’s global influence, particularly as U.S. dollar-linked tokens gain traction internationally.

Altcoins follow Bitcoin lower

Most altcoins also fell on Wednesday, mirroring Bitcoin’s decline. Ethereum slipped nearly 4% to $4,120.40, while XRP dropped 5.5% to $2.82. Solana declined 2.2%, Cardano fell over 8%, and Polygon retreated 6.3%. Among meme coins, Dogecoin dipped 4.5% and $TRUMP slid 3%.

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 markets are experiencing a choppy session on Wednesday, following strong gains in the previous trading day fueled by reports of a possible Ukraine-Russia summit.

In the U.K., inflation data for July showed consumer prices rising faster than expected, driven mainly by higher transport costs. The Consumer Price Index increased 3.8% year-on-year, up from 3.6% in June, slightly above analyst projections of 3.7%. This has tempered expectations for a potential Bank of England rate cut.

In Germany, producer prices fell for the fifth consecutive month, reflecting lower energy costs, according to Destatis. The Producer Price Index dropped 1.5% year-on-year in July, slightly steeper than June’s 1.3% decline.

Looking at indices, the DAX is down 0.3%, while the CAC 40 rises 0.2% and the FTSE 100 climbs 0.7%.

Defense companies are retreating as optimism about a potential Russia-Ukraine peace deal grows. Rheinmetall (TG:RHM) and Hensoldt (TG:HAG) both fell roughly 1%.

Energy stocks saw notable gains, with Ithaca Energy (LSE:ITH) surging 9% after lifting its 2025 production forecast for the second time this year.

In other corporate news, building materials firm Geberit (TG:GBRA) dropped 2.3% after reporting a slight dip in first-half profits, and IT services provider Computacenter (LSE:CCC) lost 1% following the appointment of a new finance chief.

Meanwhile, Swiss-American eye-care group Alcon (NYSE:ALC) plunged nearly 10% after lowering its net sales guidance for 2025, citing tariff-related pressures.

Overall, European markets are navigating a mix of geopolitical optimism and uneven corporate and economic reports.

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.

Major U.S. stock futures suggest a modestly lower start on Wednesday as investors react to yesterday’s tech-led selloff.

Target (NYSE:TGT) is leading the pre-market declines, down 10.1%, after reporting a fall in second-quarter sales and announcing COO Michael Fiddelke will succeed CEO Brian Cornell.

Estée Lauder (NYSE:EL) is also under pressure, slipping 6.6% pre-market following a steep fiscal fourth-quarter operating loss and weaker-than-expected guidance for fiscal 2026.

Meanwhile, Lowe’s (NYSE:LOW) is climbing 2.6% after posting better-than-expected second-quarter earnings and raising its full-year revenue outlook, providing a bright spot ahead of the Fed minutes.

Investors are keeping trading activity subdued ahead of the Federal Reserve’s meeting minutes release, which could shed light on the central bank’s future rate policy. The July meeting ended with a split decision to maintain interest rates, leaving markets eager for additional guidance.

Tuesday’s session saw the Nasdaq bear the brunt of the declines, dropping 314.82 points (1.5%) to 21,314.95. The S&P 500 fell 37.78 points (0.6%) to 6,411.37, while the Dow eked out a small gain of 10.45 points, closing at 44,922.27 after reaching an intraday record.

Tech stocks were the main drag, with Nvidia (NASDAQ:NVDA) falling 3.5% amid reports the company is developing a new AI chip for China. On the other hand, Home Depot (NYSE:HD) rallied 3.2%, supported by solid guidance despite slightly weaker second-quarter results.

Looking ahead, investors are also monitoring the Jackson Hole Economic Symposium, which begins Thursday. Fed Chair Jerome Powell is set to speak Friday, and his comments could influence expectations for future rate moves. The CME Group FedWatch Tool currently assigns an 86.9% probability to a quarter-point rate cut in September.

Economic data this week, including weekly jobless claims, existing home sales, and leading indicators, may also provide market-moving insights. On Tuesday, the Commerce Department reported an unexpected surge in new residential construction in July.

Sector performance was mixed. Gold stocks dropped as gold prices fell, dragging the NYSE Arca Gold Bugs Index down 3.0%. Software, semiconductor, networking, and computer hardware stocks also faced declines, hitting the Nasdaq’s tech-heavy index. Conversely, commercial real estate, housing, and transportation sectors saw gains, helping offset some of the market’s losses.

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 U.S. dollar nudged higher Wednesday as investors awaited the release of the Federal Reserve’s latest policy meeting minutes and the upcoming Jackson Hole symposium for insights on future monetary policy.

At 04:55 ET (08:55 GMT), the Dollar Index, which tracks the greenback against six major currencies, was up 0.1% at 98.190, following gains of 0.4% over the first two trading days of the week.

Market Focus on Fed Minutes

With little change in the Ukraine situation over the past day, attention has shifted to the Fed’s minutes, due later in the session. The central bank has held its policy rate at 4.25%-4.50% throughout 2025, though some officials—including Chair Jerome Powell—have voiced concerns that tariffs under the Trump administration could reignite inflation.

However, the Fed has faced criticism from President Donald Trump, and a few policymakers have broken ranks by calling for lower interest rates. The upcoming minutes may shed light on these internal divisions, following dissent by Governors Christopher Waller and Michelle Bowman—the first time two voting Fed officials opposed the majority since 1993.

“These minutes will air more of the views of the two dissenters (Waller and Bowman) who voted for a rate cut in July,” analysts at ING said. “Market moves, however, may be limited given that the July jobs report was released a few days later. A much better read on the Fed situation should emerge on Friday afternoon during Chair Powell’s speech at Jackson Hole.”

The annual Jackson Hole gathering begins with informal interviews, ahead of the formal agenda release Thursday evening. Powell’s keynote on Friday will focus on the U.S. economic outlook. “In all, we don’t see the need for big DXY moves today and struggle to see it breaking above 98.50/60 resistance,” ING added.

Sterling Rises After UK CPI Jump

In Europe, EUR/USD slipped 0.1% to 1.1638 in quiet trading. Eurozone inflation figures are expected later in the session, with forecasts suggesting annual CPI remained steady at 2.0% in July, aligned with the ECB’s medium-term target.

“EUR/USD should continue to trade in narrow ranges and we do not see the need for it to break under 1.1590/1600 today,” ING noted.

Meanwhile, GBP/USD gained 0.1% to 1.3497 following the release of UK inflation data, which showed consumer prices rose 3.8% in July from 3.6% in June, exceeding the 3.7% consensus estimate. This marked the highest headline CPI since January 2024. Analysts at Capital Economics said that a November rate cut is still possible but warned that rising inflation expectations and wage growth could delay further easing until 2026.

Other Currencies Move

The Japanese yen edged lower, with USD/JPY down 0.1% at 147.58. USD/CNY dipped slightly to 7.1787 after the People’s Bank of China left the one-year Loan Prime Rate at 3.0% and the five-year at 3.5%, in line with expectations.

The Australian dollar slipped 0.3% to 0.6434, while the New Zealand dollar dropped sharply, with NZD/USD down 1.3% to 0.5818—the lowest since mid-April—after the Reserve Bank of New Zealand cut its official cash rate by 25 basis points to 3.00%. The central bank signaled that further easing is possible if inflation pressures continue to ease. The Monetary Policy Committee voted 4-2 in favor of the cut, with two members preferring a larger 50-basis-point reduction.

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 remained largely unchanged in Asian trading on Wednesday, stabilizing after recent losses as uncertainty over U.S. interest rates ahead of a key central bank symposium kept investors cautious.

Despite broad market risk-off sentiment, with equities around the globe posting significant declines this week, demand for the safe-haven metal was limited. Traders appeared to prefer the U.S. dollar over gold amid rising questions about whether the Federal Reserve will implement a rate cut in September.

Spot gold inched up 0.1% to $3,319.14 per ounce, while October gold futures advanced 0.1% to $3,361.20 an ounce by 01:30 ET (05:30 GMT). The metal also saw modest safe-haven interest amid ongoing uncertainty over the Russia-Ukraine conflict, as hopes for a near-term peace agreement remain slim.

Gold Awaits Jackson Hole Signals

Gold struggled to regain momentum as investors awaited further clues on U.S. monetary policy, prompting some capital to shift toward the dollar. Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell is scheduled to speak at the Jackson Hole Symposium on Friday, where traders hope to gain insight into potential rate cuts.

The market’s cautious positioning follows last week’s hot U.S. producer inflation report, which heightened concerns about the inflationary impact of trade tariffs. These data led some investors to scale back bets on a September rate reduction, although CME FedWatch still shows an 84% probability that the Fed will lower rates by 25 basis points next month.

Powell has so far remained non-committal regarding additional monetary easing, citing uncertainty around tariffs and their inflationary effects. His comments on Friday are expected to clarify the Fed’s stance, with traders bracing for potential market-moving signals.

The U.S. dollar strengthened Wednesday, pressuring metals markets. Spot platinum rose 0.1% to $1,316.70 per ounce, while spot silver slipped 0.6% to $37.1845 per ounce. Industrial metals were mixed, with London Metal Exchange copper futures steady at $9,702.45 per ton, and COMEX copper futures flat at $4.4285 per pound.

Russia-Ukraine Negotiations Under Scrutiny

Market attention also remains on U.S. efforts to mediate a peace deal between Russia and Ukraine. President Trump pledged security guarantees to Kyiv after meeting with Ukrainian and European leaders, but details of potential measures remain unclear.

Moscow intensified air strikes this week despite international calls for a ceasefire, and the willingness of Russian President Vladimir Putin to engage in peace talks remains uncertain. While discussions between Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky could potentially lead to trilateral negotiations, the timing of such efforts is still vague.

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 edged higher in Asian trading on Wednesday following industry reports that U.S. crude inventories fell more than anticipated, while traders also considered the potential impact of renewed Russia-Ukraine peace discussions on supply and sanctions.

As of 21:33 ET (01:33 GMT), October Brent crude futures gained 0.4% to $66.02 per barrel, and West Texas Intermediate (WTI) futures rose 0.3% to $61.94 per barrel. Both benchmarks had dropped on Tuesday, amid worries that a possible peace deal could trigger a surge in supply at a time when markets are already adjusting to OPEC+ production increases.

U.S. crude inventories decline sharply

The American Petroleum Institute (API) reported that U.S. crude oil stocks decreased by 2.4 million barrels in the week ending August 15, surpassing analysts’ expectations of a 1.2 million-barrel drop. This followed a 1.5 million-barrel increase the previous week. The larger-than-expected draw provided a boost to oil prices, highlighting tighter supply conditions.

Russia-Ukraine peace talks in the spotlight

On Tuesday, former President Donald Trump said he had spoken with Russian President Vladimir Putin after hosting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and European leaders at the White House on Monday. Trump indicated that he was working to arrange direct talks between Moscow and Kyiv, with the possibility of a subsequent trilateral summit involving the United States.

Trump stated that the U.S. would help ensure Ukraine’s security under any peace agreement, though details on the form or scope of these guarantees were not provided. Zelenskiy described the announcement as “a major step forward” and expressed willingness to engage in direct negotiations with Russia.

Traders are closely monitoring whether a formal peace framework could result in the relaxation of Western sanctions on Russian oil exports. Russia continues to be a major global oil supplier, but sanctions have restricted its flows to Western markets since the invasion of Ukraine.

Market participants are also awaiting clarification on secondary U.S. tariffs of 25% on Indian goods, imposed due to New Delhi’s purchase of Russian oil, which are scheduled to take effect on August 27.

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 markets slipped Wednesday, following a tech-driven selloff on Wall Street, while U.K. inflation data came in above expectations, raising questions about the Bank of England’s future policy path.

At 08:00 GMT, Germany’s DAX dropped 0.5%, France’s CAC 40 eased 0.2%, and London’s FTSE 100 also fell 0.2%.

Tech Worries Weigh on Markets

European shares mirrored losses in Asia and Wall Street, where tech stocks fell amid concerns over increased U.S. government involvement in the sector. Reuters reported that U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick is exploring equity stakes in Intel (NASDAQ:INTC) and other chipmakers as part of CHIPS Act funding.

Corporate earnings sentiment in Europe also cooled slightly. Analysts now forecast an average 4.6% rise in second-quarter earnings, down from last week’s expectation of 4.8%, signaling a subtle slowdown in business optimism.

UK Inflation Surpasses Forecasts

Consumer price inflation in the U.K. rose to 3.8% in July, up from 3.6% in June, exceeding the 3.7% consensus. This marks the highest headline CPI reading since January 2024.

The Bank of England had already anticipated this uptick in its August Monetary Policy Report. Capital Economics analysts still see a possible rate cut in November but caution that stronger wage growth or rising inflation expectations could postpone it until 2026.

Eurozone inflation data is expected later today, with forecasts pointing to a stable 2.0% year-on-year rate, aligning with the European Central Bank’s medium-term target.

Corporate Updates

The defense sector in Europe remains subdued amid renewed hopes for peace in Ukraine. Meanwhile, Ithaca Energy (LSE:ITH) reported robust first-half earnings and lifted its 2025 forecast thanks to higher production, stronger cash flows, and disciplined cost management.

Alcon (BIT:1ALC) lowered its 2025 sales outlook, citing ongoing U.S. tariff pressures, which affect nearly half of its revenue. FLSmidth (USOTC:FLIDY) met Q2 expectations, but revenue fell sharply and losses persisted in its Products division.

Oil Prices Rebound

Crude edged higher Wednesday, recovering from Tuesday’s losses as traders awaited developments in the Ukraine conflict. Brent crude rose 1% to $66.46 a barrel, while WTI climbed 1.2% to $62.48.

Tuesday’s declines came amid optimism that peace talks could lead to eased sanctions on Russia and a boost in global oil supply.

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.