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Barclays analysts say European equities may be on the verge of a significant breakout, driven by a shift in sentiment around trade policy risks that have weighed on markets in recent months.

“Reduced tariff tail risk could give legs to the relief rally in EU equities and pave the way to a breakout,” the bank wrote in its most recent review of equity markets, pointing to improving trade dynamics as a potential catalyst.

Markets found relief after a trade agreement between the U.S. and Japan introduced a 15% tariff on most imports—a figure notably lower than anticipated. The Financial Times also reported that the European Union and the U.S. are close to finalizing a comparable deal, which comes in far below the 30% tariff level once proposed by the Trump administration.

“We think markets have good reasons to cheer the reduced tail risk, as the worst case scenario should be avoided,” Barclays noted, signaling confidence that a damaging trade war scenario is now less likely.

Despite a 10% rise in European equities so far this year, performance has largely been flat since April. Barclays views the recent trade progress as a pivotal moment: “The removal of the tariffs overhang [is] a precondition for our breakout scenario to materialize in H2, which now seems to be on the right track.”

That said, the economic consequences of increased tariffs are still expected to be felt. Barclays cautioned that a shift from 5% to 15% tariff levels “will have a negative impact on growth at some point.”

However, much of the downside may already be accounted for in earnings forecasts. “Consensus EPS growth for 2025E in tariff-sensitive names has been revised sharply lower—now at -20%,” the report noted, implying that markets have begun to price in the pressure.

While the bank maintains its preference for domestic sectors like financials and telecom, it is beginning to revisit previously underperforming export-oriented stocks. Analysts also highlighted signs of stabilization in China as a possible tailwind: “Bottoming-out in Chinese growth could also provide some additional support to EU exporters,” they wrote, though they remain wary of industries facing structural headwinds such as automotive manufacturing.

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 index futures moved slightly higher early Friday as traders evaluated a fresh wave of corporate earnings ahead of next week’s Federal Reserve interest rate decision.

Here’s a look at some of the notable premarket movers:

• Intel (NASDAQ:INTC) shares dropped 8% after the semiconductor giant issued a weaker-than-expected outlook for the third quarter and unveiled plans to reduce its workforce by the end of 2025. The company said headcount would decline to approximately 75,000—down 22% from the end of last year—through attrition and “other means.”
• Centene (NYSE:CNC) fell 13% after the health insurance provider surprised markets with a quarterly loss, driven in part by increased medical costs across its insurance offerings.
• Deckers Outdoor (NYSE:DECK) jumped 12% following strong fiscal first-quarter results. The footwear company reported better-than-anticipated sales for both its Hoka and Ugg brands.
• Phillips 66 (NYSE:PSX) edged up 0.6% after the oil refiner topped Wall Street profit forecasts for Q2, benefiting from favorable refining margins and reduced turnaround expenses.
• Charter Communications (NASDAQ:CHTR) slid 7.6% as its second-quarter earnings missed expectations, weighed down by ongoing declines in its customer base.
• Newmont (NYSE:NEM) advanced 1.9% after the mining giant exceeded analyst forecasts for second-quarter earnings. The beat was driven by a combination of rising gold prices and solid operational execution.
• Paramount Global (NASDAQ:PARA) rose 1.1% after the Federal Communications Commission approved its planned $8 billion merger with Skydance Media, clearing a major regulatory hurdle.
• Boyd Gaming (NYSE:BYD) added 0.8% after the casino and entertainment company posted second-quarter results that topped expectations. Management cited continued strength among core customers and an uptick in retail play.
• Sarepta Therapeutics (NASDAQ:SRPT) dropped 10% after European regulators declined to recommend approval for Elevidys, the company’s gene therapy treatment for Duchenne muscular dystrophy.

Futures tied to the Dow Jones Industrial Average, S&P 500, and Nasdaq 100 were all modestly in the green heading into the final trading day of the week, as earnings season remains in focus and investors brace for clues from the Fed on the path of interest rates.

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 climbed on Friday, bouncing back from two-week lows, yet it remains at subdued levels as traders digest the shifting landscape around global trade ahead of next week’s Federal Reserve meeting.

At 04:35 ET (08:35 GMT), the Dollar Index, which tracks the greenback against a basket of six currencies, increased 0.2% to 97.340. Still, it’s on track for a roughly 1% weekly decline, marking its weakest performance in a month.

Dollar finds some support

As the week wraps up, the dollar has found modest backing, helped by talks of future trade agreements with the European Union and China—two of America’s biggest trading partners. Earlier this week, the European Commission indicated that a negotiated solution was near ahead of the August 1 deadline, while U.S. and Chinese officials plan to meet in Stockholm next week to discuss extending the deadline for trade talks.

All eyes now turn to the Federal Reserve meeting, which is widely expected to keep rates steady. Traders will be looking closely at the Fed’s subsequent commentary for clues on the timing of future moves.

“We’re still of the opinion that the dollar can find a little stability this summer on higher inflation and delayed Fed rate cuts – but clearly this view stands against pervasive dollar pessimism in the market,” said analysts at ING, in a note.

Euro stays near four-year high

In Europe, EUR/USD slipped 0.1% to 1.1745, but the euro remains close to the near four-year peak of $1.183 touched earlier this month. The European Central Bank held its policy rate steady at 2% on Thursday, ending a year of easing to await more clarity on U.S. trade relations.

ECB President Christine Lagarde described the economy as resilient and a little better than expected during the press conference. However, data released on Friday showed German business morale improved less than anticipated in July.

The Ifo institute said its business climate index rose to 88.6 in July from 88.4 in June, below the forecast of 89.0.

“The upturn in the German economy remains anaemic,” Ifo president Clemens Fuest said.

Pound dips after weak UK retail sales

GBP/USD fell 0.4% to 1.3468 following data revealing that UK retail sales volumes grew by 0.9% month-on-month in June, missing the expected 1.2% rise and recovering less than a third of May’s 2.8% drop. Household goods retailers faced particular difficulties, with sales declining 0.1% month-on-month for the second month running, as the housing market continued to struggle after stamp duty changes.

Yen falls after softer inflation data

Elsewhere, USD/JPY traded 0.5% higher at 147.71 after Friday’s data showed Tokyo’s consumer price inflation eased more than expected in July, despite core inflation staying above the Bank of Japan’s target. The BOJ is expected to keep interest rates steady next week amid U.S. tariff tensions and domestic political uncertainty.

AUD/USD dropped 0.4% to 0.6568 but is still on track for a weekly gain of around 1% following the trade deal between Japan and the U.S., while USD/CNY rose 0.2% to 7.1672.

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.

British stocks fell Friday morning, with the FTSE 100 down 0.4% and the British pound slipping 0.3% against the dollar to trade below $1.35, after retail sales data missed expectations.

At 08:06 GMT, Germany’s DAX index dropped 0.9%, while France’s CAC 40 declined 0.4%.

UK retail sales rise but fall short of forecasts

UK retail sales volumes rose 0.9% month-on-month in June, below the 1.2% analysts anticipated and recovering less than a third of May’s 2.8% slump. Retail growth slowed considerably in Q2, with sales volumes up only 0.2% quarter-on-quarter compared to 1.3% in Q1.

Household goods retailers saw sales decline 0.1% month-on-month for the second consecutive month, hit by ongoing challenges in the housing market following stamp duty changes.

NatWest reports strong H1 results

NatWest Group (LSE:NWG) posted a £2.68 billion profit for the first half of 2025, supported by £6.12 billion in net interest income. Total revenues reached £7.99 billion, including £1.87 billion from non-interest sources. Operating expenses amounted to £4.02 billion, which included £118 million in litigation and conduct charges.

Marshalls shares plunge on profit warning

Shares of Marshalls PLC (LSE:MSLH) fell nearly 19% after lowering its full-year 2025 adjusted profit before tax guidance to between £42 million and £46 million—about 21% below the consensus midpoint of £55.4 million. The company warned market conditions are unlikely to improve in H2 and is implementing cost-cutting and capacity reduction measures.

Jupiter Fund Management sees profits fall on lower revenue

Jupiter Fund Management (LSE:JUP) reported that second-quarter inflows partly offset previous outflows, but profits declined compared to last year. Basic EPS for H1 dropped to 4.1p from 5.4p, while underlying EPS fell from 6.6p to 4.2p. Net revenue slipped to £153.9 million from £173.7 million.

Rightmove beats revenue estimates but signals slower growth

Rightmove PLC (LSE:RMV)posted stronger-than-expected H1 results, with revenue rising to £211.7 million versus a £209 million consensus. The boost was driven by increased platform activity, though the company cautioned growth will likely slow after a record 2024.

Starmer to push Trump for faster steel tariff deal

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer is set to press U.S. President Donald Trump for a swift trade agreement to reduce tariffs on British steel, according to the Financial Times.

EU approves GSK’s Blenrep for cancer treatment

GSK (LSE:GSK) announced that the European Union has approved its drug Blenrep for treating relapsed or treatment-resistant multiple myeloma, a cancer affecting plasma cells.

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 European Central Bank’s latest Survey of Professional Forecasters, published Friday, reveals a softer inflation outlook for the euro area this year and next compared to earlier estimates.

Inflation is now expected to average 2% in 2025, a decrease from the 2.2% forecast made just three months ago. Looking further ahead, inflation is projected to ease even more in 2026, settling at 1.8%, below the previous estimate of 2%.

After a sharp decline in inflation over recent years, current figures are close to the ECB’s target rate of 2%. This steady trend influenced the ECB’s decision to keep interest rates steady on Thursday, signaling a cautious approach rather than moving quickly to cut rates again.

Since June 2024, the ECB has already slashed its main interest rate by half—from 4% down to 2%.

The survey also highlights that tariffs will have only a modest dampening effect on inflation in the short term and are expected to be “broadly neutral on balance in 2027 and over the longer-term horizon.”

In the longer run, inflation is anticipated to hover near the ECB’s 2% goal, maintaining price stability across the eurozone.

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 fell on Friday as worries grew that tariff-related uncertainties might already be weighing on corporate earnings, despite ongoing talks about a possible trade agreement between the U.S. and the European Union.
By 08:00 GMT, Germany’s DAX index dropped 0.9%, France’s CAC 40 slipped 0.4%, and the U.K.’s FTSE 100 also declined by 0.4%.

EU-U.S. trade deal “within reach”

On Thursday, a spokesperson from the European Commission indicated that a trade tariff agreement between the EU and the U.S. is “within reach,” ahead of the August 1 deadline when U.S. President Donald Trump has threatened to impose a broad 30% tariff on European imports.
Reuters, citing two diplomats, reported that this deal would likely impose a general 15% tariff on EU goods entering the United States.

Although the announcement of potential deals — including the recently finalized U.S.-Japan trade agreement earlier this week — has generated some optimism, it’s important to recognize that such arrangements could still negatively affect many of Europe’s biggest companies.

Volkswagen reveals substantial tariff impact

Within the corporate sector, Volkswagen (TG:VOW3) shares dropped after the German automaker lowered its full-year financial outlook, revealing a €1.3 billion impact from tariffs.
Michelin (EU:ML) also suffered losses after the French automotive parts supplier reported a 27.8% plunge in net income during the first half of the year, largely due to tariff threats causing a sharp downturn in North and Central America.
Shares of Puma (TG:PUM) fell following disappointing second-quarter sales and a downward revision of its full-year guidance, as the German sportswear company pointed to the effect of U.S. trade tariffs.
Similarly, Traton (TG:8TRA) saw a steep decline after cutting its annual forecast and warning of a challenging trading environment.

Not all news was negative: Remy Cointreau (EU:RCO) shares rose after the French spirits producer raised its profit forecast for the year and posted better-than-expected first-quarter sales, helped by reduced tariff effects in China.
NatWest Group (LSE:NWG) also saw its stock rise after the British bank reported an 18% jump in first-half profits, boosted by higher interest income.

U.K. consumer confidence weakens

Economically, consumer confidence in the U.K. declined in July amid sluggish economic growth and persistent inflation, according to data released on Friday.
The consumer confidence index, compiled by research firm GfK in partnership with the Nuremberg Institute for Market Decisions, fell to minus 19 in July from minus 18 in June, reversing the slight improvement seen the previous month.
Germany’s Ifo business climate index also showed a modest drop in sentiment in July, reflecting ongoing struggles in broader European economic growth.

The European Central Bank held interest rates steady on Thursday after cutting rates eight times over the past year, choosing to wait as Brussels and Washington negotiate a trade deal that could reduce ongoing tariff-related uncertainty.

Oil prices rise on trade deal optimism

Oil prices advanced on Friday, building on sharp gains from the previous session, driven by hopes for additional U.S. trade agreements before President Donald Trump’s looming deadline.
At 04:00 ET, Brent crude futures rose 0.5% to $69.54 per barrel, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude futures gained 0.5% to $66.37 per barrel.
Both contracts surged more than 1% on Thursday after data showed a notable drop in U.S. crude stockpiles.

Oil markets have been supported by expectations of new trade deals between the U.S. and its partners ahead of the August 1 deadline for fresh tariffs on goods from several countries.
Lower trade tensions help stimulate economic activity and cross-border commerce, which in turn raises oil demand through increased transportation and industrial energy consumption.

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. equity futures inched up early Friday, capping off a positive week fueled by upbeat corporate earnings and growing confidence around international trade deals ahead of a looming tariff deadline from the Trump administration. Oil prices continued their rally, while Intel came under pressure following disappointing guidance and a sweeping cost-cutting strategy.

Trade Talks Drive Optimism

Trade developments remained front and center after the U.S. secured fresh agreements this week with Japan, Indonesia, and the Philippines—adding momentum to recent deals with the U.K. and China.

In a key update from Europe, a European Commission spokesperson said Thursday that a trade accord between the EU and U.S. is “within reach,” ahead of President Donald Trump’s August 1 deadline, when he’s expected to impose a sweeping 30% tariff on European imports unless a deal is struck.

According to Reuters, citing two diplomats familiar with the discussions, the potential compromise would involve a general 15% tariff on EU goods entering the U.S.

Meanwhile, Washington is preparing for a new round of trade negotiations with Beijing. On Friday, the Wall Street Journal reported that President Trump is pushing for additional economic concessions from China.

The two countries had agreed earlier this year to scale back tariffs and signed a broad framework deal. However, despite that progress, U.S. tariffs on Chinese imports still range from 30% to 50%, and both sides are now pushing for a more comprehensive agreement.

U.S. Stocks on Track for Weekly Gains

The resilience of U.S. equities has been bolstered by a steady flow of strong corporate results. As of 03:10 ET, S&P 500 futures rose by 45 points (0.1%), Nasdaq 100 futures gained 10 points (0.1%), and Dow futures were up by 20 points (0.1%).

All three major indices are positioned to end the week higher. The Dow Jones Industrial Average and NASDAQ Composite are each eyeing nearly 1% weekly gains, while the S&P 500 is up roughly 1.1%.

So far, 83% of the 155 S&P 500 companies that have reported earnings have topped Wall Street expectations—helping lift both the S&P and NASDAQ to new intraday and closing highs on Thursday.

Ongoing trade developments have further supported investor confidence, with market participants now watching for any last-minute progress before the administration’s tariff deadline.

More corporate earnings are expected Friday from names like HCA Holdings (NYSE:HCA) and Charter Communications (NASDAQ:CHTR). Meanwhile, June’s durable goods orders are also on the docket ahead of next week’s Federal Reserve policy meeting.

Trump and Powell Spar Over Fed Renovation Budget

Tensions between President Trump and Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell resurfaced Thursday—this time over the central bank’s building renovations.

During a visit to Washington, Trump criticized the cost of the refurbishment, noting that the budget had ballooned from $2.7 billion to roughly $3.1 billion—an estimate Powell challenged.

Still, Trump appears to be backing off his previous threats to dismiss Powell.
“To do so is a big move and I just don’t think it’s necessary,” Trump told reporters after his stop at the Fed headquarters.

Even so, he reiterated his demand for lower interest rates during the brief press conference, continuing to pressure Powell. The Federal Reserve has held back from cutting rates recently due to uncertainty surrounding the inflationary impact of Trump’s trade policies.

Intel Hit by Forecast Cut and Job Reductions

Intel (NASDAQ:INTC) shares slid in premarket trading after the chipmaker issued weaker-than-expected third-quarter guidance and laid out plans to cut costs, including a significant reduction in headcount.

The company announced it will lower its workforce to 75,000 by year-end—a 22% drop from 2024 levels—through attrition and “other means.”

Additionally, Intel said it is scrapping planned investments in Germany and Poland and will slow construction at its Ohio chip facility “to ensure spending is aligned with market demand.”

Investor sentiment soured as some viewed the aggressive cost-cutting as a signal the firm is prioritizing savings over reclaiming technological leadership in a competitive chip sector.

Crude Prices Rise on Trade Hopes

Oil prices climbed further on Friday, building on the prior day’s gains as traders bet that easing trade tensions will boost demand.

By 03:10 ET, Brent crude futures were up 0.9% at $69.78 per barrel, while West Texas Intermediate (WTI) rose 0.9% to $66.61 per barrel.

Both benchmarks gained more than 1% on Thursday, helped by data showing a sharp drawdown in U.S. crude inventories.

Trade optimism remains a key driver. The U.S. and Japan announced a new trade agreement earlier this week, and momentum appears to be growing for a similar deal with the European Union.

The easing of trade frictions tends to support global economic activity, which increases energy consumption through higher transport volumes and industrial demand.

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 edged lower during Asian trading on Friday, retreating further from recent five-week highs as investor appetite shifted toward riskier assets, dampening demand for traditional safe havens. Enthusiasm surrounding potential U.S. trade agreements and strong corporate results in the artificial intelligence sector contributed to the pullback.

Other metals traded within tight ranges, giving up a portion of the gains recorded earlier in the week. A weaker U.S. dollar helped cushion the downside across the commodities complex.

By 01:34 ET (05:34 GMT), spot gold had declined by 0.3% to $3,358.82 per ounce, while gold futures were down 0.4%, trading at $3,360.80 per ounce.

Gold and Platinum Flatline; Silver Stands Out

For the week, gold was still modestly higher—up around 0.3%—but the overall tone remained subdued. Platinum prices fell 0.9% on Friday to $1,404.06/oz, pushing the metal 1.4% lower over the week.

Silver outperformed its peers, holding steady at $39.0115/oz and posting a 2% weekly gain. It managed to avoid the steeper losses that weighed on gold and platinum in recent sessions.

Improved sentiment in global markets, spurred by the U.S.-Japan trade agreement and strong earnings from tech firms linked to AI, led investors to favor equities over metals. Wall Street reached new all-time highs this week, buoyed by expectations that President Donald Trump could finalize more trade agreements with major global economies.

Still, safe-haven interest in gold wasn’t entirely absent. Traders remained cautious ahead of several significant economic developments expected next week, keeping a floor under gold prices.

Copper Mixed as Tariff Effects Loom

In industrial metals, copper prices were mixed. London Metal Exchange benchmark copper futures slipped 0.3% to $9,844.45 per ton, while COMEX copper was down 0.2% at $5.8153 per pound.

LME copper remained largely unchanged for the week. In contrast, U.S. copper futures were on track for a 3.8% weekly gain, supported by looming supply constraints tied to expected U.S. trade tariffs on imported metals.

All Eyes on Fed and Tariff Deadlines

Looking ahead, gold could regain momentum as markets brace for a string of influential events next week.

Foremost is the Federal Reserve’s upcoming policy meeting, where no interest rate changes are expected despite pressure from President Trump to deliver cuts. Fed Chair Jerome Powell has emphasized the need to evaluate the inflationary impact of Trump’s trade policies before altering the current monetary stance.

This cautious approach has fueled ongoing tension between Powell and Trump, who has repeatedly voiced dissatisfaction with the Fed’s leadership. On Thursday, Trump visited the central bank’s headquarters to review a renovation project—an unusual move seen by some as a symbolic gesture hinting at potential action against Powell.

Meanwhile, Trump’s August 1 deadline for imposing steep new tariffs looms. Markets will be watching closely to see whether additional trade agreements—particularly with the European Union—can be reached. Reports suggest a potential compromise, with a 15% tariff under discussion, lower than the previously threatened 30%.

Also due next week is the expected implementation of Trump’s proposed 50% tariff on imported copper, a move that could tighten domestic supply and push U.S. copper prices even higher.

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 remained mostly flat during Asian trading hours on Friday, consolidating gains made in the prior session amid renewed optimism over potential U.S. trade agreements ahead of President Donald Trump’s fast-approaching deadline. Crude markets also found support from reports suggesting that Russia may curb its gasoline exports in the near term.

As of 21:31 ET (01:31 GMT), September-dated Brent crude futures inched up 0.2% to $69.29 a barrel, while West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude climbed 0.2% to $66.13. The upward movement followed Thursday’s over 1% surge in both benchmarks, driven by a notable drop in U.S. crude inventories.

Trade Optimism Lifts Oil Sentiment

Investor sentiment was buoyed by developments suggesting progress on several trade fronts. Reports indicated a significant agreement between the U.S. and European Union may be close, replacing a looming 30% tariff with a lower 15% levy on most EU exports beginning August 1.

India’s Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal also expressed hope that the country could reach a deal with the U.S. to avoid proposed 26% tariffs.

“It looks like talks with the EU are moving in the right direction. These deals should help reduce uncertainty and also ease some of the demand concerns that have been lingering in the oil market,” ING analysts said in a note.

The mood was further lifted by Wednesday’s announcement of a U.S.-Japan trade pact, which cut tariffs on all Japanese imports to 15% from a previously planned 25%. The deal raised expectations that other nations might follow suit before the trade deadline, potentially boosting global trade flows.

Easing trade tensions often encourage greater economic activity and international commerce, which tends to drive oil demand through higher transportation and industrial energy use.

Russia and Venezuela in Focus for Supply Outlook

Supply-side developments also contributed to oil price stability. A Reuters report suggested Russia is preparing a broader ban on gasoline exports, possibly including oil companies, in a bid to contain domestic fuel inflation. Currently, restrictions apply only to resellers, leaving major producers free to export.

The prospect of tighter Russian fuel exports contributed to Thursday’s price rally.

In related news, Reuters also reported that the U.S. may soon permit limited oil operations in Venezuela, beginning with Chevron Corp (NYSE:CVX). Earlier this year, President Trump had canceled multiple energy licenses in Venezuela and set a late-May deadline for halting related transactions.

“This should see Venezuelan oil exports increase by a little more than 200k b/d, welcome news to US refiners that will ease some tightness in the heavier crude market,” ING analysts said.

Together, these geopolitical and trade developments continue to shape expectations for global oil supply and demand, keeping investors alert to emerging policy shifts.

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.

NatWest Group (LSE:NWG) reported robust first-half 2025 results, achieving an attributable profit of £2.5 billion and a 28% rise in earnings per share. The bank has raised its income and returns guidance for the full year, announced a 9.5p interim dividend, and unveiled a £750 million share buyback program. The recent acquisition of Sainsbury’s Bank has bolstered customer numbers and expanded the balance sheet. NatWest is also prioritizing operational simplification and enhancing technology and AI capabilities to elevate customer service.

Having returned to full private ownership, NatWest is well-positioned to support UK economic growth while creating sustainable value for its stakeholders. The company’s outlook benefits from strong earnings and favorable valuation metrics, though cash flow volatility and mixed technical indicators suggest some caution. Positive corporate events and upbeat earnings call sentiment add confidence.

About NatWest Group

NatWest Group is a leading UK banking and financial services provider, offering retail, private, wealth management, commercial, and institutional banking services. Serving over 20 million customers, NatWest plays a key role in supporting economic growth across the United Kingdom.

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.