Global Market Commentary: April 2025
Markets unsettled by US trade shocks and global growth concerns April saw global markets unsettled by renewed US trade tensions and recession concerns, despite some regional resilience. Volatility spiked after…
Emerging Markets update: April 2025
Global equities came under pressure in April as U.S. President Trump surprised the markets with much larger than expected tariffs against virtually every trading partner in the world. On 2 April, during a ceremony in the White House Rose Garden, he introduced what he called a “reciprocal tariff” strategy, which applies a series of tariffs on all U.S. imports based loosely on each trading partner’s goods trade deficit with the U.S.
China’s rapid progress in healthcare
The Chinese equity market showed a relatively positive trend in March. The market continued its spring rally during the first half of March, with risk appetite maintained during the "Two Sessions" period. Investments remained focused on policy-driven momentum and emerging industry trends. However, approaching the latter half of the month, the market was affected by the earnings reporting season. In early March, a three-year-old Chinese startup made global headlines with the launch of its first general AI agent, Manus.
South African Market Commentary: March 2025
South African markets hold steady amid global uncertainty South African equities rose in March, led by strong gains in gold and platinum miners amid global uncertainty and rising precious metal…
Global Market Commentary: March 2025
Mixed global market signals amid easing inflation and trade talks Global markets were mixed in March, with US indices declining while emerging markets and Chinese equities posted gains. Inflation eased…
February China Market update
In February, the Chinese equity market saw a volatile rally followed by a sharp pullback. A-shares and H-shares surged early in the month fuelled by policy expectations and a tech…
Global Market Commentary: February 2025
Market trends as trade tensions ease and China rebounds Global markets had a mixed performance in February, with some indices gaining while others declined. The US, Canada, and Mexico paused…
South African Market Commentary: February 2025
Investor caution grows amid Budget Speech delays and power challenges South African equities dipped 0.4% in February, reflecting global trends and local uncertainties, though insurance, telecoms, and large-cap stocks saw…
China’s AI Boom: Talent and Innovation Driving the Future
China’s AI and tech sector is advancing rapidly, driven by a skilled workforce, strong government support, and a vast data ecosystem. The launch of DeepSeek’s latest AI model highlights China’s ability to innovate despite US technology restrictions. Entrepreneurs and engineers continue to push boundaries, making breakthroughs in AI applications. With robust venture capital backing and a thriving startup culture, China is cementing its position as a global AI leader.
Global Market Commentary: January 2025
Markets Navigate Tariffs, AI Disruption, and Geopolitical Tensions Global markets experienced a generally positive start to 2025, even with the introduction of new tariffs by the US administration. While concerns…
