U.S. Manufacturing’s Mixed Picture in 4 Charts

In a move that could reshape trade relations, Trump announced plans to cut the fentanyl tariff on Chinese goods, expressing optimism for a 'great deal' with Xi. This news comes as Asian stock markets rally on the anticipation of a trade deal and a potential US interest rate cut. Additionally, GSK's CEO Emma Walmsley is stepping down after eight years, but not before the company raised its 2025 sales and profit forecasts, showcasing strong growth in key areas. This combination of trade optimism and corporate success highlights a potentially positive shift in the economic landscape.

UBS analysts predict that the Bank of England will maintain its interest rates at 4% in the upcoming meeting. This decision is crucial as it reflects the central bank's stance on managing inflation and supporting economic stability. Keeping rates steady could signal confidence in the current economic conditions, but it also raises questions about future monetary policy adjustments.

The dollar is experiencing gains as optimism surrounding trade negotiations grows, especially with the Federal Reserve's upcoming decision on interest rates. This positive sentiment in the markets reflects a belief that trade tensions may ease, which could bolster economic growth. Investors are closely watching these developments, as they could significantly impact currency values and overall market stability.

Global markets are showing mixed signals as futures for the S&P 500 and Nasdaq rise ahead of a crucial U.S. interest-rate decision. This uptick comes amid anticipation of more earnings reports from major tech companies and Donald Trump's ongoing tour of Asia. Investors are keenly watching these developments, as they could influence market trends and economic outlook.

Santander UK is calling on the government to step in regarding the £11 billion car finance compensation scheme, warning that the current proposals could have serious repercussions for jobs, supply chains, and the overall UK economy. This situation is critical as it highlights the potential economic fallout from financial regulations, affecting not just the automotive sector but also the livelihoods of many workers and the stability of the market.

Spain's economy has shown a promising growth of 0.6% in the third quarter, aligning perfectly with forecasts. This growth is significant as it reflects the resilience of the Spanish economy amidst global challenges, indicating a positive trend that could boost investor confidence and consumer spending.

Aston Martin has announced a significant cut of £300 million to its investment plans following a disappointing third-quarter report that revealed losses of £112 million, which were larger than anticipated. This downturn is attributed to weak demand in China and the impact of tariffs imposed by the Trump administration. The situation highlights the challenges facing luxury car manufacturers in a fluctuating global market, making it crucial for Aston Martin to reassess its strategies to navigate these economic pressures.

As the Federal Reserve prepares for its October meeting, all eyes are on potential changes to interest rates and their implications for the economy. With inflation concerns still looming, the decisions made during this meeting could significantly impact financial markets and consumer spending. Investors and economists alike are eager to see how the Fed balances the need to control inflation while supporting economic growth.

Next is on track to report a pre-tax profit exceeding £1.1 billion by the end of January 2026, despite the recent cyber-attack on M&S. This shows the resilience of Next's business model and its ability to thrive even in challenging circumstances, which is encouraging for investors and the retail sector as a whole.

Chancellor Reeves is taking a bold stance against pessimistic economic forecasts, emphasizing that investment is key to enhancing the UK's productivity. This approach is significant as it aims to inspire confidence in the economy and encourage growth, which could lead to improved job opportunities and overall prosperity for the nation.

Norway's sovereign-wealth fund has reported a remarkable 5.8% return in the third quarter, largely fueled by robust performance in sectors like basic materials, telecommunications, and finance. This growth is significant as it reflects the resilience of the fund amidst fluctuating market conditions, showcasing Norway's strategic investment approach and its potential to support the country's economy.

Assystem's shares have seen a notable increase following their Q3 revenue report, which exceeded analysts' expectations thanks to strong international growth. This positive performance highlights the company's successful expansion strategies and positions them favorably in the market, making it an exciting time for investors and stakeholders alike.

Nvidia is on the brink of achieving a remarkable $5 trillion valuation, driven by a surge in interest and investment in artificial intelligence. This milestone is significant not only for Nvidia but also for the tech industry as a whole, highlighting the growing importance of AI technologies in shaping the future of business and innovation.

Vetoquinol's shares have taken a hit as the company's Q3 revenue fell short of expectations, primarily due to manufacturing issues. This decline is significant as it reflects operational challenges that could impact future growth and investor confidence. Stakeholders will be closely monitoring how Vetoquinol addresses these manufacturing hurdles to regain market trust.