Sterling continues to strengthen amid short squeeze

Allogene's stock has seen a rise following a favorable arbitration ruling that reaffirms the company's rights over a cancer therapy, confirming its control in the oncology market. This decision is viewed as a significant endorsement of Allogene's intellectual property rights and operational capabilities.

The U.S. dollar has edged lower against the yen during a week filled with significant economic data releases and central bank decisions, reflecting market uncertainty. This decline comes as traders prepare for potential interest rate changes from the Federal Reserve, which could further influence currency valuations.

US homebuilder sentiment has reached an eight-month high in December, indicating a positive outlook among builders as they navigate the current market conditions. This increase reflects growing confidence in the housing sector, which is crucial for economic recovery and stability.

The NY Empire State Manufacturing Index has significantly declined, underperforming expectations and indicating potential challenges within the manufacturing sector. This drop raises concerns about the overall economic health as manufacturing is a critical component of the economy.

Canadian housing starts increased by 9.4% in November, indicating a robust growth in the construction sector. This rise reflects a positive trend in the housing market, suggesting increased demand for new homes amid ongoing economic recovery efforts.

Slovak inflation remained steady at 3.7% in November 2025, marking the lowest level for the year. This stability indicates a potential easing of inflationary pressures in the Slovak economy, which has been a concern for consumers and policymakers alike.

The Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) has announced a reduction in dividend payouts following the imposition of an additional charge of approximately $100 million by regulators. This decision reflects the exchange's need to adjust its financial strategies in light of regulatory pressures.

China's recent wave of small bank mergers has led to a contraction in the banking sector, raising concerns about the potential increase in financial risks. This consolidation is seen as a response to the ongoing economic challenges facing the country, including declining investment and consumer demand.