Horizons Middle East & Africa 9/17/2025

The Bloomberg Brief for September 17, 2025, provides a concise overview of the latest financial news and market trends. This video update is essential for investors and business professionals looking to stay informed about economic developments and their potential impact on the market.

Euronext CEO Stephane Boujnah recently shared insights on Bloomberg Television regarding the increasing allocations to Europe compared to the US. This shift is significant as it highlights the growing confidence in European markets amidst ongoing volatility. Boujnah's perspective suggests that investors are recognizing the potential for better opportunities in Europe, which could lead to a more balanced global investment landscape.

JPMorgan's Joyce Chang predicts that the Federal Reserve will implement a series of interest rate cuts, starting with a 25 basis-point reduction. This forecast comes as the Fed evaluates employment data, indicating a proactive approach to economic conditions. Chang suggests that a total of 100 basis points in cuts could be expected, which could significantly impact borrowing costs and stimulate economic growth. This insight is crucial for investors and businesses as it signals potential changes in monetary policy that could affect the broader economy.

Emerging market stocks are experiencing a significant upswing, marking their longest winning streak since February 2024, driven by increased risk appetite ahead of the Federal Reserve's crucial rate decision. Alan Siow from Ninety One shared insights on this trend during a discussion with Bloomberg, highlighting the uncertainty surrounding the Fed's actions and the growing role of Saudi Arabia in emerging markets. This is important as it reflects investor confidence and could signal broader economic trends.

In today's episode of 'Bloomberg: The Opening Trade,' analysts Anna Edwards, Guy Johnson, Valerie Tytel, and Mark Cudmore discuss the Federal Reserve's recent decision and its implications for market volatility. They emphasize that while the Fed's actions are significant, the resulting fluctuations in the market could create both challenges and opportunities for investors. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for making informed investment decisions.

SMG Swiss Marketplace Group is set to make a significant splash in the financial markets with its upcoming IPO, expected to raise around 903 million Swiss francs, or $1.1 billion. This move is particularly exciting as the pricing is anticipated to be at the top of the marketed range, indicating strong investor interest. Such a successful IPO not only boosts the company's profile but also reflects confidence in the Swiss market, making it a noteworthy event for investors and the economy.

Capital Economics' chief global economist, Jennifer McKeown, has shared insights on the Bank of England's (BOE) policy amidst persistent inflation in the UK, which remains at its highest level in over a year and a half. This situation is causing officials to be cautious about further interest rate cuts. McKeown suggests that the BOE might wait for the upcoming budget to assess any potential inflationary impacts before making decisions. This analysis is crucial as it highlights the delicate balance the BOE must maintain in navigating economic challenges.

Jens Eskelund, the President of the European Union Chamber of Commerce in China, recently highlighted the group's proposal for a fair trade relationship with China as the country outlines its development plan for the next five years. This discussion, featured on 'Bloomberg: The China Show,' emphasizes the importance of balanced trade ties, which could benefit both European businesses and the Chinese economy. As global trade dynamics shift, fostering fair relations is crucial for sustainable growth.

AI optimism is driving a surge in China's tech stocks, reaching levels not seen since 2021. This is significant as it reflects investor confidence in the country's technological advancements and economic recovery. With influential figures like David Ingles and Yvonne Man providing insights, global investors are keenly watching these developments, which could shape the future of the tech landscape in China.

XFunded is making waves by expanding its operations in Dubai, a move that not only enhances its presence in the Middle East but also strengthens collaborations with trading influencers across Europe. This expansion is significant as it opens new avenues for partnerships and growth in the trading sector, showcasing XFunded's commitment to innovation and community engagement.

Samuel Sanghyun Kim, the CEO of Lotte Retail Group, recently shared insights on the company's ambitious business strategy and expansion plans in Southeast Asia during an interview on Bloomberg. This is significant as it highlights Lotte's commitment to growth in a rapidly developing market, which could lead to increased competition and innovation in the retail sector.

In a significant diplomatic move, US President Donald Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi have engaged in discussions aimed at reducing tensions over tariffs and India's oil purchases from Russia. This conversation is crucial as it highlights the importance of maintaining strong economic ties between two of the world's largest economies, especially in a time of global trade uncertainties.

Jerry of Ben & Jerry's has announced his resignation, expressing disappointment over Unilever's impact on the company's independence following their merger. He believes that the core values that defined their agreement have been compromised, which raises concerns about the future direction of the brand. This situation is significant as it highlights the challenges faced by socially conscious companies when aligning with larger corporations, and it may influence consumer perceptions and trust in the brand.

Food prices in the UK are on the rise, contributing to increased cost of living pressures, even as overall inflation remains steady at 3.8% in August. This surge in food prices is significant because it directly impacts households, making it harder for families to manage their budgets and maintain their quality of life.

The European Union is taking significant steps to strengthen its relationship with India, focusing on defense and trade. This move is crucial as it not only diversifies the EU's trade partnerships but also enhances its global influence, especially in the context of shifting geopolitical dynamics. By fostering closer ties with India, the EU aims to create a more balanced and resilient economic landscape.

Ryan Specialty Group has received an upgrade in its stock rating from Wells Fargo, now classified as 'Overweight.' This change reflects analysts' confidence in the company's growth potential and market performance, which could attract more investors and positively impact its stock price. Such upgrades are significant as they often lead to increased trading activity and can enhance the company's reputation in the financial market.

Deutsche Bank Research has downgraded Eurowag despite the company's rise in sales and EBITDA for the first half of the year. This decision raises concerns about the company's future performance and investor confidence, as it suggests that analysts may not be optimistic about the sustainability of this growth. Understanding the implications of such downgrades is crucial for investors and stakeholders who are closely monitoring the financial health of Eurowag.

Bernstein has raised its stock price target for Hyatt Hotels to $177, driven by a promising outlook on cash returns. This adjustment reflects confidence in Hyatt's financial performance and growth potential, which is significant for investors looking for stable returns in the hospitality sector.