In OIL & ENERGY NEWS, Saudi Aramco plans to increase oil production, Germany secures alternative gas supplies, BoJo goes nuclear and looks to the North Sea while pubs and M&S suffer with higher utility bills. In CONSUMER-RELATED NEWS, Brazil embraces online gambling and the average UK house price reaches a new high while cheap milk and meals get harder to come by. In EMPLOYMENT-RELATED NEWS, ESG candidates are in massive demand, seniors return to the workplace and insurers feel unease about the P&O thing. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, Facebook is hit by a new lawsuit, alt meat still has a future and the owner of Butlin’s eyes Parkdean. AND FINALLY, I bring you something that you might not have been aware of…
In MACRO & COMMODITIES NEWS, the Bank of England raises the interest rate, BoJo faces energy conundrums, nickel weakens and Russia appears to settle is bond payments. In CONSUMER/TRENDS/RETAIL NEWS, Russians face difficulties, Japanese wages rise, Deliveroo wavers and Trainline savours changing consumer behaviour while H&M broadens its offering, Getir gets a stellar valuation, Ocado suffers and TM Lewin calls in the administrators (again). In FINANCIALS NEWS, Ping An takes a profit hit, HSBC goes meta and Raiffeisen reconsiders Russia. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, Japan has a major earthquake, Apple faces potential European challenges and P&O does the dirty. AND FINALLY, I bring you a “mum hack”…
In BIG PICTURE NEWS, we look at the latest developments in Ukraine/Russia, Russia’s approach to default, Putin’s promises, China’s intervention, the US interest rate rise and nightmare in commodities. In RETAIL/HIGH STREET NEWS, US retail sales rise, Walmart wants more staff, Schultz returns to lead Starbucks and the UK high street evolves. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, insurers brace themselves for Ukraine/Russia-related claims, EQT eyes a Barings deal and Linktree goes unicorn. AND FINALLY, I bring you a debate on how to say “cucumber” and dog karaoke…
In ACTIONS & CONSEQUENCES, we consider more actions, sanctions and their consequences on Tesla, energy and agriculture. In TECH NEWS, Intel goes large in Europe, Indonesia’s GoTo aims to raise $1.3bn and Arm is to shed employees. In CONSUMER/RETAIL NEWS, US punters can’t get enough of flying while in the UK, employment returns to pre-Covid levels and it’s sofa so good for DFS (sorry, I couldn’t resist that). AND FINALLY, I bring you some Starbucks hacks…
In MACRO, MARKETS & ENERGY NEWS, we look at US/China/Russia thoughts, the effect on markets and how energy policies are having to adapt. In ACTIONS & CONSEQUENCES, Bayer considers cutting off crop supplies to Russia and Germany orders US fighter jets while Russia edges closer to default, aircraft leasing gets trickier and Akzo Nobel faces Russian shutdown. In CONSUMER NEWS, potato prices are set to rise, Uber hikes its prices but travel restrictions are lifted, super-rich have a super-fun time and the UK inflation basket evolves.AND FINALLY, it’s Pomplamoose time…
In MACRO, MARKETS & CRYPTO NEWS, the US is to hold talks with China about Ukraine, the Bank of England edges towards a rate rise, Chinese stocks fall on lockdown, Moscow’s exchange stays shut, El Salvador prepares Bitcoin bond launch and NFTs hit the skids. In ACTIONS & CONSEQUENCES, we see more sanctions against Russia and their effects. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, we see that chip makers stockpiled materials, M&S welcomes Early Learning Centre and tenants face higher bills. AND FINALLY, I bring you some clever signage…
In ACTIONS & CONSEQUENCES, the exodus continues and Abramovich gets caught up but Putin strikes back with more threats while Russia faces debt default and a nightmare for Aeroflot. In CONSUMER & RETAIL NEWS, food inflation continues, Netflix raises subscription prices, M&S’s chief is to step down and the bonus returns for John Lewis staff. In AUTOMOTIVE NEWS, BMW announces its best ever profits but Rivian has supply chain problems. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, US inflation hits new highs, the SEC starts to crack down on Chinese companies and jet leasing faces a massive nightmare. AND FINALLY, I bring you a Cadbury’s Creme Egg warning…
In BIG PICTURE NEWS, Russia bombs a hospital, markets rally, nickel faces further suspension, fracking is back on the table and crypto gets a boost. In ACTIONS & CONSEQUENCES, we see who’s pulled out and who’s still in and consequences for aviation and Chinese smartphones. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, Stagecoach ditches National Express’s offer and ESG investment looks likely to change. AND FINALLY, I bring you the cheesiest ad ever and a questionable supermarket shopping “hack”…
In MACRO & COMMODITIES NEWS, we look at whether Taiwan could be the next Ukraine, the US and UK bans oil from Russia, Shell stops buying Russian oil and we consider what may ensue while talks start with Maduro, nickel goes crazy and food inflation looms. In ACTIONS & CONSEQUENCES, McDonald’s makes a McExit and luxury firms leave while Russian banks, payments and exports take a hit as China looks like it’ll be hoovering up. In M&A NEWS, Orange and MasMovil consider forming a Spanish giant and Google buys Mondiant. AND FINALLY, I bring you the cutest thing ever…
In MARKETS & COMMODITIES NEWS, the Rouble’s collapse continues, markets baulk at a Russian oil ban while everyone looks for alternatives and gold gets squeezed higher. In ACTIONS & CONSEQUENCES, more big firms abandon Russia and the consequences of sanctions continue to be far-reaching. In CONSUMER TRENDS NEWS, spending rises, house prices continue to strengthen but many elect to spend to extend. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, Toyota cheats, Uber raises guidance and SMRs get a major boost. AND FINALLY, I bring you an impressive food shop…
In MACRO & OIL NEWS, China aims low on growth, appeals are made for China as mediator, crude oil goes higher as the US talks to Venezuela and Total sticks with its Russian assets. In ACTIONS & CONSEQUENCES, UK lawyers, Visa, Mastercard and Amex withdraw from Russia, Moscow pivots to the Chinese card system and Next heads for the exit. Meanwhile, a food crisis looms, there’s a shortage of building materials, Russian airlines are decimated, VTB prepares to pull out and private schools could lose out. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, TikTok is exposed, prospects improve for UK M&A and the FCA warns about crypto being used for money laundering. AND FINALLY, I bring you the secret to fluffy towels…
In CURRENT ACTIONS, we look at Putin’s latest move, all of the companies abandoning Russia and Lukoil breaking ranks. In POSSIBLE ACTIONS, we look at how a potential ban on Russian oil and gas might look and Bitcoin’s role in aiding oligarchs. In CONSEQUENCES, the Russian market’s going to be ugly when it reopens, write-downs on Russian exit will be big and we look at the impact the war is having on the cost of living and the London property market. In INDIVIDUAL COMPANY NEWS, Kroger’s earnings grow, Darktrace sees strong demand and ITV shares crater. AND FINALLY, I bring you the adventures of my favourite golden retriever…
In MACRO & OIL NEWS, US interest rates still look like they’ll go up, Eurozone inflation hits a record high, the Russian economy faces difficulties and oil hits record highs. In NEWS ON ACTIONS & CONSEQUENCES, we see actions being taken and being considered regarding Ukraine and consequences of existing sanctions. In CONSUMER/RETAIL NEWS, Australia’s consumer spending recovers, but UK consumers face booming house prices and petrol prices but Uber caps fare increases while Amazon closes shops. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, Australian floods give insurers headaches, Ford aims for an electrified future and Netflix buys NextGames. AND FINALLY, I bring you the story behind Bluetooth…
In MACRO NEWS, China decides to get involved and Italy’s economy rebounds. In ACTIONS, SANCTIONS & CONSEQUENCES NEWS, we look at ACTIONS where oil reserves have been released and Moscow bans investor exits, SANCTIONS, where shippers block Russian cargo, Apple stops shipments to Russia and YouTube blocks media while Total and Exxon consider exits, and CONSEQUENCES, where we see the effect of sanctions on Russian citizens, Nord Stream 2’s owner, oligarchs at home and abroad, Russian banks, Bitcoin and the defence sector. In RETAIL NEWS, Target delivers, Sainsbury’s announces a shake-up, Lidl wins and the Boots sale withers. AND FINALLY, I bring you some pancake lessons…
In NEWS ON MARKETS, SANCTIONS & CONSEQUENCES, markets had a rollercoaster ride, more sanctions were imposed and consequences ensued. In CONSUMER-RELATED NEWS, UK train fares rise from today, petrol prices hit new highs, ABF says more food price increases are in the offing and first-time buyers get a boost. In INDIVIDUAL COMPANY NEWS, Zoom slows and Klarna counts the cost. AND FINALLY, I bring you a man who gets pleasure from a vacuum cleaner…
In MACRO NEWS, Putin puts nukes on high alert, China continues with pro-Russia neutrality stance and the prospect of global recovery fades. In NEWS ON SANCTIONS, CONSEQUENCES & RESPONSE, Russian interests in the air, sea and land face challenges while Germany ups spending on gas and Sunak faces appeals to lessen the blow of sanctions. In FINANCIALS NEWS, India gears up for a mega-insurance flotation and UK insurers brace themselves for a payout increase. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, Big Tech faces pressure over its Ukraine stance and the UK high street stages a recovery. AND FINALLY, I bring you a bit of soothing music…
In MACRO NEWS, we look at the consequences of Putin’s actions in sanctions and overall impact and Turkey’s Erdogan feels the heat. In CONSUMER-RELATED NEWS, American consumers seek out experiences, UK consumer confidence is dented, St James’s Place sees slowing growth, energy bills ain’t looking good and we’re all having a beer. In FINANCIALS NEWS, Coinbase’s profits boom but Lloyds Bank takes flak. In INDIVIDUAL COMPANY NEWS, Moderna sees an end to the pandemic, WPP continues to recover but Rolls-Royce takes a blow. AND FINALLY, I bring you the cutest thing ever – a dog ordering a pizza…
In MACRO NEWS, Russia invades Ukraine and BoE governor makes more stupid comments. In CAR NEWS, Stellantis makes a ton, Mini has to cut production and Aston Martin gets more optimistic. In FINANCIALS NEWS, Barclays coins it in while Peel Hunt bemoans a deal slowdown. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, Heathrow hopes for more, giant batteries come to the rescue and Ikea opens in a city centre shopping mall. AND FINALLY, I bring you something that all parents of young kids can identify with…
In MACRO NEWS, the Ukraine situation heats up and has big consequences. In CAR-RELATED NEWS, Porsche is being lined up for an IPO and Tesla reverts to old tech. In TECH NEWS, Meta pushes Reels and Chinese edu-tech company New Oriental gets hammered. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, IHG heralds a bounceback, employers face higher legal costs and there’s a massive scandal at Peloton. AND FINALLY, I bring you an amazing Japanese artist…
In MACRO & OIL NEWS, Putin orders troops into Ukraine, Russian stocks fall, European and UK business activity increase, BoJo lifts Covid legal restrictions, expectations increase for another interest rate rise while oil and petrol prices increase. In TRANSPORT/LOGISTICS-RELATED NEWS, Virgin Hyperloop changes track and both John Menzies and Clipper accept foreign bids. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, a City “Big Bang” is promised, AstraZeneca makes a major advance, Klarna launches a reward programme and Truth Social has a bumpy start. AND FINALLY, I bring you the tribulations of a naked chef…
In MACRO & OIL NEWS, Biden and Putin set up a summit, oil prices whipsaw and Big Oil pays. In CONSUMER/REAL ESTATE NEWS, BoJo is to ditch Covid restrictions, high energy prices have unexpected consequences, residential property asking prices rise and Canary Wharf offers new terms. In CAR-RELATED NEWS, China’s driverless ambitions drag, Lotus aims for an IPO and UK dealerships want to hang onto furlough cash. In INDIVIDUAL COMPANY NEWS, Apple has mixed news and PrimaryBid gets a boost. AND FINALLY, I bring you “the most famous physical therapists on the internet”…
In MACRO & CRYPTO NEWS, Biden warns of imminent invasion and we look at which Russian companies could suffer while the IMF rues lost growth, the ECB’s chief economist shifts position and Sequoia allocates to crypto. In CONSUMER TRENDS/CHALLENGES NEWS, American consumers are primed to spend, the travel uptick lifts Airbus and Australian tourism hopes and shoppers buy Gucci while workers return to offices but look for other jobs and challenges include rising prices on the general shop, Nestle and Reckitt signalling the same and a potentially nasty surprise for EV owners. In RETAIL-RELATED NEWS, Amazon makes up with Visa, Ocado expands its deal with Casino and Walmart puts in a good performance. AND FINALLY, I bring you sausage whack-a-mole for dogs…
In MACRO & CRYPTO NEWS, France weighs in on Russia, China thinks about Russia, there’s more evidence that US interest rates will rise, the UK’s rate of inflation continues to rise and crypto causes more kerfuffles. In PROPERTY & CONSUMERS TRENDS NEWS, UK rents rise, lenders pull more cheap mortgages and we see what consumers are facing and what they are spending money on. In TECH-RELATED NEWS, Ericsson admits bribery and Google cuts ad-tracking. In INDIVIDUAL COMPANY NEWS, Hyatt sees a surge in business event bookings and Rolls-Royce seeks SMR sites. AND FINALLY, I bring you an unusual collab with very weird results…
In MACRO & OIL NEWS, Putin continues dialogue so stocks rise and oil eases while shale producers are tempted and US producer prices rise, the Eurozone suffers from rising energy costs and Japan’s economy grows. In CAR-RELATED NEWS, average used car costs hit £20k, the car industry calls for a charging point plan, Britishvolt attracts yet more money and Luxshare moves into cars. In CONSUMER-RELATED NEWS, Airbnb reckons inflation will spark more hosts and “real” wages in the UK are actually better than they were pre-Covid. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, the UK is ready to demand more from Big Tech while BHP announces a massive dividend. AND FINALLY, I show you why it pays to know your plants…
In MARKETS & CRYPTO NEWS, global markets wobble and crypto assets come under focus. In CONSUMER-RELATED NEWS, petrol prices rise, commuting looks cheaper (although London’s going to put through big price rises), BNPL players are forced to make changes and the chicken industry faces bird ‘flu. In AVIATION NEWS, Wizz Air wants to go transatlantic and Rolls-Royce works on electric planes. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, Facebook runs into Texas problems, SPACs fade and Peloton may not get sold after all. AND FINALLY, I bring you some expensive Valentine’s morsels from yesterday…
In MACRO, COMMODITIES & NFT NEWS, Scholz is set to warn Putin, a Ukraine airline grounds its fleet, tension pushes the oil price up, Lithuania tests EU resolve vs China, commodity prices rise and HMRC steps in on NFTs. In BUSINESS & EMPLOYMENT TRENDS, cybersecurity rises in priority, employers aim for 3% pay rises but older employees leave. In SUPPLY CHAIN NEWS, printers warn on paper shortages and Nike’s issues hit shops. In INDIVIDUAL COMPANY NEWS, Waitrose boosts John Lewis, Rolls-Royce develops zero-emission hydrogen engines and Fluttr launches on Valentine’s Day. AND FINALLY, I bring you two amazing performances involving noodles and music…
In MACRO, OIL & GAS NEWS, US inflation hit its highest level for 40 years, global inflation hits hard, Brussels cuts European growth forecasts, the UK aims to reform Solvency II legislation, Total announces a buyback and UK faces gas issues. In CAR-RELATED NEWS, Aston and Britishvolt talk, EVs might power the grid and Cazoo raises money. In RETAIL/LEISURE NEWS, Jollibee wants to expand, UK shops and restaurants welcome more customers and posh watches sell well. In INDIVIDUAL COMPANY NEWS, Delivery Hero’s shares fall, Binance buys into Forbes and the Peloton drama heats up. AND FINALLY, I bring you some interesting things to do with your KFC and a Gizmo lookalike…
In MACRO & ENERGY/OIL-RELATED NEWS, we look at how sanctions against Russia could hurt Europe, BoJo goes brave/stupid, the UK oil regulator is against a windfall tax and there was a major step forward in nuclear fusion. In UK REAL ESTATE & CONSUMER TRENDS NEWS, the housing boom reflects a north-south divide, Barratt booms, lenders withdraw super-cheap mortgages, L’Oréal blooms, car insurance premiums rise, Disney+ subscribers approach 130m and Uber’s revenue jumps. In SUPPLY CHAIN NEWS, Maersk sees light at the end of the tunnel but companies face challenges right now. In INDIVIDUAL COMPANY NEWS, Amazon gets classed as a supermarket, Bosch tries reskilling and Arm faces an expensive problem. AND FINALLY, I bring you canine yoga…
In COMMODITIES NEWS, BP rejects windfall tax suggestions, US shale producers face temptation and aluminium prices hit new highs. In TECH NEWS, Arm/Nvidia fails while Apple priorities and announces a new service. In CONSUMER/PRICE TRENDS NEWS, there’s more gloom on the cost of living, residential rents climb while Joules, Lyft and Chipotle up prices. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, Peloton’s CEO steps down, we look at the rise and fall of formerly “hot” consumer goods, Ocado loses all of its gains and Tui has high hopes. AND FINALLY, I bring you a popular dog artist…
In MACRO NEWS, the US/Germany present an un-united front, Lagarde goes soft and Bitcoin strengthens. In CONSUMER & PRICE TRENDS NEWS, the cost of living hits spending, house prices increase (but at a slower rate), used EVs sell like hot cakes, we look at how supermarkets are keeping a lid on prices, German businesses foresee price rises and Tyson does OK despite meats getting more expensive. In AVIATION NEWS, US budget airlines Frontier and Spirit get together while Tata takes over a troubled Air India. In INDIVIDUAL COMPANY NEWS, Google is sued by PriceRunner. AND FINALLY, I bring you a dog that looks like Will Ferrell…
In CONSUMER NEWS, we look at challenges facing UK consumers, the appeal of a four-day week and Chanel handbag trends. In TECH NEWS, AstraZeneca announces record annual revenues and a number of vaccine winners face a more realistic future. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, crypto assets see an outflow, Renishaw assumes further chip shortages, Peloton garners interest and Clifford Chance wants to reduce its Canary Wharf footprint. AND FINALLY, I bring you a naughty parrot…
In MACRO & OIL NEWS, the Bank of England increases the interest rate as Sunak attacks fuel bills and markets bet on more rate rises, the ECB expresses concern about inflation but does nothing, Turkey’s inflation spins out of control and US oil frackers see an end to the boom. In TECH NEWS, Facebook/Meta collapses, Snap announces its first profit, Amazon ups prices and benefits from Rivian while Nintendo faces a familiar problem and Infineon looks forward to year 2 of the chip shortage. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, KPMG gets a hefty fine, UK retailers face a shaky start to 2022 and Compass recovers. AND FINALLY, I bring you some unique memorabilia…
In MACRO NEWS, Eurozone inflation hits a record high, the Treasury and Bank of England are set to work in concert as lenders pull mortgages, Gove unveils levelling up plan and UK national security legislation limits options. In CONSUMER TRENDS NEWS, US consumers move from goods to services and PayPal has a shocker. In AUTOMOTIVE-RELATED NEWS, Ferrari zooms ahead while Britishvolt and Glencore aim to recycle lithium ion batteries. In INDIVIDUAL COMPANY NEWS, Meta faces challenges, Spotify sees user numbers rise and Sony heads in an interesting direction. AND FINALLY, I bring you a bit of music…
In MACRO & OIL NEWS, the market bets on ECB rate rises, UK inflation is powered by snacks and Exxon rides high. In CONSUMER & RETAIL NEWS, the US job market stays tight while consumer confidence wanes and in the UK, house prices have a strong start to 2022 and get powered by the chase for 10-year mortgages while demand is expected to slow, Amazon employs tons of workers, M&S and Aldi reach a truce, Tesco cuts the night shift and Joules has a shocker. In AUTOMOTIVE NEWS, Tesla has bad news, GM powers through and Aston Martin commits to a more electric future. In INDIVIDUAL COMPANY NEWS, Google booms on advertising and Starbucks sees higher sales. AND FINALLY, I bring you some interesting Facebook news and possibly one of the most beautiful Starbucks you’ll ever see…
In MARKETS & MACRO NEWS, the S&P and NASDAQ have a tough month, Eurozone growth falls, German and Spanish inflation stays high, markets expect a UK interest rate rise and the BoJo party debacle continues. In CONSUMER/RETAILER NEWS, food and drink prices are set to rise, some face a stark choice of eat or heat, French supermarket Casino has a profit warning and Tesco gives up on Jack’s. In M&A NEWS, Citrix is snapped up for $16.5bn, Sony buys Bungie for $3.6bn, Constellation buys into Lookers and the New York Times buys Wordle. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, the Rogan thing highlights issues for Spotify and Hipgnosis, streamer danger lurks and Ryanair hits turbulence. AND FINALLY, I bring you one hell of a prank…
In MACROECONOMIC NEWS, the UK mulls Russia sanctions and we look at how a Swift ban might affect it as Mattarella rides again in Italy and the Bank of England looks likely to raise interest rates again. In CONSUMER/RETAIL NEWS, BoJo aims to help with bills, homeowners are sitting on big gains, freelancers go 9 to 5, gym numbers increase, retailers hope for a Jubilee boost, private equity firms line up for Boots and supply chain problems persist. In BUSINESS TRENDS NEWS, the chip industry faces enticing prospects and fast food chains cut the discount menu. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, Spotify hurriedly puts in place content warnings, Hello Kitty has designs for the metaverse and the UK government puts money into graphene. AND FINALLY, I bring you hologram registers…
In MACROECONOMIC NEWS, we look at Russia sanctions, China’s backing and support from Ukraine (but not Hungary) while the US unveils strong economic growth and an attack on inflation that could have UK consequences. In CONSUMER/RETAIL TRENDS NEWS, consumers are spending on luxury and booze while in the UK they are still spending on property and holidays while M&S tries something new, Mastercard benefits whatever we do and high streets get livlier. In AUTOMOTIVE NEWS, we get more detail on the Renault/Nissan/Mitsubishi alliance, Tesla’s key to success and laws on self-driving. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, Apple rakes it in, Mondelez says it’ll be increasing prices and Robinhood takes a tumble. AND FINALLY, I bring you two great life hacks…
In MACRO, OIL & CRYPTO NEWS, people gear up for Russia/Ukraine repercussions, the Fed looks to increasing interest rates, oil hits $90 and Facebook admits defeat in crypto. In AUTOMOTIVE-RELATED NEWS, UK car production drops to 65-year low, VW criticises the UK’s charging network, self-driving puts the onus on manufacturers, Tesla announces storming results, Bentley aims for a UK EV and Intel sees a fall in earnings. In TRAVEL-RELATED NEWS, Wizz Air expects a pre-summer loss, Boeing faces rising Dreamliner costs and the National Express/Stagecoach merger. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, advertising stages a big turnaround, Ocado announces new robots and Apple rises again in China. AND FINALLY, I bring you a brilliant skateboarder in a kimono…
In MACRO, OIL & SUPPLY CHAIN NEWS, the IMF states the obvious (as usual), sanctions are discussed for Russia, BoJo awaits, shaler Chesapeake rises from the dead and America runs low on chips. In EV/CHARGING NEWS, GM commits more to EVs, LG’s battery division forges ahead but it’s a postcode lottery in the UK for charging. In TECH NEWS, Microsoft talks gaming but Nvidia loses confidence over Arm. In CONSUMER/BUSINESS TRENDS NEWS, Amex sees rising card usage, almost everyone goes contactless, the tight job market gets ridiculous in some places, pubs are expecting a biiiiiiig weekend and finance firms look to expand in the UK. AND FINALLY, I bring you an amazing couple building a home…
In MACRO, MARKETS & ENERGY NEWS, the Russia/Ukraine situation escalates, markets wobble and gas prices feel the heat while BoJo faces more allegations. In BUSINESS/CONSUMER TRENDS NEWS, European businesses take an Omicron hit, UK businesses face major inflation woes and Ocado does “Dry January”. In TECH NEWS, Facebook has built a new supercomputer while THG and Darktrace have a bad day. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, China turns its attention to vaping, Ford halts new orders and Raleigh’s owner attracts an approach. AND FINALLY, I bring you an inspiring story…
In MACRO & CRYPTO NEWS, the Ukraine situation escalates, the Fed edges towards raising interest rates and Bitcoin gets sold off. In ELECTRIC VEHICLE NEWS, a trio of giants pool resources to up their EV game and Britishvolt strikes a nice deal. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, Netflix faces a tricky path, calls increase for the chief of Peloton to be axed and UK bungalow prices rise. AND FINALLY, I bring you a podcast via the metaverse…
In MACRO, ENERGY & CRYPTO-RELATED NEWS, Biden sticks his oar in, Serica does well from gas prices, Russia considers banning crypto while Turkey embraces it and both Facebook and Twitter embrace NFTs. In CONSUMER/RETAIL NEWS, UK consumers lose confidence, pubs recover, Boots lines up, Aldi shrugs off Deliveroo, Primark cuts jobs and Premier Foods has a decent Christmas. In TECH NEWS, Microsoft/Activision is up to the regulators now, EA could be the next target and Ant Group faces further scrutiny. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, EV sales > the number of chargers being installed, Britishvolt’s gigafactory gets a financial boost and, in post-coronatrend developments, supply chains ease, Netflix has subscriber problems and Peloton pauses exercise bikes. AND FINALLY, I bring you what is apparently the “ultimate” cheese toastie…
In MACRO & CRYPTO NEWS, Boris Johnson survives another day, businesses like his lifting of restrictions, the tourism industry industry wants more, UK inflation hits a near-30 year high and the FCA continues its crypto-crackdown. In TECH NEWS, Sony craters on the Microsoft/Activision news and ByteDance disbands its investment team. In RETAIL/CONSUMER GOODS NEWS, Burberry puts in a strong performance, P&G says prices will continue to rise and Brompton launches a UK-made titanium fold-up. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, Wetherspoons’s glass is half full, Pearson pins hopes on digital and private jet demand rises in Hong Kong. AND FINALLY, I bring you a very cute dog…
In MACRO, ENERGY & CRYPTO NEWS, pessimism in Germany continues, BoJo is still in the cross-hairs, Together is the latest energy company to go bust, Exxon Mobil commits to net-zero and the Treasury is to crack down on crypto ads. In TECH NEWS, Microsoft buys Activision Blizzard, Facebook plans for the metaverse, YouTube shuts down Originals and THG suffers. In CONSUMER & RETAIL NEWS, the cost of living rises and Aldi opens a cashierless shop. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, America takes a look at an M&A overhaul, carmakers rail against proposed French rules and we take a look at what’s going on with Evergrande. AND FINALLY, I thought I’d bring you what’s new in theme parks as well as what I think is my favourite vending machine of all time…
In MACRO, ENERGY & CRYPTO NEWS, China cuts its interest rate, Russia splits Germany’s coalition, UK inflation continues to soar, China coal production hits new highs, Scottish wind turbine plans makes waves and Spain cracks down on crypto. In CONSUMER/RETAIL NEWS, UK energy payment options are being considered, luxury cars see brisk sales, Covent Garden grows in value and Amazon ditches the Visa threat. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, Macao casinos breathe a sigh of relief and Unilever gets flak. AND FINALLY, I bring you some egg-cellent advice…
In MACRO NEWS, China’s GDP growth slows, investors have an Italian wobble and BoJo fights for survival. In BUSINESS & EMPLOYMENT TRENDS, road freight costs ramp up, UK construction companies fail and recycled plastic prices boom while UK wage rises are set to calm although factory wages strengthen. In RETAIL NEWS, Visa’s Amazon problems continue while the Issa brothers consider a Boots takeover. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, EV sales overtake diesel in Europe, City Airport hopes (prays??) for business travel to return and Fever-Tree pushes Schweppes aside. AND FINALLY, I thought I’d bring you a plastic bag collection and a ridiculous invention…
In MARKETS-RELATED NEWS, TPG has a good debut and Beyond Meat is the big short. In CONSUMER, RETAIL & HOSPITALITY NEWS, lenders see a mortgage slowdown, Hays rakes it in on placement fees, Tesco relies on its Clubcard, M&S gets a fashion boost, Halfords slides, JD Sports weakens, Next is the latest to get tough on the unvaccinated and Asos aims for glory. In INDIVIDUAL COMPANY NEWS, the future looks bright for TSMC, Genting’s share price more than halves and Google spends $1bn on a London office. AND FINALLY, I bring you the answer to one of life’s great mysteries – why cats are scared of cucumbers…
In MACRO, OIL & CRYPTO NEWS, the US faces increasing pressures to raise interest rates, BoJo is on shaky ground and Britcoin gets a dose of scepticism. In CONSUMER, RETAIL & HOSPITALITY NEWS, we look at home delivery challenges, UK retailer success, grocery price inflation, appeals for permanent VAT reduction for hospitality, rising room rates at Premier Inn and rising wages at Pret a Manger. In TECH NEWS, Apple gets investors meta-excited and Philips shares fall on recall. In INDIVIDUAL COMPANY NEWS, checkout.com looks like it’s worth checking out, Flipdish becomes a unicorn and Savills lifts profit guidance. AND FINALLY, I thought I’d bring you some dressing-up ideas and the TikTok-inspired supermarket purchases of 2021…
In MACROECONOMIC NEWS, the US, Europe and UK are all looking at ongoing high levels of inflation. In CONSUMER/RETAIL NEWS, wage inflation, home working, rising second hand car prices and house price difficulties hitting Gen Z become the norm while Lidl joins Aldi in low prices commitment, Very has a very good Christmas, Games Workshop suffers and Boots attracts prospective buyers In EV NEWS, China car sales rise with Tesla doing well and VW not so much, while Rio Tinto moves to electric trains to haul iron ore. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, Heathrow passenger numbers hit a record low and Darktrace rises. AND FINALLY, I thought I’d mention the new version of Fresh Prince of Bel Air…
In MACRO & MARKETS NEWS, the US and Russia extend talks and tech stocks have a wild ride. In CONSUMER/RETAIL/HIGH STREET NEWS, luxury does well, UK retailers have a solid Christmas, Aldi keeps the pressure on and Lululemon suffers from Omicron. In FINANCIALS NEWS, Aussie pension funds grow and Fly Now Pay Later is a thing. In INDIVIDUAL COMPANY NEWS, GTA and FarmVille get together, HBO Max aims higher and Microsoft sees staff go to Meta. AND FINALLY, I thought I’d bring you some pretty inspirational people…
In MACRO NEWS, we look at NATO vs Russia. In BUSINESS SENTIMENT/TRENDS NEWS, UK companies are optimistic, SMEs struggle with higher energy bills, food import costs are set to rise, manufacturing warns of Brexit/admin impact and companies look to hire school-leavers while London law firms have hiring difficulties and Ikea gets serious about vaccines. In RETAIL NEWS, M&S has a good Christmas, rapid grocery delivery companies battle for supremacy and Specsavers looks good. In INDIVIDUAL COMPANY NEWS, we look at tech stocks and Campari’s optimism. AND FINALLY, I bring you cute sausage dogs…
In MACRO & CRYPTO NEWS, US markets move on interest rate hints, Macron wants to “p!ss off” unvaccinated, the UK economy is held back, Goldman puts a price on Bitcoin and we look at the value of NFTs. In CAR-RELATED NEWS, Stellantis gets a big Amazon order, carmakers continue to commit to EVs, EV sales rise in the UK and we see why range may not be the way forward. In CONSUMER/RETAIL NEWS, food prices rise in Hong Kong and the UK, Brits spend on home entertainment, supermarkets face uncertainty, Majestic Wine relies on South Africa and WFH presents high street challenges. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, Beyond Meat gets a KFC boost and metaverse hardware could be the next big thing. AND FINALLY, I bring you Freddy Mercury in cat form and some cute retrievers…
In MACRO, OIL & CURRENCY NEWS, the EU wants in on NATO/US talks, BoJo sticks with Plan B, Italy starts the search for a president, OPEC and chums agree to production rises and sterling hits a new high vs the euro. In CONSUMER NEWS, the US Big Quit continues and there are loads of pressures for the consumer to contend with including higher energy bills, eviction rates and food prices while more people take out credit. In CAR-RELATED NEWS, Toyota is bigger than GM, Ford ups production of its electric F-150 pickup, Mercedes announces a 600-mile EV and hopes increase for Cornish Lithium. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, AT&T delays 5G rollout, Evergrande’s share price rises and Apple heads into the valuation stratosphere. AND FINALLY, I show you how to be a wizard…
In MACROECONOMIC NEWS, the Bank of England raises the interest rate – but the ECB stands firm/chickens out – while Turkey and Brazil do weird things. In OMICRON NEWS, the UK economy takes a hit, Harrods brings its sale forward, the Congestion Charge ends early, hospitality suffers and Goldman Sachs orders the cancellation of parties. In RETAIL NEWS, Boohoo suffers a triple whammy, Shein keeps a-comin’, Matalan does a deal with THG and Just Eat signs up Asda. In INDIVIDUAL COMPANY NEWS, EDF suffers nuclear fallout, an Indian edutech start-up aims for glory and Arrival cooks something up for Uber. AND FINALLY, I bring you a misheard Christmas…