In BIG PICTURE NEWS, China's industrial production slows, Gulf freight rates rise, Xi and Trump make some progress, the UK nears a trade deal with Gulf states, the UK leadership battle hots up, a full-blown energy crisis approaches and Spain takes a turn. In BUSINESS TRENDS NEWS, UK firms stop investing and hiring while JLR and GM turn to military trucks. In PROPERTY NEWS, it turns out that we have the highest property taxes and amateur property investors are getting pushed out. In MISCELLANEOUS NEWS, Chinese AI groups overtake US rivals, Publicis makes a $2.2bn deal and 90% of financial influencer posts offer "low quality" advice. AND FINALLY, I bring you some astute observations...