Latest Business News
US Equity Markets Open Week Positively Amid Geopolitical Hopes
U.S. equity markets began the week of April 13 positively, supported by hopes for Middle East conflict resolution and easing oil prices. Tech, industrials, and metals & mining sectors led inflows despite mixed economic data.
Investor sentiment remains cautious with focus on retail sales and inflation data.
Global Equity Funds See $31.26 Billion Inflows, US Leads with $21.25B
Global equity funds recorded fourth straight weekly inflow of $31.26 billion through April 15, with U.S. funds receiving $21.25 billion. Technology and industrial sectors drove $6.74 billion in net purchases.
Money market funds saw $173.24 billion in net sales amid shifting allocations.
Upcoming Earnings: Tesla, 3M, GE Aerospace Set for April 21-22 Reports
Q1 2026 earnings continue with Tesla on April 22, and 3M, GE Aerospace, UnitedHealth Group on April 21. Other reports include Chubb, Capital One, Northrop Grumman, and RTX.
These will shape market direction alongside macro data.
Key Economic Data: US Retail Sales, Global Inflation Figures This Week
Week of April 20-26 features U.S. Retail Sales, Canada's and UK's inflation rates, flash PMIs for Germany/UK, Japan's CPI. Germany's Ifo survey and IMF Spring Meetings conclude.
Data critical amid geopolitical tensions.
Shopify Stock Surges 14% on Tech Rally and Buyback Program
Shopify shares rose 14.07% amid tech sector rally, $2 billion share repurchase, and B2B expansion. Positive analyst buys and U.S.-Iran ceasefire optimism boosted SaaS stocks.
Q1 results anticipation adds to gains.
US Stocks See Reduced Outflows as TINA Effect Revives
US equities face $30 billion net outflow in 2026 YTD, down 75% from mid-March per LSEG data. Investors pile into stocks as 'TINA' (There Is No Alternative) revival outpaces 'TIARA'.
Signals shifting sentiment despite year-to-date pressures.
Middle East War Escalates Stagflation Risks Globally
Seven weeks of Middle East conflict impacts growth and inflation, shown in upcoming global business surveys. Initial April data from Australia to US expected Thursday, with Europe deteriorating most.
Raises policymaker concerns for interest rate decisions.
Chicago Fed's Goolsbee: Oil Surge Temporary, Limited Economic Hit
Chicago Fed President Austan Goolsbee notes oil futures predict temporary price surge from Middle East issues. Expects limited overall economic impact.
Aligns with market resilience observations.
Investor Sentiment Hits 10-Month Bearish Low, Yet Equities Resilient
Early April sentiment most bearish in 10 months, reducing global equity allocations. Cautious optimism emerges on potential Middle East resolution.
US equities hold firm despite consumer lows and energy prices.
New Zealand Markets Lag US Rally Amid Middle East Exposure
US markets rallied last week, but NZ awaits gains due to higher Middle East economic exposure. Harbour Asset Management highlights pressure point vulnerabilities.
Local business discussions focus on global spillovers.
ECB, Fed Await Business Confidence and Sentiment Data
ECB to review French business confidence Thursday and Germany's Ifo gauge Friday. Fed peers see University of Michigan sentiment index end-week.
Informs policy amid war-driven stagflation fears.