Global Stock Market Trends July 2025 was broadly positive for equity markets. In the US, the S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite notched their third consecutive month of gains, hitting multiple record highs during the month. The S&P 500 rose about 2.2% in July, while the tech-heavy Nasdaq jumped 3.7%, buoyed by strong corporate earnings and […]
Macroeconomic Indicators and Central Bank Policy The U.S. Federal Reserve held its benchmark interest rate steady at 4.25% to 4.50% during the June 2025 FOMC meeting, the fourth consecutive pause. However, the Fed’s latest projections signaled potential rate cuts later in the year. Policymakers penciled in two quarter-point cuts by year-end amid signs of moderating […]
A 19-day road trip across Azerbaijan, Georgia and Armenia in June 2025: Baku’s fire, Sheki, Kakheti wine, Kazbegi, Armenia’s rock-cut monasteries and the Wings of Tatev.
Macroeconomic Data and Central Bank Signals Inflation data showed divergent trends across the globe. In the UK, inflation unexpectedly surged to 3.5% year-on-year in April, a significant jump from March’s 2.6% and the highest level since early 2024. This increase was driven in part by higher travel costs during the Easter period. The surprise figure […]
The U.S. presidential election results for 2024 are in, and Donald Trump has won his second term. The Republicans not only secured the White House but also gained control of the Senate, and potentially the House of Representatives, though this is yet to be confirmed. This powerful combination places Trump in one of the strongest […]