Financial Market Newsletter

Rice prices across Asian markets have risen to their highest level in nearly two years, threatening to accelerate food inflation as El Nino disrupts production of the staple grain.

According to data released by ADP Research on Wednesday, U.S private-sector employment increased by 86.000 for a second consecutive month, marking the strongest gain since June.

Central Banks accelerated gold purchases in Q3 at the fastest pace since late 2024, as geopolitical risks and concerns over fiscal stability boosted demand for the precious metal.

The Reserve Bank of Australia’s (RBA) two-day policy meeting, which concludes on Tuesday, will be one of the most closely watched meetings this week, against a backdrop of sharply falling house prices and persistently high inflation showing little sign of easing.

China’s manufacturing activity slowed in October, with the manufacturing PMI falling to 49,3 from 50,1 in September.

The U.S Department of Commerce said on Thursday that U.S gross domestic product (GDP) grew by +3,4% in Q3.

The Federal Reserve (FED) announced on Thursday morning that it would keep its policy rate unchanged following last month’s rate hike.

U.S consumer confidence unexpectedly improved in October for the first time in 4 months, supported by a more optimistic outlook for the labor market and business conditions.

Slower economic growth is one of the reasons why the European Central Bank may decide not to raise interest rates this week.