Filter by category and week, then read what positioning and flow are signalling. Updated as the desk publishes.
EuroMarket expectations for ECB rate hikes have accelerated, driven by rising inflation risks linked to the Middle East conflict. ECB Governing Council member Peter Kazimir warned that inflation dynamics may force earlier-than-expected tightening. While no immediate action is expected at the upcoming meeting, the balance of risks has clearly shifted toward higher inflation.
PoundThe UK economy recorded 0.0% growth in January 2026, significantly below expectations of 0.2%. This follows a modest 0.1% expansion in December, indicating a clear loss of economic momentum even prior to the Middle East conflict.
Dow JonesThe Dow Jones Industrial Average declined last week, pressured by rising oil prices, geopolitical risks, and concerns over delayed rate cuts. Compared to other U.S. indices, the Dow exhibits greater resilience due to its composition of value-oriented and industrial companies, with relatively lower exposure to high-growth technology stocks.
OilThe Middle East conflict has entered its third week, with a significant escalation in both intensity and geographic scope. Iran has expanded its operations beyond Israel, targeting Gulf countries including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain through coordinated drone and missile attacks.
GoldGold declined for a second consecutive week as rising oil prices—driven by escalating Middle East tensions—have reinforced concerns about persistent cost-push inflation globally. As a result, expectations for interest rate cuts across major central banks have diminished. Given that gold is a non-yielding asset, higher interest rate environments reduce its relative attractiveness, placing downward pressure on prices.
bitcoinBitcoin has been ranging between $62.8K and $72.6K for over a month, repeatedly failing to sustain consolidation above the $70K level. Each attempt to break higher has been met with aggressive profit-taking from short-term sellers, with realized profits exceeding $5 million per hour, effectively capping further upside momentum.
