Fed decision is ‘last hurdle’ before Santa year-end rally: Bank of America

Nissan and Honda are in early talks about a potential merger to create a $52bn Japanese carmaker. The move is aimed at improving competitiveness in the face of growing Chinese EV manufacturers and sluggish consumer demand for EVs. Concerns about job cuts and political backlash in Japan have been raised. The combined company would be the third-largest carmaker globally, behind Toyota and Volkswagen. Nissan has faced financial difficulties and job losses, while Honda has a...

Entrepreneur contributors stress the need for leadership techniques to evolve with technology, advocating for mission-driven leadership to align strategy with values and drive innovation. Crafting a meaningful mission statement involves engaging stakeholders, embodying core ideals, and fostering emotional connections. Purpose-driven leadership in the digital age involves integrating technology with company goals, empowering employees, and sharing the mission's impact. Successful businesses like Patagonia, Microsoft, and Tesla demonstrate the benefits of purpose-driven motivation in boosting creativity, employee...

The property market in 2024 saw challenges with high mortgage rates but ended on a high note with house price growth at a two-year high. Despite uncertainty for 2025 due to upcoming tax changes, including stamp duty thresholds, analysts predict increased demand before the changes take effect but a potential lull afterwards. Forecasts suggest a gradual strengthening of the housing market in 2025, with predictions of modest house price growth ranging from 2-4%, although prime...

The UK employment myFT Digest reports a rise in average weekly earnings, excluding bonuses, to 5.2%, prompting the Bank of England to hold off on interest rate cuts. Despite a shrinking GDP and impending job cuts due to tax increases, the BoE faces pressure to balance wage growth with inflation targets. With hiring slowing and payrolls increasing marginally, concerns over future economic stability remain as businesses grapple with rising costs and uncertain outlooks. Full Article

Refresh provides updates on the upcoming inflation figures, with market research company Kantar reporting an increase in grocery prices and expectations of higher inflation. Wages have also risen, potentially impacting future inflation rates, leading to predictions that the Bank of England will keep interest rates steady. Analysts forecast a rise in the Consumer Prices Index, citing factors like higher energy prices and increased costs. Full Article

The recent political turmoil in South Korea, including President Yoon Suk Yeol's failed attempt to impose martial law and subsequent impeachment, is expected to have minimal long-term impact on the country's stock market, according to fund manager Arjun Jayaraman. Despite the uncertainty, Jayaraman believes that South Korea presents investment opportunities due to undervaluation and potential for reform, particularly in corporate governance. The South Korean won's depreciation against the U.S. dollar following the political events may...