Water Ahead

• Asia-Pacific markets remained steady on Friday, September 4, 2026, as investors awaited the release of critical US payrolls data. • Regional equities rose following a strong Wall Street session, with Japan's Nikkei increasing by approximately 1% and South Korea's Kospi climbing 1.3%. • Currency markets saw shifts as NZD/USD recovered above 0.5900 and USD/JPY regained the 156 level, while oil prices remained near recent highs.

• European stocks remained largely flat on Wednesday, with the pan-European STOXX 600 index holding steady at 661.26 points. • Investors are maintaining a cautious stance as they evaluate recent corporate earnings reports and rising geopolitical tensions. • The market is currently in a holding pattern as traders await the release of crucial US inflation data, which will likely influence global monetary policy.

• European stocks remained largely stagnant on Wednesday, August 12, with the pan-European STOXX 600 holding steady at 661.26 points. • Investors are currently cautious, balancing the impact of recent corporate earnings reports against rising geopolitical tensions. • The market is in a holding pattern as traders await the release of critical U.S. inflation data, which will likely influence global interest rate expectations.

In this week’s newsletter: After Trump’s interventions over Greenland, there are many in Iceland who believe they would be stronger in the EU. But will its recent history of independence win out?• Don’t get This Is Europe delivered to your inbox? Sign up hereAs the UK marks the tenth anniversary of its fateful Brexit referendum next Tuesday, Iceland is fast approaching its moment of truth about the EU – albeit from the opposite direction.On 29 August, Icelanders will be asked whether or not to they want to come back to the table with Brussels for negotiations about joining the EU. Iceland originally applied in 2009 after the financial crash, but pulled out of talks in 2013 saying it couldn’t go any further without a referendum. Continue reading...