Business

The latest report from the National Statistics Institute (INE) highlights that the recent decrease in inflation in Spain is primarily attributed to the decline in electricity prices compared to the previous year. In September, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) dropped by six tenths, indicating an annual increase of 2.8%. Notably, the CPI, excluding energy and fresh food to mitigate drastic fluctuations, has dipped below the 3% mark that it had maintained for the past two months. This decline in the CPI for September follows two consecutive months of decreases, contrasting with the peaks observed in March, April, and May. July saw the CPI hitting its lowest point since February, holding steady at 2.8%. Concurrently, core inflation remained unchanged in July, marking its lowest level since 2...

This week, the latest inflation figures captured investors’ attention, with the Consumer Price Index (CPI) dipping to 2.9%, marking a 0.2% annual decrease. Although this aligns with market forecasts, market responses were subdued, leaving market movements ambiguous. Analysts note the Federal Reserve’s success in managing inflation, prompting a shift in focus towards the labor market. During its recent meeting, the Federal Reserve highlighted the increasing significance of its staff in decision-making processes. A notable change in communication emphasized a dual focus on potential risks to price stability and employment, hinting at a shift away from inflation concerns towards labor market dynamics. As the Fed gears up for its upcoming September meeting, the impact of employment data on in...

European equity markets are poised for another day of gains, riding on a wave of optimism following recent uncertainties. Investors are optimistic about the forthcoming macroeconomic data, shifting their focus towards assessing corporate fundamentals for investment opportunities. Technically, the EuroStoxx 50 faces a challenge in surpassing the 4,700-point mark. According to Ecotrader advisor Joan Cabrero, breaking this level could pave the way for a notable upswing towards 4,870 and 4,900 points, offering a buffer against bearish risks. Cabrero underlines that the current market conditions present favorable prospects, particularly if the index finds solid support within the 4,600-4,675 points range. However, he advises a more cautious approach, suggesting waiting for a stronger support l...

Latin America has encountered one of its most lackluster growth periods since the turbulent “lost decade” of the 1980s, with a mere 0.9% growth rate recorded between 2015 and 2024. José Manuel Salazar-Xirinachs, the Executive Secretary of the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC), warns that the region risks entering a third decade of stagnation unless significant structural reforms are implemented. Within this context, Panama emerges as a notable case study. Despite ECLAC revising its growth projections downward to 1.8% for 2024 due to global uncertainties and the slowdown of major economies like the US and China, as well as tight financial conditions, Panama is forecasted to achieve a growth rate of 2.7% for the same year, positioning itself mid-range compared ...