Markets
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EU and US near trade deal with 15% tariffs. The European Union and the United States are finalising a trade agreement imposing 15% tariffs on most EU exports. Exemptions for aircraft and medical devices are under consideration, but key industries remain affected.
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FTSE 100 hits record high amid US-Japan trade deal optimism. The FTSE 100 closed at 9,080 points, up 0.5%, driven by hopes of further US trade agreements. Analysts highlight low valuations and geopolitical uncertainty as key factors in the index’s growth.
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China and the EU clashed on trade and minerals in Beijing. At a shortened one‑day summit, Ursula von der Leyen warned of an “inflection point” in EU–China ties, calling for “rebalancing,” while Xi Jinping urged Europe to make “correct strategic choices” as tariff tensions and minerals dependence took centre stage.
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Meta partners with Enbridge for Texas solar energy project. Meta has entered a deal with Enbridge for a 600 MW solar facility in Texas, marking another step towards its 2030 net-zero emissions goal. The project, Clear Fork, is expected to be operational by summer 2027….
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Goldman Sachs to acquire Liquid Environmental Solutions from Audax. Texas-based Liquid Environmental Solutions, founded in 2002, manages non-hazardous liquid waste for various sectors across the U.S. Goldman Sachs plans to support its growth through organisational, technological, and operational investments….
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AstraZeneca plans a $50 billion US investment by 2030. The investment aims to boost AstraZeneca’s US manufacturing and research presence, helping achieve $80 billion in annual sales by 2030. This move aligns with US political pressure for domestic pharmaceutical production.
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Jupiter Intelligence enhances its platform with new climate risk tools. The tools help financial institutions quantify climate risk and assess resilience investments. This development addresses the growing need for precise climate-informed decision-making amid increasing severe weather impacts….
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The UK regulator has proposed classifying Apple and Google as firms with “strategic market status.” If finalised, the move could bring targeted conduct rules, fines, and broader scrutiny to their 90–100% hold on UK smartphones.
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Lloyds Bank launches centre for Voluntary Carbon and Nature Markets. The centre, based in London, will guide clients in these evolving markets. Lloyds appointed Emily Martin and Gabriella Carden to co-lead the unit, reinforcing the bank’s commitment to sustainability and clean growth strategies….
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Chestnut Carbon secures $210 million credit facility from J.P. Morgan. The facility supports large-scale nature-based carbon removal projects. The deal, underpinned by an agreement with Microsoft, marks a pioneering financing model for the voluntary carbon sector….