Author: connecticuttoday.com

European markets surged as defense and banking stocks drove the STOXX 600 to a record high, fueled by military spending growth and easing trade tensions.

The European Commission opposes Trump’s reciprocal trade policy, warning it could disrupt markets, fuel inflation, and harm businesses, vowing to protect EU industries from unfair tariffs.

The European Commission has sued Austria and six other EU nations for failing to implement the Non-Performing Loans Directive, pushing for financial sanctions.

Global electricity demand is projected to rise nearly 4% annually through 2027, driven by industrial expansion, transport electrification, and rapid data center growth.

Modi and Trump advance trade talks aiming for a $500B partnership by 2030, focusing on tariffs, energy, defense, and AI, with Musk exploring Tesla and Starlink expansion in India.

Treasury yields declined despite inflation data exceeding forecasts. Investors focused on upcoming Fed signals as markets awaited the PCE index to gauge inflation trends and policy shifts.

Sony raised its full-year forecast after strong PlayStation 5 sales lifted revenue and profits in the December quarter, surpassing analyst expectations and driving an 18% growth.

JPMorgan CEO Jamie Dimon dismisses employee concerns over full-time office return, rejecting a growing petition and insisting remote work hurts efficiency, engagement, and creativity.

The European Commission’s 2025 agenda focuses on economic resilience, regulatory simplification, and security, with 11 legislative proposals to streamline rules and boost investment.

Commerzbank will cut 3,900 jobs by 2028 while targeting a €2.4B profit in 2025, as part of a restructuring plan amid speculation over UniCredit’s increasing stake.