UBS On-Air: Market Moves

Europe is often associated with weaker growth, energy shocks, and geopolitical pressure. But beneath the surface, some of the region’s leading companies are telling a very different story - one of resilience, adaptation, and innovation. In this episode of Across the Pond, hosts Christopher Swann and Belinda Peeters are joined by Rolf Ganter, Head of European Equities, to discuss what is driving the rebound in European corporate profits, why investors may be underestimating the strength of European companies, and which areas may offer opportunities from here.

The Federal Reserve Beige Book’s summary of economic anecdote mentioned “uncertain” and “uncertainty” no fewer than 50 times this month (before tariffs were announced). That is below the uncertainty peak that followed last year’s tariffs, but well above the 14 mentions in May 2024. Uncertainty has a paralyzing effect on business decisions—and the risk is that uncertainty endures.

US President Trump is proposing new tariffs—an additional 10% for US consumers of goods from most major economies. Someone in the administration seems to be aware that tariffing high frequency purchases aggravates inflation perceptions and the affordability crisis, and some key food items are exempted.

On this episode of Viewpoints, Burkhard reflects on recent market performance and the momentum of equities, along with the impact of inflation concerns to bond market activity. Plus, some observations and takeaways from the UBS Global Family Office report.

Another day, another round of Gulf war stories—the latest originated from semi-official Iranian sources, so markets took them more seriously. Iran’s apparent suspension of negotiations with the US prompted US President Trump to attempt a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah. Market opinions differ as to the terms and effectiveness of this.