Markets Brace for Powell Speech as Analyst Ratings, M&A Moves and Global Politics Shape Sentiment

Investors worldwide are closely watching the Jackson Hole symposium, where Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell’s speech is expected to provide critical signals on the central bank’s next steps for inflation and economic policy.

Global markets traded cautiously on Thursday as investors awaited a highly anticipated speech from Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell at the Jackson Hole symposium. While monetary policy remains in sharp focus, corporate analyst ratings, M&A activity, and geopolitical developments drove sector-specific volatility across equities, commodities, and currencies.

Market Highlights

• Analyst Ratings & Stock Moves
  Li Auto and Roblox both saw analyst rating updates, with Wolfe Research upgrading Roblox on expectations of stronger ad revenue and regional pricing. Meanwhile, Barclays lifted Ulta Beauty to “Buy,” citing potential for earnings beats and upward revisions. Inspira Technologies gained after securing a U.S. patent, while Nvidia, GitLab, and Lexington Realty Trust also came under the spotlight following rating reviews.
• Mergers & Acquisitions
  Tempus expanded its footprint in healthcare AI by acquiring digital pathology firm Paige for $81.25 million. In energy, Canada’s Cenovus announced a $7.9 billion cash-and-stock acquisition of MEG Energy, while Hudson Global completed its merger with Star Equity Holdings. IPO activity also picked up, with ECST Holdings and ChowChow Cloud International filing to go public in the U.S.
• Macro & Geopolitics
  Boston Fed’s Susan Collins highlighted “balanced risks” ahead of Powell’s address, while SocGen warned that rising bond yields could eventually derail equities. Globally, Iran and European powers agreed to resume nuclear talks, while Taiwan’s Economy Minister resigned for health reasons. In Europe, the UK’s CMA launched an investigation into the Getty Images–Shutterstock deal, and Germany’s economy ministers called for reforms amid slowing growth.
• Commodities & Currencies
  Oil prices looked set for a positive weekly close, supported by supply concerns and upbeat demand forecasts. Gold edged lower as traders turned defensive before Powell’s speech. In FX, the euro and pound firmed slightly, with GBP/USD and EUR/USD ticking higher.

SGFX Summary

Markets are holding steady ahead of Jerome Powell’s Jackson Hole address, with traders looking for clues on future U.S. monetary policy. Inflation trends, the Fed’s policy stance, and potential political pressures are all shaping investor sentiment. SGFX will continue monitoring the outcome and its impact on global markets, including forex, equities, and commodities.