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European gas prices have stabilized around EUR40 per MWh, with limited potential for further decline due to improved supply conditions and increased LNG imports, which reached a March high not seen since 2017. Despite current storage levels being below the five-year average, the higher prices compared to last year are encouraging continued LNG sales to Europe.
A recent bank survey reveals that one in four people in Finland have no savings, with 32% of women and 24% of men reporting this lack. Over half of respondents can only cover up to three months of expenses if income is lost, highlighting the financial strain on middle-income households amid rising living costs. However, signs of improvement are anticipated, with expectations of falling interest rates, better employment, and wages increasing faster than inflation in the coming years.
Gold prices have surged past $3,100 per troy ounce, marking a 19% increase in the last quarter, the highest since 1986. This rise is driven by uncertainty over US tariff threats and expectations of interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve, despite inflation risks that may hinder such cuts. However, analysts warn of a potential setback for gold prices amid these economic concerns.
In March, Eurozone inflation is projected to slow to 2.2%, down from 2.3% in February, with core inflation also decreasing to 2.4%. This trend supports expectations of continued interest rate cuts by the ECB to stimulate economic recovery, despite rising inflation in Italy. The euro weakened against major currencies, with EUR/USD dipping below 1.08, indicating potential further declines if support levels are breached.
Eurozone inflation has decreased to 2.2% in March, prompting some economists to anticipate further cuts to key interest rates by the ECB at its April 17 meeting. The central bank aims for a medium-term inflation target of 2% and has already reduced rates six times since summer 2024. Currently, the deposit interest rate stands at 2.5%, with Germany also reporting a 2.2% inflation rate.
A recent survey by Danske Bank reveals that one in four people in Finland have no savings, with 32% of women and 24% of men reporting no funds in savings accounts. Over half of respondents can manage without income for up to three months, highlighting the impact of the cost of living crisis on financial stability. The bank advises aiming for savings equivalent to at least four months of expenses, a goal met by only 35% of those surveyed.
Coca-Cola shares reached a record high of $73, buoyed by strong Q4 2024 results with a 6% sales increase to $11.5 billion and adjusted EPS of $0.55. Despite a forecasted 5-6% organic sales growth for 2025, currency effects and portfolio adjustments may limit further gains, with analysts targeting an average of $75.63.
Thomas Gitzel, chief economist at VP Bank, anticipates an interest rate cut by the European Central Bank (ECB) in April, citing March's inflation data as a catalyst for monetary easing. He predicts a 25 basis point reduction, influenced by the economic impact of punitive tariffs from the Trump administration, which could further weaken the European economy and dampen inflation. Gitzel also suggests that another rate cut may occur at the ECB's June meeting.
The Reserve Bank of Australia has maintained its cash rate at 4.1%, prioritizing the return of inflation to its 2-3% target amid economic uncertainties. Concerns over a tight labor market and potential global trade conflicts could impact inflation and economic stability. Analysts anticipate a possible rate adjustment in May, depending on labor market developments.
Tariff uncertainty is raising concerns about the potential for stagflation, according to Barclays. The interplay of fluctuating tariffs and economic conditions could lead to stagnant growth coupled with rising inflation, posing significant risks to the economy.
Inflation and Monetary Impact
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European gas prices stabilize as LNG imports rise amid supply concerns
15:40 01.04.2025
finland faces savings crisis amid rising living costs and economic challenges
15:30 01.04.2025
gold prices surge amid stagflation concerns and tariff uncertainties
15:27 01.04.2025
eurozone inflation slows as euro weakens against major currencies
15:00 01.04.2025
euro inflation rate drops to 2.2 percent prompting potential interest rate cuts
12:56 01.04.2025
one in four finlanders lack savings amid rising cost of living
12:40 01.04.2025
Coca Cola shares near record high amid strong earnings and market resilience
11:55 01.04.2025
ECB likely to cut interest rates in April amid economic concerns
11:39 01.04.2025
RBA holds cash rate steady amid economic uncertainties and inflation concerns
10:49 01.04.2025
tariff uncertainty raises concerns over potential stagflation risks
05:22 01.04.2025
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