Uneasy markets await key Bernanke speech

clock

(Update) The FTSE opened more than 40 points lower on Friday as US Federal Reserve chairman Ben Bernanke gears up to deliver a key speech on the ailing US economy.

London's leading index fell as low as 5,085 in early trading but had recovered slightly by 11am. A year ago, Bernanke used a speech in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, to pave the way for $600bn (£368bn) of quantitative easing (QE) - the process of injecting cash into the financial system to try to boost the economy. And with data earlier this month pointing to continuing sluggish growth in the US and Europe, some expect Bernanke to act again and launch a third round of QE. To date, a total of $2.3trn has been injected in a bid to revitalise the recovery. Shares have rallied all week in a...

To continue reading this article...

Join Professional Adviser for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
  • Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
  • Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
  • Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
  • Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes

Join

 

Already a Professional Adviser member?

Login

More on Economics / Markets

More than half of IFAs feel negative about a potential Labour govt

More than half of IFAs feel negative about a potential Labour govt

Advisers favour Conservatives when it comes to their clients and business

Isabel Baxter
clock 09 May 2024 • 2 min read
Elections and advice: Planning in political and legislative uncertainty

Elections and advice: Planning in political and legislative uncertainty

‘It should not be based on speculation, always plan on current legislation’

Isabel Baxter
clock 08 May 2024 • 3 min read
'Discussion-worthy stuff': Chinese assets under pressure

'Discussion-worthy stuff': Chinese assets under pressure

China has an 18% share of global GDP and only a 3% MSCI ACWI weighting

Chris Justham
clock 02 April 2024 • 2 min read