Macro
US equities opened lower on Friday, led by weakness in technology shares, after the latest US data reinforced concerns about inflation stickiness. Headline PCE inflation rose 2.6% YoY in July, unchanged from June, while the core measure ticked up to 2.9% from 2.8%. While largely in line with forecasts, the figures highlighted that inflation remains above the Federal Reserve’s target, with tariffs seen as an additional source of pressure. Nonetheless, market expectations for a September rate cut remain intact, particularly after Powell’s dovish remarks at Jackson Hole, where he acknowledged signs of labour market softening. The dollar index slipped below 97.8, while the 10-year Treasury yield traded near 4.23%.
Base Metals
LME prices strengthened on Friday. Nickel closed at $15,440/t, extending its upward momentum, while tin advanced to $35,030/t, reaching fresh highs. Copper climbed above $9,900/t, zinc rose past $2,810/t, and aluminium edged above $2,615/t. Lead held just below the $2,000/t threshold.
Precious Metals and Oil
Gold continued higher, breaking through $3,445/oz, while silver advanced above $39.4/oz. Oil prices were little changed, with WTI steady around $64.0/bbl and Brent near $68.1/bbl.
All price data is from 29.08.2025 as of 17:30