Equities

US equity markets hit new record highs, after a blowout week for Q3 earnings, as Microsoft resumed the title of world’s biggest company. European markets were also boosted by strong earnings reports. Japanese indices were mixed in the run up to the general election, while the property sector weighed on performance in China.

Bonds

The US Treasury yield curve flattened slightly, as short-dated bond yields rose in anticipation of tighter monetary policy from the US Federal Reserve (Fed). Investment grade corporate bonds enjoyed positive sentiment on strong earnings reports, while high yield bonds were mixed, with a close eye also on inflation.

Currencies

The US dollar made ground against all majors, while the euro slipped back, reflecting a potential divergence in monetary policy. The yen stabilised after recent weakness, while sterling marked time ahead of the Bank of England meeting.

Commodities

Oil ended the week slightly lower, in advance of production discussions at this week’s OPEC meeting. Gold was little changed over the week.

Responsible investing

The UN COP26 Climate Change Conference got underway, flagged as the ‘last, best chance’ to reduce global warming.