By Asset Allocator Journal Staff
Business Matters Magazine reports that UK steelmakers have narrowly escaped an immediate 50% US tariff due to a negotiated deal that reduced tariffs on UK metal imports to zero. However, ongoing trade talks between the UK and US remain precarious, exacerbated by broader US-China trade tensions, creating significant uncertainty for the steel industry and related global markets.
The Financial Times highlights that UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves has launched a £15 billion regional transport investment plan to spur economic growth across the UK. This ambitious initiative focuses on upgrading infrastructure, including roads, rail, and public transport, to enhance connectivity and stimulate economic activity in underserved regions.
According to Advisor Perspectives, the so-called “Mag 7” tech giants are now being referred to as the “Mid 7,” as their once-dominant market influence continues to wane. In early 2025, other sectors, such as industrials and consumer goods, are gaining investor attention, signaling a broader diversification in market dynamics.
WealthManagement.com notes that EP Wealth Advisors has expanded its operations into Boise, Idaho, through the acquisition of a $900 million RIA. This strategic move reflects the ongoing wave of consolidation within the wealth management industry, as firms aim to strengthen their regional presence and client base.
Per Advisor Perspectives, real estate is emerging as a standout sector for 2025, driven by undervalued assets and a rebound in demand across both commercial and residential markets. Favorable financing conditions and recovering investor confidence are contributing to this sector’s growth potential.
Business Matters Magazine reports that the UK government’s new housebuilding reforms are designed to streamline planning processes, particularly for small developers. These changes aim to accelerate residential construction, potentially increasing housing supply and stimulating economic activity in the property development sector.
WealthManagement.com states that Captrust has appointed a former Echelon managing director as its new head of mergers and acquisitions. This leadership change underscores Captrust’s focus on driving consolidation within the RIA industry, aligning with broader trends of strategic mergers in wealth management.
As reported by Advisor Perspectives, a downgraded US credit outlook has opened up opportunities in mortgage-backed securities (MBS) as investors seek yield in an uncertain economic environment. With tariff-driven volatility and shifting inflation expectations, MBS are gaining traction as a viable fixed-income investment option in 2025.
