Headline: Markets Slip as Fed Visibility Narrows; UK Growth Stalls and Penny Minting Ends
Introduction: Global markets softened as investors grappled with thinner economic data, a murkier Federal Reserve path, and mixed geopolitical signals. The end of a government shutdown leaves the Fed “flying blind” on key indicators, while the UK economy barely grew and energy security funding in Europe took center stage. Retailers also brace for operational adjustments as the government halts production of the penny.
After the shutdown, U.S. equities retreated, with the Dow Jones down around 1% as traders dialed back expectations of imminent interest-rate cuts. Odds of a near-term Fed cut slipped to roughly 53%, reflecting heightened uncertainty and a potential pause while critical data remain delayed. Economists warn the shutdown could shave about 1.5% off fourth-quarter growth and cost an estimated $11 billion in lost output, while consumer sentiment deteriorates. High-profile names including Disney, Tesla, Palantir, and Super Micro Computer led declines, underscoring risk aversion across growth and technology stocks.
In the UK, GDP growth cooled to just 0.1% after a cyber attack linked to the auto supply chain disrupted production at major manufacturers, including those tied to JLR. Manufacturing tumbled by roughly 30% in the affected segments, amplifying fears that planned budget tax increases could push the economy toward recession. Across Europe, the European Investment Bank approved a $147 million facility for Ukraine’s Naftogaz to bolster energy security amid ongoing Russian attacks, highlighting the region’s strategic focus on resilient energy infrastructure.
Deal-making remains complicated by sanctions risk. Private equity giant Carlyle is evaluating Lukoil’s $22 billion portfolio of international assets, but any transaction would face stringent regulatory reviews and the real possibility of being abandoned if approvals stall. Meanwhile, the government’s decision to end penny production—each coin costs 3.7 cents to mint—aims to save about $56 million annually. Retailers and payment providers are preparing for cash-rounding practices at the point of sale, which could create small pricing mismatches and require adjustments in checkout systems and consumer communications.
Key Points: – U.S. markets fell about 1% post-shutdown as rate-cut odds eased to roughly 53% and the Fed faces a thinner data backdrop. – The shutdown is estimated to cut Q4 GDP by 1.5% and cost around $11 billion; consumer sentiment weakened. – UK GDP slowed to 0.1% as a cyber attack disrupted auto supply chains; manufacturing in impacted areas fell about 30%. – EIB approved $147 million for Ukraine’s Naftogaz to reinforce energy security amid ongoing attacks. – Carlyle is assessing a potential bid for Lukoil’s $22 billion global assets, but sanctions pose significant deal risks. – Penny production has been halted, saving an estimated $56 million annually; retailers anticipate cash rounding at checkout.
