Equity and commodity markets remained strong, while bond markets expressed fear over future inflation.

Equity and bond market performance diverged further, given mounting expectations that stimulus-fuelled demand could spill over into higher inflation. The week ahead will bring fresh sentiment surveys, as well as inflation and GDP data from the US and other major economies.

In 2020, the boom in financial markets contrasted with the disastrous economic effects of Covid-19. The market narrative played ‘catch up’ with the market action, attempting to justify soaring valuations.

Equity and commodity markets maintained their rising trend. Japanese indices touched levels not seen for 30 years, although the emerging markets were the clear outperformers. This week Q4 earnings reporting is set to continue, while flash PMI data from across the globe should indicate the strength of improving sentiment.

Louise Schreiber, SRI Analyst at Mirova, looks at the investment potential of 5G today and assesses its future uses and limitations in the context of ESG.

We look back at what events and people shaped markets globally in January.  We discuss Janet Yellen, formerly Chair of the US Federal Reserve now fronting Joe Biden's Recovery Plan,  Elon Musk becoming the world's richest person,  the importance of copper in sustainable technology and we take a deeper look into Bitcoin.

The Winter edition of The View provides a step-by-step guide to how the political and economic environment has driven financial markets, and what this means for your investments.