7 Minutes on Markets

Market Stability: A Return to Normal?

Mon, 11 May 2026 11:35:27 GMT

The podcast episode examines the market's recent steadiness as tech stocks start gaining traction again, achieving new highs in the NASDAQ and S&P 500. As geopolitical tensions stabilize, the focus returns to profits and earnings, with a more predictable range of oil prices helping define inflation expectations. Amir suggests that the shifting headlines can often mislead, emphasizing the importance of maintaining broad diversification in portfolios.

Central banks in a standoff: dilemmas and decisions

Tue, 05 May 2026 13:59:22 GMT

In an episode of the podcast, Ben and Sam discuss the broader implications of recent central bank meetings, which saw no major shifts in interest rates. The duo highlights the deep divisions within bodies like the Federal Reserve, torn between inflation concerns stemming from geopolitical events and local economic pressures like unemployment.

From marathons to markets: the power of competition

Mon, 27 Apr 2026 14:58:46 GMT

Sam and Ben provide an insightful analysis of recent market activities, highlighting strong US corporate earnings and the resilience of consumer spending. Despite ongoing geopolitical tensions, significant advancements in the tech industry, exemplified by Intel's remarkable performance, are catching investors' attention. The duo discusses upcoming pivotal announcements from the Federal Reserve and other central banks, which could influence global markets further. With major economic powerhouses and tech giants set to reveal their earnings, Ben and Sam advise listeners to stay tuned as these developments unfold, potentially steering the market's course.

Standing still amid market volatility

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 10:23:07 GMT

In this podcast episode, Ben Kumar and Sam Hannon discuss the current state of the markets, where little has changed despite headline-grabbing events. They argue that the reliance on oil as a driver of economic growth has diminished over time, as illustrated by companies like Netflix, whose success is largely unimpacted by oil prices. They emphasise the importance of long-term investing over short-term reactions, using sports analogies to convey their point: sometimes standing still, like a goalkeeper in a penalty shootout, is the best strategy to maintain long-term success in investing.

The question mark episode: unraveling market mysteries

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 08:31:14 GMT

In this episode, Sam and Ahmer dive into the complex relationship between geopolitical events and market fluctuations, focusing on the recent hopes for a ceasefire and its impact on emerging markets reliant on energy imports. They explore whether the market reaction is a sign of panic or a normal response to the ongoing uncertainty.

Navigating Market Chaos: The Kangaroo Economy

Tue, 07 Apr 2026 09:49:09 GMT

In this episode of Seven Minutes on Markets, hosts Sam Hannon and Ben Kumar delve into the current state of the global markets amidst ongoing Middle Eastern conflict and other geopolitical tensions. They discuss how despite the chaos and lack of clarity from political figures like Trump, equity markets have surprisingly thrived, showing resilience. With economic data from the U.S. revealing strong employment numbers and rising manufacturing orders, the duo highlights a marked behavioral change among retail investors who are now buying dips instead of panic-selling. Upcoming significant central bank meetings in late April might bring more insights into policymakers’ responses.

Markets shrug off oil hikes: have we reached normal?

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 11:28:44 GMT

On this episode of Seven Minutes on Markets, hosts Sam and Ben reflect on market behaviour amid oil price surges and geopolitical tensions. They note a trend where markets seem less reactive to repetitive crises, suggesting a normalisation to current volatility.

Stay calm and invest on: avoiding knee-jerk reactions

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 12:42:31 GMT

Ben and Ahmer tackle the complex dynamics affecting global markets, particularly in light of recent geopolitical tensions and economic indicators. They point out how traditional safe havens like gold are surprisingly underperforming, emphasising the need for investors to stay focused on long-term growth rather than get caught up in short-term market frenzies.

Market jitters: the Iran conflict's ripple effect

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 11:06:36 GMT

In this episode of 'Seven Minutes on Markets,' hosts Sam and Ben delve into the significant impact of the Iran conflict on global markets, with a particular focus on the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz. The strait's role in the transport of not just oil, but also crucial fertilisers, highlights the potential for widespread repercussions, especially for nations like India.

Navigating Market Turbulence: The Iran Conflict's Ripple Effects

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 10:48:47 GMT

In this episode of 'Seven Minutes on Markets', hosts Ben Kumar and Sam Hannon discuss the ongoing Iran conflict's effects on global markets. The Straits of Hormuz closure has contributed to rising oil prices, creating uncertainty in the markets. While historical conflicts have shown markets' resilience over time, the current situation brings second-order effects. Rising oil prices influence sectors from airlines to microchip manufacturing, highlighting the importance of change over absolute price levels. With central banks pondering interest rate adjustments, the economic resilience of the US could play a crucial role in stabilizing global markets.

Navigating Market Turbulence: Oil, Conflict, and Portfolios

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 16:12:02 GMT

In this podcast episode, hosts Sam Hannon and Ahmer Tirmizi discuss recent geopolitical events impacting global markets. They focus on the significant rise in oil prices caused by tensions in the Middle East, noting a 9% surge, which is among the 38th largest daily moves historically. Despite the uncertainty, they emphasise the markets' resilience, often recovering swiftly from such shocks. With reflections on past conflicts like Ukraine, they underscore the importance of differentiating between supply disruptions and how the supply reaches end users.

Adapting to change: the US market's new normal

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 12:24:08 GMT

This episode sheds light on the dynamics affecting the US and UK economies, highlighting the impact of AI and government spending on US growth. As these drivers wane, the underlying economy appears less robust. Meanwhile, the UK witnesses positive developments as inflation drops, leading to potential interest rate cuts.

Political stability vs economic growth: lessons from Japan

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 09:13:00 GMT

The podcast episode discusses the contrasting political landscapes of Japan and the UK in 2026. Japan's Prime Minister has secured a significant majority, promising long-term economic reforms and growth, while the UK's persistent political instability raises concerns about its ability to implement effective policies. The hosts also examine the implications of Google's recent 100-year bond issuance, noting its significance in demonstrating corporate confidence in strategic, long-term planning.

Amazon's $200 billion AI gamble: market reactions

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 14:31:37 GMT

In this episode of 'Seven Minutes on Markets,' hosts Ben Kumar and Sam Hannon delve into the latest economic events shaping global markets. With the Bank of England opting to keep interest rates steady at 3.75%, the decision reflects a close 5-4 vote, revealing the mixed perspectives on the UK's economic trajectory. They emphasise the importance of data-driven policy, with rates anticipated to stabilise between 2-3% over the coming years. Meanwhile, Japan's political stability after a snap election sees its markets rise by 4%, highlighting the positive reception towards long-term growth plans in the wake of a volatile political landscape.

Big tech earnings: a mixed bag for 2026

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 16:35:30 GMT

The podcast dives into recent movements in commodities and tech, noting gold and silver's exceptional price swings amid profit-taking and speculative trading. Big tech firms reveal steady profits but face cautious market reactions as expectations rise, driven in part by AI's anticipated influence. AI advancements are seen as easier for large companies to adopt, enhancing productivity and potentially reducing jobs, a shift that may primarily affect hiring rather than result in massive layoffs.

Davos drama: Trump, gold, and the global market shake-up

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 16:22:19 GMT

Ben Kumar and Sam Hannon address the noise in global markets emerging from political events, such as the US's unpredictable moves under Trump and Japan's upcoming snap elections. The rising gold prices serve as a barometer for investor confidence shifting away from traditional US-safe havens.

Trump's unpredictability: market reactions and future forecasts

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 17:03:15 GMT

In this episode, Ben and Sam discuss the tumultuous impact of Donald Trump's unpredictable policy decisions on the market. From capping credit card interest rates to imposing new tariffs on European countries, Trump's actions have sparked uncertainty.

FTSE 100 breaks 10,000 barrier: what it means for investors

Mon, 12 Jan 2026 14:01:07 GMT

Sam Hannon and Ben Kumar delve into the latest financial and geopolitical developments, noting the FTSE 100's landmark achievement and Venezuela's continuing saga. Despite a calm weekend politically, the podcast outlines how Venezuela's President's arrest has left oil markets steady amid the upheaval. The FTSE 100 offers investors stable opportunities, thanks to its diverse companies in key growth sectors like defense and energy.

Venezuelan oil resurgence: opportunities and challenges

Mon, 05 Jan 2026 16:27:20 GMT

In this episode, Ben Kumar and Sam Hannon delve into the unexpected developments impacting the markets at the start of 2026. The focus shifts to Donald Trump's recent moves in Venezuela, which could revitalise U.S. oil companies with stakes in the region. Despite the oil price remaining stable, American firms with Venezuelan infrastructure are poised for potential gains.

From fear to opportunity: A 2026 outlook

Mon, 22 Dec 2025 12:14:47 GMT

Ben and Ahmer reflect on the current market conditions, emphasising the Bank of England's recent rate cut and its minimal market impact. They anticipate further cuts in a controlled monetary environment, suggesting a similar trend as observed in 2025.

Monetary policy: Smooth sailing into the New Year

Mon, 15 Dec 2025 11:44:31 GMT

Ben and Ahmer delve into the recent monetary policy updates, highlighting Jerome Powell's final meeting with the Federal Reserve and the subsequent transition to Scott Bessent as the new Chair. This change is anticipated to keep the economic tides steady despite noise surrounding potential interest rate cuts and tech stock volatility seen with Oracle's performance. In a year marked by strategic central bank actions and market resilience, investors can look forward to a potentially rewarding closure of 2025 if trends hold steady.

Market pause: Analysing the December doldrums

Mon, 08 Dec 2025 15:51:56 GMT

This episode of '7 Minutes on Markets' discussed the recent quiet period in financial markets, attributing the lull to factors such as post-Thanksgiving slowdowns and a lack of significant data releases. Hosts Sam and Ben noted the market's broad sideways movement amid holiday shutdowns and explored the anticipation surrounding upcoming central bank meetings. The episode concluded with a look ahead, highlighting interest in companies like Oracle and Lululemon.

Calm Before the Festive Storm: Bond Markets Steady After UK Budget

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 11:35:48 GMT

In this podcast episode, Ben and Ahmer analyse the recent UK Budget and its surprisingly muted impact on bond markets. Despite a history of volatility, the bond market remained stable, reflecting effective risk management. Equity markets mirrored this calm, remaining flat, with the tech sector experiencing mixed results. Looking ahead to December, key central bank meetings could bring interest rate cuts, particularly from the Bank of England. As 2026 approaches, experts predict economic steadiness, potentially resulting in a favourable year, barring any unforeseen negative events.

Thanksgiving Insights: US Consumer Power Under the Lens

Mon, 24 Nov 2025 09:00:00 GMT

In this episode of 'Seven Minutes on Markets,' hosts Ben Kumar and Sam Hannon discuss the financial results of Nvidia, a key player in the AI industry. Despite strong earnings, market uncertainty persists about the sustainability of the AI boom. Meanwhile, Black Friday approaches, serving as a critical indicator of consumer health, particularly in the US, where delayed government data due to past shutdowns is only now feeding into news. The conversation shifts to the potential effects of the UK Budget and the significance of Black Friday as a quick source of retail insights, in light of broader economic challenges.

Market Jitters and Economic Shifts

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 09:00:00 GMT

In this episode, Ben and Shanti discuss the recent end of the US government shutdown and its implications on the markets. They explore how data uncertainties have led to market jitters, with the Federal Reserve signalling possible hesitation on policy changes. The uncertainty around upcoming economic data has paused investor activity, causing a dip in tech stocks. The upcoming Nvidia earnings report is a key focus, anticipated to confirm high demand. In the UK, retail sales trends and speculative budget changes are being watched closely, with concerns over the impact of potential small taxes affecting economic behaviour.

AI Bubble: Bursting or Balancing?

Mon, 10 Nov 2025 09:00:00 GMT

In this podcast episode, Ben Kumar and Sam Hannon discuss the potential AI bubble, focusing on the substantial investments made by tech giants like Google, Amazon, and Meta. The conversation highlights the depreciating nature of investments in data centers compared to the quicker returns expected from software services. The hosts also touch on the implications of the ongoing US government shutdown, now in its second month, affecting everything from economic data collection to public services. They explore how psychological factors, such as disrupted Thanksgiving travel, might push political parties toward a resolution.

Fed's Reluctant Rate Cuts: Navigating Economic Uncertainty

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 09:00:00 GMT

The podcast episode unpacks recent announcements from the Federal Reserve, focusing on their cautious approach to reducing interest rates amidst tariffs and inflation concerns. The conversation further explores how these economic conditions affect consumer spending and corporate strategies, with particular attention to the tech sector's strong performance in AI and digital transformation.

The Latest Market Trends

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 09:00:00 GMT

Hosts Ben Kumar and Sam Hannon delve into the recent trends affecting global markets as regional banks recover and earnings reports from major corporations like Apple provide reassurance. Sanctions on Russia have caused a slight jump in oil prices, yet market conditions remain stable due to adequate supply levels. Additionally, a notable increase in gold purchases is observed as central banks and investors seek alternatives amid geopolitical concerns.

Fears vs. Reality: The Market's Resilience Tested

Mon, 20 Oct 2025 08:00:00 GMT

In this week's episode, Sam Hannon and Ben Kumar discuss the recent turbulence in the credit market, where defaults by companies like Tricolor and First Brands have caused concern. Despite some financial upheaval, they emphasize that market cycles naturally involve failures and the emergence of new competitors, ensuring a dynamic market environment. The episode also touches on the US government shutdown, where emergency funding has temporarily prevented major disruptions. The hosts argue that while fear and sensational headlines grab attention, the fundamentals of the market remain relatively stable.

What to Expect in the Markets

Mon, 13 Oct 2025 08:00:00 GMT

In the podcast, Ben Kumar and Sam Hannon analyse recent market developments, focusing on the implications of geopolitical shifts and economic policies.

September's Stock Market Sizzle

Fri, 03 Oct 2025 08:00:00 GMT

In this week's episode, Ben Kumar and Sam Hannon discuss the surprisingly positive market performance in September across the globe, hitting all-time highs despite historical trends indicating otherwise. They dive into the regular occurrence of US government shutdowns and how these events, while dramatic-sounding, tend to have minimal long-term impact on economic growth and market conditions.

Shutdowns and Tariff Talk

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 08:00:00 GMT

Sam and Ben delve into the convergence of politics and markets, noting how various global political events overshadow economic data. With potential U.S. government shutdowns typical during budget disputes, markets seem resilient despite uncertainties.

Divergent Paths in Global Rate Policies

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 08:00:00 GMT

In this episode, Ben and Sam explore recent global central bank decisions, focusing on rate cuts by the US Federal Reserve, the Bank of England's hold, and Japan's ongoing deflation battle.

US Rate Cuts: A 99% Certainty?

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 08:00:00 GMT

The podcast episode discusses major economic and political developments affecting global markets. In the US, a Federal Reserve meeting is expected to result in rate cuts, with a 99% probability according to betting markets. Meanwhile, the UK's recent GDP figures align with expectations, suggesting stability despite economic and political turbulence. Political changes in France and Japan are also noted for their impact on markets.

Bonds and Budgets

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 08:00:00 GMT

Ben and Sam examine the multifaceted dynamics affecting global markets, from the unexpected twists in European bond yields to uncertainties spurred by geopolitical stances, particularly Trump's controversial tariffs. Despite elevated bond yields, European countries like Italy demonstrate fiscal improvements. The UK market braces for November's budget, hinting at potential fiscal policy shifts.

Nvidia's Staggering Growth: More Than Just Gaming

Mon, 01 Sep 2025 08:00:00 GMT

In this week's roundup, the hosts discuss Nvidia's financial results, noting the company's impressive 50% annual sales growth and its shift from gaming to data center dominance. However, the market reacted negatively as earnings were deemed 'good' rather than 'legendary'. In the political arena, Donald Trump is challenging the Federal Reserve's policies, particularly aiming for a weaker dollar through rate cuts, which has sparked legal controversies. Lastly, China's equity market has seen significant growth, driven by government stimulus and institutional interest, making it the best-performing major market this year.

7 Minutes on Markets with 7IM

Mon, 25 Aug 2025 08:00:00 GMT

In this edition of 7 Minutes on Markets, Head of Equity Strategy Ben Kumar and Investment Manager Sam Hannon look at the latest market events and movements across the globe.