Geopolitical events and domestic political decisions introduced fresh volatility into financial markets last week, further clouding the path of inflation.

The pullback across several asset classes, including gold, bitcoin and equities, has prompted questions about whether a coordinated unwinding of positions is under way. Gold has fallen approximately 25 per cent from its January peak, though analysts at Barclays believe the conditions supporting the metal’s longer-term strength remain intact.

The Federal Reserve’s new communication strategy under Chair Kevin Warsh is also drawing attention. The central bank is reducing the amount of forward guidance it provides, a shift that analysts say could result in greater market volatility as investors adjust to operating with less direction from policymakers.

In the consumer finance sector, competition among premium credit card providers is intensifying as high-spending consumers demonstrate greater resilience compared with lower-income segments, where spending has begun to slow.