Global markets sustained their weekly winning streak, up 1.1% for the week, marking four consecutive weeks of gains. This was driven by solid quarterly earnings results and better than expected data on US employment. Major indices such as the S&P 500 and NASDAQ climbed to record highs, topping previous records set in late July.

As was widely expected, the US Federal Reserve cut interest rates for the third time this year, by another 0.25% to a range of 1.5% to 1.75%. Policymakers signalled that further cuts were on hold for the time being. US employers added 128,000 jobs in October, easily beating expectations.

The EU announced that it would grant the UK a three month Brexit extension, with a deadline of 31st January. A UK general election on 12th December will almost certainly be regarded as an unofficial vote on Brexit by most of the electorate. CLICK HERE