Latest news with #Goldilocks
CNBC
4 hours ago
- Business
- CNBC
Bitcoin could pull back with equities in the coming weeks, warns Piper Sandler
Bitcoin has notched new records this year as more investors embrace its digital gold narrative – but Piper Sandler warns the crypto is still vulnerable to stock market moves and could stumble in the coming weeks should tariff or rate related worries hit risk assets. "We recommend taking profits on stocks that have benefitted most from relief rally since early April," Michael Kantrowitz, Piper Sandler's chief investment strategist and head of portfolio strategy, said in a note Tuesday. "Markets have flipped from pricing in an inflationary recession on April 8th to a Goldilocks backdrop today. The stocks most at risk after this move are those higher beta, lower-quality names that have seen huge multiple expansion without any improvement in the earnings outlook." With bitcoin, he added, "there remains a very tight directional correlation [with] equity market risk … thus, if we do get a sell-off in risk on assets, for any macro risk that gets priced in, bitcoin would likely decline as well over the near term." The flagship cryptocurrency has been one of the top performing assets since the market low on April 9, returning 54% since then and hitting an all-time high as recently as last week . The gains have been fueled by institutional adoption via bitcoin ETFs as well as corporate treasury buying. The S & P 500 has gained half that amount in the same period. Bitcoin investors are no strangers to big drops, but the coin's maturity has noticeably led to reduced volatility this year, with many of its moves in reaction to broader risk sentiment being smaller than the big swings that made it famous. For example, on April 3, just after President Donald Trump introduced his sweeping tariffs, bitcoin fell 5% compared to the S & P's 4% decline. Still, the move shows bitcoin nevertheless tends to move in tandem with stocks in periods of broad macro fear and risk-off selling. Piper Sandler says there's little risk priced in for the Aug. 1 tariff deadline, but surprise to the upside could disrupt the current Goldilocks environment – economic conditions are neither too hot nor too cold – and the firm expects modestly higher consumer price index readings in the next three to four months. That "could complicate the current narrative that interest rates are moving lower in the near term," Kantrowitz said. August also tends to be a weak month for bitcoin and markets in general, given lower volume amid the summer lull. To be sure, the firm's recommendation that investors trim their riskiest positions is "more of a contrarian and tactical call for risk management rather than a bearish call on U.S. equities," Kantrowitz said. "While valuations are expensive, we expect earnings to continue to propel equities higher, albeit with less speculative leadership." —CNBC's Michael Bloom contributed reporting.
Metro
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Metro
Tony's Chocolonely releases new version of cult bar and fans say they 'love it'
Ever since its signature brightly-coloured bars hit UK supermarket shelves back in 2019, Tony's Chocolonely has been a cult favourite brand for Brits. Fans love its ethically-produced, tasty chocolate and array of unique flavours — but over the years, some have called on the firm to increase its size range. And now, their prayers have been answered, with a brand new launch which bridges the gap between its previous products. Alongside its original 180g chunky slabs, Tony's later introduced 50g(ish) bars and bitesize chocolate coins for those who prefer smaller servings. However, that still didn't hit the sweet spot for everyone, with Facebook commenter Lori Beth calling the larger bar 'too big' and Mumsnet user Dolleey noting it's 'far too easy to eat' the whole thing. On the brand's Instagram, @wilmasale added: 'A medium size bar would be a nice addition… Small is too small, always want more. Large is too large and I do not have the discipline to eat 1/2 and save the rest.' This new 90g option aims to provide that 'just right' portion they've been searching for — the Goldilocks amount for Tony's Chocolonely customers or, if you will, Tonylocks. Exclusively at Sainsbury's from July 27, the bars are priced at £2.25, with four flavours available: classic milk chocolate, milk caramel sea salt, dark milk pretzel toffee, and vegan dark almond sea salt. Despite the fact they're not even officially out yet, they're already proving a hit, with a @treatsinstore Instagram post on the launch garnering a number of positive comments. 'Love this,' wrote @pauham11. 'Often I don't want a whole bar, and it means buying a bar feels a little more affordable, especially if like me you want to try new flavours a try when they get released.' Earlier this year, the confectioner was forced to clarify the pronunciation of its name, as many of us have apparently 'been saying [it] wrong all this time.' More Trending 'Our full name is Tony's Choco lonely , not Tony's Choco loney ,' read a statement on its website. Brand founder Teun van de Keuken felt Tony was an easier-to-pronounce name than his own, while the 'lonely' element was a nod to his 'lonely fight against exploitation in the cocoa industry.' View More » After selling 13,347,031 kilos of chocolate last year, Teun's mission to change the industry probably feels a little less lonely these days — but if you're wondering why online shopping searches keep turning up nada, remembering his sad story will at least help you get the correct spelling. Do you have a story to share? Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@ MORE: Aussie biscuit hailed '10/10' is finally available in the UK MORE: Top UK supermarket launches new subscription pass — with a major Christmas perk MORE: London's 'grown up' ice cream pairings and 14 more things to try this weekend Your free newsletter guide to the best London has on offer, from drinks deals to restaurant reviews.
Economic Times
2 days ago
- Business
- Economic Times
Hope is brightening for India's Goldilocks scenario
India's economy may be entering a Goldilocks phase with moderate growth and controlled inflation India's economy is showing signs of entering what economists often call a 'Goldilocks' phase -- neither too hot nor too cold -- marked by moderate, sustainable growth coupled with subdued inflation. The term "Goldilocks economy" is taken from the children's story 'Goldilocks and the Three Bears', in which Goldilocks tries three bowls of porridge, finding one too hot, one too cold, and one just right from which she eats it all. In economics, it describes an ideal state where the economy is neither too hot nor too cold, a steady economic growth that prevents downturn but not so much growth that inflation rises too high. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI), along with the central government, appears increasingly confident in steering the economy toward this delicate balance through calibrated monetary and fiscal actions. Recent developments, including comments from RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra on July 15 and continued downward surprises in inflation data, suggest that India's Goldilocks scenario could be brightening. Retail inflation in June 2025 came in at just 2.1%, far below the RBI's earlier full-year projection of 3.7%. The average inflation for the April-June quarter stood at 2.7%, again undershooting the RBI's estimate of 2.9%. If current trends continue, July inflation could dip below 2%, and full-year inflation may settle close to 3%, significantly beneath the RBI's comfort band midpoint of 4%.This unexpected disinflation, largely driven by easing food prices, stable energy costs, and improving supply chains, strengthens the case for further monetary easing. RBI governor Sanjay Malhotra has said the central bank may consider cutting rates if both inflation and growth continue to soften, indicating that inflation could fall below the full-year forecast of 3.7 per cent. The monetary policy committee's neutral stance, he said, provides room to respond as conditions evolve. "If inflation and growth both trend lower, it could justify a policy rate cut," Malhotra said in an interview to CNBC TV18 yesterday. "But it depends on how the data develops. We are still in the process of updating our projections." Importantly, the Monetary Policy Committee's (MPC) neutral stance gives it the room to remain data-driven and agile in responding to evolving macroeconomic conditions. The RBI has already made two consecutive rate cuts, including a surprise 50 basis points cut in June. While market expectations had tilted toward a pause in the upcoming August policy review, the new inflation numbers may compel the MPC to economists, including Kunal Kundu of Societe Generale, believe that the RBI now has ample justification for two more 25 basis point cuts, which would bring the repo rate to 5.0%, a level that could both sustain demand and preserve financial stability. Such a stance aligns well with the RBI's updated objective: supporting growth without compromising on inflation Sen Gupta, Chief Economist, IDFC First Bank, Mumbai, said, "The moderation in inflation is led by a decline in food inflation. Core inflation remains range-bound at 4.5%. The outlook for inflation remains favourable with strong start to Kharif sowing. Meanwhile, daily prices indicate moderation in vegetables prices month-on-month in July. We continue to expect CPI inflation to average at 3% with downside risk. This is below RBI estimate of 3.7% in FY26. There is space for one more 25bps cut in October or December." Garima Kapoor, Economist, Institutional Equities, Elara Securities, Mumbai, said, "We expect full year CPI inflation to remain below the RBI's full-year estimate of 3.7%, and hence do not rule out the possibility of another rate cut post the end of monsoon."Radhika Rao, Senior Economist, DBS Bank, Singapore, said, "June inflation rose by the slowest pace in six years, in line with our forecast at 2.1% year over year vs 2.8% the month before. Despite the sequential rise in perishables, especially vegetables, the broad food basket remained on a disinflationary path led by cereals and pulses, keeping headline inflation in check. The weak June inflation reading will feed into expectations that the RBI MPC could warm up to further cuts in this cycle." India's GDP growth remained steady at 6.5% in FY2024-25, and the RBI projects a similar trajectory for the current fiscal year. This resilience is noteworthy, especially when set against a backdrop of global uncertainty, including lingering trade tensions, geopolitical volatility and subdued external demand. The June RBI bulletin acknowledged these risks, citing the precarious global environment, ongoing supply-side fragilities, and the risk of fresh geopolitical shocks. Yet, India's macro fundamentals -- strong domestic demand, moderate fiscal deficit and a relatively stable external position -- provide a firm cushion. The Ministry of Finance, in its May economic review, while cautioning about external vulnerabilities, struck a tone of cautious optimism: 'These could be nervous but exciting times for the Indian economy.'One key opportunity on the horizon is the potential India-US trade agreement, which could become a significant tailwind for Indian exports. In an environment where global trade has been marred by uncertainty and protectionism, a bilateral deal with the world's largest economy could unlock market access, investment flows, and technology positive domestic signals, Indian policymakers remain appropriately cautious. The RBI's emphasis on flexibility and data-dependence is crucial, given that global conditions remain volatile. Any sudden surge in oil prices, a flare-up in geopolitical tensions, or reversal of global capital flows could derail progress. The reference by the finance ministry to the need to "ride the tide" signals the importance of nimble policymaking, not just in monetary terms but also via targeted fiscal interventions, trade strategy and regulatory reforms. India's continued emphasis on supply-side improvements, from logistics and energy to skilling and MSME support, will be vital to strengthening the Goldilocks stars seem to be aligning for India. Falling inflation, stable growth, a proactive central bank, and possible India-US trade deal as well as other trade agreements, all suggest that the country is moving closer to an optimal policy equilibrium. The key now lies in execution, ensuring external risks are managed deftly and reform momentum is not lost. If India plays its cards right, this Goldilocks phase could serve as a launchpad for a sustained, inclusive and stable economic expansion, positioning it as one of the few large economies able to navigate an increasingly turbulent global landscape with confidence and poise. (With agency inputs)
Irish Daily Mirror
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Irish Daily Mirror
Patrick Kielty's wife close to tears as her biological age is shared live on TV
Patrick Kielty's wife Cat Deeley was on the verge of tears after a "nightmare" test carried out by doctors confirmed her "biological" age live on air. The presenter, who is married to RTE Late Late Show host Patrick, was back in her usual slot on This Morning alongside Ben Shephard on Thursday for her final show before a summer break, and she and her co-host were intrigued to be learning of the notion of lowering one's age to fully understand health and lifespan. Dr Alka Patel, 53, explained to the pair that she has been able to define herself as a 20-year-old in a biological sense since a birthday is nothing more than a "chronological age", whereas a "biological age" is more to do with the health of a person's cells and is more of an "inner age". Describing the practice as "younger ageing", she explained that it all correlates to a lifespan and health overall. Both Ben, 50, and Cat , 48, had undergone the blood test - which takes into account their overall health and wellness, to determine a new number for them - and the former model was on the verge of tears as she watched results come in, and wasn't feeling too confident about what the test would find. Admitting what a hellish process the test had been to start with, she said: "It was a nightmare for me, doctors only had to attempt it twice. I was crying. I'm a terrible sleeper, but I'm very healthy, I eat well and I drink loads of water, and I do yoga. I could be like Gary Oldman in Dracula!" The former Stars In Their Eyes host was feeling nervous about the result to begin with (Image: ITV) As the TV stars watched the numbers go down, Ben exclaimed: "She's still going, I want a recount," and when the number finally stopped going down, Cat said that she "might cry," it was revealed that her biological age is actually 33, making her 15 years younger than she actually is. Describing her shock at the result given her lack of sleep, she said: "I might cry, I might actually cry. I don't know how I've done it because I certainly don't sleep and that is one of the most important factors!" On the other hand, Ben was a little disappointed that his biological age came back at just four years younger as he protested that he is very conscious of his health and wellbeing at this stage in life. The doctor's solution for this was to "be more Goldilocks", and this prompted a laugh from his co-host, who joked that he would need a wig and a bowl of porridge to be able to do that. Despite this, the Tipping Point host admitted that he just wants to focus on fitness for the sake of his mental health, as he explained: "For me, the health and wellness is much more important for me mentally rather than how I feel with the physical side of things." This Morning's Cat Deeley and Ben Shephard (Image: ITV) Ben celebrated his 50th birthday in December 2024 and, to mark the occasion, he bravely agreed to pose topless for the magazine's cover, but during a recent appearance on ITV's Lorraine, he gave fans an update on health where he admitted things aren't quite what they were when it comes to his body. The TV favourite couldn't help but show his embarrassment as he sat with the Scottish presenter, who showcased the cover across screens for all to see. The conversation then turned to what it meant for Ben to grace the cover of Men's Health for a second time in his career. "You look fantastic but I know you work so hard to maintain your health and fitness," Lorraine effused, while Ben admitted that although he's in great shape, hitting middle age has made him realise the need to put in extra effort. On the topic of his current well-being, Ben remarked: "I'm very grateful to still be able to still be able to be fit and health and I know I've got various issues and my body's not quite what it used to be." However, he stopped short of detailing the specific issues he's dealing with. This Morning continues on Virgin Media One from 10am every weekday and is available to stream back on the Virgin Media Player. Get all the big crime and court stories direct to your phone on our new WhatsApp service. Sign up here.
Daily Record
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
This Morning's Cat Deeley 'close to tears' after receiving blood test results live on air
Cat Deeley and Ben Shephard were left shocked when a doctor explained the results of their tests that really shook the pair. Cat Deeley was nearly in tears after what was described a "nightmare" examination by medics revealed her "biological" age during Thursday's show. The host returned to her regular position on This Morning with Ben Shephard on Thursday. It marked her last programme before the summer holidays, and the pair of presenters were left fascinated to discover the concept of reducing one's age to better comprehend health and longevity. Dr Alka Patel, 53, outlined on the ITV show that she has managed to classify herself as a 20-year-old biologically, since a birthday represents merely "chronological age", whilst "biological age" relates more to cellular health and constitutes an "inner age". Terming the approach "younger ageing", she clarified that it all connects to lifespan and overall wellbeing. Both Ben, 50, and Cat, 48, had undergone blood testing, which considers their general health and fitness to establish a fresh figure for them. Former model Cat was nearly tearful as she observed the results arriving, feeling rather apprehensive about the test's findings as reported by the Mirror. Confessing what a dreadful ordeal the examination had initially been, she remarked: "It was a nightmare for me, doctors only had to attempt it twice. I was crying. I'm a terrible sleeper, but I'm very healthy, I eat well and I drink loads of water, and I do yoga. I could be like Gary Oldman in Dracula!" As the numbers continued to go down, Ben excalimed: "She's still going, I want a recount," and as the figure settled, an emotional Cat declared she "might cry," upon discovering her biological age was 33, making it 15 years below her actual age. Overwhelmed by the results, especially considering her lack of sleep, she expressed: "I might cry, I might actually cry. I don't know how I've done it because I certainly don't sleep and that is one of the most important factors!" Meanwhile, Ben was left bitter with his biological age being only four years younger, despite his keen attention to health and wellbeing. The doctor's advice to "be more Goldilocks" sparked amusement, with his co-host teasing about needing a wig and a bowl of porridge. Ben meanwhile confessed his primary focus on fitness is for mental wellbeing, stating: "For me, the health and wellness is much more important for me mentally rather than how I feel with the physical side of things." Having celebrated his 50th birthday in December, Ben boldly posed shirtless for a magazine cover. However, during a recent chat on ITV's Lorraine, he candidly updated fans on his health acknowledging that his body isn't quite the same as before. The television star couldn't hide his shy response as he sat alongside the Scottish host, who displayed the magazine cover on screen for viewers. The discussion then shifted to what it signified for Ben to feature on Men's Health's front page for the second time in his career. "You look fantastic but I know you work so hard to maintain your health and fitness," Lorraine gushed, whilst Ben acknowledged that despite being in excellent condition, reaching middle age has made him recognise the necessity of putting in additional work. Discussing his present health, Ben observed: "I'm very grateful to still be able to still be able to be fit and health and I know I've got various issues and my body's not quite what it used to be."
