News - Page 2 - Mapfre AM

The Fed keeps rates steady but lowers U.S. growth forecast

The United States Federal Reserve (the Fed) once again kept the benchmark interest rates in the 4.25%-4.50% range for the fourth consecutive time.

How could the conflict between Israel and Iran affect stock markets?

The conflict between Israel and Iran has rekindled geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, and financial markets are already beginning to anticipate the possible consequences. One area of concern is the potential impact on oil prices, which play a key role in inflation and, therefore, in the monetary policy decisions taken by central banks.

Markets losing faith in Trump's empty promises

The short-term dynamics and fading impact of Mr. Trump’s announcements have restored some of the market optimism that was lost in April. Equity market volatility remains below its historical average, but uncertainty persists.

Volatility: Risk or opportunity?

Volatility may be either a risk or opportunity, depending on how it is used. For investors who make movements influenced by the continuous flow of news that appears on a daily basis, volatility has proven to be the most important factor in the loss of returns. In contrast, for those who are more patient, it becomes a indispensable alpha tool and a key ally for the development of their assets.

The Spanish stock market shines in Europe’s “Champions League”: here’s how MAPFRE AM's Iberian funds are doing

The Ibex 35 has been turning heads with above-average returns. Driven by the banking and energy sectors, the benchmark index of the Spanish stock market has gained over 21% so far in 2025 (as of June 6). It closed May above the 14,000-point mark, marking its third-best May on record with a 6.5% increase.

ECB cuts rates for the eighth time, closing in on the limit of its ability to take action

The ECB announced its eighth rate cut this week. Looking ahead, the scope for action is beginning to be limited.

Will poor business activity data translate into lower economic growth?

This week, composite PMI data was released for the Eurozone, offering an indicator of companies' outlook and confidence, raising concerns as the figures point to a slowdown in private sector activity. This publication “shows some weakness,” but is not a cause for concern as it is consistent with the general economic context, according to Alberto Matellán, General Manager of La Financière Responsable, an ESG investment subsidiary of MAPFRE.

MAPFRE boosts development of its financial business with new appointments

MAPFRE continues to reinforce the development of its financial business with new appointments. Eduardo Ripollés has been appointed Head of Business at MAPFRE Investment and Antonio Sanz will be the new Chief Operating Officer (COO).

Trump’s tariff rhetoric loses momentum amid a more skeptical market

Alberto Matellán, General Manager of La Financière Responsable, explains that the market consensus now treats tariffs as part of the usual “tug of war” in negotiations, and generally expects that the worst-case scenarios will not materialize. In contrast, U.S. debt and its sustainability have become “one of the most significant concerns” for investors, serving as “a clearer indicator” of investor sentiment.