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Ah, your 20s. A time of endless possibilities, figuring things out (mostly), and navigating that tricky adulting territory. But amidst the whirlwind of social lives, career hustles, and figuring out what sleep is for, there’s also the looming question of finances. Today, we’re looking at how 20-somethings are investing their cash. Plus, we will give you a run-down of the top events you can trade this week.The investment playgroundFor many 20-somethings, personal finance can feel like a confusing web of options and conflicting advice. So, what are 20-somethings sinking their hard-earned cash into? Here’s a peek at the most popular investment areas.StocksOwning a piece of the companies you love, or can at least vaguely recognise, holds a certain allure for those just starting their careers. Fractional shares, where you can buy a tiny amount of a high-priced stock like Amazon or Tesla, can help to make the stock market less intimidating.Stock indexes, like the S&P 500, can also be a great way to diversify a small (or large) investment across multiple companies. With an average annual return percentage of 9% over the last 25 years, it’s easy to see why this particular one is in demand.The access to these markets is so appealing to the younger generation. Trading can be done directly from your Revolut account, for example.CryptocurrencyRemember those friends who wouldn’t shut up about Bitcoin in 2017? Yeah, crypto is still a thing, and many 20-somethings are drawn to its volatility (think rollercoaster, but with money).There’s so much more to crypto than Bitcoin, of course. There are actually more than 2.2 million cryptocurrencies and with a market cap of $2.58 trillion, it’s nothing to be sniffed at — by 20-year-olds and over.However, this is a high-risk, high-reward world and requires even more serious research before diving in.Forex TradingTrading currencies might sound like something only suited for Wall Street wolves. But with user-friendly apps, like Robinhood, some 20-somethings are giving it a go, hoping to capitalise on currency fluctuations.Remember, the forex market can be volatile too and so can many of the brokers!SavingsYes, the good old-fashioned savings account is still alive and kicking. While interest rates might not be setting the world on fire, having a rainy-day fund provides peace of mind and a safety net for unexpected expenses.According to certain experts, you’re supposed to be saving as much as 20% of your monthly income. That said, with rental costs and cost of living at all time highs, this isn’t possible for most.Investing is way more than just numbers on a screen. Here’s what can trigger 20-somethings to get interested:● Social Investing: Seeing what friends and influencers are investing in can pique curiosity. However, it’s crucial to remember that everyone’s financial situation is different, and blindly following someone else’s lead is never the best strategy.● Socially Responsible Investing (SRI): Many 20-somethings care about the impact their investments have on the world. SRI focuses on companies that prioritise environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors, allowing them to invest with a conscience. Such companies include tech heavyweights Apple and Google, as well as Qualcomm and Nestle.The Swipe Left List: Financial No-Nos for 20-somethingsWhile exploring different options is great, there are some financial red flags to avoid:● Get-rich-quick schemes: If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Avoid any investment promising astronomical returns with little risk. Remember, slow and steady wins the financial race.● Impulse investing: Don’t let FOMO (fear of missing out) dictate your investment decisions. Do your research, understand the risks, and invest for the long term.● Living beyond your means: There’s a difference between treating yourself and draining your bank account. Maintaining a budget and prioritising healthy saving habits is a crucial part of your financial future.Apps for the Win: Your Financial ToolkitTechnology makes managing your finances easier than ever. Here are some apps that are popular with 20-somethings:● Budgeting apps: Tools like Mint help you track your income and expenses, categorise your spending, and set realistic budget goals.● Investment apps: Platforms like Lightyear allow you to easily buy and sell stocks and ETFs. Remember, these apps are just tools, the investment decisions are still yours!● Peer-to-peer payment apps: Splitting bills with friends or getting paid for odd jobs? Apps like Cash App make sending and receiving money a breeze.Your turn!Are you in your twenties? How do you invest your money? Or are you waiting for something to tickle your fancy? We can’t wait for you to share more over on X: @_contentworks.Top fundamental events week commencing 18/03/24It looks like it’s going to be a pretty quiet week — let’s check it out.MondayNo major events are scheduled.Tuesday● JPY — BoJ Interest Rate Decision● AUD — RBA Interest Rate Decision● USD — Building Permits (Preliminary)● CAD — Inflation Rate YoYWednesday● GBP — Inflation Rate YoY● USD — Federal Funds Rate; FOMC Economic Projections; Fed Press ConferenceThursday● JPY — Balance of Trade● EUR — German HCOB Manufacturing PMI Flash● GBP — Official Bank Rate; MPC Meeting MinutesFriday● JPY — Inflation Rate YoY● GBP — Retail Sales MoMHere at Contentworks we closely follow market movements and prep content that we think your traders would love to read. Let’s get you started right here.Speak soon!The Contentworks team
The US Presidential election is now just months away and SO much has happened since we last reported on it. Today, we’re rounding up the latest news and assessing the potential market impacts of the main candidates should they win. Without further ado, let’s go!Who’s still in the running?Last week, the list of potential candidates for the 2024 presidency got even thinner. As of now, there are only a handful of people still in the race. They include Democrat front-runner and current President Joe Biden, and the two remaining, yet unlikely hopefuls — Marianne Williamson and Jason Palmer. Now that Nikki Haley dropped out, the only remaining Republican candidate is Donald Trump.NOTE: There are 3 independent candidates, but historically third-parties have never fared well in the US, so we’ll skip them for now, if you don’t mind.As it’s highly likely that Biden will win the Democratic primary race, we’ll focus on him and Trump for today. Let’s take a closer look at their stances and what they might mean for both the US and global economies.Joe Biden (DEM)Oddschecker odds: 2/1President Biden has tried to portray himself as a protector of democracy and a stabilising force after the upheaval of the Trump administration. Few can argue that it’s been more turbulent!This time around, he’s campaigning on his bipartisan accomplishments, like his infrastructure bill, and his support for key topics like abortion rights.Potential impact of re-electionThe US economy has managed to grow throughout most of Biden’s term in office, beginning with a rapid expansion in 2021, followed by more modest growth in 2022 and an upturn in late 2023.Last year, the economy grew at a pace of 2.5%, surprising many analysts who expected slower growth or even the possibility of a recession.Government “interference” was a major positive contributor to that impressive growth. This included an infrastructure investment package and the Inflation Reduction Act, which contained incentives for green energy projects.While stocks have seesawed over the course of the Biden administration — largely thanks to a bear market in 2022 — the S&P 500 recently bounced back to hit all-time highs.The S&P 500 during Biden’s presidencySource: TradingViewSpeaking of the macro-level, the two candidates couldn’t be more opposed in their stance on America’s role on the world stage, NATO and particularly the importance of conflict in Ukraine. Biden is still confident that his $60 billion aid package will go through, but it needs Congressional support. However this is not necessarily a vote winning move.Either way, Biden’s commitment to NATO and its European allies remains a source of strength and confidence that impacts the global markets in a positive manner. His reselection will likely bolster the global economy in that regard. Status quo and all that jazz.However, a number of commentators have expressed concerns over the incumbent president’s age. He’s the oldest president in US history, turning 82 this year. Though Trump is no spring chicken himself, Biden’s age and fears over his health could impact the economy during a potential second term.Donald Trump (REP)Oddschecker odds: 1/1Trump is favourite to win the election and so sit a second term. He’s running to retake the Oval Office that he lost in 2020, which he then denied losing to the point of inciting a mob of his supporters to attack the United States Capitol.His influence within the Republican Party has slightly diminished since last time, Trump retains a large and extremely committed base of supporters, and he’s been aided recently by multiple challengers splitting a limited anti-Trump vote.Potential impact of re-electionDespite Biden’s great record, generally speaking, there’s a belief that stocks perform better under Republican presidents thanks to their hands-off approach to the market.The S&P 500 rose more than 60% during Trump’s tenure, including weathering the initial shock of COVID-19.The S&P 500 during Trump’s presidencySource: TradingViewHowever, the biggest impact of Trump’s potential second term is likely to be felt on a macro-scale. His recent comments on NATO and the repercussions that could have in Europe with the continuing conflict in Ukraine could bring instability on a scale not seen before.An escalation in the trade war with China, including implementing tariffs on US imports, could be what ultimately moves markets. The result could be a drop in US GDP and a hit to corporate profits.Deepening divisions among the US population and potential for the instability that could bring to the US economy is also something likely keeping American execs up at night.Let’s also not forget that Trump has his own personal battles to fight, with the 91 criminal charges hanging over him. He’s the first president in 234 years of the Union to be formally indicted. If even one of those charges sticks, we could see POTUS behind bars. Because of this, a lot of interest over the coming months will be on Trump’s running mate and potential VP.Election timelineIf the election has left you a little dizzy, here’s a reminder of what’s coming up.Note: Between now and the end of June, each state will hold it’s primary or caucus, formally ratifying their candidate.July 15–18Republican Convention (Milwaukee, WI)August 19–22Democratic Convention (Chicago, IL)September 16Presidential Debate (San Marcos, TX)September 25Vice Presidential Debate (Easton, PA)October 1Presidential Debate (Petersburg, VA)October 9Presidential Debate (Salt Lake City, UT)November 52024 Presidential ElectionDecember 17Electors Cast Their VotesAre you ready?Who do you think would be better for the US economy? And the global economy? Join the debate over on X — @_contentworks!Top fundamental events week commencing 11/03/24It’s going to be a pretty calm week in the markets. Let’s see what’s in store.MondayNo major events are scheduled.Tuesday● AUD — NAB Business Confidence● GBP — Unemployment Rate● USD — Inflation Rate MoM; Core Inflation Rate MoM; Core Inflation Rate YoY; Inflation Rate YoYWednesday● GBP — GDP MoM; Manufacturing Production MoM; Manufacturing Production YoYThursday● USD — PPI MoM; Retail Sales MoMFriday● USD — University of Michigan Consumer Sentiment IndexHere at Contentworks we closely follow market movements and prep content that we think your traders would love to read. Let’s get you started right here.Speak soon!The Contentworks team
The world of finance has historically been male dominated, but we’re happy to say the tide is turning. As we enter Women’s History month, we’re celebrating three remarkable women who are crushing it in the stock exchange, leading their companies to impressive heights. After that, we’ll outline the fundamental events you won’t want to miss this week.Image source#1 Whitney Wolfe Herd (Bumble)Whitney Wolfe Herd is the phenomenal co-founder and former CEO of Bumble, the dating app that continues to take the world by storm. She was also a co-founder of Tinder, where she previously served as VP of Marketing.Launched in 2014, Bumble flipped the script by putting women in charge of initiating connections with potential suitors. This bold move resonated with users, and the app quickly gained traction.Bumble’s stock price has been in steady decline for the past year, with BMBL stock price down 53% since this time in 2023. However, under Wolfe Herd’s leadership, the company is diversifying its offering, which could bring a strong upside.Bumble has expanded its reach beyond dating, offering features like Bumble BFF and Bumble Bizz. This product diversification has allowed the company to expand its potential audience, and, therefore, capture users who aren’t interested in a dating app, generating additional revenue streams.Wolfe Herd is a vocal advocate for women’s empowerment. She recently pledged $10 million to support women of colour entrepreneurs through Bumble Ventures, further solidifying her commitment to creating positive change.Despite the slightly negative stock result, Wolfe Herd is a powerful leader and deserves her status as a role model to millions.Current price: 11.44 USDYTD Performance: -21.10%1 Year Performance: -53%BMBL stock, YTDSource: Google#2 Mary Barra (General Motors)Mary Barra has been the Chair and Chief Executive Officer of American automotive giant General Motors since 2014.Barra is a force to be reckoned with in the automotive industry and is the first female CEO of a so-called “Big Three” automaker.Since taking the helm at GM, she has steered the company through a period of significant transformation, embracing electric vehicles (EVs) and pushing for a more sustainable future.GM’s stock price has seen a steady rise under Barra’s leadership, not least in 2024 with GM stock jumping almost 14% in the first 2 months of 2024.Barra has spearheaded GM’s aggressive investment in EVs, launching popular models like the Chevrolet Bolt EV and the GMC Hummer EV. This commitment to electrification has positioned GM as a leader in the rapidly growing EV market.Barra is a champion for diversity and inclusion. She has increased the number of women in leadership positions at GM and is a vocal advocate for STEM education for girls.Current price: 40.99 USDYTD Performance: +13.7%1 Year Performance: +3.69%GM stock, YTDSource: Google#3 Safra Catz (Oracle)Safra Catz is the CEO of the Oracle Corporation.Catz has transformed Oracle from a traditional software company into a cloud computing powerhouse. Under her leadership, Oracle’s stock price has grown by over 100% in the past five years, exceeding the broader market average.Catz is not only a business leader, but also a champion for diversity and inclusion. She actively supports initiatives aimed at promoting gender equality in the tech sector, inspiring countless women to pursue careers in this dynamic field.Oracle stock has been pumping for over a year now, largely due to the successful expansion of the company’s cloud computing and ERP services.Current price: 113.78 USDYTD Performance: +9.34%1 Year Performance: +30.83%ORCL stock, YTDSource: GoogleWho’s your fave?What do you make of our list? Did we miss anyone off? Tell us over on X: @_contentworks.Top fundamental events week commencing 04/03/24It looks like it’s going to be hectic this week. We hope you don’t have too many plans mid-week!MondayNo major events are planned.Tuesday● USD — ISM Services PMIWednesday● AUD — GDP Growth Rate QoQ● EUR — German Balance of Trade● USD — ADP National Employment Report; JOLTs Job Openings; Fed Chair Powell Testimony● CAD — BoC Interest Rate Decision; Ivey PMI s.aThursday● AUD — Balance of Trade● CNY — Chinese Balance of Trade● EUR — Deposit Facility Rate; ECB Interest Rate Decision; ECB Press Conference● CAD — Balance of Trade● USD — Fed Chair Powell TestimonyFriday● CAD — Unemployment Rate● USD — Average Hourly Earnings MoM; Nonfarm Payrolls; Unemployment RateHere at Contentworks we closely follow market movements and prep content that we think your traders would love to read. Let’s get you started right here.Speak soon!The Contentworks team
The word “recession” sends chills through wallets everywhere. But what is a recession and how does it impact individuals? This week, we’ve compiled a short recession guide to help you work out what’s going on with the UK economy and ride the wave. After that, we’ll preview the upcoming events that you can trade this week.Recession declaredYou can’t have escaped the news last week that the British economy is technically in recession after 2023 offering the poorest GDP performance in years. Last year, the economy took a bit of a nosedive, with GDP shrinking for two consecutive quarters.According to the Office for National Statistics, Gross domestic product fell 0.3% in the final three months of 2023, following a 0.1% contraction in the July-to-September period.Source: CNNWhat does this mean?Think higher grocery bills, tighter budgets, and perhaps even job uncertainty in some sectors. That will peg back consumer spending and likely hurt the high street, online retailers and travel, so expect those industries to suffer.Some industries are, however, relatively recession-proof. So, if you’re looking to diversify your portfolio, you might want to check out the following:● Pharmaceuticals● Healthcare● Home maintenance stores● Grocery chains● Bargain/discount stores● Property management companiesThe sectors that may do well during recessions are those that:Provide goods and services that increase in demand directly because of the conditions that the recession has created;Offer cheaper alternatives to desirable products/services;Have such a demand that they’re always needed, regardless of income change — e.g. essential groceries/pharmaceuticals.How long will the UK recession last?Crystal balls are (sadly) out of stock, but let’s get one thing in perspective: most experts predict this recession to be mild and short-lived.The UK economy has fared much better than many economists feared a year ago. Many experts are even rejecting the “recession” label, as they feel the downturn’s length will be so brief.Samuel Tombs, chief UK economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics stated, “It’s overly dramatic to label the decline in economic activity in the second half of 2023 a recession, given that employment continued to rise, real wages rebounded and measures of business and consumer confidence returned to levels consistent with rising activity by the end of the year.”Top tips for investorsHold your horses! Panic selling rarely ends well. Particularly if Mr. Tombs is right in his belief that this downturn won’t hang around too long.Recession or not, it’s generally a good strategy to diversify your investments (don’t put all your eggs in one basket) and prioritise needs over wants. Avoid making big financial decisions or home purchases during a recession. Remember, even recessions have an end, and being financially stable when the sun shines again is key.Let us know your thoughtsWhat do you think? Is the UK really in recession? How long will it last? Share your trading strategy with us over on X: @_contentworks.Top fundamental events week commencing 26/02/24It looks like it’s going to be a pretty quiet week — let’s check it out.MondayNo major events are scheduled.Tuesday● JPY — Inflation Rate YoY● EUR — German GfK Consumer Confidence● USD — CB Consumer Confidence; Durable Goods OrdersWednesday● USD — GDP Growth Rate QoQ 2nd EstThursday● EUR — German Inflation Rate YoY Prel; French Inflation Rate YoY Prel● CAD — GDP Growth Rate Annualised; GDP Growth Rate QoQ● USD — Core PCE Price Index MoM; Core PCE Price Index MoM; Personal Income; Personal Spending MoMFriday● CNY — Chinese NBS Manufacturing PMI; Chinese Caixin Manufacturing PMI● JPY — Consumer Confidence● EUR — Inflation Rate YoY Flash● USD — UoM Consumer Sentiment Index; ISM Manufacturing PMIHere at Contentworks we closely follow market movements and prep content that we think your traders would love to read. Let’s get you started right here.Speak soon!The Contentworks team
Mark your calendars, Bitcoin fans, because in April we’re going to witness the next major event in the crypto’s evolution: the next halving! Today we’re going to unpack this event and what it means. Then we’ll round-up all of the trading events for your calendar this week. Let’s get to it!What’s a bitcoin halving?A bitcoin halving is an event where the reward for mining new blocks is cut in half, meaning miners receive 50% fewer bitcoins for verifying transactions. This sounds a bit weird, but it isn’t a freak event or some random hack, but something pre-programmed into the blockchain.Halvings are scheduled to occur once every 210,000 blocks — roughly every four years. This will continue to happen until the maximum supply of 21 million bitcoins has been mined by the network sometime in 2040.Practically speaking, the reward for mining a BTC will drop from 6.25 BTC to 3.125 — slicing the reward for all that hard work by your graphics processing unit (GPU) in half.Why does this happen?Bitcoin’s value is partially derived from the fact that it’s a finite resource. It has a fixed supply of 21 million coins. This scarcity is part of its allure, just like diamonds wouldn’t be so sought-after if there were piles of them lying around.The halving ensures that new Bitcoins enter the market at a predictable rate, preventing inflation and (ideally) keeping the value stable. Though, the laws of supply and demand also dictate that the price should exponentially rise, as supply dwindles.How could it affect BTC price?The million-dollar question — quite literally in some cases! Historically, halvings have coincided with significant price increases. The last halving on 11 May 2020, saw an immediate price increase of 14.3%.Source: Tradingview via CoinmarketcapOf course, past performance isn’t a guarantee. But, crypto experts are buzzing with predictions, ranging from the usual “lambo to the moon” to “meh, no biggie.”Some analysts have even predicted that the price of BTC may rise as high as $301,000 before the halving. Charting a course for 1 BTC to hit the $1,000,000 mark, longer-term.As with price appreciation of any commodity, it all depends on factors like global economic conditions, adoption rates, and, of course, a light sprinkle of magic.To be clear, no single event has ever dictated Bitcoin’s fate, nor should it. This halving is definitely a significant chapter, but the story’s far from over.Tell us your storyAre you buying BTC in anticipation of a boom? How high can Bitcoin go? Perhaps you’ve been HODLing for this exact moment. We’d love to hear your predictions over on X, @_Contentworks.Top fundamental events week commencing 19/02/24Here are all of the key events coming up this week.MondayNo major events are scheduledTuesday● AUD — RBA Meeting Minutes● CAD — Inflation Rate YoYWednesday● JPY — Balance of Trade● AUD — Wage Price Index QoQ● USD — FOMC MinutesThursday● EUR — German HCOB Manufacturing PMI FlashFriday● USD — German Ifo Business ClimateHere at Contentworks we closely follow market movements and prep content that we think your traders would love to read. Let’s get you started right here.Speak soon!The Contentworks team
The Super Bowl isn’t just a game; it’s a cultural phenomenon. Millions tune in not only for the action but also for the highly anticipated commercials. These 30-second snippets have become advertising masterpieces (not you Temu!) showcasing creativity, humour, and celebrity power. But they also come at a cost! Last night’s match was a spectacle, in all senses of the word. Today, we’ll check out how much was spent on the ads and how these brands are doing in the financial markets. Let’s play ball!How much does a Super Bowl ad cost?The average cost of a Super Bowl ad slot in 2024 reached an incredible $7 million, a testament to the massive audience it reaches. But brands see it as an investment, not just an expense. Studies show that successful Super Bowl ads can generate significant ROI, boosting brand awareness, engagement, and sales.Average cost of a Superbowl ad, 2002–2024Source: StatistaLooking back, some commercials have transcended advertising, becoming iconic pop culture moments. Apple’s dystopian “1984” ad launched the Macintosh computer, while Coca-Cola’s heart-warming “Mean Joe Greene” solidified its brand image.These examples highlight the potential of a Super Bowl ad to shape perceptions of a brand and help etch them into collective memory.Some Super Bowl FavouritesNow, let’s review some of our favourite ads from this year and give a quick overview of the company behind them.David and Victoria Beckham Forget, UberEatsAs you probably know, UberEats is a subsidiary of Uber, the ride-share and delivery platform valued at over $42 billion. With fierce competition in the food delivery market, UberEats needs to stand out and it has done so with this year’s David and Victoria Forget ad.The ad features the star duo, but centres around Victoria forgetting exactly what the Super Bowl is. It plays on the famous interview with the paid aired on Netflix. This ad’s success, garnering over 3 million views on YouTube in its first week, shows its power to boost brand awareness.Uber Technologies shares, 1-yearSource: GoogleCurrent share price: 70.91 USD12-month performance: +37.47 USD (112.05%)Uber has had a great year, with its share price jumping 112% since the beginning of 2023. YoY, Uber grew its revenues 16.95% from 31.88bn to 37.28bn while net income improved from a loss of 9.14bn to a gain of 1.89bn.Tom Brady vs. Vince Vaughn — BetMGMThis ad features Vince Vaughn explaining that anyone could use BetMGM except the retired NFL star Tom Brady because he’s already “won enough.” Vaughn is also shown having dinner with ice hockey legend Wayne Gretzky.BetMGM is a sports betting and iGaming company formed by MGM Resorts International and owned by the Entain Group. The booming online gambling market makes advertising crucial for brand recognition and market share. This ad, with its star power and light-hearted tone, effectively targeted the key male demographic interested in sports betting.Entain shares, 1-yearSource: GoogleCurrent share price: 1,010.50 GBX12-month performance: -318.50 USD (-23.9%)Entain has had a rough 12 months, seeing an almost 24% drop in ENT’s stock price over that period. YoY, the company had a net income fall of -90.29% from £249.30m to £24.20m despite a 12.19% increase in revenues from 3.83bn to 4.30bn. The main reason for his drop in income was a major increase in operating costs.Kris Jenner — OREO “Twist on it”Oreo’s Super Bowl 2024 commercial depicts how decisions have been made since the prehistoric era and all it took was the twist of one of their famous biccies. Instead of heads or tails, it’s cream on the right or cream on the left.Mondelez International, the parent company of OREO, has a market capitalisation of over $80 billion. Maintaining brand relevance and market share is crucial. This ad effectively leverages celebrity appeal and humour, which it hopes will translate into increased sales.Mondelez (MDLZ) shares, 1-yearSource: GoogleCurrent share price: 73.17 USD12-month performance: +6.90 (10.41%)Mondelez has posted a respectful 10% price increase over the past 12 months. The company recently declared a regular quarterly dividend of $0.425 per share. YoY, the company grew revenues by 14.35% from 31.50bn to 36.02bn.What’s your favourite?Are you trading any of these stocks? Did you see an impact because of the Super Bowl? Let us know over on X, @_Contentworks.Top fundamental events week commencing 12/02/24Here are all of the key events of what looks like a very quiet week.Monday/No major events are scheduledTuesday● AUD — RBA Meeting Minutes● CAD — Inflation Rate YoYWednesday● JPY — Balance of Trade● AUD — Wage Price Index QoQ● USD — FOMC MinutesThursday● EUR — German HCOB Manufacturing PMI FlashFriday● EUR — German Ifo Business ClimateHere at Contentworks we closely follow market movements and prep content that we think your traders would love to read. Let’s get you started right here.Speak soon!The Contentworks team
It’s Pancake Season and We’re Flipping Out Over These 4 Pancake BrandsThe warm, delicious aroma of a sweet tradition begins to fill the air. We’re talking about Shrove Tuesday better known as Pancake Day of course. Today, we’re checking out the impact of pancake day on the markets, before taking a glance at top tradable events this coming week.What’s with pancakes anyway?Pancake Tuesday is celebrated the day before Ash Wednesday, marking the official start of Lent, a period of fasting and reflection in some Christian denominations. But before that quiet time of reflection arrives, there’s time for one last indulgence: pancakes! Pancakes were originally made as a way to use up all the dairy and eggs before Lent’s restrictions kicked in. Today, Pancake Day remains a beloved celebration, with pancake consumption and sales spiking significantly.Pancake Day 2024 is on Tuesday February 13. If you’re looking to trade the event, then there are a few brands to watch:1. PepsiCoCurrent price: 170.97 USD1 Year Performance: -0.49%5 Year Performance: +51.27%PEP stock, 1-yearSource: GoogleObviously a juggernaut in its own right, PepsiCo is a household name more synonymous with bubbly colas and crunchy snacks than eggy-breakfasts. So why is it here?The company also owns one of the US’ most famous brands of pancake mix: Aunt Jemima: (Now known as “Quaker Oats Pancake Mix”). This iconic brand has been a breakfast staple for generations. However, recent controversies regarding its racialised imagery prompted the name change in 2021. Despite the rebranding, “Quaker Oats Pancake Mix” continues to hold a strong market share, particularly among nostalgic consumers.PepsiCo also owns the Pearl Milling Company(TM) Original Pancake & Waffle Mix product, another popular choice for pancake batter hunter-gatherers.Pancake Day is likely to see a steady increase in sales for these products, driven by brand loyalty and tradition. And this could come at a good time for investors as PEP stock is largely considered to be undervalued at the moment.2. Williams SonomaCurrent price: 200.34 USD1 Year Performance: +48.80%5 Year Performance: +278.86%WSM stock, 1-yearSource: GoogleWilliams Sonoma is well-known for being a high-quality kitchenware and gourmet food supplier. Founded in 1956, the brand began as a small Sonoma cookware store, offering unique European imports. The company sparked a revolution in home cooking, a legacy that lasts to this day.The company owns the Flappin’ Jack Pancake Mix brand, one of the most popular on the market and it’s sure to fly off the shelves next week.Williams Sonoma has seen remarkable growth over the last 5 years, with its stock price following suit rising over 250% over that period. This is largely down to the company’s success in the e-commerce and the Business-to-Business (B2B) segments. Furthermore, its efforts to expand retail operations and diversify its product portfolio are showing promising results.Could pancake day add even more to the mix?3. Dine Brands Global Inc.Current price: 46.97 USD1 Year Performance: -41.57%5 Year Performance: + 41.69%DIN stock, 1-yearSource: GoogleYou’d be forgiven for not recognising this one. Dine Brands own IHOP — the International House of Pancakes — which means it cannot be ignored on Shrove Tuesday. This popular restaurant chain thrives on this day, with lines often snaking out the door as patrons indulge in their signature fluffy stacks. Shrove Tuesday is undoubtedly IHOP’s biggest sales day of the year, showcasing the power of the day’s association with pancakes.Such strong sales couldn’t come soon enough for Dine Brands who have been having a rough year of it. Last year’s numbers were particularly underwhelming. In the company’s Q3 results in November, they reported quarterly revenue of $202.5 million, a 13% decline YoY. The sharp decline in revenue was related to the re-franchising of 69 Applebee’s restaurants — another of its brands.There’s no doubt, DIN stock is at a very low price, but it might take more than a strong day of IHOP sales to flip this one over.4. General MillsCurrent price: 64.80 USD1 Year Performance: -16.04%5 Year Performance: + 44.74%GIS stock, 1-yearSource: GoogleGeneral Mills has risen to become a global powerhouse in the food industry. Over 150 years, it has transformed from a single product company to a diverse portfolio encompassing iconic brands like Cheerios, Pillsbury, Häagen-Dazs, and Blue Buffalo. The company is also responsible for the Betty Crocker brand that produces it’s own pancake mix as well as the Bisquick mix, both of which are major household favourites about this time of the year.GIS shares have had a pretty decent few years, but are down after the company reported its second-quarter FY23 earnings and revised its outlook citing a slower volume recovery, reflecting a more cautious consumer economic outlook.They’ll be hoping for a strong pancake performance on the 13th of February!Beyond the Brands: Market InsightsShrove Tuesday’s influence extends beyond individual brands. The pancake market itself experiences a pretty sweet boost during this period.The global pancake mix market is expected to reach a value of USD 5.28 billion by 2027, with Shrove Tuesday playing a key role in driving sales.Source: StatistaLooking at ingredient trends, the market reflects an increasing demand for healthier options. Sales of organic and gluten-free pancake mixes are on the rise, catering to consumers seeking alternatives to traditional mixes.Additionally, plant-based milk alternatives like almond and oat milk are increasingly used in pancake recipes, reflecting dietary preferences and sustainability concerns.Your turn!Will you be trading with a stack of pancakes on your desk? Let us know your plans over on X: @_contentworks.Top fundamental events this weekIt looks like it’s going to be a pretty quiet week — let’s check it out.Monday● AUD — Balance of Trade● EUR — German Balance of Trade● USD — ISM Services PMITuesday● AUD — RBA Interest Rate Decision● CAD — Ivey PMI s.a; Ivey PMI s.aWednesdayNo major events are scheduled.Thursday● CAD — Balance of TradeFriday● CAD — Unemployment RateHere at Contentworks we closely follow market movements and prep content that we think your traders would love to read. Let’s get you started right here.Speak soon!The Contentworks team
The Red Sea, a vital artery of global trade, has been grappling with a series of disruptions that have sent shockwaves through the shipping industry and beyond. Today, we’ll look into what’s happening and how it could impact the markets. After that, we’ll go over the top trading events of the week ahead.Wait, what happened?The world’s largest shipping firms are continuing to pause shipments through the Red Sea after attacks by Houthi rebels. The Houthi movement officially known as Ansar Allah is a Shia Islamist political and military organization that emerged from Yemen in the 1990s.In response and to protect the shipping lanes, the US and UK have carried out several airstrikes on Houthi bases in Yemen, in order to stop continued attacks along this crucial international trade route.Why is the Red Sea so important to global trade?As you probably know, the Red Sea connects Asia to Europe and Africa. About 10% of global trade transits through Suez, 12% of global oil, about 8% of LPG gas, and 30% of all container shipping passes through this corridor. This all makes it a crucial chokepoint for both global energy security and the global economy at large.The Houthi attacks are causing huge disruption to shipping schedules and increasing transportation costs. Ships are diverting their routes around the Cape of Good Hope, a longer and more expensive journey that adds an estimated 10–12 days to transit times.image from https://www.acslogco.com/blog/news-12/suez-canal-vs-cape-of-good-hope-red-sea-attacks-135These delays and higher transportation costs have trickled down to consumers, leading to higher prices for goods such as fuel, food, and consumer electronics. The disruptions are also putting pressure on global supply chains.This isn’t the first time shipping lanes have been tied up causing huge problems. In 2021, the Ever Given container ship was blocked in the Suez Canal for six days, causing a major disruption to global trade. And in 2019, the Maersk Tanjong Pagar container ship was attacked off the coast of Yemen, highlighting the growing threat posed by maritime piracy.Financial impactAccording to S&P Global Ratings, containership tonnage in the Red Sea dropped more than 80% in the second half of December 2023 as many shippers chose to play it safe, taking the extra 10 days to go around the Cape of Good Hope, avoiding this flashpoint.Container freight rates have surged almost 300% with announced rate hikes of $6,000-$7,000 per 40-foot-long container.Global container freight rate index from the 12th January 2023 to the 4th January 2024Source: StatistaThis cost of shipping is important, because the rise in costs will likely be felt most by consumers, whose pockets are already feeling the pinch due to record high inflation rates, particularly in the US and Europe.China is also in panic-mode, as 95% of its exports rely on shipping. It’s even pressing Iran, a known sponsor of the Houthis, to deescalate attacks.With the continued conflict in Gaza, Middle-Eastern stability is on a knife-edge and the major powers will hope they can successfully calm the situation down before the fires are flamed further.Have the attacks affected your trades?Has this turmoil impacted your trading? Have you adjusted your strategy to adapt? Tell us your story over on X, @_Contentworks.Top fundamental events week commencing 29/01/24Here are all of the key events this week. We hope you don’t have anything planned for Wednesday.MondayNo major events are scheduledTuesday● EUR — French GDP Growth Rate YoY Prel; German GDP Growth Rate YoY Flash● USD — CB Consumer Confidence; JOLTs Job OpeningsWednesday● AUD — Inflation Rate YoY● CNY — Chinese NBS Manufacturing PMI● JPY — Consumer Confidence● EUR — French Inflation Rate YoY Prel; German Inflation Rate YoY Prel● USD — ADP National Employment Report; Employment Cost Index QoQ; Employment Cost — Wages QoQ; Treasury Refunding Announcement; Federal Funds Rate; Fed Press ConferenceThursday● CNY — Chinese Caixin Manufacturing PMI● EUR — Inflation Rate YoY Flash● GBP — Official Bank Rate; MPC Meeting Minutes● USD — ISM Manufacturing PMIFriday● CHF — Consumer Confidence● USD — Average Hourly Earnings MoM; Unemployment Rate; Nonfarm Payrolls; UoM Consumer Sentiment IndexHere at Contentworks we closely follow market movements and prep content that we think your traders would love to read. Let’s get you started right here.Speak soon!The Contentworks team
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