This edition of Investment Perspectives fresh from attending COP30, our Head of Responsible Investment, Eva Cairns, shares her thoughts from the global climate conference, and considers what it might mean for investors.

We explore the shifting fortunes of Europe. We ask what factors have driven the renaissance of Southern Europe, and the struggles facing many Northern European economies, once considered the bastion of economic strength?

And Matt Brennan, Head of Asset Allocation, compares the performance of India and China in recent years and what investors can take from that.

In addition, we feature our October market review and third-party contributions on AI, consumer behaviour trends, and social media impact.

A close-up of a trading chart displaying candlestick patterns, volume bars, and technical indicators on a dark background

Global investment market review: October 2025 – performance & highlights

Discover how global markets performed in October 2025. This review covers key data across equities

Close-up of a world map focusing on East Asia, highlighting China, India, Tibet, and neighboring countries like Nepal and Pakistan

India and China: An emerging market dichotomy?

India and China dominate emerging markets, but their investment profiles differ sharply. Explore what drives performance and the long-term outlook...

Panoramic view of Santorini at sunset, featuring white-washed buildings, blue-tiled roofs, and rugged cliffs by the Aegean Sea

Are the tides turning in European economics?

Explore whether economic tides are turning in Europe as growth slows, inflation eases, and monetary policy shifts. Gain insights into...

Aerial view of lush green landscape with winding rivers and patches of water, showcasing the vibrant ecosystem of a tropical region

Good COP, bad COP? Reflections on the global climate conference

Fresh from attending COP30 in Belém, Brazil, our Head of Responsible Investment, Eva Cairns, shares her thoughts on the outcomes...

Exterior of a Pop Mart store featuring its logo and three cartoon-style character icons on a glass display

Soft signal: How Labubus became a barometer for the global economy

Discover how Pop Mart’s Labubu collectible toys became a global phenomenon, reflecting China’s cultural commerce, shifting consumer trends, and soft...

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Social media meets valuation

Explore how social media-driven meme trading is reshaping markets and challenging traditional valuation. Learn why momentum, sentiment, and technical analysis...

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How AI is changing search, and what it means for Google, ChatGPT and the open web

Explore how generative AI is transforming search, reducing click-through rates, and challenging traditional web models. Learn about Google’s AI Overviews,...

Contributors

David Goodman
Fund Manager Global Equities team, Liontrust
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Eva Cairns
Head of Responsible Investments, Scottish Widows
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Jamie Zhou
Deputy Fund Manager, M&G China Fund
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Matt Brennan
Head of Asset Allocation & Research, Scottish Widows
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Michael White
Global Sector Specialist, Schroders
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Scottish Widows
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