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The Federal Reserve and Bank of England have both been in focus this week, with the Fed delivering a rate hike and the BoE keeping rates unchanged. In this episode, Imogen Bachra and Stuart Sparks examine what the decisions tell us about the outlook for inflation, interest rates and government bond yields – and why the BoE's latest quantitative tightening (QT) announcement could have longer-term implications for the gilt market.Key takeaways:* The Fed delivered a hawkish-leaning rate hike, with the Chair offering little forward guidance and emphasising that future decisions will depend on the evolution of inflation and economic conditions.* Markets are pricing a significant further tightening cycle, with close to 100bp of additional Fed rate hikes priced by the end of 2027. But the Fed's projections imply a surprisingly benign path for inflation, with a return to target minus a meaningful rise in unemployment. * The Bank of England held Bank Rate at 3.75%, with the Monetary Policy Committee voting 6–3 in favour of no change. A November BoE rate hike remains the base case, although conviction has fallen.* QT was the bigger market-moving announcement. The Bank plans to continue active gilt sales at £20bn a year, but will change how those sales are conducted and which maturities are involved.* This could reduce some near-term pressure on long-dated gilt yields, however QT continues to create fiscal costs.Host: Imogen Bachra, Head of Economics and Markets StrategyGuest: Stuart Sparks, Head of US Rate Strategy This episode was recorded on 17 September 2026. You can also find this episode of Bondcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Remember to hit subscribe so you can listen to the latest episodes in this series as soon as they're available and get our views on the big themes and events moving markets and shaping the economy. For any terms used please refer to this glossary: https://www.natwest.com/corporates/insights/markets/glossary.html Please view our full disclaimer here: https://www.natwest.com/corporates/disclaimer.html
This week on Bondcast, Imogen Bachra is joined by market specialists Stuart Sparks and Oriane Parmentier to discuss the latest developments across the major central banks and what they could mean for rates markets.Recorded shortly after the ECB's meeting, the conversation begins with the central bank's latest 25bp rate hike and the implications of higher inflation and growth projections. The discussion then turns to the Bank of England ahead of next week's meeting, including the potential for a change in voting patterns, guidance and the pace of quantitative tightening.The US is also firmly in focus, with the Federal Reserve's September meeting approaching. The team considers whether the Fed could deliver a rate hike, the implications of recent inflation data and the potential tension between monetary policy and political pressure for lower rates.Finally, the conversation examines the US long end, including the latest treasury buyback operation and what its relatively modest size tells us about the authorities' intentions.Key takeaways:- The ECB is becoming more hawkish in its outlook- The Bank of England could acknowledge rising global inflation risks- Quantitative Tightening could be the more interesting BoE decision- The Fed is moving closer to a September rate hike- The long end remains vulnerable to structural inflation and fiscal risksHost: Imogen Bachra, Head of Economics and Markets StrategyGuests: Oriane Parmentier, European Rates StrategistStuart Sparks, Head of US Rate Strategy This episode was recorded on 10 September 2026. You can also find this episode of Bondcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Remember to hit subscribe so you can listen to the latest episodes in this series as soon as they're available and get our views on the big themes and events moving markets and shaping the economy. For any terms used please refer to this glossary: https://www.natwest.com/corporates/insights/markets/glossary.html Please view our full disclaimer here: https://www.natwest.com/corporates/disclaimer.html
In this episode of Bondcast: Speakers' Corner, host Imogen Bachra speaks to Deepika Dayal about one of the key questions surrounding the AI boom: will artificial intelligence ultimately be inflationary or disinflationary?Deepika explains why the answer depends heavily on the time horizon. While AI could deliver substantial productivity gains over the longer term, the enormous investment required to build the AI infrastructure is already creating pockets of inflationary pressure — particularly in semiconductors, computer equipment, storage devices and software.The conversation explores whether manufacturers can continue passing higher AI-related costs on to consumers, how AI subscriptions could affect inflation, and what economists should watch for to identify the point at which productivity gains start to outweigh the initial supply-side pressures.Key takeaways* AI's inflationary impact may come before its productivity benefits. The massive infrastructure buildout required for AI is creating demand for specialised chips, computing power and data centres, putting pressure on some technology prices.* Communication goods are behaving unusually. After roughly 25 years as a source of disinflation, prices for computers, smartphones, software, accessories and other information-processing equipment are showing pockets of upward pressure.* Chipflation could spread beyond technology. Semiconductors are critical inputs for industries including automobiles and smart appliances. If higher chip costs begin feeding into these sectors, the inflationary impact of AI could become considerably broader.* AI software is another potential source of inflation. Companies are increasingly monetising AI functionality through dedicated subscriptions and licences. Products such as Microsoft's Copilot illustrate how AI features that were initially bundled into existing software can become separately priced.* The impact on headline CPI may initially be limited. Communication goods have a relatively small weighting in the US CPI after decades of disinflation. However, the weighting is larger in the PCE deflator, the Federal Reserve's preferred inflation measure.* The key question is when productivity gains arrive. One early indicator could be wage growth. If AI allows businesses to increase output without proportionately increasing labour costs, wage growth could begin to moderate in labour-intensive service sectors without a corresponding increase in labour-market slack.Host: Imogen Bachra, Head of Economics and Markets StrategyGuest: Deepika Dayal, US EconomistThis episode was recorded on 3 September 2026.You can also find this episode of Bondcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Remember to hit subscribe so you can listen to the latest episodes in this series as soon as they're available and get our views on the big themes and events moving markets and shaping the economy. For any terms used please refer to this glossary: https://www.natwest.com/corporates/insights/markets/glossary.html Please view our full disclaimer here: https://www.natwest.com/corporates/disclaimer.html
In Bondcast's 250th episode, Imogen Bachra is joined by market specialists Stuart Sparks and Oriane Parmentier to assess a more eventful-than-expected Jackson Hole, the outlook for the Fed, next week's ECB meeting and the latest move in gilt yields.The discussion starts with the Fed's increasingly hawkish stance following Jackson Hole. Stuart explores what a conventional hiking cycle could mean for the rates curve, arguing that three further Fed hikes would push front-end yields materially higher and leave the curve flatter. But the bigger question is whether tighter monetary policy would actually be enough to bring inflation back to target.The team considers the possibility that the Fed could find itself “trapped” by persistent inflation: unwilling to generate the economic slack necessary to bring inflation down because doing so would risk a significant recession. Attention also turns to the ECB, where a September rate hike is now regarded as effectively a done deal. Oriane explains why the focus will be less on the hike itself and more on what happens afterwards, particularly as energy prices remain a source of upside inflation risk. Finally, Imogen examines the UK gilt market, following the brief move in 10-year yields towards her 5.25% target (caveats allowing). She argues that the recent sell-off was driven primarily by global rather than domestic factors, although higher yields have renewed concerns around the UK's fiscal position and debt-servicing costs. Key takeaways* Jackson Hole was more hawkish than expected, raising the possibility of a more conventional Fed tightening cycle, although the team's base case remains considerably less aggressive.* Term premium remains a key risk, particularly if markets conclude that the Fed is unwilling to tolerate the economic pain required to bring inflation sustainably back to 2%.* The ECB is expected to hike by 25bp in September, but the more important question is whether it pauses afterwards or is forced into further tightening by persistent energy-price pressures.* UK 10-year gilt yields have reached the 5.25% target. Global fiscal concerns, elevated borrowing costs and upcoming UK policy events could all keep pressure on the long end.* The UK fiscal outlook remains a significant source of uncertainty, with higher debt-servicing costs and borrowing already running ahead of expectations. Host: Imogen Bachra, Head of Economics and Markets StrategyGuests: Oriane Parmentier, European Rates StrategistStuart Sparks, Head of US Rate Strategy This episode was recorded on 3 September 2026. You can also find this episode of Bondcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Remember to hit subscribe so you can listen to the latest episodes in this series as soon as they're available and get our views on the big themes and events moving markets and shaping the economy. For any terms used please refer to this glossary: https://www.natwest.com/corporates/insights/markets/glossary.html Please view our full disclaimer here: https://www.natwest.com/corporates/disclaimer.html
The US Treasury's surprise decision to double the size of its regular long-end bond buybacks has reignited debate about how governments can manage rising borrowing needs and weaker demand for longer-dated debt.In this episode, Imogen Bachra is joined by Stuart Sparks and Oriane Parmentier to assess what the Treasury's move is really designed to achieve – and whether it can do anything to address the underlying fiscal pressures facing the US.The discussion also looks at the UK's experience of reducing the average maturity of government borrowing, and why this may offer a warning to other developed markets. In Europe, France remains firmly in focus as investors assess its fiscal position, political risks and the outlook for French government bonds.Key takeaways:* Why the US Treasury doubled the size of its long-end buybacks* The move is more about market liquidity than curve control* The lessons the US and Europe can draw from the UK* Why shrinking average maturity may have limited impact on long-term yields* The structural forces pushing European curves steeper* What to expect from the Fed at Jackson Hole* Why the ECB looks increasingly likely to hike in September* The BoE is in less of a hurry to raise rates. Host: Imogen Bachra, Head of Economics and Markets StrategyGuests: Oriane Parmentier, European Rates StrategistStuart Sparks, Head of US Rate Strategy This episode was recorded on 27 August 2026.You can also find this episode of Bondcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Remember to hit subscribe so you can listen to the latest episodes in this series as soon as they're available and get our views on the big themes and events moving markets and shaping the economy.For any terms used please refer to this glossary: https://www.natwest.com/corporates/insights/markets/glossary.htmlPlease view our full disclaimer here: https://www.natwest.com/corporates/disclaimer.html
In this edition of Bondcast: Speakers' Corner, Imogen Bachra is joined by NatWest Director of Innovation, David Greenwald, to explore one of the defining market themes of 2026: artificial intelligence. The discussion examines whether markets are pricing in AI-driven productivity too quickly, how AI could reshape inflation and central bank thinking, and why governments are increasingly viewing AI as a strategic geopolitical asset.Key takeaways* Markets remain optimistic about AI, but significant uncertainty surrounds the timing and scale of productivity gains.* Infrastructure bottlenecks could keep AI investment inflationary before productivity becomes disinflationary.* The largest productivity gains are already emerging in software development and routine knowledge work.* Governments are treating AI as a strategic national capability rather than simply a commercial technology.* Geopolitics is becoming an increasingly important driver of AI adoption, investment and market risk.This episode was recorded on 25 June 2026.The views expressed in this episode are not necessarily those of NatWest Group.For any terms used please refer to this glossary: https://www.natwest.com/corporates/insights/markets/glossary.htmlPlease view our full disclaimer here: https://www.natwest.com/corporates/disclaimer.html
In this special edition of Bondcast Speakers' Corner, Imogen Bachra is joined by NatWest Group International Advisor Scott Livingstone to examine the geopolitical landscape and what it could mean for rates markets over the months and years ahead.Recorded against the backdrop of renewed strikes in the Middle East, Scott discusses why he still believes the current tensions represent a “bumpy off-ramp” rather than the start of a broader regional war, while highlighting the key political and military developments investors should monitor.The conversation then broadens to explore the US-China relationship, Taiwan, Europe's strategic position, emerging geopolitical winners, and the underappreciated risks that could shape global markets beyond today's headlines.Key takeaways:* A volatile path to de-escalation: neither the US nor Iran has the appetite for full-scale conflict, but investors should expect an extended period of uncertainty rather than a swift resolution.* Political calendars matter: US mid-terms, Israel's elections and domestic political considerations will increasingly shape geopolitical decision-making.* Taiwan remains a long-term risk: While China's military modernisation continues, domestic political events in both China and Taiwan may make 2028 a more consequential year than 2027.* Europe faces strategic choices: As global power becomes increasingly concentrated, Europe must decide what role it wants within a changing international order.* Middle powers could be winners: Countries such as India, Saudi Arabia and Turkey may benefit from pursuing pragmatic, multi-aligned foreign policies amid growing geopolitical fragmentation.* Technology is reshaping geopolitics: Competition over semiconductors, resilient supply chains and increasingly, space infrastructure, is becoming just as strategically important as traditional energy security.This episode was recorded on 10 July 2026.The views expressed in this episode are not necessarily those of NatWest Group.For any terms used please refer to this glossary: https://www.natwest.com/corporates/insights/markets/glossary.htmlPlease view our full disclaimer here: https://www.natwest.com/corporates/disclaimer.html
Oil prices are back in focus, markets are repricing central bank risk, and politics is adding another layer of uncertainty across Europe and the UK. In this episode of Bondcast, Imogen Bachra, Deepika Dayal and Oriane Parmentier discuss whether markets are moving too quickly to price further rate hikes – and what investors should watch next.In this episode, we discuss:Middle East tensions and oil prices: why renewed geopolitical risk has pushed markets to reassess inflation and rate expectations.ECB pricing: whether recent euro rates repricing has gone too far, and why July still looks too soon for a policy shift.Fed outlook: why short-term oil moves may complicate the picture, but still leave the Fed in wait-and-see mode.US inflation and growth: why higher oil prices could act as both an inflation impulse and a tax on the consumer.Bank of England risks: why the UK still faces the clearest upside risk to policy rates, even if hikes look more likely later than sooner.France and OATs: what Marine Le Pen's 2027 election intentions mean for French political risk and bond spreads.UK politics and gilts: why fiscal policy, borrowing risks and autumn policy announcements may matter more than near-term leadership headlines.Leverage ratio framework: what the Bank of England's latest consultation could mean for bank demand for gilts — and why it may not be a game changer yet.Remember to hit subscribe so you can listen to the latest episodes in this series as soon as they're available and get our views on the big themes and events moving markets and shaping the economy.This episode was recorded on 9 July 2026, and captions are automatically generated. For any terms used please refer to this glossary https://www.natwest.com/corporates/insights/markets/glossary.htmlPlease view our full disclaimer here: https://www.natwest.com/corporates/disclaimer.html
This week on Bondcast, Imogen Bachra, Ian Vanderhorn, and Oriane Parmentier unpack a deceptively important week for rates markets: a mixed US labour report, softer European inflation, central-bank caution at Sintra, and growing focus on the Bank of England's balance sheet and gilt market resilience. The big takeaway: markets may be pricing out near-term hikes, but the path ahead is anything but simple.Remember to hit subscribe so you can listen to the latest episodes in this series as soon as they're available and get our views on the big themes and events moving markets and shaping the economy.This episode was recorded on 2 July 2026.For any terms used please refer to this glossary https://www.natwest.com/corporates/insights/markets/glossary.htmlPlease view our full disclaimer here: https://www.natwest.com/corporates/disclaimer.html
This week on Bondcast, Imogen Bachra is joined by Oriane Palmentier to discuss rates markets in the UK and Europe.Key topics: * The sharp repricing lower in UK gilt yields and evolving Bank of England expectations* Whether markets are becoming overly optimistic on oil, inflation and fiscal risks* What to watch during next week's ECB Sintra conference* Euro area funding plans for the second half of 2026* What to make of French spreads despite renewed political focus Host: Imogen Bachra (Head of Economics and Markets Strategy)Guest: Oriane Parmentier (European Rates Strategist) This episode was recorded on 25 June 2026.Remember to hit subscribe so you can listen to the latest episodes in this series as soon as they're available and get our views on the big themes and events moving markets and shaping the economy.For any terms used please refer to this glossary: https://www.natwest.com/corporates/insights/markets/glossary.html Please view our full disclaimer here: https://www.natwest.com/corporates/disclaimer.html
This week's episode focuses on a pivotal week for global central banks as markets shift attention away from geopolitical headlines in the Middle East and back toward monetary policy. The discussion covers the first Federal Reserve meeting under Chair Kevin Warsh, the Bank of England's latest decision, the ECB outlook, and implications for global rates markets. Key takeaways:* The Fed turned more hawkish in Warsh's first meeting, despite no change in rates. Warsh avoided giving forward guidance, but the committee's dot plot shifted higher, leading markets to price in rate hikes sooner than previously expected.* Warsh announced five Fed task forces to review communications, balance sheet strategy, data usage, productivity trends, and the inflation framework. While these could eventually support a more dovish policy, they are unlikely to affect near-term decisions.* We now forecast 50bps of cuts in the US in 2027 rather than beginning in late 2026. * The Bank of England left policy unchanged and provided little new guidance, but persistent domestic inflation pressures and strong wage growth should not be overlooked.* The ECB's June rate hike is viewed as an insurance move rather than the start of an aggressive tightening cycle, with falling oil prices reducing the case for further hikes. Host: Imogen Bachra (Head of Economics and Markets Strategy)Guests: Ian VanderHorn (Macro Strategist) and Oriane Parmentier (European Rates Strategist) This episode was recorded on 18 June 2026.You can also find this episode of Bondcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Remember to hit subscribe so you can listen to the latest episodes in this series as soon as they're available and get our views on the big themes and events moving markets and shaping the economy.For any terms used please refer to this glossary: https://www.natwest.com/corporates/insights/markets/glossary.htmlPlease view our full disclaimer here: https://www.natwest.com/corporates/disclaimer.html
This week Imogen Bachra is joined by Ian VanderHorn and Oriane Parmentier to discuss some key central bank decisions. They examine the latest developments from the ECB, previews next week's Fed and Bank of England meetings, and explore how geopolitical tensions, inflation dynamics and politics are shaping market expectations. Key topics: * The ECB remains data-dependent but has not closed the door on additional rate hikes.* Strong US labour market data complicates the inflation outlook but does not yet point to a significant inflation reacceleration.* The first Fed meeting under Kevin Warsh will be closely scrutinised for signs of a shift in policy communication.* The Bank of England meeting may appear routine but could influence expectations for July and beyond.* Fiscal and political risks in both the US and UK remain important themes for rates markets in the second half of the year. This episode was recorded on 11 June 2026. You can also find this episode of Bondcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Remember to hit subscribe so you can listen to the latest episodes in this series as soon as they're available and get our views on the big themes and events moving markets and shaping the economy. For any terms used please refer to this glossary: https://www.natwest.com/corporates/insights/markets/glossary.html Please view our full disclaimer here: https://www.natwest.com/corporates/disclaimer.html
This week on Bondcast, the team examines how fading optimism over a potential US-Iran agreement and renewed tariff discussions are influencing rates markets. With major central bank meetings approaching, the discussion also turns to the outlook for the European Central Bank (ECB), Bank of England (BoE), and Federal Reserve. Key topics: * ECB rhetoric has become more hawkish, but policymakers are unlikely to commit to a fixed hiking path.* The BoE remains cautious, with centrist policymakers showing little urgency to raise rates.* Fed officials continue to balance inflation and growth risks more carefully than markets may be assuming.* New US tariff proposals could create future headline risk despite limited immediate economic impact.* French political risk is gradually moving back onto investors' radar ahead of 2027.* Fiscal concerns remain a major structural challenge for the UK, particularly due to high debt servicing costs. Contributors: Imogen Bachra (host), Head of Economics and Markets StrategyOriane Parmentier, European Rates StrategistIan VanderHorn, Economics and Market Strategy at NatWest Markets This episode was recorded on 4 June 2026. Remember to hit subscribe so you can listen to the latest episodes in this series as soon as they're available and get our views on the big themes and events moving markets and shaping the economy. For any terms used please refer to this glossary: https://www.natwest.com/corporates/insights/markets/glossary.html Please view our full disclaimer here: https://www.natwest.com/corporates/disclaimer.html
This week on Bondcast, Imogen Bachra, Oriane Parmentier and Stuart Sparks unpack the key macro themes dominating fixed income markets following NatWest's Official Institutions Conference in Edinburgh. With geopolitical tensions in the Middle East continuing to drive market volatility, the discussion shifts beyond the headlines to explore how investors are thinking about inflation, growth, central bank reaction functions and fiscal risks across the US, Euro area and UK.Key themes discussedUS: Affordability versus inflationStuart outlines NatWest's view that the Fed could increasingly focus on growth and real incomes rather than maintaining a rigid 2% inflation target. The team discusses whether higher inflation tolerance may become a feature – rather than a failure – of future policy. Europe: Conditional ECB and structural steepening Oriane discusses why the ECB's tightening cycle may become increasingly data dependent, and why long-term funding pressures linked to defence, AI and energy transition spending could support steeper curves across Europe.UK: Inflation persistence and fiscal risk Imogen explains why the UK faces a uniquely challenging combination of sticky inflation, aggressive QT and elevated fiscal sensitivity. The conversation also explores why political uncertainty continues to matter disproportionately for gilt markets.This episode was recorded on 28 May 2026.You can also find this episode of Bondcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Remember to hit subscribe so you can listen to the latest episodes in this series as soon as they're available and get our views on the big themes and events moving markets and shaping the economy.For any terms used please refer to this glossary: https://www.natwest.com/corporates/insights/markets/glossary.htmlPlease view our full disclaimer here: https://www.natwest.com/corporates/disclaimer.html
In this episode of Bondcast, host Imogen Bachra is joined by global market specialist Ian VanderHorn to unpack the growing political and fiscal risks shaping UK and US rates markets – where 5% yields are now a thing.Key points:* UK political instability following poor Labour local election results* Risks of a Labour leadership challenge and implications for gilt markets* Why markets may be underpricing future UK borrowing* US tariff refund developments and worsening fiscal dynamics* Inflation persistence and implications for Treasury yields* President Trump's China visit and evolving US-China relationsThis episode was recorded on 14 May 2026.Remember to hit subscribe so you can listen to the latest episodes in this series as soon as they're available and get our views on the big themes and events moving markets and shaping the economy.For any terms used please refer to this glossary: https://www.natwest.com/corporates/insights/markets/glossary.htmlPlease view our full disclaimer here: https://www.natwest.com/corporates/disclaimer.html
In this special episode of Bondcast, we replay NatWest's live broadcast fireside chat and Q&A with Bank of England Chief Economist Huw Pill, who was joined on stage by Imogen Bachra, NatWest's Head of Economics and Markets Strategy.Recorded on 14 May 2026.
This week, host Imogen Bachra is joined by Oriane Parmentier to talk about rates in the UK and the euro area. They focus on:- The return of market optimism despite geopolitical risk - ECB outlook and how the market is pricing multiple hikes- Bank of England pricing, as well as fiscal and political risks in the UK- Client sentiment on rate rises in major economies- What to watch next week This episode was recorded on 7 May 2026. You can also find this episode of Bondcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Remember to hit subscribe so you can listen to the latest episodes in this series as soon as they're available and get our views on the big themes and events moving markets and shaping the economy.For any terms used please refer to this glossary: https://www.natwest.com/corporates/insights/markets/glossary.htmlPlease view our full disclaimer here: https://www.natwest.com/corporates/disclaimer.html
This week on Bondcast, Imogen Bachra, Ian Vanderhorn, and Oriane Parmentier unpack why easing geopolitical tensions have lifted risk assets – while rates remain more cautious.They explore the growing disconnect between equities and yields, with US data and Fed expectations back in focus as de-escalation shifts attention away from geopolitics. In the UK, the story looks different: persistent inflation pressures, fiscal risks, and gilt market dynamics suggest yields may stay higher for longer.The episode also dives into a key cross-market debate – why UK and ECB rate expectations are diverging – and whether markets are mispricing the path ahead. Plus, a look at the evolving outlook for the Fed amid political uncertainty, and what a potential shift in leadership could mean for rates.All wrapped up with the key risks to watch next week, from growth data and central bank signals to supply dynamics and the next phase of geopolitical developments.This episode was recorded on 16 April 2026, and captions are automatically generated.For any terms used please refer to this glossary https://www.natwest.com/corporates/insights/markets/glossary.htmlPlease view our full disclaimer here: https://www.natwest.com/corporates/disclaimer.html
In this week's Bondcast, Imogen Bachra, Ian Vanderhorn, and Oriane Parmentier talk about the delicate ceasefire between the US and Iran and explore the potential impacts on rates markets, inflation forecasts, and central bank policy expectations in the US, the UK, and Europe. This episode was recorded on 9 April 2026.For any terms used please refer to this glossary https://www.natwest.com/corporates/insights/markets/glossary.htmlPlease view our full disclaimer here: https://www.natwest.com/corporates/disclaimer.html
In this week's episode of Bondcast, Head of Economics and Markets Strategy Imogen Bachra shares edited highlights from NatWest's recent client webinar focused on the intersection of geopolitics, economic sentiment and market implications. Joined by Scott Livingstone (NatWest's International Advisor) and Ross Walker (Global Head of Economics) the discussion covers the ongoing Middle East conflict, its economic impact, and how markets and policymakers may respond.Key discussion points:- Current phase of the Middle East conflict and the shift to “Plan B”.- Three potential US strategies: rapid declaration of victory, compelling Iran to a deal, or a prolonged campaign of military pressure.- Key indicators to watch: US force positioning, US-Israel alignment, and the actions of regional actors like the Houthis- Updated growth forecasts and inflation expectations- Bank of England likely to lean towards modest rate hikes in the second half of the year; limited scope for early cuts.- Markets are pricing in potential rate hikes, but the timing may be later than current expectations.- UK gilt markets remain sensitive to fiscal credibility and geopolitical developments.This episode was recorded on 31 March 2026.Remember to hit subscribe so you can listen to the latest episodes in this series as soon as they're available and get our views on the big themes and events moving markets and shaping the economy.For any terms used please refer to this glossary: https://www.natwest.com/corporates/insights/markets/glossary.html Please view our full disclaimer here: https://www.natwest.com/corporates/disclaimer.html
This week's combined episode of Currency Exchange and Bondcast focuses on the ongoing Middle East conflict and its impacts on currency and rates markets. This episode features edited highlights from a client webinar hosted on Tuesday, featuring host Imogen Bachra (Head of Economics and Markets Strategy) and guests Scott Livingstone (International Advisor) and Paul Robson (Co-Head of G10FX Strategy). They discussed: - Management of ammunition and defence resources by regional players.- Political pressure on President Trump to conclude this initial phase swiftly.- Expected continuation of heightened military activity over the next few days.- Monitoring Iranian missile, drone, and maritime operations, including possible threats to the Strait of Hormuz.- Indicators for de-escalation: signs of pragmatic politics or regional diplomatic intervention.- Importance of maritime security in global energy markets.- Currency markets responding as expected: dollar strength sterling resilience in cross-currency pairs.- Volatility in bond markets reflecting both safe-haven demand and concerns over defence spending and future inflation.- Key market drivers to watch.This episode was recorded on 3 March 2026.For any terms used please refer to this glossary: https://www.natwest.com/corporates/insights/markets/glossary.htmlPlease view our full disclaimer here: https://www.natwest.com/corporates/disclaimer.html
In this crossover episode of Bondcast and its sister show Currency Exchange, host Brian Daingerfield is joined by Ian Vanderhorn to explore the recent Supreme Court decision on US tariffs, its implications for FX and rates market dynamics, and the future of tariff policy. This episode was recorded on 25 February 2026.Remember to hit subscribe so you can listen to the latest episodes in this series as soon as they're available and get our views on the big themes and events moving markets and shaping the economy.For any terms used please refer to this glossary: https://www.natwest.com/corporates/insights/markets/glossary.htmlPlease view our full disclaimer here: https://www.natwest.com/corporates/disclaimer.html
In this episode of Bondcast, Ian Vanderhorn and market specialists Paul Robson and Oriane Parmentier discuss the passing week's developments in rates markets. In the UK, there was a sizeable amount of data to process, most notably on inflation. But how is the market reacting? Elsewhere, they discuss rising tensions off the coast of Iran, the price of oil and French bond market resilience.Remember to hit subscribe so you can listen to the latest episodes in this series as soon as they're available and get our views on the big themes and events moving markets and shaping the economy.This episode was recorded on 19 February 2026, and captions are automatically generated.For any terms used please refer to this glossary https://www.natwest.com/corporates/insights/markets/glossary.htmlPlease view our full disclaimer here: https://www.natwest.com/corporates/disclaimer.html
In this episode of Bondcast, Ian Vanderhorn and market specialists Paul Robson and Oriane Parmentier discuss the latest developments in rates markets. They focus on political uncertainties in the UK, the implications of recent job market reports in the US and the Euro area's supply situation.You can also find this episode of Bondcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Remember to hit subscribe so you can listen to the latest episodes in this series as soon as they're available and get our views on the big themes and events moving markets and shaping the economy.This episode was recorded on 12 February 2026, and captions are automatically generated.For any terms used please refer to this glossary https://www.natwest.com/corporates/insights/markets/glossary.htmlPlease view our full disclaimer here: https://www.natwest.com/corporates/disclaimer.html
In this week's Bondcast, Ian Vanderhorn is joined by Oriane Parmentier and Paul Robson to discuss policy updates in the US, the UK and Europe. The Bondcasters kick off this week's podcast with a review of the Bank of England's ‘dovish hold' on 5 February and take a closer look at the drivers behind recent upward drift in yields.The ECB followed the Bank of England with a rate hold of its own this week – and Oriane digs into what this could mean for the trajectory for rates in the months ahead.Finally, Ian discusses the latest news out of the Fed: Kevin Warsh's appointment as the new Fed Chair to replace Jerome Powell once his term concludes in May. Will Warsh's past views of Fed's mandate, and the way it uses its balance sheet, affect the trajectory for rates later this year and beyond? Tune in to find out.You can also find this episode of Bondcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Remember to hit subscribe so you can listen to the latest episodes in this series as soon as they're available and get our views on the big themes and events moving markets and shaping the economy.This episode was recorded on 5 February 2026, and captions are automatically generated.For any terms used please refer to this glossary https://www.natwest.com/corporates/insights/markets/glossary.htmlPlease view our full disclaimer here: https://www.natwest.com/corporates/disclaimer.html
In this week's Bondcast, Joann Spadigam is joined by Stuart Sparks and Paul Robson to discuss policy updates in the US, the UK and Europe. Following a much-predicted 25 basis point cut by the Fed, there is still plenty to ponder on US monetary policy going into 2026. And with the Bank of England expected to also cut rates in December, how matched are the two monetary cycles? In Europe, of course, the story is quite different: a glut of supply and rumblings of a rate hike. Remember to hit subscribe so you can listen to the latest episodes in this series as soon as they're available and get our views on the big themes and events moving markets and shaping the economy.This episode was recorded on 11 December 2025, and captions are automatically generated.For any terms used please refer to this glossary https://www.natwest.com/corporates/insights/markets/glossary.htmlPlease view our full disclaimer here: https://www.natwest.com/corporates/disclaimer.html
In this special edition of Bondcast, host Tim Phillips is joined by Paul Robson, Joann Spadigam and Stuart Sparks to ask what lies ahead in bond markets in 2026 – a year where the focus will be squarely on the Federal Reserve. They explore the challenges of elevated sovereign issuance, shifting bond demand, and the global repercussions of fiscal and monetary policy – looking at the UK, the US and Europe in the process. What might steepen curves, and what indicators should we monitor in 2026? Finally, the panellists each share their bond superhero names from the Agents of Yield universe...Remember to hit subscribe so you can listen to the latest episodes in this series as soon as they're available and get our views on the big themes and events moving markets and shaping the economy.To access all the content from our Year Ahead 2026 report, visit natwest.com/yearahead This episode was recorded on 12 November 2025.For any terms used please refer to this glossary https://www.natwest.com/corporates/insights/markets/glossary.htmlPlease view our full disclaimer here: https://www.natwest.com/corporates/disclaimer.html
In this week's Bondcast, Joann Spadigam is joined by Deepika Dayal and Paul Robson to discuss the outlook for next week's interest rate decision from the Bank of England, as well as the implications of fiscal policy on the UK's monetary stance. They alsoshare insights from the recent Federal Reserve meeting, which delivered a cut, and the European Central Bank's decision to hold rates.Remember to hit subscribe so you can listen to the latest episodes in this series as soon as they're available and get our views on the big themes and events moving markets and shaping the economy.This episode was recorded on 30 October 2025, and captions are automatically generated. For any terms used please refer to this glossary https://www.natwest.com/corporates/insights/markets/glossary.htmlPlease view our full disclaimer here: https://www.natwest.com/corporates/disclaimer.html
In this week's Bondcast, host Joann Spadigam is joined by Paul Robson and Ian Vanderdorn to discuss rates markets. They analyse the UK's latest inflation figures and prospects for base rate cuts, the Federal Reserve's monetary policy stance during government shutdown, and Europe, where inflation is at target, but France's credit rating has taken a knock.Remember to hit subscribe so you can listen to the latest episodes in this series as soon as they're available and get our views on the big themes and events moving markets and shaping the economy.This episode was recorded on 23 October 2025, and captions are automatically generated.For any terms used please refer to this glossary https://www.natwest.com/corporates/insights/markets/glossary.htmlPlease view our full disclaimer here: https://www.natwest.com/corporates/disclaimer.html
In this episode of Bondcast, host Ian Vanderhorn and guests discuss recent monetary policy decisions made by the Bank of England (BoE) and the Federal Reserve. And while the policy rates delivered few surprises, there is still much for markets to think about. Paul Robson provides insights into the BoE's interest rate hold and the adjustments in quantitative tightening, while Ian analyses the Fed's recent rate cut, its forward guidance, and whether markets are in line. Finally, Oriane Parmentier concludes with an update on the German DMO's funding strategy and its impact on market dynamics.Remember to hit subscribe so you can listen to the latest episodes in this series as soon as they're available and get our views on the big themes and events moving markets and shaping the economy.This episode was recorded on 18 September 2025, and captions are automatically generated.For any terms used please refer to this glossary https://www.natwest.com/corporates/insights/markets/glossary.htmlPlease view our full disclaimer here: https://www.natwest.com/corporates/disclaimer.html
As the Bondcast team returns from summer, they discuss recent movements in rates markets, focusing on fiscal concerns in the UK, expectations for the upcoming Autumn Budget, the outlook for the US economy and Federal Reserve policy, political risks in France, and expectations for the European Central Bank's next meeting. To read Oriane's take on French political risk, click https://www.natwest.com/corporates/insights/markets/political-standoff-in-france-scenarios-and-market-implications.html Remember to hit subscribe so you can listen to the latest episodes in this series as soon as they're available and get our views on the big themes and events moving markets and shaping the economy.This episode was recorded on 4 September 2025, and captions are automatically generated. For any terms used please refer to our glossary:https://www.natwest.com/corporates/insights/markets/glossary.htmlPlease view our full disclaimer here:https://www.natwest.com/corporates/disclaimer.html
In this episode of Bondcast, Joann Spadigam and Stuart Sparks discuss the current state of tariffs and trade deals, particularly in relation to the US and Europe. Might markets be underestimating recent developments? They also analyse why US monetary policy and fiscal policy need to find an equilibrium, and explore the impact of demographic changes on debt sustainability. The discussion also covers the outlook for European markets amid global fiscal pressures and the potential for inflationary trends to complicate the picture.Remember to hit subscribe so you can listen to the latest episodes in this series as soon as they're available and get our views on the big themes and events moving markets and shaping the economy.This episode was recorded on 10 July 2025.For any terms used please refer to this glossary https://www.natwest.com/corporates/insights/markets/glossary.htmlPlease view our full disclaimer here: https://www.natwest.com/corporates/disclaimer.html
In this crossover episode of Bondcast and Currency Exchange, Imogen Bachra is joined by Brian Daingerfield and Oriane Parmentier to discuss all things tariffs, and the political situation in France. It's not just markets that are surrounded by uncertainty. How the Fed will dictate interest rates now seems less clear than it did just a few weeks ago, owing to likely higher inflation alongside weaker growth expectations. In France meanwhile, will Marine Le Pen's criminal conviction lead to a crisis?Remember to hit subscribe so you can listen to the latest episodes in this series as soon as they're available and get our views on the big themes and events moving markets and shaping the economy.This episode was recorded on 3 April 2025.For any terms used please refer to this glossary https://www.natwest.com/corporates/insights/markets/glossary.htmlPlease view our full disclaimer here: https://www.natwest.com/corporates/disclaimer.html
Saudações espiãs, ouvinte radiofobético! Você sabe o que smokings, pistolas Walther PPK, mulheres bonitas, Aston Martins, canetas explosivas e Vésper Martinis (batidos, não mexidos...) tem em comum, certo? O agente secreto do MI-6 chamado Bond, James Bond, também conhecido pelo seu código 007, é claro! Criado pelo escritor inglês Ian Fleming em 1953, esse enigmático e sedutor espião da ficção já foi interpretado por 7 atores diferentes ao longo dos 27 filmes em que foi retratado. Neste episódio Leo Lopes, Victor Estácio, Sandro Hojo e Júlio Macoggi recebem os amigos Sergio Vasconcelos e Giuzão Chagas para esse crossover cheio de ação e mistério com o Bondcast - o podcast sobre James Bond, cinema, cultura pop e muito mais!! Não deixe de interagir com a gente nas redes sociais, dar seu feedback sobre o papo e sugerir temas e convidados para as próximas edições do nosso podcast, além de deixar seu comentário no post, ok? Você também pode agora mandar sua cartinha para a Caixa Postal 279 - CEP 13930-970 - Serra Negra - SP, e seu e-mail para podcast@radiofobia.com.br! Arte do episódio: Sandro Hojo Links do episódio:- Bondcast 127 – Bond à Brasileira: Uma aventura no Natal (demais episódios da série no link da postagem)- Ouça o Tokucast Links citados nas Cartinhas do Totô:- Podcast Store - a nova loja da podosfera brasileira- Instituto Amargen- siga @ocursodepodcast no Instagram- clique para assinar e ouvir o podcast Acepipes e Birinaites Links que indicamos sempre:- Ouça o podcast "Reflexões sobre o Podcast"- Ouça o podcast "O Mistério da Fazenda Vita"- Acesse o novo site e ouça a RÁDIO 24h NO AR do Rádiofobia Classics!- assine o canal do Curso de Podcast no YouTube- participe do grupo do Curso de Podcast no Telegram- participe do grupo de produtores, apresentadores e ouvintes dos podcasts da Rádiofobia Podcast Network no Telegram- assine o canal da Rádiofobia Podcast Network no YouTube!- assine o canal da Rádiofobia Podcast Network no Twitch!- Rádiofobia Podcast Network no Apple Podcasts- Rádiofobia Podcast Network no Spotify- Siga @radiofobialhes no tuVítter- Curta a página do Radiofobia Podcast no Facebook Ouça o Rádiofobia Podcast nos principais agregadores:- Spotify- Google Podcasts- Apple Podcasts- Amazon Music- PocketCasts Publicidade:Entre em contato e saiba como anunciar sua marca, produto ou serviço em nossos podcasts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Saudações espiãs, ouvinte radiofobético! Você sabe o que smokings, pistolas Walther PPK, mulheres bonitas, Aston Martins, canetas explosivas e Vésper Martinis (batidos, não mexidos...) tem em comum, certo? O agente secreto do MI-6 chamado Bond, James Bond, também conhecido pelo seu código 007, é claro! Criado pelo escritor inglês Ian Fleming em 1953, esse enigmático e sedutor espião da ficção já foi interpretado por 7 atores diferentes ao longo dos 27 filmes em que foi retratado. Neste episódio Leo Lopes, Victor Estácio, Sandro Hojo e Júlio Macoggi recebem os amigos Sergio Vasconcelos e Giuzão Chagas para esse crossover cheio de ação e mistério com o Bondcast - o podcast sobre James Bond, cinema, cultura pop e muito mais!! Não deixe de interagir com a gente nas redes sociais, dar seu feedback sobre o papo e sugerir temas e convidados para as próximas edições do nosso podcast, além de deixar seu comentário no post, ok? Você também pode agora mandar sua cartinha para a Caixa Postal 279 - CEP 13930-970 - Serra Negra - SP, e seu e-mail para podcast@radiofobia.com.br! Arte do episódio: Sandro Hojo Links do episódio:- Bondcast 127 – Bond à Brasileira: Uma aventura no Natal (demais episódios da série no link da postagem)- Ouça o Tokucast Links citados nas Cartinhas do Totô:- Podcast Store - a nova loja da podosfera brasileira- Instituto Amargen- siga @ocursodepodcast no Instagram- clique para assinar e ouvir o podcast Acepipes e Birinaites Links que indicamos sempre:- Ouça o podcast "Reflexões sobre o Podcast"- Ouça o podcast "O Mistério da Fazenda Vita"- Acesse o novo site e ouça a RÁDIO 24h NO AR do Rádiofobia Classics!- assine o canal do Curso de Podcast no YouTube- participe do grupo do Curso de Podcast no Telegram- participe do grupo de produtores, apresentadores e ouvintes dos podcasts da Rádiofobia Podcast Network no Telegram- assine o canal da Rádiofobia Podcast Network no YouTube!- assine o canal da Rádiofobia Podcast Network no Twitch!- Rádiofobia Podcast Network no Apple Podcasts- Rádiofobia Podcast Network no Spotify- Siga @radiofobialhes no tuVítter- Curta a página do Radiofobia Podcast no Facebook Ouça o Rádiofobia Podcast nos principais agregadores:- Spotify- Google Podcasts- Apple Podcasts- Amazon Music- PocketCasts Publicidade:Entre em contato e saiba como anunciar sua marca, produto ou serviço em nossos podcasts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Get the book, The Antiracist School Leader: What to Know, Say, and Do Visit the BONDCast website Follow Daman on X @daman_harris About the Author Daman Harris, PhD has been a public educator for a quarter of a century, currently serving as the manager of higher education partnerships for a school district in Maryland. Dr. Harris is also the cofounder and coleader of the Building Our Network of Diversity (BOND) Project, a nonprofit organization dedicated to making schools better places through supporting efforts to recruit, retain, develop, and empower men of color in education. He hosts BOND's podcast, the BONDCast, which features Black and Latino male educators and uses long-form interviews to discuss how they became educators and what drives them to continue. He teaches at McDaniel College and the University of Maryland at College Park, and presents and consults around the country on strategies to acquire and maintain a diverse teaching workforce. He's the author of The Antiracist School Leader: What to Know, Say, and Do. This episode of Principal Center Radio is sponsored by IXL, the most widely used online learning and teaching platform for K-12. Discover the power of data-driven instruction in your school with IXL—it gives you everything you need to maximize learning, from a comprehensive curriculum to meaningful school-wide data. Visit IXL.com/center to lead your school towards data-driven excellence today.
A new year! A new actor! A new era! BondCast is back with our latest review of James Bond's 007 in "Goldeneye". We look at the debut of Pierce Brosnan in the role of London's most famous secret agent. We talk about our initial reactions to Pierce along with how he made the role his own. We also discuss the Bond Girls: Natalya Simonova and Xenia Onatopp, the villainous 006 - Akec Trevelyan, and the debut of a new M, Judi Dench. Plus, the music, stunts, vehicles, gadgets and more!
We're back to review the soundtrack to the sixteenth film in EON's James Bond series and the final to feature Timothy Dalton. John Barry is no longer the composer for the series making this the one and only time Michael Kamen assumed the role. Laird Malamed returns to BondCast to guide us through the soundtrack with trivia, behind-the-scenes info and more.
Welcome, James. It's been a long time... and, finally, here we are. What took you so long?
A gun and a radio. It's not exactly Christmas, is it?
In this episode, we are joined by Hardi Shah, who at the time of this recording served as the Deputy CFO of IndyGo, also known as the Indianapolis Public Transportation Corporation, the major public transit agency and municipal corporation of the City of Indianapolis. Since the recording of this podcast, Hardi has transitioned to a new position as Chief Financial Officer at Engaging Solutions a firm created to help governmental agencies and private businesses with complex solutions. In this podcast episode, Hardi shares here experiences with: • Starting from the bottom after a 10-year professional career • Navigating COVID in an industry built on putting unrelated people into the same enclosed space • Approaching work with a #howmightwe attitude • Infusing mission into every role, at every level • Navigating difficult conversations about sticky subjects in the hardest of times (Covid) • Her philosophy that “no work is small work”
Last Fall marked the end of an era for the James Bond movie franchise! Daniel Craig played the 007 British secret agent for the last time on film in “No Time To Die!” And despite what happened during that movie, the end credits assured fans, “James Bond will return!” But who will be the latest to take on one of the most iconic roles in Hollywood history? That's just one topic discussed by the James Bond super fan panel including Brad Gilmore (host of the “Back From The Future” podcast and author of the new book, “Bond, James Bond: Exploring the Shaken And Stirred History of Ian Fleming's 007”), Michael Boyd (scholarly writer of all things Ian Fleming and James Bond), and TIJ alum Don Callis! The foursome breakdown the 60-year history of the James Bond movie franchise. They analyze who played Bond best (Sean Connery, George Lazenby, Roger Moore, Timothy Dalton, Pierce Brosnan, and Daniel Craig). They talk about the Bond girls, the Bond villains, the Bond theme songs, the many gadgets and cars, and the surrounding cast of characters. They also get into the campiness of the early movies, the pop culture references and mimicry, and they share tons of trivia and behind-the-scenes stories from franchise. Plus, they speak to the evolution of the Bond character, the scripts, and they share their favorite Bond films including a combined Top 10 List!
In this episode, we are joined by Tim Berry, Managing Director in the consulting group at Crowe LLP, serving public sector clients. He specializes in providing financing expertise to government organizations. Tim has more than 20 years of financial experience in state and local governments, including work as a Mayoral Assistant, County Treasurer, Treasurer of State, Auditor of State, and State Chairman
Height: six foot two and a half. 184 pounds. Trophies for karate and judo, holder of the Kama Sutra black belt.
Exciting. Unpredictable. Controversial. These are just a few terms to describe NO TIME TO DIE. We still have much to say about Daniel Craig's final outing as 007 and this time, we are unleashing all of our agents. For the first time ever, all 4 of the BondCast hosts, including Laird, have gathered at the roundtable for wide-ranging discussion. We talk about the whole film and whether or not "James Bond Will Return".
Hans Zimmer's first-ever James Bond soundtrack is here and BondCast is back to provide a full review. We listen to tracks and break down all the action, including the Billie Eilish title track. Plus, we reveal the all the audio easter eggs that tie this soundtrack back to On Her Majesty's Secret Service and more.