Business Costs Surging Amid Iran War, Says JPMorgan Strategist
Original Report
Business activity in the euro area unexpectedly shrank for the first time since late 2024 due to a steep drop in the services sector as the Iran war weighs on consumers. The Composite PMI compiled by...
Business activity in the euro area unexpectedly shrank for the first time since late 2024 due to a steep drop in the services sector as the Iran war weighs on consumers. The Composite PMI compiled by S&P Global declined to 48.6 in April from 50.7 the previous month, dropping below the 50 threshold separating growth from contraction. In the UK PMI data showed that the private sector quickly bounced back from a slowdown caused by the Iran war as firms rushing to secure supplies and price pressures mounting. Hugh Gimber, Global Market Strategist, JP Morgan joined Stephen Carroll on Bloomberg Radio to discuss. he says business costs are 'rising sharply.' (Source: Bloomberg)
Glass House Analysis
International economic policy has concrete impacts far beyond diplomatic circles. Tariffs show up in the price of goods at stores, supply chain disruptions affect whether products are on shelves, and trade tensions can mean job losses in export-dependent industries. The globalized economy means that decisions made abroad can affect workers and consumers domestically.
Inflation is the silent tax that erodes purchasing power, hitting hardest those who can least afford it. When grocery bills rise faster than wages, families face impossible choices between food, medicine, and rent. Unlike market volatility that mainly affects investors, inflation touches everyone who buys groceries, fills a gas tank, or pays rent.
The implications extend beyond the immediate news cycle. Every economic development creates ripples that affect employment, prices, and opportunities in ways that may not be immediately visible but are deeply felt. By tracking these connections, we can better understand how the economy truly works—not as an abstract machine, but as a human system shaped by and shaping the lives of millions.
Enjoyed this analysis?
Get the Glass House Briefing every morning—market news that actually makes sense, delivered free to your inbox.
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
More Stories
Before dipping into your 401(k) for emergency cash, consider these costs
Here’s what you need to know before taking money from your 401(k) or getting a 401(k) loan