German Business Outlook Unexpectedly Slips, Clouding Rebound

Forex

Economic

Summary:

German business confidence unexpectedly dipped in November, a fresh sign of the challenge to overcome stagnation even as the government ramps up spending.

An expectations index by the Ifo institute dropped to 90.6 in November from 91.6 the previous month, a release Monday showed. Analysts in a Bloomberg survey had predicted an unchanged reading. A measure of existing conditions edged higher.

"Companies assessed their current situation as somewhat more positive," Ifo President Clemens Fuest said. "They have little faith that a recovery is coming anytime soon," however, with the outlook among manufacturers taking a "significant hit."

The data underscore doubts about the government's plan to restore growth by investing in infrastructure and defense. While the Bundesbank and most other forecasters expect output to expand in the fourth quarter after a volatile 2025, some have recently scaled back their predictions.

Chancellor Friedrich Merz's economic advisers this month lowered their growth forecast for next year to less than 1%, while warning that the government must ensure outlays are targeted at additional and productive investments. Otherwise, the chance to address deep-seated challenges and restore longer-term growth could be squandered, they said.

Business surveys by S&P Global released last week showed business activity continued to grow in November, but at a slower pace than in the previous month. Manufacturing suffered a particular setback as new orders fell sharply.

The European Commission still said last week that it expects Germany to end its long period of stagnation next year. While US tariffs and global uncertainty will continue to pressure exporters, the economy should benefit from higher investments and private consumption next year, it said.

Source: Bloomberg Europe

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Forex

Best Trading Platform for Beginners to Pros [2025]_1

In 2025, choosing the best trading platform is no longer just about low fees. Beginners and professional traders now look for speed, safety, smart tools, and easy access to global markets. This guide helps you understand what truly defines the best trading platform, compare key features, and select an option that matches your trading style, risk level, and long-term investment goals.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Trading Platform

Finding the best trading platform is not just about popularity. It should match your experience level, trading style, and the markets you want to access. While some traders focus on stocks and ETFs, others look for the best crypto trading platform or broader access to cryptocurrencies.

Fees and spreads: Look beyond “zero commission” and check hidden costs.
Asset availability: Stocks, forex, ETFs, and cryptocurrency access matter.
Platform stability: Smooth execution during high volatility is critical.
Security & regulation: Strong licensing protects your funds.
Ease of use: A clean layout is essential for beginners.

Factor	Why It Matters
Fees	Directly affect long-term profitability
Market Access	Allows flexibility across different assets
Security	Protects user funds and personal data

Best Trading Platforms for Beginners

For new traders, the best trading platform should be simple, low-risk, and supportive. Many best online trading platforms focus on easy navigation and guided learning to help users start confidently.

Best Overall for Beginners – eToro

User-friendly interface with intuitive navigation
Copy trading features for guided learning
Access to stocks, ETFs, and crypto assets

eToro is often chosen by beginners who want a balance between ease of use and exposure to multiple markets.

Best for Paper Trading – Webull

Webull offers a realistic paper trading environment that allows new users to test strategies without risking real money. This makes it ideal for practising market entry and exit timing.

Simulated trading with real-time data
Good for strategy testing
Smooth transition to live trading

Best Mobile App for Beginners – Robinhood

Simple order placement
Clean mobile interface
Low barrier to entry

Robinhood is designed for ease and convenience, making it appealing to users who trade mainly through smartphones.

Best Trading Platforms for Intermediate Traders

Intermediate traders move beyond basics and focus on execution quality, analysis tools, and cost efficiency. At this stage, traders may also explore the best trading platform cryptocurrency for broader diversification.

Best for Active Trading – Plus500

Fast execution and real-time pricing
Wide range of CFD instruments
Advanced risk control features

Plus500 is well-suited for traders who place frequent trades and require responsive systems.

Best Research Tools – TD Ameritrade (thinkorswim)

Advanced charting and technical analysis
Integrated research insights
Strong market scanning tools

thinkorswim stands out for traders who rely heavily on data-driven decisions and deep market research.

Best for Options Trading – tastytrade

Feature	Benefit
Options strategy tools	Improves trade planning accuracy
Custom analytics	Detailed performance insights
Clear fee structure	Better cost visibility

tastytrade is popular among traders seeking structured options trading with predictable costs and strong analytics.

Best Trading Platforms for Advanced Traders

Advanced traders prioritize precision, speed, and deep market control. At this level, the best trading platform is one that supports complex strategies, large trade volumes, and access to global instruments, including advanced crypto markets.

Best for Day Trading – Interactive Brokers

Direct market access with ultra-fast execution
Professional-grade trading interface
Wide support for stocks, futures, forex, and crypto-related products

Interactive Brokers is widely recognised among professionals who need tight spreads, real-time data, and stable performance under high trading pressure, making it one of the most trusted best online trading platforms.

Best Margin Rates – DEGIRO

Margin Feature	Trader Advantage
Low interest rates	Reduces leverage cost
Simple pricing model	Clear cost structure
Flexible account tiers	Adaptable risk control

DEGIRO appeals to traders who actively use leverage and seek lower borrowing costs without sacrificing platform reliability.

Best for International Trading – Saxo Bank

Access to over 50 global exchanges
Multi-currency account support
Advanced risk management tools

Saxo Bank is often chosen by those managing international portfolios or searching for the best trading platform cryptocurrency for diversified global exposure.

How to Choose the Best Trading Platform for You

With so many platforms available, finding the best trading platform requires a clear and structured approach. Your decision should be based on how you trade, what you trade, and how much you’re willing to pay for access and performance.

Step 1: Assess Your Trading Style

Day trading, swing trading, or long-term investing
Manual strategies vs automated systems
Interest in stocks, forex, or best trading platform crypto options

Step 2: Calculate True Costs

Many traders focus only on commissions, but real costs go far beyond that.

Cost Type	What to Review
Trading fees	Per trade or spread-based pricing
Funding costs	Overnight or margin interest
Conversion fees	Costs for multi-currency trading

Step 3: Test the Platform

Use demo or paper trading before funding
Check order execution speed
Explore charts, tools, and navigation flow

Testing helps confirm whether a platform truly fits your trading habits, whether you are aiming for equities, forex, or the best cryptocurrency trading platform experience.

FAQs about Best Trading Platform

1. Which is the most legit trading platform?

Legit platforms are regulated by authorities like FCA, ASIC, or SEC and show clear licensing, transparent fees, and strong user reviews.

2. Which is the safest platform for trading?

The safest platforms use fund segregation, encryption, and strict compliance rules to protect user assets.

3. Can I make $1000 per day from trading?

It is possible but very hard for most traders and usually requires large capital and high risk.

Conclusion

Choosing the best trading platform depends on your experience, goals, and risk tolerance. Beginners should focus on simplicity and safety, while advanced traders need speed and deep market access. By comparing fees, features, and real performance, you can find a best trading platform that supports steady growth and smarter long-term trading decisions.

Risk Warnings and Disclaimers

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Gerik

Economic

EU Calls for Progress on U.S. Tariffs Under Trade Deal

European Union ministers are set to push U.S. officials to apply more measures from the EU-U.S. trade agreement signed in July. The main focus will be on reducing U.S. tariffs on EU steel and removing tariffs on European goods like wine and spirits. U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer are visiting Brussels for the first time since taking office, where they will meet with EU ministers to discuss these ongoing issues.

Under the July trade deal, the U.S. imposed 15% tariffs on most EU goods, while the EU agreed to remove tariffs on many U.S. imports. However, the full implementation of these agreements may not occur until March or April, as they require approval from the European Parliament and EU governments. This delay has frustrated Washington, which is pushing for more rapid progress.

Steel and Aluminum Tariffs Remain a Key Issue

A major point of contention remains the U.S. tariffs on steel and aluminum, which have been imposed on a broad range of metal products, including derivatives like motorcycles and refrigerators. These tariffs were extended to 407 derivative products in mid-August, and more could be added in the coming months. EU diplomats have expressed concerns that new tariffs on products such as trucks, critical minerals, and wind turbines could undermine the progress made in the trade deal, potentially leading to a breakdown in negotiations.

“We're at a delicate moment,” one EU diplomat remarked, pointing to the ongoing tension with the U.S. over steel and other unresolved matters in the trade agreement. The EU is eager to see more tangible results, especially in the areas of tariffs on steel and aluminum, which remain a central issue for European manufacturers.

Wider Tariff Reduction and Regulatory Cooperation

In addition to steel tariffs, the EU is pushing for broader reductions in U.S. tariffs on a range of its products, including wine, spirits, olives, and pasta. The bloc aims for these products to be subject only to low pre-Trump duties, ensuring that the agreement benefits a wide range of European exports.

Furthermore, the EU is ready to discuss deeper regulatory cooperation with the U.S. in areas like car manufacturing, energy procurement, and economic security, particularly in response to Chinese export controls. This would represent a broader effort to align the two economies on key issues of mutual concern.

As the EU and U.S. continue their trade negotiations, the focus remains on resolving outstanding tariff issues, particularly on steel and other metals. While progress has been made, the EU is pressing for quicker implementation of agreed measures, including tariff reductions on a broader range of products. These discussions will be critical for ensuring the success of the July trade deal and fostering stronger economic cooperation between the two blocs in the face of global challenges.

Source: Reuters

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Risk Warnings and Disclaimers

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Gerik

Stocks

Economic

AI as a Game Changer for UK Productivity

The rollout of artificial intelligence (AI) is raising hopes that the UK can overcome its long-standing productivity problem, which has hindered economic growth for nearly two decades. At firms like Moore Kingston Smith, AI has already made a noticeable impact, with processes that previously took weeks now completed in hours. This has led to improved profit margins and better client service, as the AI-driven automation frees up employees from repetitive tasks.

In sectors like accountancy, finance, and law, where services dominate the UK economy, AI is poised to deliver significant efficiency gains. The service sector, which makes up 80% of the UK’s economy, is particularly well-positioned to benefit, as it mirrors the structure of the U.S. economy, where AI adoption could yield even higher rewards.

AI's Role in Economic Recovery Amid Fiscal Strain

The UK government faces growing fiscal challenges, with the economy's underlying growth potential expected to be downgraded, leading to concerns over public finances. As Finance Minister Rachel Reeves prepares to announce her budget, there are speculations about potential tax hikes to balance the books. Amid this backdrop, AI could be a key tool for boosting productivity and supporting long-term economic growth.

However, AI’s full impact on the economy remains uncertain. While short-term productivity improvements are visible in companies like Moore Kingston Smith, broader, more widespread economic benefits are expected to unfold gradually. The University of Manchester's Bart van Ark predicts that AI could add 0.1 to 0.2 percentage points to annual UK growth in the near term, helping to address stagnation.

Opportunities and Risks in Manufacturing and Labour Markets

While AI is making significant strides in services, its impact on manufacturing remains less clear. Companies like Amtico are using AI to plan production, but many manufacturers continue to face high costs, and the next phase of investment will likely focus on robotics rather than AI alone.

Additionally, AI’s growing presence in the workforce raises questions about its impact on jobs. A survey from the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development revealed that 17% of private sector employers expect to reduce their workforce due to AI adoption, while only 6% plan to hire more workers. Some companies, like Moore Kingston Smith, are adjusting hiring strategies to ensure staff adapt to new technologies, but concerns over potential job losses linger.

AI and the Changing Landscape of Business Investment

Despite the challenges, the UK’s more hands-off approach to regulation and labour laws makes it a prime candidate for faster AI adoption compared to other European economies. Improved productivity in high-value sectors is already visible, with business earnings showing signs of growth. However, there are risks that AI’s benefits may flow disproportionately to larger firms with greater resources, potentially exacerbating regional and economic imbalances.

The regulatory environment remains a key concern for businesses in sectors like accountancy, where the rapid pace of technological change is outstripping existing rules. Esther Mallowah from the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales highlighted the difficulty businesses face in adapting to the rapidly evolving regulatory landscape around AI.

AI is offering the UK a promising path toward improving productivity, particularly in the services sector, where it could help drive economic growth and job creation in the long term. However, significant challenges remain, including the potential impact on jobs and the regulatory hurdles that could slow progress in sectors like accountancy. As AI continues to evolve, it will be critical for the UK to strike a balance between fostering innovation and ensuring that the benefits of AI are widely shared across the economy.

Source: Reuters

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Gerik

Economic

U.S. Companies Maintain Strong Presence at COP30

At the COP30 summit in Brazil, U.S. companies demonstrated their continued commitment to addressing climate change, despite the federal government's cooling stance on global climate policies. A record 60 representatives from Fortune 100 companies attended the conference, reflecting a robust engagement with the ongoing climate dialogue. This marks an increase from 50 attendees at last year’s COP event in Baku, Azerbaijan.

Key American companies such as Microsoft, Google, Occidental Petroleum, General Motors, and Citigroup were present, underscoring the significant role that the private sector plays in global climate policy. Andrew Wilson from the International Chamber of Commerce noted that there has been no notable reduction in U.S. corporate involvement in climate matters, highlighting growing industry concerns about the escalating costs of extreme weather events and the need for effective policy responses.

The Business Case for Climate Engagement

For many U.S. companies, involvement in climate discussions is seen as essential to ensuring long-term business stability. PepsiCo’s Chief Sustainability Officer, Jim Andrew, explained that the company’s engagement in climate action helps create supply security, particularly as the company relies heavily on agriculture. Similarly, ExxonMobil’s CEO, Darren Woods, emphasized the importance of private sector participation, especially as federal actions alone are unlikely to drive sufficient emissions reductions.

The private sector’s contributions to clean energy are notable. Gina McCarthy, former U.S. EPA administrator, highlighted the rapid expansion of clean energy jobs, which are growing three times faster than the rest of the U.S. workforce. Companies are increasingly adopting clean energy solutions, even without federal mandates, a trend that is essential to meeting global emissions targets.

Sub-national and Private Sector Leadership in Climate Action

While President Trump has downplayed the threat of climate change, U.S. businesses and sub-national leaders continue to push forward on the climate agenda. The growing number of companies disclosing climate strategies despite the U.S. government retracting plans for a federal climate disclosure rule demonstrates that the private sector recognizes the importance of addressing climate risks.

Jack Hurd from the World Economic Forum emphasized that, regardless of U.S. federal rhetoric, market trends and policies worldwide are increasingly aligned with the transition to low-carbon energy. This shift is driving investments and shaping global technology pathways, underscoring the importance of U.S. companies engaging in international climate dialogues, even amid domestic political uncertainty.

Impact of U.S. Engagement on Global Climate Policy

U.S. involvement in COP30 and global climate initiatives remains crucial, as the U.S. plays a decisive role in shaping global markets, capital flows, and technological innovation. Maria Mendiluce from the We Mean Business Coalition stressed that, even when domestic politics are unsettled, the U.S. continues to influence global energy and industrial policies. The engagement of U.S. companies at COP30 sends a powerful signal to investors that the world’s largest economy acknowledges the importance of the energy transition and is committed to maintaining competitiveness and security in the face of climate challenges.

Despite the challenges posed by political leadership changes, U.S. companies continue to be key players in the global climate discussion. Their involvement at COP30 highlights their understanding of the long-term economic and environmental stakes, reinforcing the importance of corporate action in driving forward the global energy transition.

Source: Reuters

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Justin

Stocks

Economic

Bayer's experimental stroke drug could generate €3 billion in annual sales after successful trial results that Goldman Sachs analyst James Quigley called "transformational" for the German pharmaceutical company's business.

Shares of the company were up 8.9% at 03:20 ET (08:20 GMT).

The drugmaker announced on Sunday that asundexian met its primary goals in the OCEANIC-STROKE trial, significantly reducing the risk of repeat strokes without increasing major bleeding rates compared to a placebo.

Both treatments were given alongside standard antiplatelet therapy in more than 12,300 patients who had previously experienced a non-cardioembolic ischemic stroke or high-risk transient ischemic attack.

Quigley said removing the risk adjustment from his valuation model leads to a roughly 13% increase in his discounted cash flow analysis.

He noted this positive result is the first of two developments that could help narrow the gap between Bayer's current share price and the value of its business units.

The second event, a potential recommendation from the solicitor general on a glyphosate legal case, is expected in the coming weeks.

The trial addresses a significant medical problem. Approximately 12 million people worldwide experience strokes each year, with 20% to 30% being recurrent strokes. One in five stroke survivors will have another stroke within five years.

Stroke ranks as the second leading cause of death globally, and recurrent ischemic strokes tend to be more disabling and carry higher mortality risks than initial strokes.

"Even with currently available therapies, the risk of another stroke remains high, and each recurrence can have profound consequences," said Mike Sharma, the principal investigator from the Population Health Research Institute at McMaster University and director of the Stroke Program at Hamilton Health Sciences in a statement.

Asundexian works by blocking Factor XIa, a protein in the blood coagulation pathway. The Leverkusen-based company said Factor XIa plays a minor role in forming hemostatic plugs that seal vessel injuries but contributes to blood clot growth and vessel blockage.

The drugmaker theorizes asundexian reduces clot formation without significantly increasing major bleeding risk.

Patients in the multicenter, randomized, double-blind trial received either 50 mg of asundexian once daily or a placebo, both combined with antiplatelet therapy.

This marks the first time a drug in the Factor XIa inhibitor class has successfully completed a Phase III study.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration granted asundexian Fast Track Designation as a potential treatment for stroke prevention in patients after a non-cardioembolic ischemic stroke. The compound has not been approved by any health authority for use in any country.

Source: Investing

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Economic

Stocks

European Markets to Open Higher Amid Global Optimism

European stock markets are expected to begin the week on a positive note, in line with the broader global market trend, as investors build on a strong rebound following a recent uptick in global sentiment. The optimism is largely driven by the possibility of a Federal Reserve rate cut in December.

The FTSE 100 index in the U.K. is set to open 0.55% higher, while Germany’s DAX, France’s CAC 40, and Italy’s FTSE MIB are all expected to rise by 0.8%, 0.76%, and 0.72%, respectively, according to data from IG.

Hopes of Fed Rate Cut Fuel Market Optimism

The global rally gained momentum after John Williams, President of the New York Federal Reserve, left the door open for a potential interest rate cut at the Fed’s upcoming meeting on December 9-10. Currently, markets are pricing in a 69.3% probability of a quarter-percentage-point cut, according to the CME FedWatch tool.

The possibility of monetary easing has provided much-needed support to markets that had been struggling with concerns over sky-high valuations of artificial intelligence-linked tech stocks, which have driven much of the market’s gains in 2025.

U.K. Investors Prepare for Autumn Budget and Tax Hike Speculation

While there are no major data releases or earnings reports scheduled in Europe for Monday, investors in the U.K. are focusing on the upcoming Autumn Budget, due Wednesday. Speculation is rising around potential tax hikes, as British Finance Minister Rachel Reeves seeks to balance the budget in the face of economic challenges.

Geopolitical risks continue to shape investor sentiment, with ongoing discussions between the U.S. and Ukraine about a peace plan to resolve the war in Ukraine. The U.S. announced progress over the weekend in talks that involved U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, but no final agreement was reached on security guarantees for Ukraine. These talks remain a key focal point for investors watching the broader global political landscape.

As European markets prepare to start the week on a positive note, the renewed optimism from potential Fed rate cuts and stability in global markets provide a supportive backdrop for investor sentiment. However, ongoing geopolitical developments and the U.K.'s budgetary decisions will remain key areas of focus for market participants.

Source: CNBC

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German Business Outlook Unexpectedly Slips, Clouding Rebound

Source: Bloomberg Europe

Best Trading Platform for Beginners to Pros [2025]

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Trading Platform

Best Trading Platforms for Beginners

Best Overall for Beginners – eToro

Best for Paper Trading – Webull

Best Mobile App for Beginners – Robinhood

Best Trading Platforms for Intermediate Traders

Best for Active Trading – Plus500

Best Research Tools – TD Ameritrade (thinkorswim)

Best for Options Trading – tastytrade

Best Trading Platforms for Advanced Traders

Best for Day Trading – Interactive Brokers

Best Margin Rates – DEGIRO

Best for International Trading – Saxo Bank

How to Choose the Best Trading Platform for You

Step 1: Assess Your Trading Style

Step 2: Calculate True Costs

Step 3: Test the Platform

FAQs about Best Trading Platform

1. Which is the most legit trading platform?

2. Which is the safest platform for trading?

3. Can I make $1000 per day from trading?

Conclusion

EU to Urge U.S. to Enforce More of July Trade Deal, Focus on Steel Tariffs and EU Goods

EU Calls for Progress on U.S. Tariffs Under Trade Deal

Steel and Aluminum Tariffs Remain a Key Issue

Wider Tariff Reduction and Regulatory Cooperation

Source: Reuters

AI Boosts UK Productivity, But Uncertainty Looms Over Long-Term Economic Impact

AI as a Game Changer for UK Productivity

AI's Role in Economic Recovery Amid Fiscal Strain

Opportunities and Risks in Manufacturing and Labour Markets

AI and the Changing Landscape of Business Investment

Source: Reuters

U.S. Companies Remain Committed to Climate Action at COP30, Defying Government Stance

U.S. Companies Maintain Strong Presence at COP30

The Business Case for Climate Engagement

Sub-national and Private Sector Leadership in Climate Action

Impact of U.S. Engagement on Global Climate Policy

Source: Reuters

Bayer Stroke Drug Seen Generating €3 Bln Sales After Trial Success; Stock Up 8%

Source: Investing

European Stocks Poised to Start the Week Higher on Fed Rate Cut Hopes and Global Positivity

European Markets to Open Higher Amid Global Optimism

Hopes of Fed Rate Cut Fuel Market Optimism

U.K. Investors Prepare for Autumn Budget and Tax Hike Speculation

Source: CNBC

Risk Disclosure