Global Markets Brace for Political Shifts and Economic Warnings

Corporate Developments - Nissan Motor is undergoing significant restructuring, including plans to close its Oppama plant in Japan by the end of 2027, with earlier reports indicating potential talks with Taiwan's Foxconn to repurpose the facility for electric vehicle production [4] - Phillips 66 received a price target upgrade from Morgan Stanley, raising it to $140 from $128 while maintaining an "Equal Weight" rating, reflecting a constructive outlook on the long-term refining sector despite a tactical shift to "In-Line" [6] Economic and Political Context - Japan's Economy Minister Ryosei Akazawa is expected to leave his post, indicating potential shifts in economic policy amidst ongoing trade discussions with the U.S. [7] - The Bank of England's Financial Policy Committee warns that some backward-looking equity valuations are comparable to the peak of the dot-com bubble, and a sudden change in perceptions of Federal Reserve independence could lead to a sharp repricing of U.S. dollar assets [5][7] - France is experiencing political instability, with Socialist Party leader Olivier Faure rejecting the current budget plan and demanding guarantees on pension reform following the resignation of Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu [3][7] Trade Relations - U.S.-EU trade tensions are escalating, with the EU announcing plans to double steel tariffs to 50%, described as a "stepping stone" towards a better trade deal with the U.S. [6][7]