This week’s focus was on the UK Autumn Budget, with companies across the country closely watching for changes to tax laws that might affect them. Meanwhile, significant data releases from the U.S. also captured attention, particularly in the employment sector.

The week’s economic data kicked off on Tuesday with the release of U.S. JOLTS Job Openings. Forecasts had projected 7.98 million openings, up from the previous reading of 7.86 million. However, the actual figure came in lower at 7.44 million, marking the second consecutive month of below-forecast results. This unexpected decrease provided a boost for the British Pound against the U.S. Dollar. That momentum was tempered, however, by the release of U.S. consumer confidence data. While analysts had expected a modest rise to 99.5 (up from the previous reading of 99.2), the final release came in at an impressive 108.7, signalling strong consumer sentiment.

On Wednesday, the UK Autumn Budget took centre stage, regarded as one of the most significant releases in recent years due to the ongoing economic challenges. The budget included several tax increases, most notably on Employers’ National Insurance, with the threshold for payment lowered to £5,000 and the rate raised to 15% from 13.8%. This, alongside other tax hikes across various sectors, is likely to impact many small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The immediate market response was subdued, but by the end of the week, the Pound had lost ground against both the USD and EUR.

Thursday and Friday continued with key U.S. employment data releases, generating potential for substantial market movement as investors awaited the non-farm payroll report on Friday afternoon. Next week promises another eventful period with pivotal interest rate decisions from both the UK.