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Hot equity markets, disrupted holiday plans and rough waters for Uber

U.S. equities rose with the dollar as factory data bolstered optimism in the global economy
U.S. equities rose with the dollar as factory data bolstered optimism in the global economy

U.S. equities rose with the dollar as factory data bolstered optimism in the global economy and markets continued to speculate about a new Federal Reserve chair. The Dow traded up 0.5% at 22,515, the S&P 500 index climbed 0.3% at 2,526, while the Nasdaq Composite Index was up 0.2% at 6,506. The Dow and S&P 500 were hovering at all-time highs as investors focused on upbeat expectations for third-quarter corporate results.

European markets also closed in positive territory as the U.K.’s stock benchmark finished higher for a fourth straight session on Monday, as a plunging pound provided a lift and travel stocks were among the big winners. The Stoxx Europe 600 index rose 0.5% to close at 390.13, rising for an eight straight session and the FTSE 100 index rose 0.9% to end at 7,438.84, nabbing its highest close since August 9.

Monarch cancels flights

Monarch Airlines has ceased trading and all its future flights and holidays have been cancelled, affecting hundreds of thousands of customers. Terror attacks in Tunisia and Egypt, increased competition, and the weak pound have been blamed for its demise. Monarch employs about 2,100 people and reported a £291m loss last year.

About 860,000 people have lost bookings and more than 30 planes will be sent by the Civil Aviation Authority to return 110,000 holidaymakers who are overseas. Theresa May's official spokesman said the prime minister "feels hugely sorry" for those affected by a "very distressing situation". Passengers were then sent text messages informing them that their flights had been cancelled - but some customers were already at airports.

Uber’s London boss quits

Uber's London-based head of northern Europe affairs, Jo Bertram, is leaving the company as the ride-hailing app fights to have its London license renewed. The company's London license expired on Saturday after it was deemed "unfit" to run a taxi service. In an email to staff, Ms. Bertram said: "I've decided to move on to something new and exciting."

Uber's drivers can continue to operate in the capital while the firm pursues an appeal against the decision from the regulator, Transport for London (TfL). Uber chief executive Dara Khosrowshahi is due to meet TfL commissioner Mike Brown on Tuesday for talks. TfL was critical of Uber's record over reporting criminal offences and carrying out driver background checks.

 

 

This article was issued by Peter Petrov, Junior Trader at Calamatta Cuschieri. For more information visit, www.cc.com.mt. The information, view and opinions provided in this article is being provided solely for educational and informational purposes and should not be construed as investment advice, advice concerning particular investments or investment decisions, or tax or legal advice. Calamatta Cuschieri Investment Services Ltd has not verified and consequently neither warrants the accuracy nor the veracity of any information, views or opinions appearing on this website.