Akintunde Oyedokun
Research Analyst
Oil prices slid to their lowest level since May on Wednesday amid escalating U.S.–China trade tensions and a supply surplus warning from the International Energy Agency. Brent crude settled at $61.91 a barrel and WTI at $58.27. New tariffs and shipping fees have worsened the trade dispute, though potential talks between Donald Trump and Xi Jinping may ease tensions. Weak demand, China’s economic slowdown, and higher OPEC+ output are weighing on prices.
Israel Inflation Cools, Rate Cut Hopes Rise
Israel’s inflation eased to 2.5% in September — its lowest in seven months and below expectations. The end of the Gaza war and stronger shekel have increased calls for the central bank to cut rates to support exporters.
Consumer prices fell 0.6% month-on-month, driven by cheaper airfares and fresh produce. The Bank of Israel kept its benchmark rate at 4.5% in September and will review it again on November 24.
Germany Poised for Modest Q4 Growth Despite Export Slump
Germany’s economy is expected to grow slightly in Q4 2025 despite weaker exports, according to the Macroeconomic Policy Institute. A 34.8% recession probability suggests limited contraction risks. Export declines, lower industrial output, and falling orders weigh on growth, but domestic demand may support a modest recovery. Economists believe stronger consumer spending could help stabilize the economy in the coming months.
South Africa’s Retail Sales Growth Slows in August
South Africa’s retail sector recorded a 2.3% year-on-year increase in sales for August, easing from a revised 5.7% growth in July, according to data from Statistics South Africa. On a seasonally adjusted basis, sales dipped by 1.2% compared to the previous month.
The slowdown highlights weaker consumer demand amid rising living costs and sluggish economic activity. Analysts say this trend could weigh on overall GDP performance in the coming months.
Nigeria’s Inflation Drops to 3-Year Low
Nigeria’s headline inflation fell to 18.02% in September from 20.12% in August, the lowest in over three years, driven by slower food price growth.
Food inflation eased to 16.87% as supply conditions improved, according to the National Bureau of Statistics.
The slowdown follows economic reforms under President Bola Tinubu and a recent interest rate cut by the Central Bank of Nigeria, signaling easing price pressures
