Top 10 Things to Watch Today
Thursday, February 5, 2026
1. ECB and BoE Rate Decisions Take Center Stage
Both the European Central Bank and Bank of England announce policy decisions today, with rates expected to hold steady at 2.00% and 3.75%, respectively. Markets will parse Lagarde's comments on EUR strength and inflation undershooting, while Bailey faces questions amid UK political turmoil.
2. Google Doubles AI Spending, Lifts Chip Sector
Despite missing cloud expectations and trading down 2.4% pre-market, Alphabet's decision to double AI capital expenditure is boosting semiconductor names, including ASML (+1.1%). This signals Big Tech remains committed to the AI buildout even as investors scrutinize returns on massive infrastructure investments.
3. US-Iran Talks Back On for Friday
After a false start over venue disputes, Iran's Foreign Minister confirmed direct talks with the US will proceed in Oman on Friday. Crude benchmarks remain volatile amid this development, with Brent hovering ne
