Peak optimism and calm markets

This week on Bondcast, Imogen Bachra is joined by Oriane Palmentier to discuss rates markets in the UK and Europe.Key topics: * The sharp repricing lower in UK gilt yields and evolving Bank of England expectations* Whether markets are becoming overly optimistic on oil, inflation and fiscal risks* What to watch during next week’s ECB Sintra conference* Euro area funding plans for the second half of 2026* What to make of French spreads despite renewed political focus Host: Imogen Bachra (Head of Economics and Markets Strategy)Guest: Oriane Parmentier (European Rates Strategist) This episode was recorded on 25 June 2026.Remember to hit subscribe so you can listen to the latest episodes in this series as soon as they're available and get our views on the big themes and events moving markets and shaping the economy.For any terms used please refer to this glossary: https://www.natwest.com/corporates/insights/markets/glossary.html Please view our full disclaimer here: https://www.natwest.com/corporates/disclaimer.html