Market Insights | Global Focus
Market Insights
Trading Tools
Global stocks cheered softer-than-expected US jobs data. Britain's FTSE 100 hit a record high on Friday and marked its second straight week of gains.
Nonfarm payrolls rose by 303,000 in March, surpassing expectations of 200,000 and February's revised 270,000 gain, per the BLS.
Gold prices stayed near $2,300 on Friday as Fed Chair Powell said a rate hike is unlikely. This dampened demand for the safe-haven asset.
Oil prices rose Thursday as the US may buy for SPR. Prices had fallen on hopes for an Israel-Gaza ceasefire and high oil inventories.
Asian stocks rose with Wall Street on Tuesday, while the FTSE 100 extended its rally for a fifth session on Monday, lifted by positive corporate news.
USD/JPY hit its weakest level since April 1990, hovering around 160. Markets watch for possible intervention by Japanese authorities.
FTSE China A50 index has stagnated since March, despite government stimulus ; Indian stocks have outperformed China but may be nearing a turning point.
Oil prices rose Friday due to the US Treasury secretary's comments on the economy's strength and potential supply disruption in the Middle East.
The Core PCE price index rose 2.8% in February year-over-year, matching expectations. Goods prices increased more than services, driving inflation.
The Australian stock market is closed Thursday for Anzac Day. The ASX 200 index reached five record highs but underperformed its major peers.
U.S. stocks are influenced by inflation, and experts are cautiously optimistic. Banks raised S&P 500 targets, expecting 5,500 by year-end.
Gold prices steadied on Wednesday after reaching a two-week low from easing Middle East tensions. The fragile bond market may limit further declines.
The euro stayed flat after rising against the pound last week. UK and EU banks signaled their readiness to act amid easing price pressures.
US major stock indexes dropped Friday; Treasury yields fell amid weak earnings, interest rate uncertainties, and geopolitical tensions.
The Canadian dollar weakened after the Bank of Canada held interest rates steady and hinted at possible monetary policy easing soon.