Oil prices were on track for a second consecutive week of gains, despite a slight decline on Friday, driven by strong U.S. economic data that fueled optimism about demand in the world’s largest oil-consuming country. Brent crude futures have risen approximately 1.3% this week, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) …

Gold prices experienced a minor decline in Asian trade on Friday, as reduced recession concerns tempered the demand for safe-haven assets. Despite this, expectations of interest rate cuts kept gold prices close to record highs. Spot gold fell by 0.1% to $2,453.02 an ounce, while gold futures for December delivery …

European shares opened higher on Thursday as favorable inflation data reinforced expectations of a U.S. rate cut in September, while a strong earnings report from insurer Admiral added to the positive market sentiment. By 0710 GMT, the pan-European STOXX 600 index had risen 0.2%, approaching a two-week high and marking …

Oil prices rose on Thursday, bolstered by optimism that potential U.S. interest rate cuts could stimulate economic activity and increase fuel consumption. However, concerns over sluggish global demand limited the gains. By 0348 GMT, Brent crude futures were up 17 cents, or 0.21%, at $79.93 a barrel, while U.S. West …

Japan’s Prime Minister Fumio Kishida announced on Wednesday that he will step down next month, bowing to public dissatisfaction over political scandals and rising living costs that have overshadowed his three-year tenure. His resignation will trigger a leadership contest within the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) in September to choose …

British consumer price inflation saw its first increase of the year in July, according to official figures released on Wednesday. However, the rise was more modest than anticipated, as the prices for services—a key focus for the Bank of England (BoE)—increased at a slower pace. The annual consumer price inflation …

Oil prices climbed on Wednesday, driven by a decline in U.S. crude and gasoline inventories and concerns over potential escalations in the Israel-Gaza conflict that could impact global oil supplies. By 0540 GMT, Brent crude futures had increased by 56 cents, or 0.7%, to $81.25 a barrel. Similarly, U.S. West …

European shares inched higher on Tuesday as investors awaited crucial U.S. economic data expected later in the day, which could offer more insight into the Federal Reserve’s next interest rate move. However, a series of disappointing corporate earnings reports kept gains in check. By 0712 GMT, the STOXX 600 index …

The U.S. dollar found itself in a holding pattern on Tuesday as investors awaited key U.S. economic data that could influence the likelihood of significant interest rate cuts. Meanwhile, a rally in Japanese stocks provided some relief for the yen, particularly for those engaged in yen carry trades. The dollar …

Oil prices extended their upward momentum on Monday, marking a fifth consecutive session of gains, driven by easing U.S. recession fears and escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. The market continued to build on last week’s strong performance, which saw more than a 3% rise in prices. Brent crude …