Market Update

European markets edged up on Friday, as investors assessed fresh business activity data and ongoing geopolitical risks, including trade tensions and defense spending concerns. As of 04:21 ET (09:21 GMT): STOXX 600 rose 0.3% to 552.56, though it was set for a weekly loss, snapping an eight-week winning streak—the longest …

The Dow Jones Industrial Average plummeted over 1.40% to 43,980 on Thursday as investors grappled with a mix of concerning economic data and Federal Reserve commentary. A disappointing forecast from retail giant Walmart, citing “uncertainties related to consumer behavior and global economic and geopolitical conditions,” sent shockwaves through the market. …

The US dollar weakened significantly, reaching a two-month low despite no changes in US tariffs or progress in Russia-Ukraine peace talks. Friday’s key events include:US: The US Dollar Index (DXY) fell to around 106.40 due to lower US yields, a stronger Japanese yen, and increased risk appetite. The focus will …

The European Union’s latest round of sanctions against Russia, the sixteenth since the invasion of Ukraine, focuses on energy and metals, specifically targeting oil exports and aluminum imports. These measures introduce new complexities to already volatile commodity markets, raising questions about their ultimate impact.Energy Market Under PressureThe EU’s move to …

The US Administration announced plans to audit the nation’s gold reserves stored at Fort Knox in Kentucky. “We’re going to go to Fort Knox, the fabled Fort Knox, to make sure the gold is there,” the Administration stated.This move follows recent calls for an audit, fueled in part by comments …

St. Louis Fed President Alberto Musalem expressed concerns Thursday about the potential for persistent inflation and the risk of stagflation, posing a dual challenge to the US economy. He emphasized the need for confidence that inflation is headed back to the Fed’s 2% target before any further policy adjustments are …

Trump as well as other Wall Street forces attempt to limit the Fed’s independence. Though it refrains from attempting to sway interest rate decisions, the White House wants more authority over Fed operations, including financial regulation. On February 12, Fed Chair Jerome H. Powell gave a testimony before the House …

The US dollar stumbled on Thursday, giving up Wednesday’s gains and falling below 107.00 on the US Dollar Index (DXY). Hopes of a potential trade agreement with China, however, provided a glimmer of optimism for markets worried about tariffs. The DXY, measuring the dollar against six major currencies, currently sits …

Oil prices were little changed on Thursday, as a rise in U.S. crude inventories pressured the market after prices had climbed to a near one-week high in the previous session. As of 09:16 GMT: Brent crude fell 15 cents to $75.89 per barrel. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude declined 34 …

European stock markets traded in a mixed fashion on Thursday, as investors closely monitored corporate earnings reports from major firms. As of 03:21 ET (08:21 GMT): Germany’s DAX edged up 0.2%. France’s CAC 40 gained 0.3%. UK’s FTSE 100 slipped 0.3%. Key Corporate Earnings Highlights Schneider Electric Exceeds Expectations French …