Asian Stocks Edge Higher Amid Economic Uncertainty and Weak U.S. Consumer Confidence
Asian stocks posted modest gains on Wednesday as investors searched for clear market direction,
amid declining U.S. consumer confidence and a late rebound on Wall Street.
The MSCI Asia-Pacific Index broke a three-day losing streak, supported by gains in Sydney, Tokyo, and Hong Kong.
Meanwhile, the S&P 500 rose by 0.2% on Tuesday, marking its longest winning streak in nearly seven weeks,
despite weak U.S. consumer sentiment data.
In bond markets, the yield on 10-year U.S. Treasury notes climbed to 4.33% during Asian trading, following a decline in the previous session.
The U.S. dollar stabilized after ending a four-day winning streak, while U.S. copper prices hit record highs.
Markets found some support from U.S. President Donald Trump’s comments on upcoming “reciprocal” tariffs set to begin on April 2.
However, concerns remain over a potential slowdown in the world’s largest economy.
China
The strong momentum in Chinese tech stocks faded as the initial excitement over the “Deep Seek” AI model subsided,
pushing a major market index into correction territory.
Morgan Stanley raised its outlook for Chinese equities through the end of 2025, citing strong Q4 earnings,
while Goldman Sachs noted ongoing bullish momentum driven by potential upcoming earnings upgrades.
On the geopolitical front, tensions eased slightly after Washington announced a ceasefire agreement between Russia and Ukraine in the Black Sea
—though the Kremlin stated its participation depends on meeting several conditions, including the easing of sanctions.
Despite these positive developments, pressure continues to mount domestically in the U.S.,
as tariffs and inflation expectations erode consumer confidence, sparking warnings of potential stagflation.
In commodities markets, oil prices rose following a report of declining U.S. crude inventories,
while gold remained steady near record highs.
Asian Stocks Edge Higher Amid Economic Uncertainty and Weak U.S. Consumer Confidence
Bank of England Governor Warns of Trump’s Trade Policies, Calls for Global Cooperation
Andrew Bailey, Governor of the Bank of England, has called for international coordination to counter the repercussions of the Trump administration’s trade policies, stressing that global market stability requires multilateral cooperation.
Bank of England Governor Calls for Global Cooperation to Address Effects of Trump’s Trade Policies Bank of England Governor Andrew Bailey has renewed his call for greater collaboration between global economies to confront the growing challenges facing the international trade system, amidst escalating tensions caused by the trade policies of U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration.
In a speech delivered at the University of Leicester, Bailey emphasized that domestic economic factors and trade policies should not be viewed as opposing elements, but rather as part of an integrated system requiring coordination between nations. He stressed that tackling these issues demands international efforts and a stronger commitment from countries to uphold the rules of the multilateral trading system, ensuring global market stability and the effectiveness of supply chains.
Trump
Trump Renews Call on Federal Reserve to Cut Interest Rates Amid Rising Trade Tensions U.S. President Donald Trump has reiterated his call on the Federal Reserve to cut interest rates,
following the central bank’s decision last week to keep borrowing costs unchanged.
During a ministerial meeting on Monday, Trump said: “I would like to see the Federal Reserve cut interest rates,” according to Reuters.
Trump is known for consistently pressuring the central bank to adopt a more accommodative stance,
especially amid economic challenges linked to his trade policies.
He argued that a rate cut is necessary alongside the imposition of new tariffs.
The Trump administration is preparing to announce a new wave of tariffs on April 2 as part of its “reciprocal tariffs” policy,
targeting countries that impose trade restrictions on U.S. products.
This move adds further pressure on the Federal Reserve in an already volatile economic environment.
OPEC
OPEC+ Affirms Commitment to Gradual Output Increase Starting in April According to Reuters, citing informed sources, the OPEC+ alliance plans to proceed with its gradual oil production increase as scheduled,
as part of a coordinated rollback of voluntary cuts totaling 2.2 million barrels per day.
The organization had previously announced its intention to begin ramping up production in April,
aiming to support global market stability and adapt to evolving crude demand,
while continuously monitoring price movements and market conditions.
This move reflects the alliance’s commitment to gradually rebalance supply and demand while maintaining stability in global energy markets.
The confirmation comes alongside a notable improvement in oil prices, with West Texas Intermediate crude rising by 91 cents to reach $69.26 per barrel
— a sign of market optimism about the plan’s impact on supply stability and sustainable market balance.
Bank of England Governor Warns of Trump’s Trade Policies, Calls for Global Cooperation
Commodity Markets Under the Influence of Geopolitical Tensions and Global Economic Changes
Commodity markets are experiencing mixed movements driven by geopolitical tensions and economic developments,
raising questions about the future direction of oil, gold, and base metal prices.
Oil prices stabilized after a two-day rise, supported by economic expectations for China and
geopolitical risks in the Middle East. Brent crude traded near $71 per barrel after a 1.7% increase in previous sessions,
while West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude surpassed $67 per barrel.
These movements came amid optimism from the world’s largest oil consumers, as China plans to boost consumption,
while U.S. retail sales showed stronger-than-expected results despite a slight slowdown.
At the same time, geopolitical tensions escalated as U.S. President Donald Trump stated
that Houthi attacks on shipping vessels in the Red Sea are considered direct threats from Iran.
Additionally, the U.S. administration tightened sanctions on Iran’s energy sector, adding to market uncertainty.
Impact of Sanctions on Iran and Oil Prices
Oil prices remain about $12 below their January peak due to increasing downward market pressures.
A growing global trade war threatens demand, while OPEC+ is set to raise production starting in April.
According to the International Energy Agency, the market is already facing a potential supply surplus.
Analysts at ANZ Group noted that U.S. sanctions on Iran could reduce supply by about one million barrels per day,
partially offsetting OPEC+’s gradual production increase.
Under these conditions, the immediate price spreads between crude oil futures have widened,
with the three-month Brent crude spread rising to $1.38 per barrel compared to its earlier low of $1.08.
Gold
Record High in Gold Prices Amid Middle East Tensions
Gold prices reached a record high, surpassing $3,017 per ounce,
driven by investor concerns over a slowing U.S. economy and escalating Middle East tensions,
which increased the appeal of gold as a safe-haven asset.
Gold rose by 0.6% on Monday before continuing its gains following Israeli airstrikes on Gaza,
which threatened an already fragile ceasefire.
Meanwhile, disappointing U.S. retail sales data affected the markets,
as they increased less than expected, causing a decline in U.S. Treasury yields, further boosting demand for gold.
Economic Outlook and Strengthening Gold’s Position
With market uncertainty persisting, concerns over the global economy have strengthened gold’s value
as a store of wealth during uncertain times.
The yellow metal has gained over 14% since the beginning of the year,
prompting several major banks to raise their gold price forecasts.
Spot gold prices stabilized at $3,014.06 per ounce after reaching an unprecedented level.
Meanwhile, the Bloomberg Dollar Index remained steady, with limited movement in silver prices,
while platinum and palladium recorded slight gains.
Copper
Copper Prices Surge Amid China’s Pledge to Boost Consumption
Copper prices reached a five-month high after China announced a plan to stimulate consumption and increase spending,
aiming to revive its economy as the world’s largest consumer of the metal.
The Chinese government introduced new measures over the weekend to boost spending by raising individual incomes.
Consumption in the country showed faster growth at the start of the year,
helping offset the impact of tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump,
which have put pressure on Chinese exporters. Retail sales grew by 4% in the first two months of the year, surpassing expectations.
Despite this, China’s real estate sector, a key pillar of metal demand, continues to struggle and has not yet hit its lowest point.
New home prices fell at a faster rate last month despite government efforts to support the market.
Copper prices rose by 0.8%, reaching $9,861.50 per ton on the London Metal Exchange, the highest level since October. Aluminum also increased by 0.2%, reaching $2,687 per ton,
driven by a 2.6% rise in China’s production to 7.32 million tons in the first two months of the year.
Chinese smelters benefited from higher profit margins due to rising product prices, allowing for more flexible production capacity.
Outlook for Commodity Markets
Amid ongoing geopolitical tensions and global economic changes, commodity prices remain volatile.
While China’s stimulus plans support demand for metals, oil prices face pressure from rising production and economic concerns.
Meanwhile, gold continues to gain strong momentum as a safe-haven asset, driven by fears of a global recession.
As markets anticipate monetary policy decisions and global economic shifts,
commodity prices will remain influenced by multiple factors,
ranging from economic policies to geopolitical conflicts,
making the upcoming period full of challenges and opportunities for investors.
Commodity Markets Under the Influence of Geopolitical Tensions and Global Economic Changes
Gold, Currencies, and Oil in the Spotlight This Week: Investors are closely watching a series of economic data
and central bank decisions that could strongly impact market movements.
From retail sales in China and the U.S. to interest rate decisions in Japan, the U.S., Switzerland,
and the U.K., along with inflation reports and manufacturing sector indicators
all are expected to drive significant moves in gold, currencies, and oilin the coming days.
Monday, March 17, 2025 05:00 China – Retail Sales (YoY) (February) 15:30 USA – Core Retail Sales (MoM) (February) 15:30 USA – Retail Sales (MoM) (February)
Tuesday, March 18, 2025 15:30 Canada – Consumer Price Index (YoY) (February)
Wednesday, March 19, 2025 06:00 Japan – BoJ Interest Rate Decision 13:00 Eurozone – Consumer Price Index (YoY) (February) 21:00 USA – Federal Reserve Interest Rate Decision
Thursday, March 20, 2025 11:30 Switzerland – SNB Interest Rate Decision (Q1) 15:00 UK – Bank of England Interest Rate Decision (March) 15:30 USA – Initial Jobless Claims 15:30 USA – Philadelphia Fed Manufacturing Index (March) 17:00 USA – Existing Home Sales (February)
Friday, March 21, 2025 00:45 New Zealand – Trade Balance (MoM) (February) 00:45 New Zealand – Trade Balance (YoY) (February) 02:30 Japan – National Core CPI (YoY) (February)
Gold
Goldcontinued its strong rally recently, reaching a new all-time high near $3,000,
rising faster than market expectations.
This surge comes amid growing concerns of a global economic recession this year due
to the slowdown in both the U.S. and international economies and ongoing tariffs. Technically, goldclosed last week around $2,984,
and it is expected to retest the support-turned-resistance level at $2,955
before continuing its rise toward the current target of $3,083.
GBPUSD
The GBPUSDpair remains in an upward trend,
supported by the recent weakness in the U.S. dollar.
The pairis approaching a key resistance level at 1.3084,
which may trigger a bearish correction targeting the support level of 1.2810.
Oil
Despite a slight rise by the end of last week’s trading, where oilreached $67,
the bearish trend remains dominant due to recession fears that may weaken oil demand globally. Oilcould see a corrective bounce toward the psychological resistance at $70.
However, if $65 is broken directly, further declines toward $62.3 are likely.
Nasdaq
The Nasdaq index rebounded strongly,
posting over 470 points during last Friday’s session after several weeks of consistent losses.
This rally came following statements from President Donald Trump,
who confirmed that the U.S. economy will achieve significant growth during his term.
This confirmed market optimism and helped U.S. equities recover some recent losses. Technically, the indexmust break and close above 19,887 to continue rising toward 20,554.
However, if trading remains below 19,887, the downtrend may continue toward 18,451.
USDJPY
The Japanese yenhas been one of the main beneficiaries of the recent weakness in the U.S. dollar,
especially after the Bank of Japan raised interest rates,
with expectations of further hikes in the coming periods. The USDJPYpair traded at 146.41 before rebounding to 148.61 as the dollar regained strength by the week’s end.
However, the bearish outlook still prevails,
particularly if the pairremains below 149.00,
which could lead to further declines toward 145.85.
Conversely, if 149.00 is breached and closed above, we could see a continued bullish correction toward 152.00.
Gold, Currencies, and Oil in the Spotlight This Week
Global Economic Challenges: Declining Inflation in France and Weak Growth and Oil Price Forecasts
Amid global economic fluctuations, France has experienced a sharp decline in inflation,
while major financial institutions have lowered their forecasts for U.S. economic growth and oil prices in 2025,
reflecting economic uncertainty and increasing challenges for markets.
France’s Inflation Drops to a Four-Year Low Amid Falling Energy Prices
The annual inflation rate in France dropped to 0.9% in February, marking its lowest level in four years,
according to data from the National Institute of Statistics and Economic Studies.
This decline was driven by a sharp drop in energy prices, along with a slowdown in the prices of services,
manufactured goods, and tobacco, despite a slight increase in food prices.
Inflation stood at 1.8% in January, indicating a significant improvement in price levels.
On a monthly basis, the harmonized consumer price index for the European Union rose by 0.1%,
exceeding expectations, which had suggested price stability or a 0.2% decline.
In a related development, the French central bank revised its economic growth forecasts for 2025,
citing global trade tensions affecting demand for French exports.
The bank projected that growth would slow from 1.1% last year to 0.7% this year,
but anticipated that improved business investments would boost growth to 1.2% in 2026 and 1.3% in 2027.
J.P. Morgan
J.P. Morgan Cuts U.S. Economic Growth Forecast for 2025 Amid Rising Economic Challenges
J.P. Morgan has lowered its forecast for U.S. economic growth in 2025,
expecting a slowdown from 2.6% to 1.9% due to mounting economic pressures and uncertainty over fiscal and trade policies.
According to the bank’s report, new tariffs imposed by the U.S. will lead to higher prices and increased living costs,
which could weaken consumers’ purchasing power.
Additionally, affected countries are expected to respond with retaliatory measures that
may impact U.S. exports and the performance of major companies.
Furthermore, the bank warned of slowing consumer and investment spending as consumers
and businesses become more cautious due to inflationary pressures and
the unclear monetary policy direction of the Federal Reserve.
This revision comes amid concerns that these challenges could result in a deeper economic slowdown than previously anticipated.
Barclays
It Lowers 2025 Oil Price Forecast Amid Economic Uncertainty
Barclays has cut its 2025 average Brent crude price forecast by $9 to $74 per barrel,
citing weaker demand expectations amid increasing economic uncertainty.
Barclays analysts noted in a research memo that they had reduced their 2025 demand forecast
by 510,000 barrels per day due to weak economic indicators.
In the same context, the International Energy Agency (IEA) warned that global oil supply could exceed demand
by 600,000 barrels per day this year,
as U.S.-led production increases while global demand remains weaker than previously expected.
Barclays also lowered its oil demand growth forecast,
now expecting an increase of 900,000 barrels per day in 2025.
Meanwhile, U.S. crude oil production is expected to rise by 200,000 barrels per day
by the fourth quarter of the year compared to the same period last year.
Global Economic Challenges: Declining Inflation in France
Oil Prices Decline Under Economic and Geopolitical Pressures: Will the Drop Continue?
Negative Factors Weigh on Prices as Speculators Bet on Further Decline
Oil prices took a sharp dive this week, breaking out of a stable trading range that had persisted for months,
reaching their lowest levels in three years.
With increasing economic and geopolitical pressures,
investors are questioning whether this decline will persist in the near future.
Several key factors have combined to create one of the most bearish periods in modern oil market history.
The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and its allies unexpectedly announced plans to increase production,
despite Brent crude trading around $70 per barrel—a significant shift from the alliance’s previous efforts to support prices.
At the same time, trade threats from U.S. President Donald Trump continue to pressure markets,
as he signals potential actions that could impact global oil demand.
Meanwhile, geopolitical tensions have somewhat eased after Russia expressed willingness to discuss a temporary ceasefire in Ukraine,
reducing supply-related risks.
Additionally, China, the world’s largest oil importer, has instructed its refineries to reduce production of key fuels such as gasoline and diesel,
reflecting shifting long-term demand expectations.
These factors collectively pushed Brent crude futures below their previous range of $70 to $85 per barrel,
strengthening expectations of further decline.
Hedge Funds Cut Long Positions
In another sign of growing bets on lower prices, hedge funds have reduced
their long positions in West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude by 2,266 contracts,
bringing the total to 172,576 contracts—the lowest level since 2010,
according to the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission.
For Brent crude, the decline was even more significant,
with long positions dropping by 41,583 contracts—the largest reduction since July—according to data from the Intercontinental Exchange in Europe.
Cayler Capital, a commodity trading advisory firm focused on oil,
stated that “Trump is pressuring OPEC to increase production while simultaneously working to ease tensions between Russia and Ukraine.
” The firm added that “the net result is a bearish shift in the oil sector, with prices declining amid ongoing uncertainty.”
Wall Street Lowers Oil Price Forecasts
With mounting bearish factors, major investment banks have revised their oil price forecasts downward.
Morgan Stanley now expects Brent crude to average $70 per barrel this year, a reduction of $5 from its previous estimate.
Goldman Sachs has warned that prices could fall below the $70-$85 per barrel range,
while JPMorgan Chase went further, predicting a drop to $50 per barrel at an energy conference in London.
Similarly, Citigroup forecasted Brent crude to reach $60 per barrel.
Oil Prices
Middle Eastern Oil Prices Decline
Signs of weakness have emerged in the Middle Eastern crude market,
which had remained resilient following U.S. sanctions on Russian and Iranian oil Prices
for these grades have fallen relative to the Dubai benchmark due to decreased demand for alternative shipments.
Additionally, the premium on Murban crude, a key grade for Asian buyers, has shrunk relative to Dubai crude,
as demand in Asian markets continues to weaken—especially after China’s crude imports declined by about 5% in the first two months of the year.
Meanwhile, global supply pressures are intensifying,
with Kazakhstan set to increase oil exports this month following an expansion of one of its largest fields.
The International Energy Agency (IEA) also expects a market surplus this year, even before OPEC+’s latest policy adjustments.
Iran Risks and Market Impact
Despite the bearish outlook, some factors could limit further declines in oil prices.
The Trump administration continues its “maximum pressure” policy on Iran,
with U.S. Treasury Secretary stating that the goal is to cut Iranian oil flows by more than 90%.
The U.S. is also considering revoking Chevron’s license to pump and sell Venezuelan oil,
which could remove 200,000 barrels per day from the market.
With rising tensions between Israel and Hamas, markets remain on edge for potential disruptions in production.
Additionally, the U.S. Department of Energy is seeking $20 billion to refill the Strategic Petroleum Reserve, which could boost oil demand.
Trump’s Policies and Market Impact
Beyond supply and demand dynamics, the broader impact of Trump’s economic policies is reflected in oil markets.
U.S. stock markets have dropped about 6% from their peak in recent weeks,
while consumer confidence has fallen at the sharpest rate since 2021, increasing financial instability.
Aldo Spanger, chief commodity strategist at BNP Paribas, stated, “Trump’s tariffs are negatively impacting economic growth,
and there is growing concern over a slowdown in the U.S. economy.”
He added, “These conditions reinforce bearish bets on oil prices,
making it unlikely for investors to take a buying position at this stage.”
Amid these factors, oil markets remain volatile, with future trends largely dependent on global economic developments
and geopolitical shifts, keeping investors on high alert.
Oil Prices Decline Under Economic and Geopolitical Pressures
Commodity Markets: Oil Steady, Silver Rising: Commodity markets are experiencing significant volatility. Oilprices stabilized near their six-month lows,
while silvercontinued its upward trajectory as the dollar weakened and trade concerns escalated.
These movements come amid ongoing economic tensions resulting from global trade policies.
Oil prices have stabilized at their low levels,
with West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude trading around $66 per barrel
after losing more than 5% over the past four sessions.
Meanwhile, Brent crude closed below $70.
These declines stem from the tariffs imposed by former U.S. President Donald Trump,
which have heightened concerns about declining energy demand.
Despite Trump’s announcement that he will delay some automobile
tariffs and consider exemptions for certain agricultural products,
he remains committed to implementing new tariffs by April 2.
At the same time, the OPEC+ alliance plans to resume its halted production,
adding further pressure on prices.
On a global scale, U.S. refineries have reduced their crude oil purchases from Mexico,
while Canada is preparing new measures to increase its oil exports to Asia and Europe.
Silver Continues to Rise as the Dollar Declines
In contrast, silverprices have continued their gains, reaching a one-week high,
driven by increased demand for safe-haven assets amid trade concerns. Silverrose by 1.2% during trading, marking its third consecutive day of gains,
while the U.S. dollar index dropped to a three-month low amid Germany’s plans to boost spending and ease borrowing restrictions.
Investors are closely monitoring the impact of tariffs on the global economy,
with Trump warning of potential “economic disruptions” due to these policies.
Forecasts suggest that precious metals like goldand silvercould benefit from rising inflation or slowing economic growth.
Future Outlook
With market uncertainty persisting, analysts have begun revising their price forecasts. Morgan Stanley lowered its estimate for Brent crude prices until the end of the year,
predicting it will trade around $60 per barrel in the year’s second half.
Meanwhile, experts have warned of a potential shortage in the spot silvermarket in London due to rising industrial demand.
As of 11:41 AM in London, spot silverprices had risen by 0.9% to $32.262 per ounce,
while goldand palladiumprices remained stable, and platinumrecorded a slight increase.
Financial Markets Decline Amid Escalating Trade Tensions and Oil Pressures
U.S. stock indices fell at the close of Tuesday’s trading as concerns over global trade tensions escalated following the implementation of tariffs on Canada
and Mexico and the imposition of an additional 10% tariff on Chinese goods.
The Dow Jones dropped by 1.55% or 670 points, closing at 42,520 points,
while the S&P 500 declined 1.2% or 71 points to 5,778 points.
The Nasdaq also fell by 0.35% or 65 points, reaching 18,285 points.
In Europe, the Stoxx Europe 600 index declined by 2.15% to 551 points, weighed down by losses in energy,
automotive, and technology stocks. Meanwhile,
Germany’s DAX index recorded the biggest drop, plummeting 3.55% to 22,326 points.
Currency Market
In the currency market, the U.S. dollar index fell to its lowest level in three months
at 105.90 points following President Donald Trump’s announcement of new tariffs.
The euro gained 1% to $1.0594, while the British pound rose 0.6% to $1.2779. Meanwhile,
the U.S. dollar weakened against the Japanese yen, declining 0.25% to 149.10 yen.
Oil Market Outlook
Goldman Sachs projected that the Brent crude oil price would average between $73 and $78 per barrel in 2025 and 2026.
However, the bank highlighted potential downside risks,
particularly after OPEC+ announced plans to increase production starting April next year.
The bank also noted that higher oil production could push prices lower,
with Brent crude potentially reaching the $60-$65 per barrel range by the end
of 2026 if OPEC+ executes its supply expansion plan over an 18-month period.
Financial Markets Decline Amid Escalating Trade Tensions and Oil Pressures
West Texas Intermediate crude has witnessed a significant drop,
falling by approximately 3% to close at around $68.50 per barrel—the lowest closing price since December 26.
The market has endured a continuous five-week decline,
with prices dipping below the 100-day moving average of roughly $71.51.
Supply Outlook
Indicators suggest a potential increase in oil flows, particularly from Iraq,
along with the possibility that the OPEC+ alliance may delay its planned supply injection of an additional 120,000 barrels per day.
The market is also facing extra pressure from a drone attack on Kazakhstan’s oil pipelines,
coupled with the impact of US tariff policies and other political measures that
have dampened demand forecasts and heightened long-term inflation concerns.
Oil prices plummeted sharply amid expectations of abundant supplies and significant market volatility
Asian Markets Rebound Amid Wall Street Gains and Strong Yen
Asian markets saw a notable rise, supported by Wall Street’s gains,
while the Japanese yen continued its upward trend amid expectations of interest rate hikes.
Gains in Asia Stock indices in Australia, Japan, and South Korea rose on Thursday,
while markets in mainland China and Hong Kong experienced fluctuations at the start of trading.
Wall Street Rebounds U.S. markets continued their recovery, with the S&P 500 and Nasdaq 100 recording gains for the second consecutive day,
contributing to the overall strength of global stock markets.
Bond Market Activity
Stable Yields U.S. bonds remained stable in Asian trading after yields increased across the curve on Wednesday.
Decline in Short-Term Bonds The yield on 10-year U.S. bonds fell by 9 basis points to 4.42%, while the yield on 2-year bonds,
which are more sensitive to monetary policy, dropped 3 basis points to 4.18%.
Yen Strength
Continuous Rise The Japanese yen extended its gains for the fourth consecutive day,
supported by expectations of an interest rate hike in Japan during the second half of 2025.
Central Bank Comments A Bank of Japan official indicated that interest rates could reach 1%, boosting demand for the yen in global markets.
Data Impact
Weakening Dollar
The U.S. Dollar Index declined by 0.2%, reaching its lowest level in a week, influenced by falling U.S. bond yields.
Employment Fluctuations
Recent data showed that employment in U.S. companies increased more than expected, adding to anticipation ahead of the official jobs report set for release on Friday.
Corporate Movements
Shares of Nomura Holdings surged 8%, reaching their highest levels since 2008, driven by stronger-than-expected financial results.
Shares of Nissan Motor rose, while Honda Motor shares declined amid growing uncertainty about a potential merger between the two companies.
Global Markets
UK Decisions
The Bank of England is expected to cut interest rates by 25 basis points to 4.5%, in an effort to support the economy.
Tensions with China
China has requested discussions with the United States at the World Trade Organization,
following the U.S. imposition of a 10% tariff on Chinese imports.
Commodity Markets
Gold prices remained stable after reaching an all-time high, amid concerns over supply shortages.
U.S. oil prices recorded slight gains after dropping more than 2%,
while Saudi Arabia raised its benchmark crude price for Asia in response to rising Middle Eastern oil premiums and improving refining margins.
Asian Markets Rebound Amid Wall Street Gains and Strong Yen
