Global Markets Weekly Update - April 02, 2026
U.S. Market Overview
Major U.S. stock indexes finished the volatile, holiday-shortened week higher amid tentative signs of de-escalating conflict in the Middle East. The Nasdaq Composite led indexes higher, logging its best week since November, while the S&P 500 Index and Dow Jones Industrial Average advanced 3.36% and 2.96%, respectively.
Equities rallied sharply on Tuesday and Wednesday following President Trump's comments about winding down military involvement in Iran, although sentiment weakened after a lack of a clear timeline for de-escalation was provided.
Employment Data
Private employers added 62,000 jobs in March, slightly below February's revised gain but ahead of estimates. Jobless claims decreased to 202,000, while continuing claims rose to 1.841 million.
Consumer Confidence and Manufacturing
Consumer confidence improved in March, with the Conference Board's index rising to 91.8. Manufacturing activity expanded for the third consecutive month, with the PMI rising to 52.7.
Market Performance Summary
| Index | Thursday's Close | Week's Change | % Change YTD |
|---|---|---|---|
| DJIA | 46,504.67 | 1,338.03 | -3.24% |
| S&P 500 | 6,582.69 | 213.84 | -3.84% |
| Nasdaq Composite | 21,879.18 | 930.83 | -5.86% |
| S&P MidCap 400 | 3,408.16 | 97.34 | 3.12% |
| Russell 2000 | 2,530.05 | 80.35 | 1.94% |
Europe Market Overview
The pan-European STOXX Europe 600 Index ended the week up 3.92%, driven by improved sentiment regarding the Middle East conflict. Germany's DAX, Italy's FTSE MIB, and France's CAC 40 all posted gains.
Inflation in the eurozone rose to 2.5% in March, primarily due to energy costs. Meanwhile, Germany's GDP growth forecast was revised down from 1.3% to 0.6% due to the energy shock.
Japan Market Overview
Japan's stock markets fell, with the Nikkei 225 Index down 1.7%. The markets reacted negatively to President Trump's comments regarding Iran, which raised oil prices and heightened investor concerns.
The Bank of Japan may consider raising interest rates in response to inflationary pressures from rising oil prices.
China Market Overview
Mainland Chinese stock markets were mixed, with the CSI 300 Index slipping 0.53%. However, PMI data showed improvement, indicating a rebound in manufacturing activity.
China and Pakistan proposed a peace plan to de-escalate the Middle East conflict, emphasizing the need for a ceasefire and protection of shipping routes.
Other Key Markets
In Colombia, political tensions have raised policy uncertainty following a central bank interest rate hike. In India, the Reserve Bank of India took measures to stabilize the rupee amid rising oil prices, leading to market volatility.
Important Information: This material is for informational purposes only and is not intended as investment advice. Past performance is not indicative of future results.