Global Markets Weekly Update - Summary

Market Overview

Oil prices experienced volatility due to escalating conflicts in the Middle East, impacting investor sentiment across global markets.

U.S. Market Insights

Most major U.S. stock indexes closed lower, with the Nasdaq Composite dropping 2.13%. Concerns over AI investments and rising oil prices contributed to this decline. Corporate earnings reports from major companies like Alphabet and Tesla raised worries about capital spending and cash flow.

The S&P Global Flash U.S. Composite PMI rose to 53.6, indicating stronger services activity, while manufacturing growth moderated. Jobless claims fell to their lowest level since 1969, but new home sales showed a year-over-year decline.

Treasury yields rose as inflation concerns grew, with the 10-year U.S. Treasury note yield climbing over 4.7%.

European Market Insights

The STOXX Europe 600 Index increased by 0.46%. The ECB held interest rates steady but hinted at potential future tightening due to rising commodity prices. Manufacturing activity in the Eurozone showed signs of acceleration, while consumer confidence in Germany dipped.

Japan Market Insights

Japan's stock markets advanced, with the Nikkei 225 Index gaining 0.73%. The government approved an economic blueprint focusing on strategic investments. Inflation trends reinforced expectations for tighter monetary policy, while the yen weakened against the dollar.

China Market Insights

Chinese equities rose, driven by state-backed purchases, despite a regional sell-off. The State Council called for improved fiscal execution, and the PBOC injected liquidity to support the economy.

Other Key Markets

South Africa

South African markets weakened as the Reserve Bank held rates steady, raising concerns about inflation and growth.

India

Indian markets faced pressure from higher oil prices and geopolitical tensions, impacting the rupee and government bond yields.

Market Performance Table

Index	Friday’s Close	Week’s Change	% Change YTD
DJIA	51,947.25	-199.17	8.08%
S&P 500	7,411.98	-45.71	8.28%
Nasdaq Composite	24,975.82	-544.42	7.46%
S&P MidCap 400	3,783.87	8.70	14.48%
Russell 2000	2,930.01	-32.21	18.05%

Source: Reuters, Yahoo! Finance, Bloomberg. Data as of 4 p.m. ET.