Global Equities Rebound: Investors Eye Economic Indicators

Global equities ended a volatile week unchanged after a massive sell-off. Federal Reserve policymakers showed confidence in cooling inflation, boosting stocks. Economic uncertainties and Middle East conflict concerns influenced investor sentiments. Oil prices rose, U.S. Treasury yields fell, and the dollar slightly weakened. Investors await next week’s economic data.

The closely watched global equities index advanced on Friday, concluding a turbulent week that saw a massive sell-off. The dollar slipped slightly, while oil prices rose on concerns about Middle East supply disruptions.

Three Federal Reserve policymakers hinted on Thursday that inflation might be cooling enough to warrant a rate cut. Their comments, coupled with a more-than-expected drop in U.S. jobless claims, reassured investors and supported market recovery. Wall Street's main indexes closed higher after a choppy morning, despite a significant drop on Monday when the S&P 500 lost 3%, triggered by global sell-offs starting in Japan amid recession fears.

According to Robert Phipps of Per Stirling Capital Management, investors are hopeful that the S&P 500 will break its recent trading range of 5135 to 5346. Phipps noted that the market's performance on Friday hinted at investor indecision about the U.S. economy amidst broader Middle East conflict fears. As the week ended, the CBOE volatility index fell, showing signs of relative calm. However, investors remain vigilant for next week's key inflation and retail sales data for further economic insights.

(With inputs from agencies.)