Global Markets Waver Amid U.S. Policy Uncertainty and Upcoming Elections

Stock markets closed lower in the U.S. but saw gains in Europe amid uncertainty about U.S. presidential policies and upcoming German elections, leading to fluctuations in oil, gold, and major indexes. Business activity in the U.S. hit a 17-month low as investors reacted to possible spending cuts and tariffs.

In the latest bout of market volatility, U.S. stocks closed in the red while European indexes made modest gains. Investors grappled with uncertainty spurred by U.S. President Donald Trump's aggressive policy maneuvers and Germany's impending elections.

The Dow Jones, S&P 500, and Nasdaq ended the week lower, rattled by anticipated spending cuts and staff layoffs in the U.S. government. European markets showed mixed results, with the Stoxx 600 reversing losses as Germany heads toward elections.

Business activity in the U.S. plunged to its lowest in 17 months, attributed to nervousness around the Trump administration's policies. Oil prices dropped over 2% amidst geopolitical uncertainties, while gold settled from prior highs. The global market's focus remained on future Federal Reserve actions and potential economic reforms.