Global Markets React to Trade Tensions and Inflation Data

Global markets faced volatility as investors focused on heightened trade tensions, particularly due to Trump's tariff policies, and inflation data. While U.S. stocks struggled, European markets showed resilience, bolstered by government spending plans. Meanwhile, commodities like oil and gold experienced varied performances amid currency fluctuations and economic uncertainties.

European and U.S. markets experienced declines on Thursday, influenced by increasing global trade tensions, although easing U.S. price pressures helped limit the drops. The STOXX 600 index dipped slightly following Wednesday's gain, with Germany's DAX index also declining.

U.S. futures suggested a lower Wall Street open, reflecting a broader trend of global market uncertainty driven by U.S. tariff policies. Asian markets followed suit, with notable drops in Hong Kong's Hang Seng and Japan's Nikkei indexes. Despite these challenges, a rebound in U.S. tech shares was noted after slow consumer price growth was recorded for the previous month.

Gold saw a continuous rise, nearing record highs, while the U.S. dollar and Treasury yields rose modestly. Meanwhile, oil prices retreated after a previous rally, and market participants prepared for potential U.S. government shutdown scenarios amid economic data releases.

(With inputs from agencies.)