Global Markets Steady Amid Inflation and Trade Developments

European stock markets exhibited minimal movement, yet remained in positive territory for the week, with Wall Street futures buoyed by lower-than-anticipated U.S. inflation data. Investor sentiment improved following confirmation of a meeting between U.S. President Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping. The Fed is anticipated to cut rates soon.

European stock markets showed little movement on Friday, but maintained their trajectory towards a weekly gain. Wall Street futures strengthened after data indicated a smaller-than-expected increase in U.S. inflation. The sentiment further improved after the White House announced an upcoming meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping.

At 1242 GMT, the pan-European STOXX 600 was steady but retained its course for a week-long advance. The FTSE 100 in London modestly rose by around 0.1%. Wall Street futures grew stronger post-inflation data, with S&P 500 e-minis climbing 0.6% and Nasdaq e-minis increasing by 0.9%. As a result, the MSCI World Equity index was up by 0.1%, forecasting a total weekly profit of 1.3%.

The Consumer Price Index saw a 0.3% rise last month, slightly lower than the expected 0.4%. The rates are expected to remain elevated over the next six months according to Brad Conger from Hirtle Callaghan. Meanwhile, U.S. stock markets continue hitting record highs driven by investments in artificial intelligence and rate cut expectations from the Federal Reserve, which anticipates a 25 basis point rate cut next week.

(With inputs from agencies.)