Global Markets Steady: Yen Soars as Intervention Speculation Grows

Global shares remained steady with U.S. tech stocks rising. The yen surged against the dollar amid speculation of Japanese intervention. Despite European market closures, S&P 500 and Nasdaq posted gains. Oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz remain disrupted, while the global economic landscape is tense with inflation concerns.

Global stocks held firm on Friday, buoyed by a fresh rally in U.S. tech shares and heightened attention on currency exchanges following the yen's brief spike against the dollar. On Thursday, Tokyo authorities were speculated to have intervened to support the yen.

European markets saw limited activity due to holidays, with the FTSE 100 dipping slightly. The S&P 500 and Nasdaq made gains, ending the day on high notes boosted by strong earnings and lower crude prices. Apple shares particularly shone, recording an impressive 3.3% increase following better-than-expected third-quarter results.

Amid persistent tension over oil flows in the Strait of Hormuz, global shares climbed, recording their best monthly rise since 2020. Japan's Ministry of Finance and central banks in the U.S. and Europe signaled caution with interest rates, focusing on inflation and geopolitical factors.