Volkswagen announced plans to eliminate an additional 50,000 jobs, doubling total cuts to 100,000, as part of its largest-ever restructuring. The move, which includes potential phase-out of the Seat brand, boosted VW's stock price.
Stock markets across Europe gained ground as bond yields eased, but surprisingly high producer price inflation in the eurozone has introduced uncertainty regarding the European Central Bank's future monetary policy trajectory.
Activist fund Elliott Management has acquired a stake in Deutsche Telekom and is campaigning against the telecom giant’s proposed merger with T-Mobile US. The move signals growing institutional resistance to the cross-border consolidation deal.
European equity markets are trading near one-month lows as heightened Middle Eastern conflicts drive global bond yields higher. The combined pressure from geopolitical instability and tightening financial conditions continues to weigh on investor sentiment.
European equity markets showed muted performance as a persistent bond selloff weighed on investor sentiment, while consumer goods giant Reckitt saw its shares rise.
European stock markets extended their upward trajectory on Friday, positioning themselves for a fifth straight month of gains ahead of key policy speeches at the Jackson Hole economic symposium.
Global equity markets edged lower as investors awaited crucial U.S. inflation figures and the highly anticipated quarterly results from Nvidia. Meanwhile, the U.S. dollar strengthened slightly following recent economic data releases.
European stock markets are advancing, driven by a drop in oil prices, with Siemens Energy stock notably climbing. Woodside Energy Group also saw its stock rise.
Investors are showing excitement for European stocks, with a Europe ETF recording a 23% increase over the past year, prompting analysis into the reasons behind this growth.
Investors are showing renewed interest in European stocks, driven by strong second-quarter earnings that are on track to deliver a 22% increase in profits for companies in the Stoxx Europe 600.
European stocks experienced a fourth consecutive day of gains, driven by strong second-quarter earnings reports from various companies. Aeva Technologies and Redwire saw significant stock jumps following their positive financial results.
European stocks closed at a record high, buoyed by a strong set of corporate earnings, a rally in mining shares, and growing optimism for a truce in the Middle East.
Novo Nordisk's stock plummeted by as much as 10% after its cardiovascular drug trial yielded disappointing results. This setback wiped out billions in market value and added to the company's recent challenges.
European stocks remained steady as strong second-quarter results from Unilever Plc boosted consumer companies, helping to counteract the pressure from a global sell-off in semiconductor stocks.
Experts are generally optimistic about the performance of the domestic stock market in the second half of the year, with more dilemmas concerning American and Western European stocks. The coming months may also bring declines in treasury bond yields.
European stocks bounced back as the tech sector recovered from a recent slump, with global share and bond markets stabilizing after renewed Middle East hostilities and heavy selling of AI chipmakers.
European equities are poised for their fourth straight week of gains, buoyed by expectations regarding the Federal Reserve and weaker-than-expected US job data.
JPMorgan has raised its year-end target for European stocks, while Panmure warns that high valuations imply negative returns for the U.S. market in the next decade, suggesting European stocks are poised to outdo their American counterparts.
European stock markets, including the FTSE 100, saw gains, while the Dow Jones Industrial Average achieved a new record high, indicating a positive trend in global equities.
JPMorgan's Lipikhina forecasts that European stocks will continue to underperform, even with a recent decline in oil prices, indicating a cautious outlook for the region's equity markets.
Strategists at Goldman Sachs and Barclays have increased their price targets for European stocks, signaling a more optimistic outlook for the region's equity markets.
European stocks saw initial gains but then fluctuated, with escalating tensions in the Middle East maintaining caution among investors. Attention was also focused on the upcoming European Central Bank decision.
European stocks edged higher and Asian stocks tracked a Wall Street tech bounce, as oil prices eased amid hopes for de-escalation in the Middle East. This market movement reflects investor optimism following a reduction in oil costs.
Donald Trump confirmed that he called Benjamin Netanyahu 'f***ing crazy' during a tense phone call regarding strikes on Lebanon, expressing his annoyance with the constant conflict. Trump also stated his desire to meet with Iranian leader Khamenei at some point, believing they 'get along quite well' despite past tensions.
European stock markets are expected to open lower as traders evaluate the prospects of a peace deal with Iran, with the defensive sector providing some resilience against the negative sentiment.
European stock markets experienced a decline, while oil prices rose, in the aftermath of reported US strikes against targets in Iran, reflecting market volatility.
Estée Lauder and Puig have announced the termination of their merger discussions, leading to a significant drop in Puig's share price. Estée Lauder's shares, however, saw a rise as the company prioritizes its turnaround strategy.
Despite Europe historically lagging behind the U.S. and China in AI, several European AI stocks have seen blockbuster rallies this year, gaining over 100% amid a surge in investor interest.
Stock markets in America and Northeast Asia are reaching new highs, while European exchanges struggle to keep pace, with analysts suggesting even an end to the Iran conflict might not significantly boost European performance.
European stock markets are anticipated to open lower on Tuesday as investors react to the latest developments and growing concerns surrounding the Iran war. The market sentiment is influenced by geopolitical tensions in the region.
Jerome Powell held his final press conference and oversaw his last rate decision as Federal Reserve Chair, announcing his intention to remain on the Fed board after his term as chair ends. This decision comes after nearly eight years as head of the central bank.
European stocks weakened slightly again on Tuesday, with investors nervously awaiting the Fed's interest rate decision on Wednesday and monitoring dangerously rising oil prices.
European stock markets are anticipated to open in negative territory on Thursday, reflecting a decline in regional market sentiment, partly influenced by gaining oil prices.
Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) gunboats reportedly fired upon and attacked at least one container ship, possibly two, off the coast of Oman, near the Strait of Hormuz. This incident occurred amidst ongoing tensions and 'gunboat diplomacy' between the US and Iran.
The United States seized an Iranian cargo ship, which Iran claims violates a ceasefire agreement and has led to Tehran refusing new negotiations with Washington. The incident has heightened tensions and put a fragile ceasefire at risk.
European stock markets are experiencing losses due to the fallout from tensions with Iran, while the US market shows more resilience given healthy economic conditions.
The cost of living in the Netherlands increased by 2.7 percent in March compared to the previous year, primarily driven by elevated energy and fuel prices, according to Statistics Netherlands (CBS).
The UN human rights chief expressed 'visceral horror' over the deadly bombing of an Iranian school, demanding justice and urging Washington to conclude its probe. This comes as Israel launched extensive attacks on Tehran and Iran attacked Kuwait's port, with rescue teams finding children's toys in the rubble.
US President Donald Trump has stated that Iran 'wants peace' and there's a good chance of a deal, following his postponement of a strike threat citing 'productive conversations'. However, Iran's Revolutionary Guard and Tehran have dismissed Trump's peace talk claims as 'fake news' and accused him of 'contradictory behaviour', with the White House now calling reports of US-Iran official meetings 'speculative' as oil prices react to Trump's strike halt.
U.S. President Donald Trump announced a delay in military attacks on Iranian power plants, citing 'very intense negotiations' and claiming a 'regime change' in Iran, with a potential deal in five days. This comes amidst an exchange of threats between Trump and Tehran, as Iranian media and officials strongly deny any ongoing talks with the United States, asserting that Trump backed down after Iranian warnings.
Businessrzeczpospolitadelodennik-n+14index-hrTimes of Indiaindian-expressstraits-timescyprus-mailjapan-timesndtvchannel-news-asia+6 more5mo ago17 sources
Global stock markets continue to slump, with oil prices jumping as the Iran war rages on, prompting economist Paul Krugman to warn of a 'potentially really terrible' oil shock that could exceed the 1970s crisis.
European stocks are expected to open in mixed territory again on Thursday as markets following unsettling geopolitical developments in the Middle East.
US and European stock markets experienced gains as oil prices took a pause and cryptocurrencies rallied, indicating a positive trend in global financial markets.
Regarding the attacks on Iran by the United States and Israel, Takahide Kiuchi, Executive Economist at Nomura Research Institute, estimates that if the military conflict prolongs and continues to affect crude oil transportation through the Strait of Hormuz, the rise in crude oil prices would push down the domestic real GDP by 0.18% annually.
Iran is preparing for war, the US tariff ruling does not yet provide relief, and asylum seekers should be able to work faster. The F.A.Z. Early Thinker.
Investors and analysts are assessing how a possible interest rate increase by the US central bank could influence equity valuations and economic conditions across Europe.
A market strategist outlines key drivers expected to propel European stock valuations higher, pointing to structural improvements and favorable macroeconomic conditions.
Stock markets across Europe declined as investors reacted to rising inflation fears fueled by renewed Middle Eastern conflict, which pushed oil prices and government bond yields higher.
Pan-European equity indices declined sharply as geopolitical tensions in the Middle East drove crude oil prices higher and increased expectations for aggressive monetary policy tightening.
Analysts warn that European stock markets may face typical seasonal volatility after sustaining a five-month upward trend, prompting caution among investors.
Stock markets across Europe advanced and eurozone bond yields fell as a sharp decline in crude oil prices overshadowed warnings from the European Central Bank regarding persistent inflationary pressures.
Stock markets in the United Kingdom, Spain, Portugal, and the Netherlands all closed higher, with the Investing.com United Kingdom 100, IBEX 35, PSI, and AEX indices recording gains.
Investor confidence in European stocks is surging, reaching levels not seen since before the Iran War, as they increasingly favor European equities over US peers. This shift is driven by the region's robust economic outlook, which appears more attractive amid rising AI spending.
Global stock markets showed mixed performance, with U.S. futures and European stocks experiencing fluctuations. In India, several companies like Balkrishna Industries, Phoenix Mills, Hindalco Industries, Endurance Technologies, and Ipca Laboratories saw their shares gain, while LTM and HCL Technologies shares fell.
Benedicte Lowe, Europe equity derivatives strategist at BNP Paribas Markets 360, stated that the macro story in Europe is picking up, leading to a positive outlook for European stocks.
European stocks saw an increase, with gains in the healthcare sector helping to offset broader geopolitical risks. A top Volkswagen investor also urged action, indicating ongoing market dynamics.
European stocks are testing new highs, with consumer products and retail shares leading gains, as easing tensions between the US and Iran contribute to lower oil prices and boost market sentiment.
European stocks saw advances on a busy day for earnings reports, with positive results from companies like Schneider Electric SE and Rolls-Royce Holdings Plc. These gains outweighed a slump in Sanofi SA shares.
Ukraine faces a critical shortage of Patriot missiles, essential for intercepting Russian ballistic and cruise missiles, while European stocks are depleted and a NATO ally hesitates to provide aid.
The United States launched its third consecutive night of strikes against Iran, prompting Iran to retaliate by striking tankers in the Strait of Hormuz. President Trump also vowed to impose transit fees in the Strait and sent formal notice to Congress about the resumed conflict.
Oil prices experienced a significant jump, indicating market volatility and concerns. Simultaneously, European stock markets opened with a decline, reflecting broader economic uncertainty.
A significant tech selloff is impacting global markets, with the Nasdaq 100 projected to shed over $1 trillion. European tech stocks are also leading declines as AI momentum cools, fueled by a global chip sell-off and doubts about artificial intelligence.
European stock markets are exhibiting mixed performance as investors react to ongoing political uncertainties and various geopolitical risks across the continent.
JPMorgan's Ward advises investors to buy European stocks, citing their attractive cheapness following a slump in oil prices. Despite lingering skepticism, the bank sees value in the European market.
European stock markets showed slight gains as investors awaited the European Central Bank's decision, which is expected to provide clarity on future monetary policy.
European stocks showed signs of stabilization at the start of trading today, with the pan-European STOXX 600 index rising 0.1% as investors remain nervous due to the Middle East conflict.
European stocks experienced a decline as French producer price index jumped and Spanish retail sales rose year-over-year in April but fell month-over-month.
WorldNYTThe Guardianyle-uutiset+8YahooDawniefimeridachannel-news-asiabalkan-webnewsbeastDaily Star BDvanguard-ng3mo ago11 sources
Oil prices experienced fluctuations, with some reports indicating a fall in WTI crude prices by over 5%, while others noted a rise, following new US strikes in Iran. Iran accused the US of breaking a truce, casting doubt on ongoing talks between the two nations.
Ongoing talks between the US and Iran have raised hopes for a potential peace deal, but significant obstacles, particularly the nuclear issue, remain. While some reports suggest a deal is close, Iran has stated it is not imminent, and concerns about potential sabotage from Israel persist.
European stock markets opened lower today as investors remained cautious, closely watching US-Iran negotiations and inflation risks stemming from ongoing conflicts.
European equities are underperforming US stocks this year after a strong 2025, though one expert sees potential in the pursuit of European sovereignty.
European stock markets experienced a decline at the start of trading, as the escalation of the US-Iran conflict drove oil prices higher, diminishing hopes for a diplomatic resolution.
An unknown assailant opened fire with an automatic rifle in a betting shop near Bujanovac after failing to obtain money from an employee, and is currently at large.
Reports indicate that Euro equities have lost their momentum, leading to growing concerns about their performance. Analysts suggest a decline in investor enthusiasm for European stocks.
European stock markets are projected to end the week with losses as the corporate earnings season gains momentum. This trend reflects the current market sentiment influenced by company financial reports.
Analysts have highlighted Linde plc (LIN) as one of the best European stocks to buy, citing various factors contributing to its strong investment potential.
As the deadline for the US-Iran ceasefire approaches, mediators express hope for new negotiations, though Tehran has not yet confirmed any upcoming talks and signs of progress remain uncertain.
The aviation industry is grappling with widespread jet fuel shortages and rising prices, leading to concerns about flight costs, potential cancellations, and summer holiday plans. Countries like Cyprus are managing reserves, while the EU and Vietnam are exploring measures to secure necessary supplies and maintain air transport operations.
Following the US-Iran ceasefire deal and the unblocking of the Strait of Hormuz, global markets are showing significant reactions, with oil prices collapsing from $117 to $95 per barrel and stock markets soaring in Asia and Europe. Shipowners are also preparing for the reopening, with approximately 800 vessels poised to resume passage through the critical waterway.
Following President Trump's speech on the Iran conflict, Iran has threatened 'more crushing' actions, leading to renewed surges in Brent crude oil prices and widening escalation risks due to Iran's leverage over global oil routes.
An Australian pension fund with $240 billion in assets has strategically acquired Japanese and European stocks, alongside UK bonds, reflecting its current investment strategy across global markets.
Iran has rejected a US ceasefire proposal and dismissed claims of ongoing negotiations, dampening hopes for de-escalation, though markets like the S&P 500 still reacted positively to initial hopes for peace talks, with oil prices falling.
US President Donald Trump has postponed his ultimatum to bomb Iran's electricity grid and announced a tactical pause on strikes, claiming to have begun talks with Tehran and that 'regime change' is underway. However, Iran has denied engaging in talks with the US and warned against targeting its vital infrastructure.
European stock markets experienced a slight uptick in early trading following statements made by former U.S. President Donald Trump regarding the Strait of Hormuz.
European stock markets extended their losses today as investors reacted to a new surge in oil prices, intensifying concerns about inflation and ongoing geopolitical tensions.
ANALYSIS - If the conflict in the Middle East continues, supplies could become expensive. European stocks are very low and prices are already rising sharply.
European stocks are expected to open flat to higher on Tuesday as investors assess the new global trading landscape after President Donald Trump's tariffs move.
European equities, led by the FTSE 100, are projected to gain momentum following a robust trading session in Asian markets, reflecting renewed investor optimism across the region.
Major European equity indices, including London’s FTSE and Germany’s DAX, declined as geopolitical tensions in the Gulf pushed oil and gas prices higher. Investors are reassessing market outlooks amid growing supply concerns.
European stock markets continue to trail their American counterparts as regional policymakers prioritize consumer and taxpayer protections over maximizing investor returns. This regulatory and political environment has stifled growth potential for European equities compared to the US.
Following renewed Iranian attacks on US forces, President Trump vowed a strong military response while warning that Iran is effectively a failed state. The escalation triggered a sharp rise in crude oil prices and a decline in global equity markets.
A selection of 16 European stocks has been identified as scheduled to distribute dividends throughout September 2026, offering yield-focused investors opportunities.
Stock markets across Europe declined sharply as investors reacted to growing political instability in France, which disproportionately impacted the banking sector.
Major European stock indices climbed to their highest levels in a week, driven by investor relief that recent geopolitical sanctions threats have had limited immediate economic impact.
JPMorgan Private Bank's Madison Faller suggests investors become more selective with European stocks, as improving earnings are increasingly reflected in their valuations.
European stock markets have risen for a fourth straight week, driven by a stronger-than-expected earnings season and increased merger and acquisition activity, pushing regional benchmarks to new records.
Goldman Sachs has highlighted two companies in its latest 'European Conviction' stock picks list, projecting an upside potential of over 100% for both, with one reaching as high as 168%.
Claudio Panseri, CIO of UBS Wealth Management France, shares a very positive outlook on European stocks, discusses Europe's engagement with AI stocks, and provides insights on bond yields.
European stock markets retreated following disappointing earnings reports from Hermes International SCA and ASM International NV, compounded by escalating tensions in the Middle East involving Iran.
Goldman Sachs' Bell predicts further gains for European stocks involved in the artificial intelligence buildout, signaling continued optimism for the sector.
European stocks remained unchanged at the start of trading today, following a strong week, as investors focused on corporate developments. The pan-European STOXX 600 index stood at 652.84 points.
BusinessTimes of Indiaseeking-alpha2mo ago2 sources
Global stock markets, including Wall Street and European exchanges, have seen a rebound, driven by renewed optimism in artificial intelligence and a recovery in chip stocks like Nvidia. This surge reflects positive investor sentiment as the quarter ends.
The article discusses the reality of inflation, noting its presence despite being perceived as tiny, and also touches upon the high valuation of European stocks.
J.P. Morgan's chief strategist believes that a peace agreement in the Middle East could positively impact European stock markets, offering an optimistic outlook despite differing opinions.
European stocks have regained their lead in the market as concerns over stagflation risks begin to subside. This shift indicates a more optimistic outlook for the continent's economic performance.
European stocks are expected to rebound as investors await key inflation data that will provide further insight into the economic impact of the U.S.-Iran war.
A Goldman Sachs analyst, Bell, suggests that European stocks offer a wide range of investment opportunities amidst the ongoing rally driven by artificial intelligence advancements.
Oil prices, particularly Brent crude, rose towards $100 a barrel, and European gas prices increased due to heightened tensions between the US and Iran, coupled with disruptions in LNG supplies. This geopolitical uncertainty also unsettled global markets, causing gold prices to ease in Dubai and European stocks to falter.
European stock markets are anticipated to open in negative territory as global markets closely monitor elevated bond yields and upcoming UK inflation data.
The United Arab Emirates is reportedly considering withdrawing from OPEC, a move that has sparked significant concerns about global oil supply and market stability. This potential departure is expected to have wide-ranging economic and geopolitical implications.
The European Union is currently deliberating whether to freeze or disburse funds to Serbia from its Growth Plan. This decision is under review amidst ongoing discussions regarding Serbia's adherence to certain conditions.
BlackRock, the world's largest asset manager, has warned that the ongoing energy crisis could negatively impact European stocks, despite having been more bullish on the region earlier in the year.
Charles Schwab has issued a warning that Asian and European stocks may not resume their outperformance even after the war ends, advising investors on implications for global portfolios.
President Trump threatened to imprison journalists who reported on a missing US F-15 pilot shot down over Iran and later revealed details of how a wounded US airman evaded Iranian capture.
Gas prices in the US have eclipsed $4 a gallon, reaching their highest level since 2022 and continuing to rise rapidly, as the Iran war disrupts global energy supply through the Strait of Hormuz.
Global stock exchanges, including those in India, other Asian markets, and the US, saw significant gains and oil prices cooled after Donald Trump announced a halt to military strikes on Iran and indicated talks, easing geopolitical tensions.
U.S. President Donald Trump claimed productive talks with Iran and postponed military strikes against Iranian power plants, giving Tehran more time, though Iranian agencies have denied any direct or indirect communication and celebrated the delay as a retreat.
European stocks extended their recovery in early trading today, with the pan-European STOXX 600 index rising 0.5% to 605.59 points, as falling crude oil prices boosted market sentiment.
The Aramco chief has warned of a 'catastrophic' impact on the oil market if the Strait of Hormuz remains closed, reiterating that Saudi Aramco could restore full production within days of its reopening.
European stocks are recording losses on Wednesday, as investors monitor developments in the Middle East and the Strait of Hormuz. European Stock Markets: Losses with an eye on the...
Regarding gas in particular, European stocks are at a sufficient level to finish the winter adequately, and there is no need to take emergency measures, according to…
Investors are pouring record sums into European stocks, with inflows on track for an all-time high in February, as global fund managers look for alternatives to expensive US tech shares.
Futures, Global Markets Rise With US Markets Closed For President's Day
Stocks gained, bitcoin tumbled and bonds steadied after Friday's cool CPI data reinforced expectations that the Fed will cut interest rates on multiple occasions this year. With US markets closed for the Presidents’ Day holiday and mainland China’s markets closed for Lunar New Year holidays, trading was muted on Monday. As of 9:00am ET, futures on the S&P 500 added 0.4% and Europe’s Stoxx 600 index rose 0.4% as banking shares rebounded from a sharp decline last week. German bunds and Treasury futures were steady after US yields touched the lowest since December on Friday.
The path of US interest rates remains in focus following Friday’s slower-than-expected US inflation print as traders fully price a Fed cut in July and the strong chance of a move in June.
“The backdrop for equities is positive post CPI,” said Andrea Gabellone, head of global equities at KBC Securities. At the same time, there could be “more dispersion ahead as sentiment around key AI-exposed sectors is still very critical,” he added.
That sentiment was echoed by other strategists seeking to distinguish between AI losers and winners.
A JPMorgan Chase & Co. team led by Mislav Matejka urged caution on stocks at risk of AI-driven “cannibalization,” including software, business services and media companies. Meanwhile, banks are developing baskets to capitalize on the divergence: as we first reported last Thursday, Goldman launched a new basket of software stocks that goes long firms that will benefit from AI adoption, while shorting the companies whose workflows could be replaced.
With AI disruption rippling through markets, a lot will come down to earnings resilience, in particular in the US.
“When you look at the current earnings season, the companies are showing 13% of growth,” Nataliia Lipikhina, head of EMEA equity strategy at JPMorgan, told Bloomberg TV. “Overall, this is the reason why we continue to be positive on the S&P.”
Later this week, traders will be watching for ADP private payrolls numbers on Tuesday and the minutes from the Fed’s January meeting on Wednesday for a fresh read on the economy.
European stocks gained with bank shares rebounding, after posting their biggest weekly decline since April on worries about disruption from artificial intelligence. The basic resources sector lags, with Norsk Hydro among Europe’s worst performers as both Goldman Sachs and RBC downgrade the stock. Stoxx 600 rises 0.4% to 620.26 with 253 members down, 336 up, and 11 unchanged. Here are some of the biggest movers on Monday:
NatWest shares rise as much as 4%, the most since October, as Citi analyst Andrew Coombs raises his price target on the UK bank to a Street-high.
Seraphim Space shares rise as much as 9.2%, briefly hitting a new all-time high, after the space tech investment firm said the valuations of its four largest holdings increased over the final months of 2025.
AECI shares rally as much as 6.1%, the most since July, after the South African commercial-explosives maker shared improved 2025 headline earnings per share guidance.
Orsted shares rise as much as 3.8% after analysts at Kepler raise the recommendation to buy from hold over the Danish renewable energy firm’s outlook, despite ongoing uncertainty for the industry in the US.
Norsk Hydro shares fall as much as 4.4%, extending Friday’s 5.9% earnings-triggered drop, after being downgraded at Goldman Sachs and RBC over disappointments and pricing pressures in the Norwegian aluminum company’s downstream business.
Galderma shares slip as much as 2.2% after naming Luigi La Corte as its new chief financial officer following the news back in July that Thomas Dittrich was departing.
Pinewood Technologies shares tumble as much as 32%, the most since April 2024, after Apax Partners said on Friday it will not proceed with a possible cash offer for the car dealership software provider.
FlatexDEGIRO shares drop as much as 7.2% after BNP Paribas downgraded the online brokerage firm to neutral from outperform, saying the price reflects too much optimism about its market position in Germany.
Maurel & Prom shares slump as much as 12%, pulling back after ending last week at a 2015-high, after announcing it is not currently authorized to resume oil and gas operations in Venezuela.
Barratt Redrow shares fall as much as 3.7%, leading a drop in British homebuilders after Rightmove said house prices are stalling.
Asian stocks slipped for a second day, led by declines in Japan as traders booked profits after last week’s post-election rally. Several markets were closed or held shortened trading sessions for the Lunar New Year holiday. The MSCI Asia Pacific Index was down 0.1%. Japan’s Topix Index fell 0.8%, with Mizuho Financial Group Inc. and Toyota Motor Corp. among the companies contributing to the index’s losses.In Hong Kong, AI model developer Minimax Group Inc. surged as much as 30% to more than four times its original listing price, while competitor Knowledge Atlas JSC Ltd. ended 4.7% higher. The market will be closed until Thursday. As investors across the region begin to reevaluate their bets on its artificial-intelligence-driven rally, traders in Japan cashed in gains driven by expectations of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s proactive spending policies last week.Trading in Singapore ended early Monday and will be shut until Wednesday. Equity markets in mainland China, South Korea, Indonesia and Vietnam were closed.
In FX, the yen is the notable mover in currencies, weakening 0.5% against the dollar and pushing USD/JPY back above 153. The offshore yuan is one of the better performers against the greenback. The Bloomberg Dollar Spot Index rises 0.1%.
There is no cash trading in Treasuries due to the Presidents’ Day holiday. European government bonds are little changed
In commdities, gold dipped below $5,000 an ounce, as traders booked profits from a gain in the previous session. Bitcoin tried anf ailed to stage a modest rebound; it last traded around $68,275 after posting its fourth consecutive weekly loss, with the cryptocurrency struggling to find clear direction as a weekend rally fizzled once the momentum ignition algos emerged. WTI crude futures tread water near $62.90 a barrel.
Top Headlines
President Trump said there will be voter ID rules in the mid-term elections this year, whether Congress approves it or not, and they will present a legal argument in an Executive Order. Furthermore, Trump said he has searched the depths of legal arguments not yet articulated nor vetted on this subject, and they will be presenting an irrefutable one in the very near future.
Iran says potential energy, mining and aircraft deals on table in talks with US: RTRS
Pentagon threatened to cut its ties with Anthropic over the company’s insistence that some limitations are kept on how the military uses its AI models: RTRS
UK eyes rapid ban on social media for under 16s, curbs to AI chatbots: RTRS
Rampant AI Demand for Memory Is Fueling a Growing Chip Crisis: BBG
Warner Bros. Weighs Reopening Sale Negotiations With Paramount: BBG
Companies Are Replacing CEOs in Record Numbers—and They’re Getting Younger: WSJ
Europe aims to rely less on US defence after Trump's Greenland push: RTRS
DOJ Tells Lawmakers Epstein File Redactions Complied With LawL BBG
For College Applicants, Pressure to Make Summers Count Has Gotten Even Worse: WSJ
Fed's Goolsbee (2027 voter) said on Friday that they are still seeing pretty high services inflation, and he hopes they have seen the peak impact of tariffs, while he added that the job market has been steady, with only modest cooling.
The Break Is Over. Companies Are Jacking Up Prices Again: WSJ
Trade/Tariffs
USTR Greer said the US and Ecuador expect to sign a trade agreement in the coming weeks.
China will waive import value-added taxes on selected seeds, genetic resources, and police dogs through to 2030 to increase agricultural competitiveness and breeding capacity. It was also reported that China will grant zero-tariff access to 53 African nations from May 1st, according to Bloomberg.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi told his French and German counterparts that China and the EU are partners, not rivals, while he added that China and the EU should manage differences, deepen practical cooperation and work together on global challenges.
A more detailed look at global markets courtesy of Newsquawk
APAC stocks began the week in the green but with gains limited following a lack of major fresh catalysts from over the weekend and amid thinned conditions owing to holiday closures in the region and North America. ASX 200 traded marginally higher with upside led by tech, although gains are capped by underperformance in the utilities, mining, materials and resources sectors, while participants also digested a slew of earnings releases. Nikkei 225 traded indecisively with the index constrained by disappointing Japanese preliminary Q4 GDP data, which showed the economy returned to growth but failed to meet expectations with GDP Q/Q at 0.1% (exp. 0.4%), and annualised GDP at 0.2% (exp. 1.6%). Hang Seng finished higher in a shortened trading session on Chinese New Year's Eve but with upside limited by tech weakness amid some confusion after the Pentagon added several companies including Baidu, Cosco, BYD, Huawei, Nio, SMIC, Tencent, and more to a list of Chinese firms aiding the military on Friday, but then withdrew the updated list shortly after it was posted. Furthermore, price action was also restricted by the closure of mainland markets and the absence of stock connect flows, which will remain shut for more than a week. US equity futures kept afloat in quiet trade amid the absence of drivers and participants. European equity futures indicate a mildly positive cash market open with Euro Stoxx 50 futures up 0.1% after the cash market closed with losses of 0.4% on Friday.
Asian Headlines
Chinese President Xi called for the anchoring of economic growth around domestic demand as its main driver, in a speech during a key policy meeting late last year that was released on Sunday.
China is to establish a permanent financial support framework to promote rural revitalisation and prevent a slide back into poverty, which represents a shift from transitional aid to long-term support.
China’s market regulator summoned major online platform companies on Friday, including Alibaba, Douyin and Meituan, while it directed them to comply with laws and regulations, and rein in promotional practices, according to Bloomberg.
US Secretary of State Rubio and Japanese Foreign Minister Motegi reaffirmed their commitment to deepen bilateral ties.
Disney (DIS) sent a ‘cease and desist’ letter to ByteDance over Seedance 2.0 and alleged that ByteDance has been infringing on its IP to train and develop an AI video generation model without compensation, according to Axios. It was later reported that ByteDance said it would curb its AI video app following Disney's legal threats, according to the BBC.
RBI tightened rules for loans provided to brokers and proprietary firms in an effort to reduce market speculation
FX
DXY eked slight gains in rangebound trade after a lack of major catalysts and with US participants away on Monday.
EUR/USD was little changed amid the absence of any major macro catalysts and with light newsflow from the bloc, while comments from ECB President Lagarde and news that the ECB is to make its repo backstop available to other central banks across the world, did little to spur price action.
GBP/USD held on to most of Friday's spoils but with price action contained by resistance around 1.3650 and following comments from BoE's Mann that the UK economy is sluggish and tepid, with consumers spending less due to being scarred by high inflation.
USD/JPY edged higher and returned to above the 153.00 level in the aftermath of the weaker-than-expected preliminary Q4 GDP data for Japan.
Antipodeans were mixed with little fresh macro drivers and a lack of tier-1 data from either side of the Tasman.
Fixed Income
10yr UST futures traded little changed and held on to last week's spoils after returning above the 113.00 level in the aftermath of the softer US inflation data, while price action was contained to start the week by the closure of US cash markets for Washington's Birthday.
Bund futures lacked demand in the absence of any major catalysts and with light newsflow from the bloc.
10yr JGB futures were marginally higher following disappointing preliminary GDP data for Q4, but with gains limited after failing to sustain a brief reclaim of the 132.00 level.
Commodities
Crude futures were rangebound amid light energy-specific newsflow from over the weekend and after last Friday's indecisive performance, where attention was on a source report that noted OPEC+ is leaning towards resuming oil output hikes from April, but with no decision made.
Slovak PM Fico said he has information that the Druzhba pipeline has been fixed after damage in Ukraine, although he believes that supplies to Hungary and Slovakia have become a part of political blackmail.
Spot gold took a breather after edging higher in the aftermath of the recent softer-than-expected US inflation data, with price action also contained by the holiday closures across Asia and North America.
Copper futures were subdued, with their largest buyer away for more than a week due to the Chinese New Year/Spring Festival holiday.
Texas venture-backed startup Hertha Metal vowed mass production of steel with 25% cost savings, which could reduce US reliance on imports.
Geopolitics: Middle East
US military is preparing for potential operations against Iran that could last for weeks if US President Trump orders an attack and the US fully expects Iran to retaliate, according to sources cited by Reuters.
US President Trump told Israeli PM Netanyahu during a meeting in December that he would support Israel striking Iran’s ballistic missile program if the US and Iran are not able to reach a deal, according to CBS.
Iran confirmed that indirect talks between the US and Iran will resume in Geneva on Tuesday under the mediation of Oman, while Iranian Foreign Minister Araghchi left for Geneva on Sunday.
Iranian diplomat said Iran is open to nuclear deal compromises if the US discusses lifting sanctions, while it was also reported that Iran said potential energy, mining and aircraft deals are on the table in talks with the US.
Israel’s cabinet approved the proposal to register West Bank lands as ‘state property’, while Palestinians condemned the ‘de facto annexation’ which Peace Now said likely amounts to a ‘mega land grab’.
Geopolitics: Ukraine
US President Trump said on Friday that Ukrainian President Zelensky is going to have to get moving and that Russia wants to get a deal.
US Secretary of State Rubio said they don’t know if Russia is serious about finding an end to the war in Ukraine and will continue to test it, while it was reported that he met with Ukrainian President Zelensky on security and deepening defence and economic partnerships.
Ukrainian drones targeted Russia’s Taman seaport and fuel tanks in the Black Sea region.
UK and European allies were reported on Friday to be weighing seizing Russian shadow fleet ships and tightening curbs on Russia's economy.
French Foreign Minister Barrot said some G7 nations have expressed a willingness to proceed with a maritime services ban on Russian oil, which they hope to include in the 20th sanctions package that they are actively preparing.
Geopolitics: Other
European Commission President von der Leyen said that they face the very distinct threat of outside forces trying to weaken their union, while she added that mutual defence is not an optional task for the European Union; it is an obligation within their own treaty, and it is their collective commitment to stand by each other in case of aggression.
Pentagon said the US military struck an alleged drug cartel boat in the Caribbean, which killed three people.
DB's Jim Reid concludes the overnigt wrap
I hope you all had a good weekend. To stay in Winter Olympics mood the family watched "Cool Runnings" last night. I haven't seen it for 32 years. Please don't tell anyone but I had a few tears in my eyes at the end. I blamed it on the hay fever that has now started.
There will be a lot of tears out there in markets for other reasons at the moment. Just two weeks ago, the idea of AI-driven disruption still felt like an abstract, almost academic thought experiment—something we could safely revisit once we had clearer evidence of how AI would be deployed and integrated across the economy. Fast forward 14 days, and markets have wiped out well over a trillion dollars of global equity value on the fear that AI could fundamentally reshape business models and compress profitability across a wide range of industries, including software, legal services, IT consulting, wealth management, logistics, insurance, real estate brokerage and commercial real estate.
Some of the sell off in “old economy” sectors feels overdone to me. But as I argued in our 2026 World Outlook back in November, the real challenge is that even by the end of this year we still won’t have enough evidence to identify the structural winners and losers with confidence. That leaves plenty of room for investors’ imaginations—both optimistic and pessimistic—to run wild. As such big sentiment swings will continue to be the order of the day.
My instinct is that the reaction in things like commercial real estate, for example, has been particularly exaggerated. Markets seem to be extrapolating a scenario in which vast numbers of white collar workers are made redundant almost overnight, leading to a dramatic collapse in office demand. If that view turns out to be correct, we’ll be facing societal challenges far larger than anything currently being priced into equities. While trying to catch a falling knife may be too risky for many, beginning to cushion the descent could be sensible in many old economy sectors. Markets can’t sustain a disruption narrative across multiple sectors for months or quarters without concrete evidence — and that evidence is likely to take much longer to emerge. Fascinating times.
As for this week, today is a US holiday but inflation will remain in the spotlight at a global level after Friday's slightly softer US CPI which helped contribute to a decent rates rally to end the week. Prints are due in the US (PCE - Friday), the UK (Wednesday), Canada (Tuesday) and Japan (Friday). Other economic highlights will include the FOMC minutes (Wednesday), Q4 GDP in the US (Friday), as well as the global flash PMIs (Friday). Earnings reports will feature Walmart (Thursday), Nestlé (Thursday) and BHP (today). It's the earnings calm before next week's Nvidia storm.
In the US, this holiday shortened week (President's Day today) features a data calendar dominated by releases that were pushed back by last year’s government shutdown. The most consequential updates will land on Friday, when the advance estimate of Q4 GDP arrives alongside December’s personal income and consumption figures—key inputs for shaping expectations for the early part of this year.
For markets assessing the underlying pulse of demand heading into 2026, private final sales to domestic purchasers (PFDP) will carry more weight than the headline GDP print. This indicator—closely monitored by Fed Chair Powell—is expected by our economists to slow to 2.0% from 2.9% in Q3, though risks appear tilted upward. One swing factor: Wednesday’s durable goods report, where modest gains outside of transportation could soften the deceleration. On the consumer front, real PCE growth is expected to cool to 2.5% after two quarters of outsized strength but should still signal ample momentum heading into the new year.
Friday’s income and spending report will also offer the latest reading on core PCE, the Fed’s preferred inflation gauge. Our economists expect another 0.4% monthly increase for December, lifting the year over year rate to 2.9%. Updated seasonal factors from last week’s CPI release suggest some mild downward pressure on inflation trends in the second half of 2025. Still, January’s CPI data, although softer than we anticipated, do not translate into equivalent relief for core PCE—in fact, our team currently sees another 0.4% gain for January's release (delayed until March 13th). Depending on the strength of medical services, airfare, and portfolio management components in the upcoming PPI report, a 0.5% monthly rise cannot be ruled out, which would push the year over year rate toward 3.1%. So don't get too excited about the softer CPI last week and the huge rates rally.
Additional releases this week will help clarify whether recent severe winter weather has disrupted factory sector activity. January industrial production, due Wednesday, should benefit from a jump in utility output, while weather effects may weigh on the Empire State Survey tomorrow and the Philadelphia Fed survey on Thursday.
Labor market data will also be in focus, particularly Thursday’s jobless claims, which line up with the survey week for the February employment report. As our economists have pointed out, private nonfarm job gains have averaged 103k over the past three months, slightly above the pace at this point in 2025 and matching the start of 2024. See their latest US employment chartbook here.
This week will also feature a dense lineup of Federal Reserve speakers which you can see alongside all the key global data in the day-by-day week ahead calendar at the end as usual.
Moving away from the US, inflation will also be in focus in Japan (Friday) and Canada (tomorrow). For the former, our Chief Japan Economist sees the January nationwide CPI showing a slowdown in both core CPI inflation ex. fresh food to 2.1% YoY (+2.4% in December) and core-core CPI inflation ex. fresh food and energy to 2.7% (+2.9%). Also important will be the global flash PMIs due on Friday as a health check on global growth. In Europe, the spotlight will be on UK inflation (Wednesday), with labour market data due tomorrow and retail sales on Friday. Our UK economist expects headline CPI inflation to drop to 3.0% YoY (3.4% in December) and core CPI also landing at 3.0% YoY (3.2% YoY). See more in his full preview here. In terms of key rate decisions, the RBNZ are expected to remain on hold on Wednesday.
Finally, the Munich Security Conference wrapped up over the weekend, where key topics included Ukraine, Russia, and the fate of Greenland. And while US Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s speech was nothing like Vice President JD Vance’s at last year’s conference, which triggered a “wake-up” call for European leaders, Rubio reiterated the administration’s view that Europe needed to leave behind its focus on energy policies, trade and mass migration.
Recapping last week now, the tech volatility that has dogged markets since the start of the month broadened into a far more indiscriminate sell-off. The trough came on Thursday, marked by a sharp drop in software stocks, but the weakness extended well beyond tech. Companies across wealth management, real estate and financials suffered double digit declines, underscoring how widespread the pullback has become. Market breadth confirmed this shift as the equal weighted S&P 500 fell -1.37% on Thursday, though it managed to finish the week up +0.29% (+1.04% on Friday). Ultimately, the sell-off left the major US indices on the back foot: the S&P 500 slipped -1.39% (+0.05% on Friday), the Nasdaq lost -2.10% (-0.22% on Friday), and the Magnificent 7 slid -3.24% (-1.11% on Friday).
Although the AI scare dominated sentiment, a heavy slate of US data also shaped the market narrative. Early in the week, softer prints—including flat December retail sales, a dovish Q4 Employment Cost Index, and slower Q4 growth expectations from the Atlanta Fed—pushed Treasury yields lower across the curve. That picture shifted midweek after a stronger than expected January jobs report, which delivered the largest gain in nonfarm payrolls (+130k vs. +65k expected) since December 2024 and reinforced confidence that the US economy carried solid momentum into 2026. Then on Friday, January CPI came in below expectations, adding another dovish note. Although the data offered mixed signals at times, the overall takeaway was sufficiently dovish for traders to increase the number of expected rate cuts by December 2026 to 63.4bps (+7.7bps on the week). This helped drive the largest weekly drop in the 10 year Treasury yield since August 2025, down -15.8bps (-5.0bps on Friday) to 4.05%. The 2 year yield also moved sharply lower, falling -8.9bps to 3.41% (-4.8bps on Friday), its lowest level since 2022.
European markets, meanwhile, delivered a comparatively resilient performance. The STOXX 600 (+0.09%, -0.13% Friday), DAX (+0.78%, +0.25% Friday) and FTSE 100 (+0.74%, +0.42% Friday) all posted modest gains for the week. European sovereign bonds rallied as well, with the 10 year bund yield dropping -8.7bps—its steepest weekly decline since April 2025. That move was outpaced by gilts, which fell -9.8bps (-3.6bps on Friday) despite a sharp early week sell-off triggered by renewed questions surrounding Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s position.
Elsewhere, performance was mixed. Brent crude edged down -0.44% (+0.34% on Friday), while gold extended its upward run, rising +1.56% (+2.43% on Friday).
Will London’s half term week finally give us a quiet week in 2026? You’d probably have to guess at ‘unlikely’.
Tyler Durden
Mon, 02/16/2026 - 09:40