International markets update:
Global equities are poised for a rebound after an initial downturn, with U.S. and European futures pointing to a positive open following a strong rally in Asia, suggesting a recovery from Wednesday’s losses.
- The Federal Reserve delivered a hawkish 25 basis point rate hike, the first since 2023, while President Trump publicly questioned the central bank’s independence and criticized its board members as “hostile.”
- The Bank of England is widely anticipated to maintain its current interest rates at 3.75%, though Governor Andrew Bailey reiterated warnings about persistent upside risks to inflation.
- Japan’s short-dated government bond yields surged to their highest levels since 1995, ahead of an expected interest rate hike from the Bank of Japan on Friday.
- President Trump escalated trade rhetoric, labeling the EU’s move to grant Canada “associate member” status a “hostile act” and threatening new tariffs or a complete halt to trade with Europe.
- Oil prices experienced a decline in early trading after Saudi Arabia announced increased crude cargo availability for Asian refiners, aiming to alleviate supply pressures.
Stock Market News summarised for the Wall Street Investors Club community.