Asian & European Markets Surge on Global Optimism
Asian markets hit their highest levels in over three years, and European futures follow suit. MSCI Asia‑Pacific ex‑Japan reached highs not seen since late 2021, with Japan's Nikkei surpassing 40,000. Investors cheered an easing Middle East situation, U.S. rare-earth deals with China, and clarity around foreign investor taxes. Expectations of dovish Fed policy further propelled risk-on sentiment.
Why it matters: Strong performance in Asia often presages global equity trends. Rising asset and currency values in the region underscore a broad shift toward risk assets.
Extra insight: Oil dropped over 1% as ceasefire hopes eased supply concerns, while gold lost 1%—investors seem to rotate from safe havens into equities