Global Markets Hold Steady Amid Ceasefire Uncertainty and Oil Price Rise
Market Overview and Key Influences
A look at the day ahead in European and global markets from Tom Westbrook
Oil Prices and Middle East Tensions
Oil ticked higher and European futures wobbled on Friday, while the U.S. and Iran exchanged fire in the Middle East.
But with investors choosing to focus on hopes for a more lasting peace deal moves were modest and, in Asia, dominated by big weekly gains in AI stocks.
Political Developments and Currency Movements
Traders were watching early results in Britain's local elections, which showed heavy losses for Keir Starmer's Labour Party though sterling stayed steady at $1.36 in Asia.
Ceasefire Status and Oil Market Reaction
U.S. and Iranian forces clashed in the Gulf, and the UAE came under renewed attack. U.S. President Donald Trump later told reporters the ceasefire was still in effect and sought to play down the exchange, leaving oil at $101 a barrel.
Corporate and Regional Market Movements
Toyota forecast a 20% decline in profit for the current financial year on Friday, as cost and supply uncertainties stemming from the Iran war weigh on earnings, and its shares fell about 1.5%.
Most markets in Asia logged small losses on Friday but were set for chunky weekly gains led by South Korea, where runaway rallies in chipmakers Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix had the KOSPI on course for a 13% weekly rise, its best since 2008.
Upcoming Economic Data and Events
German trade data is due on Friday along with U.S. jobs figures, with a steady unemployment rate at 4.3% seen giving room for the Federal Reserve to leave interest rates where they are for the time being.
Key Developments to Watch
Key developments that could influence markets on Friday:
- U.S.-Iran negotiations
- German trade data
- U.S. non-farm payrolls
(Reporting by Tom WestbrookEditing by Shri Navaratnam)
