The S&P/ASX 200 Index edged down 0.1% to below 8,120 on Thursday, ending a five-day winning streak, as mining and energy stocks declined amid softer commodity prices. Investors also remained cautious ahead of the release of Australia’s latest trade data, which could provide early insights into the impact of escalating global trade tensions on the country’s export-driven economy. On a more positive note, data showed that Australia’s manufacturing sector continued to expand in April, with new orders rising at the fastest pace in nearly two and a half years—a sign of underlying strength in the domestic economy. The pullback in mining and energy stocks was led by BHP Group (-2.2%), Northern Star Resources (-0.8%), Fortescue (-0.6%), Woodside Energy (-2%), and Santos (-0.6%).

Australian Shares Slip as Commodities Drag

The Nikkei 225 Index climbed 0.5% on Thursday to surpass 36,200, reaching a one-month high as investors looked ahead to the Bank of Japan's latest monetary policy decision. The central bank is widely expected to keep its policy rate steady at 0.5%, as it assesses the possible effects of newly imposed US tariffs on Japan’s export-reliant economy. Japanese shares also took cues from a positive lead on Wall Street , where investors brushed aside recession concerns after the US economy unexpectedly contracted in the first quarter. Adding to market optimism, hopes for progress in US-Japan trade talks gained traction after US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent signaled the potential for a deal earlier this week. Notable gains were seen among index heavyweights, including Disco Corp and Nintendo, both up 1.1%, Advantest with a 2.3% rise, Hitachi up 2.1%, and Keyence gaining 1.4%.

Japanese Shares Rise Ahead of BOJ Decision

US stock futures rose sharply on Thursday, fueled by robust earnings from two major tech giants. In extended trading, Microsoft jumped more than 7% after reporting better-than-expected fiscal third-quarter earnings and revenue, driven by strong performance in its Azure cloud segment. Meta Platforms also climbed nearly 6% after beating revenue expectations for the first quarter. During regular trading on Wednesday, markets initially dipped following data showing the US economy contracted by 0.3% in the first quarter — the first negative growth in three years. However, investors largely shrugged off recession fears and bought the dip. The Dow and S&P 500 closed up 0.35% and 0.15%, respectively, while the Nasdaq Composite edged down 0.09%. Markets are increasingly hopeful that tariff pressures may have peaked under the Trump administration. Looking ahead, investors await additional key earnings and economic reports on Thursday, with particular focus on results from Apple and Amazon.

US Futures Jump on Upbeat Tech Earnings

Equities in New Zealand rose 25 points, or 0.2%, to 11,928 in Thursday morning trade, after closing lower in the previous two sessions. The gains were largely supported by strength in industrials, tech, real estate, and consumer staples. The NZX 50 attempted to rise amid hopes of a de-escalation in the trade war between the US and China, after China compiled a list of US-made goods exempt from its 125% tariffs. Traders shrugged off government budget spending cuts while hoping for interest rate reductions to support the economy amid potential global fallout from the trade war. However, Wednesday's data capped the gains, as the country’s consumer mood fell to a nine-month low and China, New Zealand's top trading partner, reported disappointing PMI data. Among early gainers were Auckland International Airport (up 2.4%), Skellerup Holdings (1.7%), Westpac Banking Corp. (0.9%), Infratil (0.5%), and A2 Milk (0.5%).

New Zealand Shares Trade Slightly Higher

The Ibovespa closed marginally lower at 135,067 on Wednesday, halting a seven-day winning streak and easing from its highest level since September, pressured by disappointing corporate results and weakness among commodity producers, while investors parsed through the latest employment data. WEG’s shares plunged 10.8% on margin compression and earnings narrowly missing consensus, while Petrobras (-1.5%) and Vale (-1.8%) softened on concerns over weakening global commodity prices and stalled capital spending. Economically, Brazil’s unemployment rate rose to 7.0% in Q1—the highest since May 2024—signaling a less resilient labor market amid restrictive borrowing costs and trade uncertainty. On the international front, US first-quarter GDP unexpectedly contracted at a 0.3% annualized pace and private-sector hiring tumbled to its weakest level since September 2024—stoking fears that President Trump’s tariff barrage is already denting America’s growth.

Ibovespa Edges Lower on Wednesday

BVPSI increased to an all-time high of 493.59 Index Points. Over the past 4 weeks, Bolsa de Valores de Panama General Index gained 0.61%, and in the last 12 months, it increased 18.94%.

Stocks in Panama Hit All-time High

The S&P/TSX Composite Index edged 0.1% lower to close at 24,842 on Wednesday, as investors digested mounting evidence of weakening North American economic activity and persistent trade-policy headwinds. Canada’s economy contracted by 0.2% in February—driven by a 2.5% slump in mining and oil-and-gas output and a 0.5% decline in construction—highlighting softening demand across the country’s commodity-heavy sectors. Likewise, Wall Street traded firmly lower after U.S. GDP unexpectedly shrank in the first quarter, reflecting the early negative effects of tariff threats and heightened policy uncertainty under President Trump. Nearly all sectors on the TSX posted losses, with consumer-spending-sensitive giant Shopify leading the decline, shedding 4.2%, while major energy producers such as Canadian Natural, Suncor, Imperial Oil, and Cenovus fell between 2.4% and 3.2%. For April, the TSX posted a loss of 1.5%.

TSX Drops Amid Economic Slowdown

The S&P 500 and Dow reversed early losses, rising 0.1% and 0.3%, respectively, to extend their winning streak to seven days, while the Nasdaq closed 0.1% lower. Investors shrugged off recession concerns despite data revealing the first quarterly economic contraction in three years. The US economy shrank 0.3% in the first quarter, falling short of expectations as businesses rushed to import goods before Trump’s tariffs took effect, while March consumer spending rose by a stronger-than-expected 0.7%, soft hiring and reduced government spending highlighted growing economic pressure. Among stocks, Super Micro Computer tumbled 11.5% on weak preliminary results. First Solar sank 8.3% as it slashed its full-year forecast, calling tariffs a major headwind, while GE HealthCare also lowered its outlook due to tariff concerns. Mondelez rose 3.8% after topping earnings estimates, boosting consumer staples. Investors now await earnings from Microsoft and Meta after the bell.

US Stocks Rebound After GDP Data

US100 increased to a 4-week high of 19585.00 Index Points. Over the past 4 weeks, US 100 Tech Index gained 1.46%, and in the last 12 months, it increased 12.94%.

Stocks in United States Hit 4-week High

US500 increased to a 4-week high of 5573.00 Index Points. Over the past 4 weeks, United States Stock Market Index (US500) lost 0.81%, and in the last 12 months, it increased 10.92%.

The S&P 500 Hit 4-week High

The UK's FTSE 100 reversed course again to close about 0.4% higher at 8,495 on Wednesday, recording its 13th consecutive session of advances. The index was lifted by upbeat trading updates from GSK, Smith & Nephew, and Coca-Cola HBC, along with continued strength in defensive sectors such as pharmaceuticals, defence, and tobacco. On the downside, Glencore fell 7.4% following a disappointing production update, while Anglo American and Antofagasta also declined amid falling commodity prices. HSBC and Standard Chartered, both heavily exposed to China, weighed on the banking sector amid renewed concerns over the Chinese economy. Barclays fell 0.6%, despite its Q1 results impressing, and Lloyds edged up 0.1%, ahead of its results tomorrow.

UK Stocks End in the Green

Frankfurt's DAX returned to the green, closing about 0.3% firmer at 22,461 on Wednesday, its highest since early April and extending gains for the seventh day. Investor optimism surrounding potential tariff negotiations offset mixed economic data and corporate earnings reports. On the data front, while the US economy unexpectedly contracted in Q1, the Eurozone GDP growth came above analysts' expectations. The German economy exited its brief downturn with 0.2% growth in Q1, following a 0.2% contraction in Q4 2024. Deutsche Borse was the top gainer, up 3.7%, on the back of recent positive results, followed by Rheinmetall (+3.1%) and Vonovia (+2.8%). On the flip side, Zalando and Adidas underperformed, down 5.2% and 4.1%. Mercedes-Benz Group dropped 2.7% after the carmaker withdrew its 2025 earnings outlook following a 41% slump in Q1 profits. Volkswagen fell 2.4% as it posted a 37% drop in first-quarter profit.

DAX Bounces Back

European stocks closed mixed on Wednesday, with the Stoxx 50 down 0.5% while the Stoxx 600 rose 0.5% for a seventh straight session, as investors digested a wave of earnings and downbeat US economic data. Despite early losses, gains in healthcare and banking helped markets recover. The automotive sector fell 1.2%, as weak earnings overshadowed President Trump’s order softening some auto tariffs. Healthcare stocks gained 1.3%, with GSK, AstraZeneca, and Smith+Nephew saying they’re prepared for tariff impacts. UBS beat expectations with a $1.692B profit, while Barclays also exceeded forecasts. However, Volkswagen reported a 37% drop in Q1 profit, Stellantis suspended guidance due to trade uncertainty, and TotalEnergies saw an 18% decline on weaker crude. Meanwhile, Eurozone GDP beat expectations, rising 0.4% in Q1 after flat growth in Q4.

European Stocks Mixed Following Wave of Data, Earnings

In Milan,  the FTSE MIB Index dropped 270 points or 0.71 percent on Wednesday. Losses were led by Banca Monte dei Paschi di Siena (-2.77%), UniCredit (-2.69%) and Mediobanca (-2.42%). Offsetting the fall, top gainers were Davide Campari-Milano (3.96%), Recordati (3.29%) and A2A (1.91%).

The FTSE MIB Index Closes 0.71% Lower

In Paris,  the CAC 40 Index rose 38 points or 0.50 percent on Wednesday. Leading the gains are Edenred (4.98%), Vivendi (4.74%) and Societe Generale (3.29%). Top losers were Credit Agricole (-4.41%), TotalEnergies SE (-2.43%) and STMicroelectronics (-1.98%).

The CAC 40 Index Closes 0.50% Higher

The FTSE MIB closed 0.7% down at 37,605 on Wednesday, halting a five-session rally and contrasting with gains in most of other major European stock exchanges as investors took profits in the heavyweight Italian financial sector. Banks the losses after leading Milan's rally since last Wednesday as investors assessed the potential outcomes in M&A following a series of acquisition bids and defense counteroffers. Banca Monte dei Paschi di Siena lost nearly 3% in the session but remained near recent peaks after launching their offer for Mediobanca (-2.4%) earlier this week, which in turn launched an offer to swap Assicurazioni Generali  for Banca Generali shares. In the meantime, UniCredit and Banco BPM each dropped more than 2%. On the data front, both the domestic and Eurozone GDP grew more than expected in the first quarter, lifting hopes that the Eurozone may show a higher degree of resistance to tariff threats by the US.

Italian Stocks Halt 5-Session Rally

The CAC 40 rose 0.5% to close at 7,594 on Wednesday, as investors assessed a wave of economic data from across Europe alongside a fresh round of mixed corporate earnings. In France, preliminary figures showed that the economy grew by 0.1% quarter-on-quarter in the first quarter of 2025, rebounding from a 0.1% contraction in the previous quarter. In corporate news, Société Générale led the index with a 3.8% surge after its Romanian subsidiary, BRD Groupe Société Générale, reported a 7.2% year-on-year rise in first-quarter net profit. On the downside, TotalEnergies fell 2.3% after posting an 18% drop in adjusted net income for the quarter. Stellantis NV was also among the top laggards, shedding 1.9% after a decline in first-quarter revenue and the suspension of its 2025 outlook due to ongoing tariff uncertainties. Despite Wednesday’s gains, the CAC 40 recorded a second consecutive monthly loss, falling 3% in April amid ongoing concerns over disruptive U.S. trade policies.

CAC 40 Drops for 2nd Straight Month

The Ibovespa fell around 0.5% to below the 134,500 level on Wednesday, breaking a seven day win streak and easing from its highest since September, confluence of sobering global and domestic data that has undermined Brazil’s benchmark. Brazil’s unemployment rate rising to 7.0% in Q1—the highest since May 2024, signaling a less resilient labor market amid restrictive borrowing costs and trade uncertainty. Corporate results added to the gloom after WEG’s shares plunged over 10% on margin compression and earnings narrowly missing consensus, while Petrobras (-1%) and Vale (-2%) softened on concerns over weakening global commodity prices and stalled capital spending. On the international front, U.S. futures took a hit after first-quarter GDP unexpectedly contracted at a 0.3% annualized pace and private-sector hiring tumbled to just 62,000 jobs in April—its weakest since September 2024—stoking fears that President Trump’s tariff barrage is already denting America’s growth and energy demand.

Ibovespa Breaks 7 Day Win Streak

In New York,  the Dow Jones Index is losing 760 points. Losses were led by Amazon (-4.51%), Nike (-4.36%) and Nvidia (-3.78%).

The Dow Jones Index Opens 1.88% Lower

The S&P/TSX Composite Index fell over 1% to below the 24,600 mark on Wednesday, as investors digested mounting evidence of weakening North American economic activity and persistent trade-policy headwinds. Canada's economy contracted by 0.2% in February—driven by a 2.5% slump in mining and oil-and-gas output and a 0.5% decline in construction—highlighting softening demand across the country’s commodity-heavy sectors. Likewise, Wall Street traded firmly lower after U.S. GDP unexpectedly shrank in the first quarter, reflecting the early negative effects of tariff threats and heightened policy uncertainty under President Trump. Nearly all sectors on the TSX posted losses, with consumer-spending-sensitive giant Shopify leading the decline, shedding around 6%, while major energy producers such as Canadian Natural, Suncor, Imperial Oil, and Cenovus fell between 1.2% and 2.6%. For April, the TSX is poised to end with losses exceeding 1.5%.

TSX Drops After Disappointing GDP Data

US stocks were firmly lower on Wednesday after the US GDP unexpectedly contracted in the first quarter, underscoring the negative initial impact of tariff threats and uncertain economic policy by President Trump. The S&P 500 fell 1.5%, the Dow dropped over 400 points, and the tech heavy Nasdaq slumped 2% ahead of earnings releases among its key members. The US GDP contracted at an annualized 0.3% in the March quarter, contrasting with expectations of a 0.3% expansion amid softer consumer spending and soaring imports to undercut tariffs, while headline and core PCE prices accelerated more than expected. Additionally, employment growth measured by the ADP plunged. Equities were also pressured by the series of pessimistic earnings results, as corporate giants across all sectors abandoned their guidance due to economic uncertainty. Caterpillar, seen as an economic barometer, eased after lowering sales targets. Microsoft and Meta dropped 2% and 2.5%, respectively, ahead of their earnings.

US Stocks Slide After GDP Contraction

The UK’s FTSE 100 dipped to around 8,450 on Wednesday, weighed down by declines in miners and financials. Glencore, Anglo American, and Antofagasta were among the worst performers, falling 9.2%, 5.8%, and 5.3% respectively, following Glencore’s disappointing first-quarter production update. Taylor Wimpey also fell after warning of weaker first-half margins, while Prudential slipped 3.3% despite reaffirming its full-year guidance. Banking stocks faced additional selling pressure.

UK Stocks Edge Down

Frankfurt's DAX pared some early gains to trade below 22,350 on Wednesday afternoon, as traders assessed mixed economic data and corporate earnings from both sides of the Atlantic. While the US economy unexpectedly contracted in Q1, the Eurozone GDP growth came above analysts' expectations. The German economy exited its brief downturn with 0.2% growth in Q1, following a 0.2% contraction in the previous quarter and in line with forecasts. Germany's consumer price inflation eased for a second consecutive month to 2.1% in April,  the lowest since October 2024, though it remained slightly above market forecasts of 2.0%. Among stocks, top losers included Siemens Energy (-5.5%), Zalando (-4.9%), Deutsche Bank and Commerzbank (both -4%).On the earnings front, Volkswagen posted a 37% drop in first-quarter profit. Mercedes-Benz Group fell 1.1% after the carmaker withdrew its 2025 earnings outlook following a 41% slump in Q1 profits.

DAX Turns Negative

European stocks turned lower on Wednesday as investors digested mixed earnings and a surprise US GDP contraction. The Stoxx 600 slipped 0.2%, halting a six-day rally, while the Stoxx 50 fell over 1%. Autos reversed earlier gains to drop 1.2%, as earnings concerns outweighed President Trump’s move to ease some auto tariffs. Healthcare outperformed, with the Stoxx Healthcare index up 1.3%, after GSK, AstraZeneca, and Smith+Nephew said they were well positioned to handle US tariff impacts. Trump’s trade policies have become a dominant theme in Q1 earnings, with many companies warning of uncertainty. UBS rose after posting a stronger-than-expected $1.692 billion profit, while Stellantis fell after suspending full-year guidance.

European Stocks Follow Wall Street Lower after US GDP Data

US stock futures extended losses Wednesday after data showed the economy unexpectedly contracted in Q1 for the first time since 2022. GDP shrank at an annualized 0.3%, driven by a surge in imports ahead of new tariffs and weaker consumer spending. The weak data highlights growing concerns over the impact of President Trump’s trade policy. Investor sentiment was further hit as more companies pulled financial guidance. Super Micro Computer slumped 18% in pre-market trading, ahead of key earnings reports from Microsoft and Meta.

US Futures Fall Further after GDP Data

India's BSE Sensex closed marginally down at 80,242.2 on Wednesday, as investors took a breath after the recent rally and booked profit at higher levels. Border tensions continued to weigh on sentiment, while market participants also focused on the earnings season and economic data. Among stocks, Bajaj Finserv slumped over 5%, after the company’s March quarter results disappointed investors despite showing  14% year-on-year growth in both net profit and revenue. For April, the index gained 3.7% amid optimism around a US-India trade deal and sustained foreign inflows. Indian markets will be closed for a holiday on Thursday, resuming trade on Friday, May 2nd.

Sensex Ends Subdued, Still Posts Weekly Gain

The Hang Seng rose 111 points or 0.5% to close at 22,119 on Wednesday, recovering from early declines and posting a second straight day of gains as most sectors advanced. Sentiment improved on hopes that Beijing would ramp up efforts to cushion the blow from the ongoing U.S.-China trade dispute. Tech stocks led the rally, with the sector index climbing over 1% after President Xi Jinping called for breakthroughs in AI during a visit to Shanghai. Consumer and property shares also rose on bets of policy support aimed at boosting domestic consumption. Still, the benchmark fell 4.3% in April, pressured by disappointing Manufacturing PMI data in China for April, with official readings pointing to the steepest drop in nearly 1-1/2 years. Many traders were also reluctant to take new positions ahead of the Labour Day break. Markets will be closed on Thursday and the following Monday. Top gainers included AIA Group (6.7%), Chow Tai Fook Jewellery (7.8%), Kingsoft (6.8%), and Xiaomi Corp. (5.1%).

Hang Seng Ends Month with Steep Losses

The UK's FTSE 100 edged higher to near 8,470 on Wednesday, as traders assessed a wave of corporate earnings and economic data from both sides of the Atlantic. Among the raft of results, Barclays reported a 19% increase in profits for the first quarter of 2025, beating City expectations thanks in part due to a strong performance from its investment bank.

UK Stocks Edge Up

The FTSE MIB extended its recent gains to around 38,228 in early trading on Wednesday, reaching a four-week high, in line with most of its regional peers. Investors are also awaiting a slew of economic data set to be released today, including Q1 GDP, and consumer and producer inflation figures for April. Among the top performers across the index were Davide Campari-Milano, soaring nearly 4%, and Stellantis, up more than 1%. Ferrari saw a more modest increase of 0.3%, boosted by Trump’s executive orders aimed at preventing new duties on foreign-made cars, which would compound existing tariffs. Most financials performed well as well, including Unipol Gruppo (+1.8%) and Banca Monte dei Paschi di Siena (+1.8%). For the month, the index is on track for a modest gain.

Italian Stocks Hit 4-Week High

Frankfurt's DAX rose about 0.7% to trade above 22,570 on Wednesday, its highest since March 27 and extending gains for the seventh consecutive day. Market sentiment has been supported by upbeat corporate earnings and easing trade tensions. Meanwhile, traders awaited key economic data that could give insights into the early effects of tariffs on the German economy. Retail sales, labor market data, preliminary Q1 GDP numbers and inflation are due later in the day.

DAX Rally Continues

The CAC 40 edged higher by 0.3% to 7,575 on Wednesday, as investors assessed a wave of economic data from across Europe alongside a fresh round of mixed corporate earnings. In France, preliminary data showed that the economy grew by 0.1% quarter-on-quarter in Q1 2025, rebounding from a 0.1% contraction in the previous quarter. In corporate news, Société Générale led the index with a 5.4% surge—its highest level since March 2018, after its Romanian subsidiary, BRD Groupe Société Générale, reported a 7.2% year-on-year rise in Q1 net profit. Stellantis NV was also among the top gainers, advancing 1.6% despite a decline in Q1 revenue and the suspension of its 2025 outlook due to ongoing tariff uncertainties. On the downside, TotalEnergies dropped 4.1% after posting an 18% fall in adjusted net income in Q1. Despite Wednesday’s gains, the index remains on track for a second consecutive sharp monthly loss amid uncertainties surrounding disruptive US trade policies.

French Stocks Set for Second Monthly Loss

In Frankfurt,  the DAX Index is picking up 202 points or 0.90 percent on Wednesday. Gains are led by Deutsche Post (3.83%), Rheinmetall (2.67%) and Fresenius Medical Care (2.10%). Biggest losers are Zalando (-2.96%), Deutsche Bank (-0.66%) and Adidas (-0.62%).

The DAX Index Opens 0.90% Higher

European stock markets traded mostly higher on Wednesday as investors digested a wave of earnings and Eurozone GDP data. The Stoxx 600 rose 0.4%, extending its longest winning streak since January, while the Stoxx 50 was flat to slightly lower. Autos gained nearly 1%, supported by a softer stance on US automotive tariffs after President Trump signed an order reducing duties on inputs like steel and aluminum, though the 25% vehicle import rate remains. In corporate updates, Stellantis (+2.5%) suspended its full-year outlook due to trade risks. UBS (+2%) beat expectations with a $1.692B profit, aiming to recover recent share losses. Barclays (+1.7%) also posted better-than-expected results, helped by investment banking. In contrast, Volkswagen (-2%) saw profit fall under tariff pressure, while TotalEnergies (-3.3%) reported a sharp earnings drop on weaker crude prices and refining margins.

European Stocks Mostly Higher on Earnings, Auto Gains

IT40 increased to a 4-week high of 38212.00 Index Points. Over the past 4 weeks, Italy Stock Market Index (IT40) gained 0.42%, and in the last 12 months, it increased 13.27%.

Stocks in Italy Hit 4-week High

New Zealand's benchmark S&P/NZX 50 index tumbled 1% to close at 11,903 on Wednesday, marking its second straight session of losses, as concerns about the impact of tariffs on the global economy continued to dominate investor sentiment. Locally, sentiment was further dampened by weak economic data. ANZ Bank survey showed New Zealand’s business confidence dropped to a nine-month low in April, with most forward-looking activity indicators weighed down by tariff worries. Adding to the gloom, fresh data from China—New Zealand’s largest trading partner—showed a contraction in manufacturing activity for April, reversing two months of recovery. The health services sector led the market downturn, with Ryman Healthcare and Summerset Group shedding 5.6% and 2.2%, respectively. Among large cap-stocks, notable declines were seen in Auckland Intl Airport (-3.3%), Mercury NZ (-2.1%), Contact Energy (-2.6%), and A2 Milk (-1%).

New Zealand Stocks Fall for 2nd Day

European equity markets were set for a subdued start on Wednesday as investors awaited a wave of corporate earnings and key macroeconomic releases. Major companies reporting today include Airbus, Barclays, GSK, Stellantis, and TotalEnergies, with earnings likely to set the tone for broader market sentiment. In a bright spot, Swiss banking giant UBS beat expectations with a first-quarter profit of $1.69 billion, offering some early encouragement. On the economic front, market participants will closely watch first-quarter GDP data from across the euro area, alongside inflation figures from Germany, France, and Italy. The data will be scrutinized for signals on the region’s growth trajectory and monetary policy outlook. In premarket trading, Euro Stoxx 50 and Stoxx 600 futures hovered near the flatline, reflecting investor caution.

European Markets Poised for Quiet Open

India’s equities rose 162 points, or 0.2%, to 80,450 in Wednesday morning trade, hovering at their highest level since mid-December 2024 and marking a third consecutive session of gains. The rally was supported by strength in pharmaceuticals, property, and healthcare stocks. The BSE Sensex followed an upbeat session on Wall Street overnight, buoyed by reports of a major trade deal nearing completion and solid corporate earnings. Positive sentiment was also driven by optimism over US-India trade talks, after President Donald Trump signaled that a deal was close. However, escalating geopolitical tensions between India and Pakistan, along with disappointing Chinese PMI data, capped further gains. The Nifty 50 rose 0.2% to nearly 24,400, supported by continued foreign fund inflows. Top performers included Power Grid (up 2.0%), HDFC Bank (1.2%), Sun Pharmaceutical Industries (1.1%), and Mahindra & Mahindra (0.8%).

Sensex Rises for 3rd Session

Hong Kong shares slipped 72 points or 0.3% to 21,934 in early trade on Wednesday, reversing modest gains from the prior session as investors reacted to China’s April PMI data. Official figures showed manufacturing activity shrank at the sharpest pace in 16 months, amid mounting concerns over the impact of rising U.S. tariffs. In contrast, a private survey reported unexpected growth in factory activity, though it was the slowest expansion since January.

Hong Kong Market Falls on China PMI Concerns

Mainland Chinese markets were mixed on Wednesday, with the Shanghai Composite slipping 0.2% to around 3,280, while the Shenzhen Component rose 0.5% to 9,895. Investor sentiment was clouded by disappointing PMI figures, reflecting mounting pressure from the ongoing trade conflict with the US. Official data showed manufacturing activity contracted more sharply than anticipated in April, while growth in the services sector also missed expectations. The data reinforced concerns about the broader economic fallout from trade tensions, particularly as it remains unclear whether Beijing and Washington are actively engaged in negotiations. So far, Chinese authorities have refrained from launching aggressive stimulus measures, choosing instead a more measured approach in responding to the impact of tariffs. Financial stocks fell, with notable losses from China Merchants (-2.7%) and ICBC (-2.2%). In contrast, high-growth technology and consumer names outperformed, helping cushion broader losses.

China Stocks Mixed Amid Weak PMI Data

The benchmark KOSPI fell 0.2% around 2,560 points on Wednesday, ending its three-session winning streak but headed for a 3.2% gain for the month, as investors reacted to fresh economic data and earnings reports amid trade developments. On Wednesday, South Korea’s Finance Ministry said it isn’t rushing a trade deal with the US before its June 3 election, stressing due process and the need to align with its political timeline. Meanwhile, industrial production surged in March, marking a second straight month of growth, driven by strong semiconductor output. However, retail sales dipped, signaling weaker consumer spending. Among index heavyweights, chip giant Samsung Electronics was flat after a 21.7% rise in first quarter net profit, exceeding expectations, while its peer SK Hynix slipped 0.7%. Battery maker LG Energy Solution shed 2.4% despite a 6.8% rise in net profit. Traders now await for additional key data releases due this week, including trade balance, PMI, and inflation figures.

South Korean Shares Snap 3-Day Winning Streak

The S&P/ASX 200 Index rose 0.4% to around 8,100 on Wednesday, marking its fifth straight session of gains. Strength in financial and consumer stocks offset losses in the commodity sector, helping extend the market’s upward momentum. Investor focus now turns to Australia’s upcoming inflation report, which could influence the Reserve Bank of Australia's policy stance. The central bank is widely expected to deliver another 25 basis point rate cut in May, as economic uncertainty and global trade tensions mount. Leading the gains were Commonwealth Bank (+0.5%), ANZ Group (+0.7%), and Wesfarmers (+1.2%). On the downside, weakness in commodity prices weighed on miners and energy stocks, with Fortescue and Woodside Energy both down 0.2%.

Australian Shares Gain for 5th Straight Session

Japanese shares rose on Wednesday as markets reopened following a one-day holiday. The Nikkei 225 edged up 0.2% to around 35,900, while the broader Topix Index climbed 0.7% to 2,670, extending recent gains. Investor sentiment was buoyed by comments from US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, who said the US held “substantial talks” with Japan regarding a potential trade agreement. However, domestic data provided a mixed picture—industrial production declined more than expected in March, and retail sales growth fell short of forecasts. Attention now shifts to the Bank of Japan’s upcoming policy decision, where the central bank is widely expected to keep interest rates steady at 0.5% as it gauges the potential impact of US tariffs on Japan’s export-driven economy. Leading gainers included Toyota Industries (+4.7%), Mitsubishi UFJ (+2.4%), Nintendo (+2.0%), Sony Group (+5.2%), and Advantest (+2.1%).

Japanese Stocks Gain as Markets Reopen

US stock futures slipped on Wednesday as investors awaited crucial economic data and major corporate earnings. Market attention is focused on the release of the March PCE price index—the Federal Reserve’s preferred inflation gauge—alongside the first estimate of Q1 GDP, both due later today. On the earnings front, megacap tech giants Meta Platforms and Microsoft are scheduled to report after the bell, drawing heightened investor scrutiny. In extended trading, SMCI plunged more than 15% after issuing weaker-than-expected preliminary results for its fiscal third quarter. Tuesday’s regular session saw continued strength in equities, with the Dow rising 0.75% and the S&P 500 gaining 0.58%, both posting their sixth straight day of gains. The Nasdaq Composite added 0.55%. Market sentiment got a lift after Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick indicated the White House was nearing a trade agreement. President Donald Trump later indicated a deal with India could be finalized soon.

US Futures Edge Lower Ahead of Key Data, Earnings

The NZX 50 was almost flat in early deals on Wednesday, trading around 12,029, after retreating in the previous session. Gains in financials, communication services, and utilities offset falls in healthcare and real estate. Traders digested the impact of government spending cuts on economic recovery amid uncertainty over tariff policies. Caution was also built ahead of the release of Chinese PMI data later today and New Zealand business confidence for March, after sentiment weakened in February. Market participants continued to monitor the development of US-China trade talks amid hopes of de-escalating the trade war. Infratil gained 1.3%, Marsden Maritime climbed 0.9%, and A2 Milk rose 0.6%, while Fisher & Paykel and Fonterra fell by 0.8% and 0.4%, respectively.

New Zealand Stocks Muted in Morning Trade

In New York,  the Dow Jones Index went up by 300 points or 0.75 percent on Tuesday. Top gainers were Honeywell International (5.48%), Sherwin-Williams (5.03%) and Amgen (1.95%). Biggest losses came from UnitedHealth (-2.53%), McDonalds (-0.75%) and Chevron (-0.74%).

The Dow Jones Index Closes 0.75% Higher

US stocks closed higher on Tuesday, buoyed by reports that a major trade deal was nearing completion and corporate earnings. The S&P 500 posted its strongest six-day rally since 2022, adding 0.6%, the Nasdaq rose 0.5%. The Dow Jones advanced 300 points, led by strong performances from companies like Honeywell (+5.4%) and Sherwin-Williams (+4.9%), which posted solid quarterly results. General Motors fell 1.1%, after it cancelled its share buyback and pulled its outlook due to the possibility of tariffs while Amazon was little changed following clarifying it would not implement tariff surcharges. UPS lost 0.5% after reporting better-than-expected earnings and announced plans to cut 20,000 jobs. On the data fronts, the U.S. trade deficit in goods reached a record high, while consumer confidence slipped, reflecting the growing economic challenges. Job openings in the US were at 7.19 million in March, lower than expected.

S&P 500, Dow Extend Rally to Six Days

The UK's FTSE 100 recovered and closed about 0.6% up at 8,463.5 on Tuesday, its highest since early April, as investors reviewed a wave of corporate earnings. The index also logged its 12th consecutive daily gain, its longest winning streak since 2017. At the top of the index, Howden Joinery Group surged 4.6% as it reported a 3% rise in revenue for the first four months of the year and said on track for 2025 outlook. Entain surged 3% after reporting a strong start to the year with net gaming revenues surpassing expectations and officially naming Stella David as its new CEO. The UK’s largest bank HSBC Holdings rose 2.6% after announcing a multibillion-dollar share buyback plan despite a decline in profits and revenue. On the flip side, AB Foods, the owner of Primark, saw the largest decline, falling 9.2% after its interim results included a reduction in earnings guidance. BP also posted a 2.4% drop following a significant 48% decrease in net profit, which totaled $1.4 billion.

UK Stocks End on Higher Note

Frankfurt's DAX closed about 0.7% firmer at 22,426 on Tuesday, its highest since early April and notching the sixth straight session of advances. The gains came as investors weighed a wave of corporate earnings and former President Trump’s proposal to lower tariffs on auto parts for U.S.-produced vehicles. Rheinmetall shares jumped 8.5% and topped the index after the German defense firm reported preliminary first-quarter earnings that came in well above analysts’ expectations. Germany’s largest lender Deutsche Bank was also in focus, rising 5% after posting higher-than-expected first-quarter profit. In contrast, Porsche AG plunged 4.1%, after delivering a grim forecast on Monday and disappointing first-quarter results. Meanwhile, Adidas fell 3.2% as it announced a 155% jump in first-quarter profit but held back from raising its 2025 financial forecasts, citing tariff uncertainty.

DAX Ends at 1-Month High

In Milan,  the FTSE MIB Index went up by 409 points or 1.09 percent on Tuesday. Top gainers were Mediobanca (5.27%), Banca Monte dei Paschi di Siena (3.77%) and Leonardo SpA (2.94%).

The FTSE MIB Index Closes 1.09% Higher

In Frankfurt,  the DAX Index rose 154 points or 0.69 percent on Tuesday. Leading the gains are Rheinmetall (7.89%), Deutsche Bank (5.04%) and Commerzbank (3.98%). Top losers were Porsche AG (-4.26%), Adidas (-3.22%) and Infineon (-2.22%).

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