Global Stock Markets React as ECB Delivers Rate Cut and U.S. Economic Worries Mount

The European Central Bank cut its deposit rate by 25 basis points to 2%, a MOVE long anticipated by markets. Inflation in the eurozone has cooled to 1.9%, slightly below the ECB's target. President Christine Lagarde signaled a data-dependent approach ahead, leaving the door open for further cuts but refusing to commit. Trade tensions and rising public spending could reignite inflation pressures, complicating the path forward.

U.S. stock markets stumbled after disappointing economic data. Private-sector hiring slowed sharply in May, with payrolls rising just 37,000—far below expectations. Services sector activity contracted unexpectedly, raising concerns about the health of the job market. The Dow Jones and S&P 500 futures dipped, while the Nasdaq clung to modest gains.