Stock Markets Edge Higher Amid Fed Watch and Geopolitical Tensions
Global stock markets opened the week with cautious Optimism as investors weighed potential Federal Reserve rate cuts against geopolitical uncertainties. The Dow Jones and S&P 500 futures rose 57 points and 0.14% respectively, while Nasdaq futures also gained ground. Small-cap stocks surged over 3% last week, signaling risk appetite despite choppy conditions.
Asian markets mirrored the upbeat sentiment, with Japan's Nikkei 225 climbing 1% and China's CSI 300 hitting its highest level since October 2024. Hong Kong and Indian indices advanced, though South Korea bucked the trend with a 1% decline. The market's focus remains squarely on the Fed's Jackson Hole symposium, where traders anticipate clues about September rate cuts currently priced at 85% probability.
