Stocks made minor moves as investors awaited a busy earnings week for clues on economic strength. Oil rose, and gold hit a record amid rising Middle East tensions.
S&P 500 futures were flat, while Europe’s Stoxx 600 edged up and China’s CSI 300 gained after banks cut lending rates to boost growth.
Markets are balancing economic concerns with geopolitical risks. China continues efforts to revive its economy, while Europe faces a weaker outlook, especially in Germany’s struggling manufacturing sector.
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Gold hit a record high, and Brent crude traded above $73 per barrel. In the Middle East, Israel is escalating tensions with Iran after a drone attack near Prime Minister Netanyahu’s home.
US earnings this week focus on Tesla’s production issues and Boeing’s labor concerns. Tesla’s recent Cybercab unveiling has disappointed investors, while Boeing faces a critical vote on a new labor contract.
Other corporate news includes MetLife’s potential $1-1.5 billion acquisition of PineBridge Investments, Sanofi’s talks to sell its consumer health unit, DNB Bank’s $1.1 billion acquisition of Carnegie Holding, and JAB’s purchase of Mondelez shares in JDE Peet’s.
International financial leaders meet in Washington this week, while China lowered key lending rates to stimulate growth.
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