Mega-cap tech earnings; Fed decision; Trump in South Korea - what’s moving markets

In a positive turn for international trade, Donald Trump announced plans to cut tariffs on fentanyl-related goods from China, expressing optimism about a potential 'great deal' with Chinese leader Xi Jinping. This news has sparked a rally in Asian stock markets, reflecting investor confidence. Notably, shares of Nvidia surged after Trump praised the company's new Blackwell AI processors, which were recently showcased by CEO Jensen Huang. This development is significant as it highlights the ongoing dialogue between the US and China, potentially easing trade tensions and benefiting the tech sector.

European shares are showing little movement as investors keep a close eye on upcoming earnings reports and the Federal Reserve's decision on interest rates. This situation is significant because it reflects the cautious sentiment in the market, with traders weighing the potential impacts of economic indicators on future investments.

European stocks are holding steady as investors await the Federal Reserve's decision on interest rates. This comes on the heels of UBS reporting a significant surge in profits, which reflects strong performance in the banking sector. The stability in the stock market and positive earnings from major companies like UBS indicate a resilient economic outlook, making it an important moment for investors and analysts alike.

Former President Donald Trump has indicated that he might have a conversation with China's President Xi Jinping regarding Nvidia's latest 'super-duper' Blackwell chip. This potential dialogue highlights the ongoing technological competition between the U.S. and China, particularly in the semiconductor industry, which is crucial for advancements in various sectors including AI and computing. Such discussions could impact international relations and trade policies, making it a significant topic for both countries.

Former President Trump is optimistic about signing a trade deal with China during the upcoming summit with President Xi. This meeting is crucial as it will address various important issues, including the export of chemicals linked to fentanyl production. The outcome could significantly impact U.S.-China relations and global trade dynamics.

Former President Donald Trump has once again criticized Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, urging for interest rate cuts to stimulate the economy. Trump's comments come amid ongoing concerns about inflation and economic growth, highlighting the tension between political leaders and central bank policies. This matters because interest rates significantly influence borrowing costs, consumer spending, and overall economic health, making the Fed's decisions crucial for the financial landscape.

In a significant move ahead of the upcoming meeting between President Trump and President Xi, China has purchased a substantial amount of US soybean cargoes. This development is seen as a positive step towards easing trade tensions between the two nations, highlighting a potential thaw in relations that could benefit both economies. The soybean trade is crucial for American farmers and could signal a willingness from China to engage in more constructive dialogue.

Donald Trump has openly recognized that the Constitution's 22nd Amendment prevents him from running for a third presidential term. This acknowledgment comes amidst his ongoing discussions about a potential run in 2028. Understanding these constitutional limits is crucial as it shapes the political landscape and informs voters about the candidates eligible for future elections.

The UK Competition and Markets Authority has cleared the merger between Primary Health Properties and Assura, marking a significant step forward in the healthcare sector. This merger is expected to enhance the provision of primary care facilities across the UK, ultimately benefiting patients and healthcare providers alike. With the CMA's approval, both companies can now focus on integrating their operations and improving healthcare access.

Next is on track to report a pre-tax profit exceeding £1.1 billion by the end of January 2026, despite the recent cyber-attack on M&S. This is significant as it highlights Next's resilience and ability to thrive in challenging circumstances, showcasing strong business performance that could inspire confidence among investors and stakeholders.

Copper prices have soared to record highs, driven by concerns over supply disruptions and the impact of tariffs imposed by Donald Trump. This surge is significant as it reflects the ongoing challenges in the production sector, which could affect various industries reliant on copper. Investors are closely monitoring these developments, as they could signal broader economic implications.

Australian Treasurer Jim Chalmers has raised concerns about the nervousness among global investors as uncertainty looms over the world economy. He highlighted that capital flows are becoming increasingly unstable, prompting fears that the economy may face significant challenges ahead. This matters because it reflects broader economic trends that could impact investment decisions and financial markets worldwide.

This week, the financial markets are reacting to several key events, including earnings reports from major tech companies and the Federal Reserve's latest decision on interest rates. These developments are crucial as they can influence investor sentiment and market trends. Additionally, former President Trump is making headlines with his visit to South Korea, which could have implications for international relations and trade. Keeping an eye on these factors is essential for understanding the current economic landscape.

In a positive turn for international trade, Donald Trump announced plans to cut tariffs on fentanyl-related goods from China, expressing optimism about a potential 'great deal' with Chinese leader Xi Jinping. This news has sparked a rally in Asian stock markets, reflecting investor confidence. Notably, shares of Nvidia surged after Trump praised the company's new Blackwell AI processors, which were recently showcased by CEO Jensen Huang. This development is significant as it highlights the ongoing dialogue between the US and China, potentially easing trade tensions and benefiting the tech sector.