U.S. stocks higher at close of trade; Dow Jones Industrial Average up 0.15%

Canada's stock market closed on a high note, with the S&P/TSX Composite rising by 0.71%. This positive trend reflects investor confidence and could signal a robust economic outlook for the country. As markets fluctuate, such gains are crucial for both individual investors and the broader economy, highlighting the resilience of Canadian stocks.

Brazil's stock market closed on a high note, with the Bovespa index rising by 0.61%. This positive trend reflects growing investor confidence and could signal a robust economic outlook for the country. As markets fluctuate globally, Brazil's performance stands out, potentially attracting more foreign investment and boosting local businesses.

Greece's stock market closed on a positive note, with the Athens General Composite index rising by 0.13%. This uptick reflects growing investor confidence and could signal a recovery in the Greek economy, which is crucial for both local businesses and international investors looking for opportunities in the region.

US stocks started the week on a positive note, showing some gains despite ongoing concerns about new tariffs and the possibility of a government shutdown. These factors, along with important economic data on the horizon, are keeping the market's growth in check. It's a reminder of the delicate balance investors must navigate in the current economic climate.

Emmanuel Roman, CEO of Pimco, has raised concerns about the uncertainty surrounding US President Donald Trump's tariff policies and their potential impact on the stock market. As these tariffs evolve, they could significantly influence investor confidence and market performance, making it crucial for stakeholders to stay informed about these developments.

Saudi Arabia's stock market closed on a high note, with the Tadawul All Share index rising by 1.82%. This positive trend reflects growing investor confidence and could signal a robust economic outlook for the region. As the market continues to gain momentum, it may attract more foreign investment, further bolstering the economy.

A US agriculture official's visit to Taiwan highlights the ongoing discussions around tariffs and trade relations between the two regions. This visit is significant as it underscores the importance of agricultural trade and cooperation, especially in light of recent global supply chain challenges. Strengthening ties with Taiwan could lead to better market access for US farmers and enhance food security in both areas.

Australia's stock market closed on a high note, with the S&P/ASX 200 index rising by 0.85%. This positive trend reflects investor confidence and could signal a robust economic outlook for the country. Such gains in the stock market are important as they can lead to increased investment and spending, ultimately benefiting the broader economy.

Israel's stock market closed on a high note, with the TA 35 index rising by 2.70%. This positive trend reflects growing investor confidence and could signal a robust economic outlook for the region. As markets fluctuate globally, this uptick in Israel's stocks is a noteworthy development that may attract further investment and bolster economic stability.

Russia's stock market faced a downturn as trading closed, with the MOEX Russia Index remaining unchanged. This stagnation reflects ongoing economic challenges and investor uncertainty in the region, which could impact future market performance and investor confidence.

Verizon is reportedly in discussions to acquire wireless spectrum from EchoStar, according to Bloomberg News. This potential deal could enhance Verizon's network capabilities and expand its service offerings, which is significant in the competitive telecommunications market. If successful, this acquisition may lead to improved connectivity for customers and strengthen Verizon's position as a leader in the industry.

IDT Corporation has reported disappointing results for its Q4 2025 earnings, falling short of analysts' expectations. This miss raises concerns about the company's financial health and future performance, which could impact investor confidence and stock prices. Understanding these results is crucial for stakeholders as they navigate the implications for the company's strategy moving forward.

South Korea's used car exports are thriving, providing a buffer against the impact of US tariffs on the automotive sector. This surge in exports not only highlights the resilience of South Korean manufacturers but also reflects a growing global demand for affordable vehicles. As trade relations evolve, this trend could bolster the economy and create new opportunities for local businesses, making it a significant development in the automotive landscape.

YouTube has agreed to pay $24.5 million to settle a lawsuit regarding the suspension of former President Donald Trump's account. This settlement is significant as it highlights the ongoing debates around social media platforms' power to regulate content and the implications for free speech. The resolution of this case may set a precedent for how similar disputes are handled in the future, impacting both users and platforms.

The potential US government shutdown poses significant risks, including the delay of the September jobs report and other crucial economic data. This matters because timely employment statistics are vital for understanding the health of the economy and guiding policy decisions. A shutdown could disrupt not only the release of this data but also the overall economic stability, affecting businesses and individuals alike.

Michael Saylor, the executive chairman of MicroStrategy, is making waves with the launch of their new Bitcoin-backed credit product called 'Stretch.' This innovative offering aims to eliminate the volatility and risk typically associated with Bitcoin, making it more accessible for investors. Saylor shared insights on The Close, revealing that MicroStrategy has already introduced four credit instruments this year, totaling an impressive $4 billion, with plans for more in the pipeline. This development is significant as it could reshape how investors engage with cryptocurrency, potentially leading to broader adoption.