Asian stocks posted modest gains following two days of trade discussions between the US and Chinese officials, which ended with both sides expressing optimism.
A regional stock gauge rose by 0.3%, with Hong Kong’s market climbing 1% and mainland China gaining 0.9%, marking the biggest advances in the region. The talks, held in London, focused on easing trade tensions and reportedly led to a preliminary deal outlining the implementation of prior agreements reached in Geneva.
Though full details of the accord have yet to be disclosed, US negotiators stated they “absolutely expect” resolution of key issues, particularly around the shipment of rare earth minerals and magnets, to be achieved through the agreed framework.
Elsewhere in the markets:
- US equity futures dipped 0.3% as investors awaited more clarity on the agreement
- European equity contracts fell 0.4%
- US Treasuries remained stable ahead of Wednesday’s inflation report
- The US dollar index rose by 0.1%
- Gold prices moved up 0.5%, reflecting cautious optimism and a slight flight to safety
Investors remain watchful for concrete follow-up actions and policy details, which could further guide global equity performance in the coming days.
