Markets opened mixed as S&P 500 and Nasdaq wrestled with renewed volatility while the Dow saw modest gains. Tech and AI names led movers amid Nvidia‑OpenAI headlines; banks and credit-sensitive assets traded weak on funding concerns. Investors are watching China data, earnings and the US government shutdown as key catalysts.
China’s official growth figures point to a clear slowdown and rising domestic caution. Weak GDP and softer consumer behavior underscore persistent demand problems and a real-estate hangover threatening the recovery.
4.8% – China Q3 GDP growth, slowest in a year.
Beijing’s central bank held policy steady, signalling limited room for stimulus. Markets are parsing a steady LPR and cautious central-bank rhetoric as growth risks linger.
China is doubling down on domestic tech while tightening control over crypto-related projects. Policymakers aim to shield strategic industries even as regulators clamp down on fintech experiments.
Revolut valued at $75B after $3B funding wave
Fintech Revolut wraps a $3 billion funding round that values the company at roughly $75 billion, underscoring investor appetite for scale in digital banking despite broader market caution.
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Beijing has publicly accused US agencies of cyber intrusions tied to national time services. The allegations raise risks for bilateral relations and could prompt retaliatory cyber or financial measures.
Tariffs and trade tensions are re-emerging as a major macro risk, with global policymakers cautioning markets. Officials warn the full consumer impact is still to come even as political leaders spar over policy choices.
Volkswagen allegedly hit by ransomware – data theft claimed
Ransomware group 8Base claims it has stolen and leaked sensitive Volkswagen data, raising cybersecurity and supply-chain risks for the auto giant as investigators and the company assess the breach.
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The US government shutdown shows no signs of ending, straining federal services and markets. Prolonged impasse raises fiscal risks and could amplify economic downside if it continues.
Market nerves are rising as trade and credit concerns meet seasonal volatility. Investors are watching earnings, inflation data and banking stress for signs the rally can continue.
PBoC held rates steady while China tightens oversight of crypto and tech plans; the US trade/tariff debate is intensifying and federal shutdown delays are disrupting grant flows—policy risks are rising across monetary, fintech and fiscal fronts.
Nvidia’s deepening ties with OpenAI have escalated into marquee billion-dollar bets that are reshaping the AI hardware race. Markets are pricing in outsized profits for chip leaders as runway for AI spending widens.
OpenAI is diversifying chip suppliers while facing public criticism over technical claims. The tug-of-war highlights both supply-chain moves and reputational risks for major AI players.
Wall Street is still underestimating artificial intelligence.
— Blackstone president
AI anxiety is colliding with industry optimism: founders warn of risks even as private-equity and asset managers predict sweeping disruption. The debate is shifting from theory to near-term business impact.
Luxury group Kering is sharpening its focus on fashion through a major beauty divestment, while L’Oréal gains scale in skincare and cosmetics. The tie-up reshapes luxury and beauty sector ownership dynamics.
A daylight heist at the Louvre has rattled global cultural and security circles after priceless jewels were stolen. Authorities say the theft was bold and swift, heightening concerns over museum security and illicit art markets.
A cargo jet accident at Hong Kong’s airport killed ground crew and disrupted operations, renewing scrutiny on air-cargo safety. Preliminary reports point to runway excursion during landing; investigations are under way.
A suspicious hunting stand near where Air Force One lands has prompted a security probe by Secret Service and the FBI. The discovery raises fresh concerns about presidential security and perimeter vulnerabilities.
The US has conducted strikes against suspected drug-smuggling vessels while the president moves to cut aid to Colombia amid a diplomatic spat. The actions risk widening tensions in the hemisphere and complicate counternarcotics policy.
The fragile Gaza ceasefire faces its first major test after reciprocal strikes and accusations of violations. Diplomats scramble to prevent escalation as humanitarian access and truce credibility fray.
Global lenders are shifting deal flows to India as US credit concerns bite, while Europe tests sovereign spreads. Investors are repositioning to lower-risk geographies as credit-risk signals flare.
Asia markets opened with a burst of optimism as political clarity in Japan and easing trade tensions lifted sentiment. Equity rallies in Tokyo and Hong Kong reflect a fragile rebound tied to policy signals and earnings hopes.