US and European stock markets performed positively in Tuesday's trading, supported by the continued decline in oil prices and easing concerns about energy supplies, while the Nasdaq Composite hit a new record high during the session .
US markets:
- Nasdaq Composite: 27,223.42 points, up +0.37% .
- Nasdaq 100: 30,634.27 points, up +0.50% .
- S&P 500: 7,769.57 points, up +0.06% .
- Dow Jones: 51,997.72 points, down -0.10% .
- Russell 2000: 2,891.83 points, up +0.57% .
The technology sector led the positive performance, with the Nasdaq hitting a new record high near 27,251 points . The main support for stocks came from the continued decline in oil prices, amid reports of the potential reopening of the Strait of Hormuz within seven days , along with talk of Saudi plans to restart the East-West pipeline.
European markets:
- STOXX Europe 600: 644.49 points, up +0.40% .
- German DAX: 25,687.52 points, up +0.44% .
- French CAC 40: 8,176.86 points, up +0.47% .
- The British FTSE 100: 10,746.16 points, up +0.07% .
- FTSE MIB Italy: 52,248.77 points, down -0.23% .
European markets turned higher after a weaker start to the session, benefiting in turn from lower energy prices, although pressure continued on some financial sectors.
Oil remains the primary driver of the markets: Brent crude fell by about 1% to around $98 a barrel , while US crude dropped by about 1% to around $94 , heading for its fifth consecutive session of losses. The decline in oil prices partially alleviates inflation concerns and reduces potential pressure on interest rates, which provides support for growth and technology stocks.
Meanwhile, investors are focused on the summit between US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Washington this week , where talks are expected to cover trade, tariffs, artificial intelligence, rare earths, and the war with Iran.
In summary, market sentiment is generally positive, with US and European stocks benefiting from lower oil prices, while the Nasdaq leads the gains and sets new record highs. However, geopolitical developments and the US-China summit in Washington will remain key drivers for investors throughout the rest of the week.
