Markets in the positive buoyed by US-EU tariffs delays

Asian stocks rallied on Tuesday, echoing Wall Street's surge after President Donald Trump announced a postponement of steep tariffs on the European Union. The move sparked optimism that global trade disputes may be easing. Sentiment was further supported by declining global bond yields, influenced by Japan’s plans to scale back issuance of super long-term government bonds. However, mainland Chinese markets bucked the regional trend, with the Shanghai Composite edging down 0.05% to below 3 340 and the Shenzhen Component slipping 0.1% to 10 020, marking a fifth consecutive session of losses. And in Hong Kong, Moody’s upgraded the outlook on the territory’s 'Aa3' long-term credit rating to 'stable' from 'negative', citing its resilient credit profile despite global trade tensions and slowing trade growth. The agency pointed to Hong Kong’s strong policy framework, solid economy, and sound finances as key supports for its creditworthiness, even amid increased pressure on China’s sovereign rating.

US stock futures were steady as investors awaited earnings from chipmaking giant Nvidia, which are expected to provide insight into the impact of export restrictions to China. Several major retailers, including Abercrombie & Fitch, Dick’s Sporting Goods and Macy’s, are also due to soon report results. Netflix rose to an all-time high of $1 212.00. Over the past four weeks, the stock has gained 10.32%, and over the past 12 months, it has surged by 87.15%. On Tuesday, the Dow climbed 1.78%, the S&P 500 gained 2.05% and the Nasdaq Composite jumped 2.47%. Investor sentiment was further lifted by hopes for more corporate-friendly policies, including possible tax cuts and deregulation. Looking ahead, markets will be closely watching the latest FOMC meeting minutes for clues on the future direction of US monetary policy. 

Meanwhile, on the geopolitical front, President Trump expressed frustration with Russian President Vladimir Putin over stalled peace negotiations in Ukraine, indicating that new sanctions against Moscow could be announced as early as this week.

European shares ended Tuesday’s session mostly higher, marking a steadier day after recent market turbulence. The pan-European Stoxx 600 index rose by 0.33%, while Germany’s DAX index gained 0.83%.

Investors in South Africa now turn their attention to the central bank's upcoming interest rate decision. The rand weakened slightly traded at R17.91/$ at 17h45 on Tuesday, pressured by lower gold prices and a stronger US dollar following President Trump's tariff delay. 

Gold slipped over 2% to $3 324 an ounce as safe-haven demand waned, while Brent crude rebounded to $64.5 per barrel on fears of new US sanctions on Russia.