Global Stock Markets Rise Despite Renewed Tariff Tensions

Global stock markets showed resilience amid ongoing tariff tensions initiated by US President Donald Trump, with investors focusing on economic data and corporate earnings rather than escalating trade disputes. Indian markets opened higher with the Sensex and Nifty gaining modestly, driven by strength in pharmaceutical, retail, and mid- and small-cap stocks, despite foreign institutional investors selling for several sessions. North American and European markets also posted gains, led by tech stocks such as Nvidia, which briefly became the world's most valuable public company again. While Trump accused China of violating a recent trade truce, market participants remain cautiously optimistic, viewing tariffs more as negotiation tactics than sustained economic threats. Analysts note that India's supportive economic environment and expectations of Reserve Bank of India rate cuts are bolstering equity sentiment, even as geopolitical and economic uncertainties persist globally. The outlook remains tentative with concerns over potential Russian retaliation in Ukraine and broader slowing global growth weighing on investor sentiment.