Markets Soar on Earnings, Trade Progress Worldwide

Global stock markets surged to new highs, driven by strong corporate earnings—especially from Alphabet—and positive economic data such as lower U.S. jobless claims and robust services sector performance. Alphabet’s strong results boosted tech stocks, while IBM’s weak software revenue led to a sharp drop in the Dow. Trade optimism contributed to the rally, with reported progress on tariff agreements among the U.S., EU, Japan, and South Korea, and President Trump confirming a 15% tariff framework for Japanese imports. European and UK markets, including the FTSE 100 and STOXX 50, also hit record or near-record levels, supported by solid banking and consumer goods earnings. Precious metals lagged as commodity prices fell. Despite strong gains, investors remained alert to central bank policy signals amid lingering trade uncertainties.