Global Markets Decline as Uncertainty Over U.S. Trade Policy Persists

Investors react to fluctuating U.S. tariffs, European bond market volatility, and key economic data releases.

European and Asian stock markets saw declines, with Europe's STOXX 600 on track for its first weekly loss of the year and Japan's Nikkei hitting a six-month low.
U.S. President Donald Trump temporarily suspended some tariffs on Canadian and Mexican goods, adding to ongoing unpredictability in trade policy that has unsettled markets.
The European Central Bank announced another interest rate cut but warned of significant economic uncertainty, including inflation risks and geopolitical tensions.
The euro surged to its strongest weekly performance since 2009, while perceived safe-haven assets like gold and the yen gained amid risk-averse sentiment.
Investors are closely watching upcoming U.S. nonfarm payroll data and a speech by Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell for insights into the economic outlook and interest rates.