Global Markets Rebound After Turbulent Week, But Economic Uncertainty Persists
US stocks rallied on Friday following inflation data and economic reports, while concerns over tariffs and slowing consumer spending continue to loom.
- The S&P 500 rose 1.6% on Friday, trimming February's losses, while the Dow Jones gained 601 points and the Nasdaq climbed 1.6%.
- Economic data showed inflation decelerating slightly, giving the Federal Reserve potential leeway for future rate cuts, though consumer spending slowed in January.
- Tariffs announced by President Trump, including a doubling of duties on Chinese goods, have raised concerns about higher inflation and global economic instability.
- Asian markets fell sharply on Friday, with indexes in Hong Kong, Shanghai, Seoul, and Tokyo dropping between 2% and 3.4%.
- Upcoming earnings reports from major companies like Broadcom and Costco are expected to provide further insights into the economy and consumer behavior.
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The Sydney Morning Herald 
