Overview

• Stock markets globally are experiencing their first monthly decline of the year, driven by concerns over potentially high interest rates.
• The Federal Reserve's anticipated announcement on interest rates is keeping traders on edge, with most betting against expected rate cuts.
• Corporate earnings reports are mixed, with some companies like GE Healthcare and F5 facing challenges, while others like Eli Lilly report strong results.
• Inflation worries and strong wage gains in the U.S. are adding to the pressures on the economy and stock market.
• The bond market reacts with rising Treasury yields, indicating heightened expectations that the Fed will maintain a tight monetary policy.