📈 Global Stock Market Summary

Global markets showed mixed performance today as investors processed earnings reports and central bank signals. The S&P 500 gained 0.8%, while the Nasdaq rose 1.2% driven by tech sector strength. In Europe, the FTSE 100 dropped 0.4%, reflecting weaker-than-expected manufacturing data. Asian markets remained cautious, with the Nikkei 225 down 0.6% and the Hang Seng Index closing flat.

🪙 Cryptocurrency Market Update

The cryptocurrency market experienced a mild pullback after a strong July rally. Bitcoin (BTC) is currently trading at $63,250, down 1.3% in the last 24 hours. Ethereum (ETH) slipped by 0.9% to $3,150. Altcoins showed varied movements, with Solana (SOL) up 2.1%, while Dogecoin (DOGE) dropped 1.5%. Overall market cap is at $2.42 trillion.

💱 Forex Market Movements

The USD strengthened slightly against major currencies as the market priced in a more hawkish tone from the Federal Reserve. The EUR/USD fell to 1.0912, while GBP/USD is hovering around 1.2810. Meanwhile, the USD/JPY climbed to 143.80 as investors continue to monitor BoJ's policy direction.

📊 Commodities & Oil Prices

Oil prices pulled back after a week of strong gains. Brent Crude is trading at $82.60/barrel, down 0.5%. Gold remains steady at $2,015/oz, supported by geopolitical tensions. Meanwhile, natural gas saw a 1.7% uptick as European supply concerns rise.

📰 Economic Highlights

• 🇺🇸 U.S. weekly jobless claims slightly rose to 238,000, still within healthy labor market range.
• 🇪🇺 Eurozone inflation cooled to 2.4%, strengthening the case for no further ECB hikes in 2025.
• 🇨🇳 China’s PMI fell to 49.3, indicating continued manufacturing contraction.
• 🌎 IMF revised global growth outlook to 3.1% for 2025, citing tech innovation and resilient consumption.

🔮 Outlook & Key Takeaways

Markets are entering August with cautious optimism. Earnings season will continue to shape stock sentiment, while macroeconomic data will influence monetary policy expectations. Investors are advised to watch the U.S. jobs report and inflation data next week for further clues on central bank direction.