Global stock markets ended Friday’s trading session with mixed results as investors balanced signs of resilience in the U.S. economy, concerns over oil prices, and continued geopolitical tensions. While Wall Street managed to secure modest gains, European and Asian markets showed uneven performances, reflecting a cautious end to the week.
Wall Street edges higher
In the United States, all three major indices closed in positive territory. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 0.4%, the S&P 500 gained 0.3%, and the tech-heavy Nasdaq added 0.2%. Traders pointed to stronger-than-expected consumer spending data and easing Treasury yields as supportive factors. However, uncertainty over potential government spending cuts and lingering inflation concerns kept volumes subdued.
Europe faces muted sentiment
European equities finished the day mixed, with the pan-European Stoxx 600 closing flat. Germany’s DAX fell by 0.2%, while France’s CAC 40 dipped 0.1%. London’s FTSE 100, however, edged 0.3% higher, buoyed by energy and mining stocks following a late uptick in commodity prices. Investors across the continent remain cautious ahead of upcoming European Central Bank remarks and renewed concerns about slowing industrial output in Germany.
Asia ends on a divided note
Asian markets saw a split finish. Japan’s Nikkei 225 closed 0.5% lower as the yen strengthened, putting pressure on exporters. Meanwhile, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Index gained 0.6%, supported by Chinese tech shares as Beijing signalled additional policy support for the property sector. In contrast, mainland China’s Shanghai Composite fell 0.3% amid weak manufacturing figures, underlining persistent economic challenges.
Oil and currency moves shape outlook
Brent crude climbed back above $86 per barrel on Friday, erasing earlier losses from the week, as supply constraints remained a focus. The U.S. dollar softened slightly against a basket of currencies, providing some relief for emerging markets. Gold held steady at around $2,370 per ounce, reflecting continued demand for safe-haven assets in light of geopolitical uncertainties in Eastern Europe and the Middle East.
Looking ahead
Markets now turn their attention to next week’s economic calendar, which includes key U.S. inflation figures, the Bank of England’s latest monetary policy update, and earnings reports from several global banks. Analysts suggest that volatility may remain elevated as investors digest central bank strategies, energy price swings, and the broader outlook for global growth.
REFH – Newshub, 4 October 2025
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