Today's News Update - 2nd Aug 2024 Asia On Thursday, Asia-Pacific markets showed mixed results. In Japan, the Nikkei 225 fell 2.49% to 38,126.33, and the broader Topix dropped 3.24% to 2,703.69, with both indexes pressured by declines in real estate stocks and losses among major exporters due to a stronger yen. In contrast, Australia’s S&P/ASX 200 reached new highs, rising 0.28% to finish at 8,114.7. Meanwhile, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng index was down 0.13% in its final hour, and China’s CSI 300 closed 0.66% lower at 3,419.27. US In the U.S. overnight, stocks surged after the Federal Reserve announced it would keep interest rates steady, as anticipated. Investors also flocked back to major tech stocks. The S&P 500 soared 1.58% to finish at 5,522.30, and the Nasdaq Composite surged 2.64% to 17,599.40, marking the strongest performance for both indexes since February. The Dow Jones Industrial Average gained 99.46 points, or 0.24%. Commodity Crude oil futures dropped 2% on Thursday as concerns about the U.S. economy eclipsed the intense tensions in the Middle East. The manufacturing sector contracted for the fourth consecutive month in July, and a rise in jobless claims last week heightened worries about a potential U.S. recession. Gold prices declined slightly on Thursday following an increase in the U.S. dollar. Earlier in the session, gold had risen to a two-week high due to expectations of September interest rate cuts and safe-haven demand. Focus now shifts to U.S. non-farm payrolls data due this Friday. As of 1803 GMT, spot gold was down about 0.4% at $2,438.32 per ounce, having previously reached its highest level since July 18. The above analysis is only for the views of market researchers and is for reference only and is not Regarded as a specific investment suggestion. #Forex #trading #tradingforex