- US and UK stock markets are closed today for public holidays.
- Asian markets rise after Trump delays EU tariffs, easing trade concerns.
- Indian Nifty Realty Index posts a 0.2% gain in upbeat domestic sentiment.
With US markets closed for Memorial Day and UK markets for the Spring Bank Holiday, global investors are adjusting to a slower trading day.
This pause in trade tensions lifted major Asian indices, with Japan’s Nikkei and South Korea’s Kospi both posting solid gains. Meanwhile, the Indian real estate sector showed resilience, with the Nifty Realty Index rising 0.2%, reflecting optimism in domestic fundamentals amid global uncertainty.
Trade Relief Lifts Asian Stocks as Western Markets Pause
Asian stock markets edged higher on Monday after President Trump postponed new tariffs on European Union goods, signaling a possible cooling of trade tensions. Japan’s Nikkei jumped 0.9%, while South Korea’s Kospi rose 1.25%, indicating renewed investor confidence in export-heavy economies.
Australia’s ASX 200 posted a modest 0.1% increase, aided by improved global sentiment and steady commodity demand. With global oil prices climbing on eased trade fears, energy stocks in Asia also received a boost. This uplift helped balance concerns over Trump’s unpredictable trade policies.
The Indian market echoed this optimism, with the Nifty Realty Index advancing 0.2%. Investors appear to be favoring domestic sectors with growth visibility, as real estate continues to benefit from strong urban demand and policy support.
Meanwhile, emerging markets like South Africa, Kenya, and Zambia focused on maintaining monetary stability. South Africa’s rand strengthened as investors turned to gold, while Kenya and Zambia opted to keep interest rates unchanged to combat inflation risks without stifling growth.
As global markets navigate shifting trade narratives and geopolitical uncertainty, today’s calm reflects cautious optimism. Investors are now eyeing the rest of the week for key economic cues.
“Markets hate uncertainty, but they love relief—even if it’s temporary.”
