To The Moon

Overview: Global Equities Regain Ground

Markets across the globe closed mostly higher on July 17, buoyed by strong corporate earnings and renewed optimism over trade developments. Positive US economic data and a potential thaw in EU-US trade tensions lifted sentiment. While Wall Street led gains, Europe rallied on policy optimism, and Asia remained mixed amid geopolitical uncertainty.

Wall Street Rises on Earnings Optimism

US equities climbed, with the Dow Jones $DJIA(.DJI)$  adding 229.71 points to close at 44,484.49, and the S&P 500 $S&P 500(.SPX)$  gaining 33.66 points to finish at 6,297.36—both up 0.5%. The Nasdaq Composite $NASDAQ(.IXIC)$  advanced 0.7%, reflecting investor confidence following upbeat economic data and a wave of stronger-than-expected corporate earnings. The market appears resilient despite ongoing macroeconomic uncertainty.

Europe Rebounds on Trade and Earnings Boost

European markets posted strong gains, recovering from recent softness. The DAX surged 1.5%, CAC 40 rose 1.2%, and the FTSE 100 inched up 0.5%. Optimism over a potential EU-US trade agreement and positive corporate earnings supported a broader risk-on mood. The rebound reflects investors' improved outlook on regional economic cooperation.

Asia Mixed Amid Policy and Trade Jitters

Asian markets delivered a mixed performance. Japan’s Nikkei 225 climbed 0.6%, China’s Shanghai Composite added 0.3%, while Hong Kong’s Hang Seng $HSI(HSI)$  slipped 0.1%. Concerns over US-China trade tensions and speculation around President Trump’s strained ties with the Fed Chair continued to weigh on sentiment, tempering the region’s response to Wall Street gains.

Outlook and Insights

The near-term global market outlook appears cautiously constructive. Strong earnings and easing trade rhetoric in the US and Europe are improving investor sentiment. However, geopolitical risks and central bank policy uncertainty remain key watchpoints, especially in Asia. Continued rotation into equities suggests investors are positioning for a soft-landing scenario.

Conclusion

Markets are showing resilience as strong earnings and trade optimism temporarily offset macro uncertainties. Investors may continue to favour equities, but a vigilant approach is essential, especially with lingering policy risks and uneven global growth dynamics.