Public Markets 24 Hours

Last updated: July 29, 2026, 2:30 AM ET

European Equities and Earnings

The FTSE 100 edged lower in early trading as investors focused on upcoming corporate earnings. Porsche AG after first-half profitability increased, indicating signs of a turnaround. Danone SA for the second quarter, driven by demand for its high-protein yogurts and medical nutrition products. In Germany, Deutsche Bank following an 11% increase in pretax profit. Standard Chartered and announced a $1 billion buyback, with the Asia-focused lender also embracing AI and cost-cutting measures. Barclays' profits, rising 31% to £3.3 billion, though shares sold off.

AI and Tech Sector Dynamics

The artificial intelligence sector continues to be a focus for investors, though concerns about its impact on jobs are emerging. Google DeepMind to shift focus to broader AI systems for scientific discovery. The cost of AI in China, while Meta’s Mark Zuckerberg criticized the centralization of AI power, advocating for greater openness. Hedge funds are as AI stocks experience a downturn, and the price to finance AI data centers, such as Meta's, is rising. Chip-equipment supplier ASM International due to strong AI-fueled orders, and Teradyne's profit. However, SK Hynix shares on AI demand, with the company insisting the risk of memory oversupply remains limited. Korean stocks, sparking trading suspensions as chip-makers extended losses. Asian tech stocks experienced a slide, pushing emerging-market stocks to a three-month low.

Commodities and Energy Markets

Oil rose supply-disruption spurred by renewed hostilities in the Middle East. Abu Dhabi National Oil Co. is pressing ahead from the Persian Gulf despite regional tensions. Wheat futures as escalating attacks between Russia and Ukraine threatened export prospects. OPEC+ expects to after September, as the group assesses the supply impact of the Iran war. U.S. natural gas futures amid solid production and inventories.

Banking and Financial Services

Philippine banks have set aside the most funds for potential loan losses since at least 2008, bracing for defaults amid surging inflation and regional conflict. UBS plans a new $3 billion buyback, driven by its investment banking and wealth management units. Standard Chartered has seen its Indian operations as it reorganizes its wealth business. Morgan Stanley bankers for wealthy clients, though the bank maintains it has not compromised underwriting standards.

Global Economic and Market Trends

Australian core inflation, leading traders to slash bets on further interest-rate increases. Singapore stocks are heading for their best month since 2020, supported by a rally in banking shares. Hong Kong finance stocks are poised for their biggest monthly advance in nearly two years, with investors favoring banks and insurers over tech shares. Gold edged lower amid a hawkish monetary policy backdrop, and traders are assessing prospects for a Fed rate hike. Japanese government bond futures edged higher amidst mixed signals.

Corporate Activity and Strategy

Rio Tinto on AI demand for metals and announced a 47% jump in first-half profit, fueled by higher commodity prices and productivity. Bloom Energy boosted its outlook as profit and sales climbed, raising full-year guidance. Ford Motor lifted its guidance, expecting higher U.S. automobile pricing. Caesars Entertainment narrowed its loss ahead of its acquisition by Tilman Fertitta. SoftBank Group to institutions at the year's highest coupon. EQT paid discount for a stake in Yorkshire Water.

Geopolitical and Environmental Concerns

Renewed hostilities in the Persian Gulf are posing risks to energy flows. European wildfires are exposing a shortage of water-bomber planes, sparking political backlash. France and Spain are racing to contain fires before temperatures spike. The potential for a nuclear revival, according to industry sources. China’s grip on electrification metals. Japan is after a significant earthquake.