Growth concerns push global markets down
Last week's optimism over US-China trade talks has faded after the US said it was unclear if gaps between the two sides could be closed
London — World shares slipped on Wednesday after two days of gains amid mounting concern over world growth and trade, though the pound rallied 0.5% on optimism that legislators were set to rule out a no-deal Brexit. European shares opened flat to weaker, unable to shake off the sombre mood in Asian trading. Last week's optimism over US-China trade talks has faded after US trade representative Robert Lighthizer said it was unclear whether gaps between the two sides could be closed. Data continues to reinforce the picture of a slowing world economy. Japan's machinery orders fell in January at the fastest pace in four months, pushing the Nikkei down more than 1%. Australia also continued its run of weak numbers, as an index of consumer sentiment slipped in March. US monthly inflation rose, according to Tuesday data, but the gain was the smallest since September 2016. That's kept equity markets nervous. MSCI's Asia-Pacific equity index lost 0.3%, although a pan-European benchmark inched...
Would you like to comment on this article?
Sign up (it's quick and free) or sign in now.
Please read our Comment Policy before commenting.
Subscribe now to unlock this article.
Support BusinessLIVE’s award-winning journalism for R129 per month (digital access only).
There’s never been a more important time to support independent journalism in SA. Our subscription packages now offer an ad-free experience for readers.
Cancel anytime.
Questions? Email helpdesk@businesslive.co.za or call 0860 52 52 00. Got a subscription voucher? Redeem it now.