Global financial markets showed mixed results on February 18th, with European futures hitting record highs driven by defense stocks, while U.S. and Asian markets faced challenges. Investors navigated geopolitical tensions and economic data, leading to varied performances across regions.
U.S. stock futures indicated a cautious start, with analysts noting that market recovery could remain limited unless key resistance levels are breached.
In Asia, markets opened lower, with Indian indices like the BSE Sensex and Nifty50 declining after an eight-day losing streak. The Sensex dropped over 350 points, trading below 75,900, while the Nifty hovered around 22,850.
European markets surged as defense stocks rallied on expectations of increased military spending. The Stoxx Europe 600 index rose significantly, reflecting investor optimism about bolstered defense capabilities.
The Indian rupee faced pressure due to dips in Asian currencies and the maturity of NDF positions. Bitcoin remained stable at 96,000, while gold prices edged higher as investors sought safe−haven assets. Oil prices showed volatility, with West Texas Intermediate crude trading around 70 per barrel.
