Global Markets on High Alert as Central Banks Weigh Rate Decisions

Investors are keeping a close eye on central bank decisions from the UK, Japan, and key US inflation data as geopolitical tensions continue to escalate.

The Federal Reserve's decision to hold interest rates steady was overshadowed by a surprise hawkish dissent, with three officials voting for a rate hike. The move has injected uncertainty into the market.

Meanwhile, the US resumed airstrikes against Iran in response to an earlier ballistic missile attack on a US base in Jordan. This has pushed international oil prices higher, with Brent crude climbing back above $88 per barrel.

Corporate earnings have also driven individual stock performance. Stellantis plunged 5.1% after its profit missed estimates, while Shell, Rolls-Royce, and Societe Generale gained on strong results or upgraded outlooks.