Stocks Steady Amid Mixed Signals from US and Global Markets

Global stocks remained steady on Monday as investors weighed data that tempered expectations for higher US interest rates. The Federal Reserve's policy next month has boosted equities, with closely watched reports indicating a softening labor market and easing inflation, despite remaining above the central bank's two percent target.

Data suggesting weakness in the world's biggest economy led to a 'bad news is good news' approach among traders, but figures on Friday raised questions about the health of the economy. Susannah Streeter, chief investment strategist at Wealth Club, noted that prolonged energy pain could feed into inflation, making it difficult for central bankers to keep prices in check and the economy running smoothly.

Oil prices edged higher as the US and Iran showed no signs of reaching a deal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz to shipping traffic after nearly six months of war. The release of earnings this week from retail titans Walmart, Home Depot, and Target may give a clearer view of sentiment among American consumers.