Global equities rallied, driven by strong gains among a handful of technology companies linked to the development of artificial intelligence platforms. The U.S. Federal Reserve’s decision to pause its aggressive rate-hiking campaign also helped support the market’s advance, along with better-than-expected economic growth in the U.S., Japan and India.
Information technology stocks soared as investors speculated that chipmakers such as Nvidia and software developers such as Microsoft would lead the next wave of innovation in artificial intelligence. Consumer discretionary stocks also moved higher as consumer spending proved resilient despite elevated inflation and higher interest rates.
Bond markets declined overall under the weight of rising interest rates. While the Fed held rates steady in June, the European Central Bank — along with many other central banks around the world — continued to tighten monetary policy. The Bank of England surprised markets with a higher-than-expected hike of 50 basis points. ECB officials signaled that more rate increases are on the way.
Don't miss our latest insights.
Interest Rates
Municipal Bonds
Artificial Intelligence
Target Date
RELATED INSIGHTS
Interest Rates
Get the Capital Ideas newsletter in your inbox every other week