Major indices are flirting with record highs. US inflation in focus

Trade headlines are striking an optimistic tone this week. According to Bloomberg, US and Chinese officials have agreed on a plan ‘to ease trade tensions,’ a move that could revive the flow of sensitive goods between the world’s two largest economies. Meanwhile, the US and Mexico appear close to finalising a deal that would lift the 50% tariffs on steel imports. Risk sentiment across Asian markets is broadly positive, but US and European equity futures are modestly lower this morning, likely reflecting some disappointment over the lack of concrete detail in trade negotiations. Officials are now expected to present the proposals to their respective presidents. In the meantime, investors will focus ontoday’s US CPI report and UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves spending details. Listen to find out more!