US equity markets surged on Monday, marking a robust start to the trading week. The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed at 44,173 points, registering a 1.3% increase compared to the previous day’s close.
The broader S&P 500 index reached approximately 6,330 points, up 1.5%, while the Nasdaq 100, heavily weighted in technology stocks, climbed to around 23,190 points, reflecting a 1.9% gain.
The market rally appears to be fueled by renewed optimism surrounding potential interest rate reductions. This sentiment follows the release of a weaker-than-expected jobs report on Friday, which initially prompted surprise but subsequently sparked expectations that the scarcity of new positions may prompt policy easing to stimulate business investment.
Contributing to the broader market dynamic is the departure of a Federal Reserve governor, an event analysts suggest could potentially influence the pace of monetary policy. The appointment of a successor provides an opportunity for adjustments to the Federal Reserve’s direction.
The euro weakened slightly against the US dollar, trading at $1.1568, with the dollar equivalent to €0.8645.
Gold prices benefited from the market activity, rising to $3,376 per fine ounce (equivalent to €93.82 per gram).
Conversely, oil prices experienced a decline. Brent crude, a benchmark for North Sea oil, settled at $68.53 per barrel, a decrease of 114 cents, or 1.6%, from the previous day’s closing price.