Your Weekly Market Wrap-Up

4th May - 8th May 2026

Global Highlights

U.S. Markets

U.S. stocks extended gains for a sixth straight week, with the S&P 500 reaching new record highs supported by solid employment data and renewed optimism around potential Fed rate cuts. Technology and growth stocks led the advance, while investors continued to digest strong Q1 earnings and resilient consumer spending.

European Markets

European markets posted modest gains amid mixed economic signals and ongoing policy uncertainty. Corporate earnings provided support, though concerns persisted around inflation trends and the ECB's next moves. Regional data showed manufacturing activity stabilizing, but consumer confidence remained subdued.

Asian Markets

Asian markets were mixed, with Japan's Nikkei benefiting from AI optimism and corporate governance reforms, while Chinese equities remained range-bound amid steady PBOC policy and mixed economic data. Meanwhile, Trump-Xi meeting preparations support near-term trade stability expectations.

Weekly Spotlights

The U.S. labour market's resilience took centre stage, with strong employment data reinforcing economic stability despite higher oil prices and geopolitical noise. Corporate earnings continued to exceed expectations, helping markets shrug off headline risks.

Market Performance

Weekly market performance by asset
Asset Name	Weekly Closing Level	Weekly % Return
S&P 500	7,398.93	2.33%
DJIA (Dow Jones)	49,609.16	0.22%
Nasdaq Composite	26,247.08	4.51%
Nikkei 225	62,713.65	5.38%
FTSE 100	10,233.07	-1.26%
Shanghai Composite	4,179.95	1.65%
Sensex (BSE)	77,328.19	0.54%
ADX Index (UAE)	9,876.33	0.89%
Gold	4,730.70	1.86%
Brent Oil (USD/bbl)	101.29	-6.36%

Outlook

Markets are inherently forward-looking, and the rally to new record highs reflects diminishing risks from the Iran conflict alongside an improving economic and earnings environment. With much of this positive news now reflected in prices, sustaining recent momentum may prove challenging. That said, the latest economic indicators continue to support this ongoing bull market, and we maintain our recommendation to stay invested through a diversified equity allocation.

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Disclaimer

This commentary is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. For detailed insights, contact our investment team.