Your Weekly Market Wrap-Up

27th - 30th July 2026

Global Highlights

U.S. Markets

Strong earnings lifted the U.S .market, largely offsetting the previous week’s declines. Despite the rebound, the major indexes remained below the record highs reached over the past two months. Early in the week, concerns about heavy AI investment weighed on sentiment, but the mood improved sharply on Thursday after Microsoft reported stronger-than-expected growth.

European Markets

European indices ended the week higher after Eurozone GDP grew 0.4% sequentially in the second quarter, above market expectations of 0.2%. Annual inflation in the eurozone rose to 2.9% in July, in line with expectations and up from 2.8% in June. The Bank of England kept its base rate unchanged at 3.75%, while warning about volatility in energy prices.

Asian Markets

Japan fell as uncertainty surrounding the human and economic impact of a strong earthquake hurt sentiment. The BOJ left policy rates unchanged, while keeping the door open for a September move. Shanghai and Hong Kong markets rose, supported by strength in major internet platforms. At the same time, China’s top decision-making body reaffirmed its commitment to a more proactive fiscal policy and moderately loose monetary policy.

Weekly Spotlights

The Federal Reserve held rates steady, as expected, for a fifth consecutive meeting. Markets focused on the policy statement and Chair Kevin Warsh’s tone, where he reiterated the Fed’s commitment to restoring price stability and said policymakers are ready to act if needed. He also noted that bond yields have risen materially, suggesting markets may already be doing some of the Fed’s work.

Market Performance

Asset Name Weekly Closing Level Weekly % Return
S&P 500 7,489.72 1.05%
DJIA (Dow Jones) 52,485.03 1.04%
Nasdaq Composite 25,373.85 1.59%
Nikkei 225 64,362.02 -1.52%
FTSE 100 10,868.05 1.23%
Shanghai Composite 3,832.26 0.47%
Sensex (BSE) 78,094.64 2.68%
ADX Index (UAE) 9,878.82 0.52%
Gold 4,107.00 0.89%
Brent Oil (USD/bbl) 90.12 -1.70%

Outlook

Sticky inflation, a stable labour market, and resilient economic growth suggest that policy rates may stay elevated for longer. Depending on incoming data, the Fed could also remain open to further hikes in the coming months. S&P 500 earnings are on track to rise by more than 27% this year, while the broader economy remains healthy, supported by steady employment, solid consumer spending, and improving manufacturing activity. Against this backdrop, we believe equity markets may continue to perform well in the months ahead.

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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.