The prevailing softness reflects mounting concerns regarding global demand in the context of escalating trade tensions between the United States and its trading partners, including the European Union.
The euro was at a three-week low against the US dollar as renewed trade tensions, fueled by President Trump's tariff announcement, weighed on the common currency.
The OECD has lowered the UK economic growth forecast for 2026 from 1.2% to 1% due to heightened trade tensions and elevated uncertainty.
The authorities' structural reforms, including to planning, and the increase in infrastructure investment could increase potential growth if properly implemented.
U.S. equity markets extended their upward momentum, with the S&P 500 Index posting its second consecutive weekly gain and closing out its ninth straight day in positive territory.
A new survey by the European Central Bank suggests that President Donald Trump's tariffs on EU products could trigger a major, long-lasting change in European consumer habits.
"The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage ticked up but remains below the 7% threshold for the thirteenth consecutive week," says Sam Khater, Freddie Mac's chief economist. "At this time last year, rates reached 7.1% while purchase application demand was 13% lower than it is today, a clear sign that this year's spring homebuying season is off to a stronger start."
Samsung and China need each other, said CW Chung, joint head of Apac equity research at Nomura. Chinese customers have become more important for Samsung, but it won't be easy to do business together.
The recent positive momentum in US stock markets is linked to optimism surrounding trade negotiations between the US and China, signaling potential de-escalation of tensions.
As the trade tensions between the EU and US continues to escalate, Cabinet members including Finance Minister Paschal Donohoe have warned that trade tariffs could bring with them increased prices for households and businesses.