Financial Market Preview - Thursday 14-Aug

US equity futures are slightly softer with the S&P 500 down marginally. Asia ended mixed, with Japan pulling back from record highs. European markets are mostly firmer. Fed rate cut expectations continue to support sentiment, with the path of least resistance for equities still seen on the upside. Trump and Putin are set to meet Friday, with Trump warning of severe consequences if no ceasefire deal is reached. UK GDP growth surprised to the upside, aided by pre-tariff activity, while RICS data still showed a challenging housing market. China’s new loans shrank for the first time in 20 years, reflecting seasonality and weak credit demand. Australian employment data met forecasts with a lower jobless rate.

Companies Mentioned: Ampol, EG Group, Leju Holdings