This week was marked by significant gains in global stock markets as investors focused on the Middle East conflict. A temporary two-week ceasefire between the US and Iran was announced on Tuesday night, signalling an attempt to de-escalate tensions. Markets reacted positively, with major indices like the S&P 500, Nasdaq, and DAX seeing significant gains on Wednesday. The agreement boosted risk appetite, supported by falling energy prices, though doubts quickly emerged following Israeli strikes on Hezbollah targets in Lebanon. Despite this uncertainty, investors remain encouraged by the US administration's intent to reduce conflict exposure. Meanwhile, Federal Reserve minutes indicated that monetary policy will remain cautious and restrictive, with no immediate urgency to cut interest rates as inflation remains a concern.
Analysis: Markets celebrate geopolitical relief
Friday, 10 April 2026RSS
Context & Explainers
Inflation measures how much general prices rise over time, usually reported year‑on‑year to compare a month with the same month a year earlier. Portugal’s National Institute of Statistics (INE) estimated January inflation at 1.9% year‑on‑year, down 0.3 percentage points from December, which affects rents, wages and everyday purchasing power for residents.
