Global markets moved cautiously higher as investors anticipated Donald Trump’s inauguration later today. The FTSE 100 showed resilience with a modest rise, bolstered by strong performances from key players like EasyJet. With US markets closed for Martin Luther King Day, European indices and the pound also demonstrated measured growth, reflecting steady investor sentiment amidst broader economic and political developments.
European equities gained traction in early trading, with London’s FTSE 100 climbing 0.1%, building on its recent all-time highs. EasyJet emerged as a standout performer, advancing 0.9% ahead of its upcoming quarterly report. The FTSE 250 mirrored this trend with a similar 0.1% uptick, signalling cautious optimism in domestically focused sectors.
Across the continent, Germany’s DAX index hovered just above the flatline, while France’s CAC 40 recorded a 0.2% rise. The pan-European STOXX 600 index edged up 0.1%, underscoring a steady but subdued start to the week. Meanwhile, the pound rebounded by 0.3% against the dollar, surpassing the $1.22 mark. This upward movement followed weeks of subdued performance due to concerns over UK government debt and sluggish GDP growth.
The cryptocurrency market saw notable activity, with Bitcoin climbing 3.2% to reach fresh all-time highs. This surge was driven by optimism that the incoming administration may foster a favourable environment for the crypto sector. Adding intrigue, the launch of a Trump-branded memecoin by CIC Digital LLC and Fight Fight Fight LLC highlighted the intersection of politics and digital assets. Fight Fight Fight holds a significant 80% stake in the tokens, drawing attention to this unconventional financial move.
As Washington DC braces for Trump’s indoor inauguration, a departure from tradition due to cold weather, investors worldwide remain watchful. This pivotal event marks the beginning of a new chapter in global politics, with potential implications for markets across sectors and geographies.
EasyJet’s upcoming report, Bitcoin’s record highs, and the pound’s recovery offer investors valuable signals in an uncertain yet opportunity-laden landscape. The week ahead promises continued developments, with market participants closely monitoring policy shifts and economic trends under the new administration.
EasyJet is a leading European airline, providing affordable travel options and connecting customers across major cities with a focus on sustainability and efficiency.
Fidelity Special Values PLC (LON:FSV) aims to seek out underappreciated companies primarily listed in the UK and is an actively managed contrarian Investment Trust that thrives on volatility and uncertainty.
