Global markets are showing signs of relief as the wave of AI-driven sell-offs subsides, though rising oil prices and pressures in credit markets keep investors cautious. Following Nasdaq 100’s worst session since June, futures linked to this index dropped 0.1%, while S&P 500 futures declined by 0.3%.
AI Spending, Oil Prices Create Headwinds
In pre-market trading, chipmakers’ shares registered modest increases, but losses in Meta persisted. Meanwhile, SpaceX stocks appreciated after news surfaced regarding its plans to become a wireless communication operator.
Investors are questioning whether AI revenues will be adequate to offset high infrastructure spending, pushing the risk premiums on corporate bonds to their highest level since May 2025.
U.S. Treasury yields partially gave back gains from the previous session, where the 10-year Treasury rate saw its steepest drop in over a year, highlighting the persistent demand for secure assets.
The ascending oil prices are complicating the inflation outlook. Brent crude has surged to its highest level since early May, while gold and the dollar have shown limited movement.
Bank of America strategist Michael Hartnett suggests risk aversion may continue until November. According to Hartnett, markets have yet to fully consider the possibility of Democrats dominating Congress, which could end the current environment of low taxes and minimal regulation, thereby pressuring corporate profit growth.
European Markets Weighed Down by Disappointing Earnings
European stock indices fell as private sector activity data from the Eurozone failed to meet expectations. The Stoxx 600 index decreased by 0.6%, with some stocks experiencing much sharper declines.
Kering’s shares plummeted by 13% due to a bigger-than-expected slump in Gucci sales. Volvo Car also saw its shares dive 27% to record lows following warnings of declining demand in China and posting significant losses.
In Asia, South Korea’s Kospi index recovered from losses as steep as 4.1% during the day to close 0.3% higher. However, MSCI’s regional benchmark index is on track to end a fourth consecutive week in the red.
Despite a slowdown in the sell-off of technology stocks, overall market pressure has only eased somewhat. The rising risk premiums in corporate bonds indicate ongoing investor concerns about the financial viability of AI investments. Meanwhile, increased oil prices add inflation pressure, limiting market recovery potential.
Challenges Persist Despite Slowing Tech Sell-offs
The core challenge facing markets lies in unanswered questions despite slowing technology stock sell-offs. The ongoing uncertainty regarding the profitability of AI investments, coupled with rising oil prices, augments the risk of persistent inflation and prolonged high interest rates. Such an environment could further dampen risk appetite in Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies, triggering sell-offs. A recovery in technology stocks alone may not suffice to foster sustained growth. Although gold finds some support as a secure asset, the prospect of enduring high interest rates could limit its appreciation, thereby enhancing risk aversion in crypto while impeding substantial gains in gold.
