Headline: Nvidia Earnings Boost US Futures as FX Turns Risk-Off; Energy and Auto Headlines Move Markets
Introduction: Global markets opened with a mixed tone as Nvidia’s latest earnings surge lifted US equity futures while currency markets signaled a cautious risk-off mood. Energy and policy developments added fresh cross-asset drivers, from a fire at a major Venezuelan oil facility to renewed trade friction in Asia and a regulatory step forward for autonomous mobility in the US.
Nvidia’s blockbuster results once again cleared Wall Street expectations, reinforcing the momentum behind AI infrastructure spending and pushing US stock futures higher in premarket trade. The chipmaker’s outperformance eased recent growth and valuation concerns, helping stabilize sentiment across the tech complex and broader equity indices.
In foreign exchange, the Australian and New Zealand dollars slid against the US dollar, with the Canadian dollar also softer as investors favored safety and yield support in the greenback. Regional risk appetite was further tested by reports that China plans to renew a ban on Japanese seafood imports, adding another layer of trade headwinds to Asia-Pacific markets and weighing on commodity-linked currencies.
Commodities and autos provided additional focal points. A fire at Venezuela’s Petrocedeno crude upgrader prompted concerns around supply reliability and elevated geopolitical risk, supporting a firmer tone in oil-sensitive assets. Meanwhile, Tesla secured a ride-hailing permit in Arizona, a step that could accelerate its robotaxi ambitions and broaden the outlook for autonomous ride-hailing services in the US.
Key Points: – Nvidia’s earnings beat lifted US equity index futures, bolstering AI and tech sentiment. – AUD, NZD, and CAD weakened as the US dollar gained on risk-off flows. – China plans to renew its ban on Japanese seafood imports, adding trade friction in Asia. – A fire at Venezuela’s Petrocedeno crude upgrader raised supply and geopolitical concerns in oil markets. – Tesla obtained a ride-hailing permit in Arizona, advancing its US robotaxi roadmap.
