- US futures and European markets wavered as traders analysed the latest data for hints on the prospects for inflation, economic growth, and the Federal Reserve's policy path.
- After yesterday's losses on Wall Street, futures on the S&P 500 and NASDAQ 100 moved down, with investors anticipating purchasing managers' index data for the world's largest economy later Friday. Recurrent requests for US unemployment benefits increased to their highest level since November 2021, according to data released Thursday, adding to signals that the labor economy is cooling.
- Yet, Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland President  Mester suggested support for another rate hike to combat inflation, while highlighting the importance of monitoring recent bank stress, which may constrain credit and dampen the economy. Logan, her Dallas colleague, said inflation has been "far too high," while describing measures to watch.
- The 10-Yr Treasury yield declined. The dollar index rose slightly, on track for its first weekly rise in six weeks. The yen outperformed as signals of deteriorating US-China relations prompted traders to buy the safe-haven currency ahead of the weekend.
- UK Retail Sales MoM Actual -0.9% (Forecast -0.5%, Previous 1.2%) (Sterling weakened)
- France's Finance Min. Le Maire: There is no reason to uphold gas price caps beyond this year as prices have declined.
- Putin and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed expressed satisfaction with the level of OPEC+ coordination - RIA cites Kremlin.