The Gemini DeepMind team discuss Bill Cara’s Daily Market Pulse report written for paid subscribers. International markets today were defined by explosive sector-specific rallies, creating a landscape of mixed regional performance. European indices, led by the DAX and FTSE 100, gained significant traction. This strength was bolstered by positive manufacturing data, easing inflation concerns, and a powerful surge in pharmaceutical giants AstraZeneca and GSK, which saw double-digit weekly gains following positive clinical trial news.
The most eye-catching moves were in technology and clean energy. In the US, Plug Power and QuantumScape skyrocketed, with the former posting a staggering 98% monthly gain. This fervor was mirrored in Asia, where Korean semiconductor leaders Samsung and SK Hynix rallied on AI optimism. Meanwhile, robust commodity demand propelled mining stocks, from Zijin Mining in China to Canadian gold and silver companies.
In stark contrast, Japan’s Nikkei 225 was the clear laggard, falling due to a stronger yen and tech sell-offs. The day also highlighted ongoing sector-specific risks, as high-flying but volatile stocks, such as South Korea’s Naver and US-based DraftKings, experienced sharp pullbacks. Overall, investor appetite strongly favored green technology, semiconductors, pharmaceuticals, and commodities, while caution prevailed in specific consumer and regulatory-sensitive industries.
