Global equity markets scaled fresh records in a year-end rally on Friday as upbeat Chinese economic data and optimism that a US-China trade deal is imminent bolstered global growth prospects. LondonLondon’s main index rose for the 11th straight session on Friday, as trade-sensitive stocks cheered further positive signals from the US and China over signing a phase-one deal. BP was also a major boost to the index and rose 1 per cent, benefiting from higher crude prices. MSCI’s gauge of stock performance in 49 countries gained 0.35 per cent, while the pan-European Stoxx 600 index rose 0.17 per cent, both setting all-time highs. The Euro Stoxx 50 index rose 0.5 per cent on Friday, helped by solid gains from the French and German stock markets.

Source: The Irish Times December 27, 2019 18:22 UTC