June 19, 2026 16:46 ET Major central banks continued to dominate the economic news flow this week too, led by the Federal Reserve, as they announced their latest policy decisions. The Federal Reserve policy session was in focus as it was the first to be led by the new chief Kevin Warsh. In Europe, central banks of the U.K. and Switzerland announced their rate decisions. In Asia, the Bank of Japan drew attention for its policy moves, while data out of China threw some light on the state of the economy.
June 19, 2026 09:07 ETThe Bank of Russia reduced its benchmark interest rate by a quarter basis points on Friday, marking the ninth consecutive cut as inflation stays above the target. The Board of Directors decided to cut the key rate to 14.25 percent from 14.50 percent, the Russian central bank said. Markets had anticipated a 50 basis-point reduction.
June 19, 2026 16:27 ETCanadian stocks inched lower on Friday as investors weighed the U.S.-Iran Memorandum of Understanding signed on Wednesday against the sudden cancellation of today's planned first round of U.S.-Iran talks in Switzerland amid fresh Israel-Hezbollah attacks.
June 19, 2026 05:59 ETGold prices fell sharply on Friday and were on track for a third weekly loss amid expectations that central banks including the Federal Reserve will raise interest rates to curb inflation. A stronger dollar due to uncertainty over the U.S.-Iran peace deal also dented safe-haven demand for bullion....
June 18, 2026 08:07 ETSentiment in global markets remains mixed as an easing in geopolitical tensions attributed to the peace deal signed between the U.S. and Iran as well as renewed worries about interest rates going up, both impacted market sentiment.