June 12, 2026 17:14 ET Major central bank action was the focus this week in economic news. The European Central Bank became the first major central bank to move in response to the rising inflationary pressures in the backdrop of the conflict in the Middle East. In North America, the U.S. inflation and trade data as well as Canada’s central bank decision gained attention. The Chinese trade data was the main news in Asia.
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 13:08 ETEuropean stocks closed weak on Friday amid cautious moves by investors due to uncertainty about U.S. and Iran securing a lasting peace truce in the Middle East following the abrupt cancellation of talks between the two nations in Switzerland.
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.