US stock markets rose uniformly on Thursday. Closing in New York, the Dow stood at 53,686 points, representing a solid increase of 1.2 percent from the previous day. The broader S&P 500 ended the session 1.1 percent stronger at 7,748 points, while the 100 most important stocks on the Nasdaq technology exchange rose by an average of 1.2 percent, reaching an index level of 29,482 points.
Among investors, optimism is growing regarding the possibility that interest rate hikes might not occur as rapidly as recently feared. Previously, US Federal Reserve Governor Christopher Waller indicated his willingness to maintain unchanged rates if price pressures continued to ease. Although this stance is largely expected, investors celebrated the statement and were willing to pay slightly more for stocks.
The inflation discussion remains highly focused on energy costs, particularly the price of oil. Although the crude price did rise on Thursday, the increase was minimal. Around 10 PM Central European Time, a barrel of North Sea Brent crude was priced at $95.85, an increase of 22 cents, or 0.2 percent, compared to the close of the prior trading day.
Meanwhile, the European common currency strengthened on Thursday evening, with the euro trading at $1.1627, meaning the dollar was available for 0.8601 euros.
Gold prices enjoyed a significant lift, with a fine ounce trading at $4,473 in the evening (+2 percent). This translates to a price of 123.68 euros per gram.
