UK and European equities advanced as easing oil prices and positive corporate developments supported sentiment. UK and European markets recorded modest gains, while German business confidence improved to 90.2, exceeding expectations. However, political uncertainty in France and elevated borrowing costs remained concerns ahead of the upcoming UK Budget and central bank decisions.

US equities moved higher, supported by falling energy prices and renewed interest in technology shares. Technology stocks outperformed as investors focused on AI investment spending and upcoming earnings from major technology companies. Attention also turned towards the Federal Reserve's interest rate decision, with borrowing costs expected to remain unchanged.

Asian equities traded mixed amid concerns over AI valuations and monetary policy. Japanese and South Korean markets declined as technology stocks weakened, while Chinese equities performed comparatively better. Investors remained cautious ahead of the Bank of Japan's policy decision, with uncertainty surrounding global interest rates continuing to influence sentiment.

Oil prices declined as renewed diplomatic efforts between the US and Iran raised hopes of easing geopolitical tensions. Brent crude fell approximately 1.4% to $115 per barrel, while WTI declined towards $101. However, supply disruption risks remained elevated following attacks on Saudi Arabian energy infrastructure, sustaining concerns over inflation and global monetary policy.

Gold recovered as easing oil prices reduced some inflation concerns. Spot prices rose approximately 0.7% to $4,023 per ounce, following a decline of more than 4% over the previous week. Investors remained cautious ahead of the Federal Reserve's interest rate decision, with elevated Treasury yields and expectations of further monetary tightening limiting gains.

Computacenter shares gained approximately 6% after the company upgraded its full-year adjusted pre-tax profit guidance to at least £425 million, exceeding its previous forecast of £380 million. Its committed product order backlog reached a record £12.6 billion, supported by strong demand from AI infrastructure customers. The announcement highlighted continued investment in large-scale computing infrastructure.

Verizon shares declined approximately 3% despite stronger-than-expected quarterly earnings. Revenue increased 1.5% to $34.31 billion, missing forecasts, although adjusted earnings per share of $1.31 exceeded expectations. The company added 406,000 postpaid phone subscribers and raised full-year earnings guidance, but investors remained concerned about weaker equipment sales and competitive pressures.