Warren Takunda

Asian stocks hit 15-month highs on dovish Fed and Apple's buyback. Yen strengthens on suspected intervention by Japan, with traders wary of further action. US jobs data eyed for clues on future Fed policy.

The European Central Bank is widely expected to cut interest rates next month, barring any major surprises.

Asian stocks surged to 15-month highs on Friday, led by tech and Hong Kong. The yen strengthened after suspected intervention by Japanese authorities to weaken the dollar. Investors now await US non-farm payroll data.

The British Pound is a "castle made of sand" and "could face a difficult period", according to a new analysis from HSBC.

A big Labour win in today's local elections could boost Pound Sterling as it could hasten a change of guard at Westminster, say analysts at Crédit Agricole.

Asia's oil imports disappoint (below OPEC forecast), even with China's rise. High oil prices or slower Asian growth could be to blame. Future oil prices and China's economy will determine if Asia meets OPEC's demand prediction.

Fed Chair Powell reassured that the US isn't facing "stagflation" despite inflation, hinting at possible interest rate decreases, leading to a market rally. Concerns linger over Britain's economic recovery amid declining manufacturing activity and rising costs.

Bitcoin short-term holders are currently holding a 3% unrealized loss, but it “isn’t the end of the world,” according to a crypto analyst.

Ex-BOJ's Takeuchi underscores yen stabilization goal, aiming for effective intervention while avoiding illiquid assets.

Powell's promise of lower rates amidst inflation worries fails to calm markets; skepticism persists. Investors await crucial data to predict Fed actions and market stability. Uncertainty looms over the impact on stocks and bonds.