A jump in US retail sales boosted world markets Thursday even as investors mulled the US rates outlook, US President Donald Trump's tariffs and the future of Federal Reserve boss

US retail sales surged 0.6% MoM, far exceeding expectations and signaling robust consumer demand despite recent tariff volatility. Read more on the market's focus.

Equities edged higher on Thursday, supported by strong economic data and upbeat corporate earnings. The Dow gained over 200 points as jobless claims fell to 221,000 and June retail sales rose 0.6%, beating expectations.

STOCKHOLM] Volvo Car posted a US$1.03 billion operating loss in the second quarter, hit by a previously announced impairment charge over model delays and the escalating cost of tariffs. Read more at The Business Times.

The retail sales report comes as other evidence indicates shoppers have been pulling back more amid worries about higher prices from Trump’s tariffs.

Financial markets seesawed as news outlets lit up with rumors warning that US President Donald Trump is getting ready to fire Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, only to be quickly quashed by the chief executive himself.

The retail sales report comes as other evidence indicates shoppers have been pulling back more amid worries about higher prices from Trump’s tariffs.

The retail sales report comes as other evidence indicates shoppers have been pulling back more amid worries about higher prices from Trump’s tariffs.