Australia

No Australian market commentary available today.

Asia

Chinese shares ended lower amid downbeat investor sentiment. Software and hardware stocks weighed on the market. Property stocks gained on a state media report that China had eased nationwide mortgage requirements to let more homebuyers enjoy favorable mortgage conditions. The benchmark Shanghai Composite Index ended 0.6% lower, the Shenzhen Composite Index fell 1.5%, and the tech-heavy ChiNext Price Index lost 1.2%.

Europe

No Europe market commentary available today.

North America

U.S. stocks ended higher after Fed Chair Jerome Powell signalled steady interest rates for now. Treasury yields rose and the dollar strengthened after Powell's speech. Gold pulled back, but managed a weekly gain, while oil rose on the day but fell for the week.