World shares began the week with a mixed performance following a significant drop in U.S. stocks, marking their worst loss since Election Day. U.S. futures showed a varied trend, with the S&P 500 contract slightly up and the Dow Jones Industrial Average slightly lower amid speculation surrounding President-elect Donald Trump's potential Treasury secretary nominee.
European markets also displayed a mixed picture, with Germany's DAX and France's CAC 40 edging lower, while Britain's FTSE 100 gained slightly. In Asia, Japan's Nikkei 225 declined as the yen briefly strengthened against the dollar after the Bank of Japan's governor hinted at potential interest rate hikes.
South Korea's Kospi surged after Samsung Electronics announced a share buyback plan, boosting the country's stock market. Chinese markets saw a mixed performance, with the Hang Seng in Hong Kong rising and the Shanghai Composite index closing lower.
Elsewhere in Asia, Australia's S&P/ASX 200 and Thailand's SET index showed modest movements. Thailand's economy exceeded growth expectations in the last quarter, contributing to the SET's positive performance.
On Friday, U.S. stocks experienced a significant decline, erasing some of the gains seen post-election. Vaccine manufacturers faced pressure after President-elect Trump's comments on the Department of Health and Human Services leadership. Concerns over potential policy impacts led to declines in Moderna and Pfizer shares.
Investors have been navigating the implications of Trump's policies, balancing optimism over tax cuts and deregulation with concerns about deficits and inflation. Consumer spending data indicated a positive trend, suggesting continued strength in the economy.
In commodity markets, U.S. benchmark crude oil and Brent crude prices showed slight gains. The euro also strengthened against the dollar in early trading.
