Global markets react to trade, inflation, and central bank data

Global economic indicators show mixed trends across major markets. Malaysia reported a 64.9% rise in its September trade surplus to RM33.7 billion, driven largely by a 69.2% surge in electrical and electronic exports. Annual inflation in Malaysia eased to 1.8% in September.

In the United Kingdom, the pound sterling traded near 1.3330 as investors awaited upcoming labor-market and consumer-price inflation reports. These figures are expected to influence the Bank of England’s next policy decision on November 5.

In Australia, the Australian dollar rose against the yen, with the Reserve Bank of Australia measuring the rate at ¥110.27 on October 19. Meanwhile, in the United States, Dow and S&P 500 futures showed gains in early trading, while Nasdaq 100 futures declined ahead of the Federal Reserve’s upcoming interest rate decision.

In China, third-quarter growth was reported at 4.5% year-over-year, though fixed-asset and property development investments saw declines.