Market Movers European Session – European Indices Up, EURUSD Up, Gold Up, US Futures Retreat

# Market Movers: European Session – European Indices Up, EUR/USD Up, Gold Up, US Futures Retreat

**Note**: This analysis is generated during the European market session, with European markets actively open. All economic event times are in US Eastern Time (New York time). Nikkei 225 is closed.

## Major News

**Market Overview and Performance**

As European markets opened today, there was a positive sentiment reflected in the major indices. The DAX was up 0.49% at 23,642.67, the EURO STOXX 50 rose by 0.29% to 5,457.60, and the FTSE 100 increased by 0.26% to 9,250.54. Meanwhile, US futures showed minimal changes, with the S&P 500 Futures slightly down by 0.07% at 6,748.00, the Nasdaq Futures also down by 0.07% at 24,986.00, and the Dow Futures remaining virtually unchanged at 46,723.00. The Nikkei 225 closed at 45,493.66, marking a 0.99% increase, but it is not currently trading.

**Market Reactions and Stock Movements**

The market’s positive momentum was largely driven by a significant announcement from Nvidia, which plans to invest up to $100 billion in OpenAI, a move that has sparked enthusiasm in the technology sector. This investment is seen as a key driver for AI-related stocks, pushing them higher as investors speculate on the continued growth in artificial intelligence. The S&P 500’s three-day winning streak reflects this optimism, although concerns about elevated market valuations linger amidst the AI hype.

In addition to Nvidia’s announcement, Pfizer’s stock saw an uptick after the company revealed it would spend over $7 billion to acquire biotech firm Metsera. This acquisition is part of Pfizer’s strategy to enhance its position in the competitive obesity drug market, and investors reacted positively to the news, reflecting confidence in Pfizer’s growth potential.

Conversely, the announcement of a $100,000 fee for H-1B visas by President Trump has led to a decline in shares of IT outsourcing firms in India, such as Infosys and Wipro. The increased cost of hiring foreign talent is expected to impact these companies’ operational capabilities and profitability, leading to a sell-off in their stocks.

**Geopolitical Factors and Tariffs**

Geopolitical factors continue to play a significant role in shaping market sentiment. The potential for a meeting between President Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping next year is being closely monitored, as any developments in US-China relations could have substantial implications for global trade and market stability. U.S. Ambassador to China David Perdue’s comments during a recent visit to Beijing have stirred speculation about future negotiations, which could ease tensions between the two economic powerhouses.

On the tariff front, the British Fashion Council’s CEO highlighted the challenges faced by the fashion industry due to ongoing tariff uncertainties. As companies navigate the complexities of international trade policies, the impact on their bottom line remains a significant concern. The fashion sector’s resilience in the face of these challenges is being tested, and investors are watching closely for any strategic moves that could mitigate the negative effects of tariffs.

**Corporate Earnings and Strategic Moves**

Corporate earnings remain a focal point for investors as companies report their quarterly results. Analysts are particularly keen on how firms in the technology sector will navigate the current landscape, given the heightened interest in AI and digital transformation. The momentum in megacap tech stocks has provided a cushion for the broader market, but concerns about sustainability persist.

In the context of strategic moves, Jim Cramer has identified several inexpensive stocks worth considering as the S&P 500 continues its upward trajectory. Cramer pointed to companies like T-Mobile, Dollar Tree, Caterpillar, and Dell as potential growth at value opportunities, suggesting that there are still bargains to be found even as the market experiences volatility.

**Current Market Overview**

Overall, the European market session has started on a positive note, buoyed by optimism surrounding AI investments and strategic corporate moves. While the US futures are showing slight declines, the prevailing sentiment in Europe indicates a degree of resilience amidst geopolitical uncertainties and economic challenges. Investors remain cautious, balancing optimism with the need to assess valuations and potential risks associated with global trade dynamics and regulatory changes.

As the session progresses, market participants will be keenly watching for further developments in corporate earnings, geopolitical relations, and any shifts in monetary policy that could influence market direction. The ongoing dialogue surrounding immigration policy and its implications for the tech sector will also be pivotal in shaping investor sentiment in the days to come.

## Performances

### US Futures

The following table shows the latest price and daily performance of US futures.

**Note**:
– Prices are in USD.
– Daily Change (%) is calculated as (Close – Previous Close) / Previous Close * 100.
– ‘N/A’ indicates data not available.

### European and Asian Indices

The following table shows the latest closing price and daily performance of major European and Asian indices.

**Note**:
– Prices are in local currency or points.
– Daily Change (%) is calculated as (Close – Previous Close) / Previous Close * 100.
– ‘N/A’ indicates data not available.
– Nikkei 225 is closed during European session.

### FX Performance

The following table shows the latest exchange rate and daily performance of major currency pairs.

**Note**:
– Prices are the exchange rate (e.g., EUR/USD = USD per EUR).
– Daily Change (%) is calculated as (Close – Previous Close) / Previous Close * 100.
– ‘N/A’ indicates data not available.

### Commodities Performance

The following table shows the latest price and daily performance of major commodities.

**Note**:
– Prices are in USD per unit (e.g., per barrel for Crude Oil, per ounce for Gold).
– Daily Change (%) is calculated as (Close – Previous Close) / Previous Close * 100.
– ‘N/A’ indicates data not available.

### BTC and ETH Performance

The following table shows the latest price and daily performance of BTC and ETH.

**Note**:
– Prices are in USD.
– Daily Change (%) is calculated as (Close – Previous Close) / Previous Close * 100.
– ‘N/A’ indicates data not available.

## Economic Calendar of Today (Most Important Events)

The following table lists high-importance economic events for today, 2025-09-23, with times in US Eastern Time.

**Notes**:
– **Cur**: Currency associated with the event (with flag emoji).
– **Imp**: Importance (High, Medium, Low, None).
– **Actual**: Reported value (if available).
– **Forecast**: Expected value (if available).

On September 23, 2025, several high-importance economic events are scheduled that may significantly impact financial markets, particularly the USD.

At 9:45 AM (US Eastern Time), the S&P Global Manufacturing PMI for September is set to be released, with a forecast of 52.2. This indicator is crucial as it reflects the health of the manufacturing sector, and any deviation from expectations could lead to volatility in the USD. A reading above 50 indicates expansion, while below indicates contraction.

Simultaneously, the S&P Global Services PMI is also slated for release at 9:45 AM, with an anticipated figure of 54.0. This metric is vital for assessing the services sector, which constitutes a significant portion of the U.S. economy. Market participants will be closely watching for any surprises that could influence economic outlooks and monetary policy expectations.

Later in the day, Fed Chair Jerome Powell is scheduled to speak at 12:35 PM. His remarks may provide insights into the Federal Reserve’s current monetary policy stance and future interest rate decisions, which are critical for market sentiment and USD valuation.

Additionally, U.S. President Trump is expected to address the public at 9:50 AM and again at 7:20 PM. His comments could influence market dynamics, particularly regarding fiscal policies or economic initiatives.

As the European market session remains active, traders are likely to adjust positions based on these upcoming releases, reflecting real-time trading activity and market sentiment leading into these pivotal announcements.

## Remaining Economic Calendar Comment for the Week (Important Events Only)

This week features several high-importance economic events that could significantly impact financial markets, particularly given the ongoing European session.

On September 24, the New Home Sales report for August is anticipated at 10:00 AM ET, with a forecast of 651,000 units. A deviation from this expectation could influence USD valuation and housing market sentiment. Simultaneously, at 10:30 AM ET, the Crude Oil Inventories data will be released, which could affect oil prices and related equities.

The following day, September 25, will be pivotal, starting with the Swiss National Bank’s interest rate decision at 3:30 AM ET, where the forecast stands at 0.00%. Any deviation from this could have ramifications for the Swiss Franc and broader market sentiment. The U.S. economic indicators released at 8:30 AM ET include Durable Goods Orders, GDP growth for Q2, and Initial Jobless Claims, with forecasts of -0.4%, 3.3%, and 235,000, respectively. These figures will provide insights into the resilience of the U.S. economy and could lead to volatility in USD and equity markets. Later, Existing Home Sales data is expected at 10:00 AM ET, with a forecast of 3.96 million units.

On September 26, the Core PCE Price Index (MoM and YoY) will be released at 8:30 AM ET, with the monthly forecast at 0.2%. As a key inflation measure, these figures will be closely scrutinized for implications on future Federal Reserve policy.

Overall, these events will be critical in shaping market expectations and could lead to significant movements in currency and commodity prices during the active European session.