Global Markets Rise Ahead of Key German Vote, Interest Rate Decisions 
 

Global markets were higher with European stocks rising as investors eye a significant vote in Germany that would boost defense spending, and a scattering of central bank meetings this week.

 
Powell Contends With Double Threat of Economic Chaos and Political Hostility 
 

The Federal Reserve is navigating the fog of a trade war from an administration ready to blame officials for any economic slowdown.

 
Israeli Strikes Kill Hundreds, Tipping Gaza Back Toward War 
 

The attacks were the most extensive in months and came after a breakdown in talks to release hostages. Palestinian authorities said more than 400 people were killed.

 
European Central Bank May Need Fresh Cuts as Trade Turmoil Burdens Growth, Rehn Says 
 

Trade uncertainty is weighing on the European economy and any boost from investment in defense won't come until later, the governor of the Finnish central bank said.

 
German Economic Sentiment Climbs After Politicians Pledge Ramp-Up in Spending 
 

Financial analysts became much more upbeat about Germany's economic prospects in March as the country's lawmakers closed in on an agreement to raise spending on defense and infrastructure.

 
Trump Team Explored Simplified Plan for Reciprocal Tariffs 
 

Instead of equalizing tariff rates with every nation, Trump's team debated sorting trading partners into tiers.

 
Wall Street's Fear Gauge Shows Worry, Not Panic 
 

The VIX has been above 20-a level associated with volatile markets and losses for shares-for the past 11 trading days.

 
Retail Sales Rose 0.2% in February but Miss Expectations 
 

Sales rose modestly, offering reassurances that while consumer spending has slowed this year, it hasn't buckled.

 
U.S. Tariffs to Slow Global Economy, Boost Inflation, OECD Says 
 

Higher U.S. tariffs on imports are set to slow economic growth and push inflation higher around the world, with further increases threatening an even more severe downturn.

 
Stocks Haven't Traded at These Levels Since September 
 

Market gains that started last fall, when polls showed President Trump taking a narrow lead in the election, have been erased.

(END) Dow Jones Newswires

March 18, 2025 07:00 ET (11:00 GMT)

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