Financial Market Preview - Friday 10-Jul

US equity futures are softer with the S&P down. Bonds are firmer, as the US 10-year yield drops 2 bps to 4.5% following yields fell 3-4 bps in prior session. Gilts fall 2 bps to 4.9%, while the Bund softens by 1 bp to 3.1%. The dollar is weaker. Oil edges down slightly, with WTI crude near $72/bbl. Gold is lower, while Bitcoin shows gains. European and Asian equity markets are mostly firmer. European markets are finding support after the US refrained from launching a third consecutive day of strikes against Iran. Sentiment earlier this week was shaken by rising tensions, which triggered a sharp rally in oil prices and a rise in interest rates, reigniting concerns about inflation and growth risks. As a result, sell-side strategists are becoming increasingly divided on the outlook for European markets. Some analysts point to vulnerabilities stemming from Europe’s limited exposure to AI and heightened sensitivity to oil-driven volatility, given the region’s reliance on imported oil.Companies Mentioned: EasyJet, Bayer AG, Arthur J. Gallagher