Asia Market Slip, Europe Mixed, Gold Nears Record High - Global Markets Today While US Slept

On Wednesday, March 12, U.S. markets ended mixed as softer-than-expected inflation data lifted hopes for Fed rate cuts, partially offsetting investor concerns over escalating trade tensions. The S&P 500 and Nasdaq closed higher, driven by tech stocks while growing tariff disputes under Trump continued to stoke recession fears and market volatility.

In economic data, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) fell to 2.8% year-over-year in February, down from 3%, beating expectations for a more modest decline to 2.9%. Core inflation also cooled more than anticipated, slipping from 3.3% to 3.1%.

Most S&P 500 sectors ended higher, led by gains in consumer discretionary, tech, and communication services. Consumer staples and health care lagged, closing ...