Asia And Europe Markets Mixed; Gold Holds Near Record High On Safe Haven Demand - Global Markets Today While US Slept

On Tuesday, March 18, U.S. markets closed in red, ending a two-day rally as investors awaited the Fed’s policy decision and monitored Trump’s tariff effects. The Fed is expected to hold rates steady, though markets anticipate 60 bps in cuts this year. Uncertainty over tariffs and economic impact remains high. Meanwhile, Trump and Putin agreed to pursue a limited Ukraine ceasefire.

In economic data, U.S. data showed stronger-than-expected results in February. Import prices climbed 0.4%, defying forecasts of a 0.1% drop, while export prices edged up 0.1% month over month. Industrial production also outperformed expectations, rising 0.7% compared to the projected 0.2% increase.

Most S&P 500 sectors ended lower Tuesday, led by losses in communication services, tech, and consumer discretionary. Energy and healthcare outperformed, finishing ...