Global equities fell on investor jitters around the Fed’s Jackson Hole symposium. Traders await Powell’s speech for rate cut hints. U.S. Treasury yields climbed, oil futures rose on strong demand and Ukraine uncertainty. Dollar strengthened, MSCI World Equity Index fell. Walmart’s results dampened sentiment. Markets now pricing in 70.4% chance of Sept rate cut.

European markets flat, tech stocks pullback attributed to AI concerns. Euro zone business activity accelerates, Germany sees fastest growth since March. Asian trading near recent highs, Australia hits record. U.S. 10-year Treasury yield at 4.328%, euro down at $1.1604. Trump intensifies effort to influence Fed, calling on Governor Cook to resign.

Gold prices rise on Fed independence concerns. Analysts note risks of fiscal dominance. Central bank independence remains important, but not yet problematic for markets. Gold prices fall slightly, Brent oil up at $67.67 per barrel. U.S. crude settles at $63.52. Market reaction to Fed independence concerns remains modest.

Read more at Yahoo Finance: Global equities retreat, as oil and dollar advance