US futures are indicating a flat open today. European equity markets are trading lower, following their best weekly performance in three months. In contrast, Asian equity markets were mostly higher, although the Nikkei was notably down. Market attention this week is squarely on the Jackson Hole Symposium, with a significant focus on Fed Chair Powell's upcoming speech on Friday regarding the economic outlook. There is considerable anticipation over whether Powell will reinforce expectations for a 25 basis point rate cut in September, especially after several Fed officials last week signaled support for near-term easing. In Europe, Germany has announced it will reject new aid requests from Ukraine due to budget cuts. Data indicates UK property buyers return, commercial real estate shows recovery, and job vacancies rise for the first time this year, reflecting a pick-up in economic activity.
Companies Mentioned: Hyatt Hotels