Investing.com - Here are the top five things you need to know in financial markets on Tuesday, March 8:
1. China's February exports post worst fall since 2009
The latest trade figures out of China added to concerns over the health of the world's second-biggest economy.
Exports plunged 25.4% from a year earlier in February, far worse than forecasts for a decline of 12.5% and the worst monthly performance since May 2009, while imports dropped 13.8%, compared to expectations for a fall of 10.0%.
That left China with a surplus of $32.6 billion last month, down from $63.3 billion in January, the General Administration of Customs said.
The disappointing data reinforced the view that the economy remains in the midst of a gradual slowdown which will require Beijing to roll out more support in coming months.
2. Oil prices retreat from 3-month highs
Oil prices were lower on Tuesday, pulling back from the prior session’s three-month highs as risk appetite waned after the release of disappointing trade data out of China.
U.S. crude was down 37 cents, or 0.98%, at $37.53 a barrel, by 10:50GMT, or 5:50AM ET, while Brent dipped 28 cents, or 0.69%, to $40.56.
China is the world's second largest oil consumer after the U.S. and has been the engine of strengthening demand.
3. Global stocks drop amid China jitters
Asian and European stocks edged mostly lower Tuesday, after weak trade data sparked renewed concerns about slowing growth in China and as lower oil and metals prices weighed on energy and mining shares.
Elsewhere, U.S. stock index futures pointed to a weaker open, with the Dow Futures down more than 100 points, as investors paused for breath after a five-day win streak and digested weaker than expected trade data from China.
4. BoE’s Carney testifies on Brexit
Bank of England governor Mark Carney reiterated that the British central bank would not make a recommendation on the Brexit referendum scheduled for June 23, but that he would ensure actions to mitigate any short-term effects to financial stability.
Testifying in front of the U.K. Treasury Committee, Carney insisted on Tuesday that his institution would not take a position on the Brexit issue or make any type of recommendation for the vote.
5. Gold firms below 13-month highs
Gold futures firmed below the highest level in more than a year on Tuesday, supported by hopes the Federal Reserve will not raise interest rates as soon as next week's policy meeting.
Fed Governor Lael Brainard dampened expectations for a short term rate hike on Monday, saying that while global financial markets have steadied in recent weeks, slowing growth in China and weak global demand still pose risks to the economy.
U.S. interest rate futures are pricing in only one rate hike by the end of year, with virtually no chance seen of a rate move in March.