Financial Markets Daily Report
19 February 2026
Market sentiment turned positive following the release of robust data confirming the resilience of the US economy and continued inflation containment in the euro area. Equity markets posted broad-based gains, led by cyclical sectors.
US Treasury yields moved higher, despite the divided views highlighted in the minutes of the Fed’s latest meeting. European sovereign curves remained broadly stable, despite rumours that Christine Lagarde could step down before the end of her term. In currency markets, the dollar appreciated against the euro to trade below 1.18.
Meanwhile, oil prices recorded their largest jump since October, as traders priced in potential supply disruptions amid rising concerns over a possible escalation of tensions between the US and Iran. Natural gas prices also jumped, and gold rebounded back to settle just above $5000/oz, as of this morning.