Financial Markets Daily Report
15 May 2026
Risk sentiment remained broadly positive for another session, as investor focus continued to shift away from Middle East tensions, with no major developments and stable energy prices (Brent crude around $105/barrel), toward macroeconomic data, corporate earnings and AI-related investment themes.
US equities climbed to fresh record highs as the AI narrative continued to fuel sentiment and investors absorbed solid macro data. In particular, US retail sales rose for a third consecutive month in April. US Treasury yields rose at the short end of the curve, as inflation concerns persisted following strong import price data, and the US dollar continued to strengthen.
In the euro area, sovereign yields declined across the region amid stable oil prices, while equities advanced for a second consecutive session, led by German stocks. In the UK, political uncertainty intensified after Health Secretary Wes Streeting resigned, potentially paving the way for a leadership contest within the Labour Party.