Global Markets Down as Earnings, Yields, and Political Uncertainty Weigh; USD/JPY at 152.75 Peak

Global markets are experiencing a downturn as investors react to a combination of earnings reports, rising yields, and political uncertainty. European bourses and US futures are generally trading in negative territory. The US Dollar Index (DXY) continues to rise, with USD/JPY climbing above 152 to a peak of 152.75. Asia-Pacific markets are also seeing mixed performances, with the Nikkei 225 slipping by 0.8% and the ASX 200 and KOSPI showing slight gains of 0.4% and 0.5%, respectively. The Nikkei Stock Average in Japan is particularly affected by caution ahead of the upcoming election, snapping a three-session losing run but still showing signs of political woes. Tokyo stocks have opened lower due to a stronger yen and election-related caution. Investors are scaling back their expectations of interest rate cuts as US Treasury yields spike, contributing to the overall market volatility.