Monthly index news

Stocks rose for a ninth month this year during November amid hopes for a thaw in the trade war between the US and China, and optimism that the global economy may gather pace.

There was enough positive news to lift stocks higher during October: a partial trade agreement between the US and China, a potential Brexit compromise in the UK, better-than-expected corporate earnings, and yet another rate cut by the Federal Reserve.

Stocks rebounded in September amid hopes for a thaw in the trade war between the US and China and as the world’s major central banks lowered interest rates to support faltering economic growth.

Stocks fell in August as the trade war between the US and China escalated and concerns grew that a global economic slowdown may lead to a recession.

Global stocks extended gains during July, as investors anticipated an interest-rate cut in the US that came on the last day of the month, and the European Central Bank signaled it may also loosen monetary policy.

Global stocks recovered in June from their May slump, as investors looked for a favorable resolution to trade disputes and leading central banks indicated their readiness to ease monetary policy should the economic situation demand it.

A rebound in global stocks this year faltered in May as negotiations for a trade truce between the US and China appeared to break down and concerns emerged that the global economic expansion may hit a snag.

Global stocks extended their positive streak in April, adding a fourth month, with some regional benchmarks reaching record highs, as the outlook for the world’s economy improved and a majority of companies’ earnings beat estimates.

Global stocks wrapped up their best calendar quarter in over eight years, as the Federal Reserve halted its interest-rate increases, and expectations strengthened for a trade truce between the US and China.

January’s rally extended through February, with global stocks delivering their strongest two-month performance since 2010.

Stocks rose for a fourth consecutive month in December, extending indices’ record-breaking rally this year, as the US and China struck an initial trade deal and reports pointed to a possible acceleration in the global economy.

December’s heavy selling in stock markets was reminiscent of the darkest days of global financial crises.