Asian markets saw gains on Friday after positive US employment and spending data eased recession worries. Japan, Australia, and South Korea benefited from improved US retail sales and lower jobless claims. US stock indices, including the S&P 500, continued their upward trend. Analysts believe this reflects reduced fears of a recession, aided by potential Federal Reserve rate cuts.
Oil prices edge down, forecasts for higher oil output, weak demand growth weigh
Oil prices edged lower. Global production is expected to rise. Demand growth forecasts are weak. The US dollar strengthened. OPEC lowered its oil demand growth