Global Stock Surge: World Markets Hit Record Highs Amid Recovery Optimism

World stocks soared to new record highs for a tenth consecutive day, as equity markets recovered from selloffs initiated by US and Israeli tensions with Iran. Optimism about a potential peace agreement is mounting, with oil prices stabilizing around $95 per barrel after peaking near $120 in March. The MSCI world stocks index climbed by 0.25%.

This achievement marks the index's first record high since the February hostilities, bolstered by strong global bank earnings and rising tech stocks, propelling the S&P 500 beyond 7,000 points. Standard Chartered's CIO Manpreet Gill described the rally as a 'perfect V-shaped recovery,' driven by US tech stocks and easing oil prices.

Meanwhile, European stocks edged up by 0.2% as bond markets dialed back sharp interest rate hike expectations. The European Central Bank's recent minutes indicate hesitation about premature rate increases amid inflation fears. Analysts caution about possible second-round inflation effects, while oil prices fluctuate with ongoing US-Iran Strait of Hormuz negotiations.