Stocks Soar in Best Quarter in Years; Dollar Weakens, Gold and Yen Surge

Global stock markets closed out a stellar quarter, posting their strongest gains in years. The rally was fueled by investor optimism over easing inflation and potential interest rate cuts. Major indices in the United States, Europe, and Asia all recorded double-digit percentage increases. Meanwhile, the U.S. dollar fell sharply against major currencies. The Japanese yen surged to a multi-month high, while gold prices climbed to record levels as traders moved away from the greenback. Analysts say the dollar’s weakness is tied to expectations that the Federal Reserve will soon lower borrowing costs. The contrasting moves highlight a shift in market sentiment. While equities benefited from a “risk-on” mood, the dollar’s decline reflects bets on a softer U.S. economy. Gold, traditionally a safe-haven asset, also gained as investors hedged against uncertainty. No major economic data is expected to disrupt the trend in the coming days, but traders remain focused on central bank signals.