World Brief: Global Markets Steady as Oil Prices Fall November 27, 2025 — Global stock indexes were broadly stable Thursday as oil prices slid to a three-month low and inflation data hinted at easing consumer pressures in major economies. The developments bolstered investor hopes that central banks could begin cutting interest rates early next year.
Oil prices slide below $75
Benchmark Brent crude fell below $75 per barrel for the first time since August after U.S. inventory data showed rising supply and weaker-than-expected demand in Asia. Energy analysts attributed part of the drop to improving shipping conditions in the Red Sea and stable output from OPEC members.
Regional markets mixed but calm
Asian markets closed largely flat, with Tokyo’s Nikkei edging up 0.2% while Hong Kong’s Hang Seng slipped 0.4%. European shares opened slightly higher on energy relief, and U.S. futures signaled a modestly positive open ahead of key holiday sales data.
Inflation eases in U.S. and Europe
New data showed annual inflation in the Eurozone slowing to 2.3%, its lowest since 2021, while U.S. core prices rose 3.1% year-over-year. Economists said the reports strengthened the case for “soft-landing” optimism, where growth cools without tipping into recession.
“We’re starting to see the global disinflation story broaden,” said Sarah Lee, chief economist at Horizon Analytics. “Energy has been a major swing factor, and lower fuel prices could feed into headline CPI quickly.”
Central banks signal patience
The European Central Bank and the U.S. Federal Reserve both reiterated that policy adjustments will depend on sustained data trends. Market futures now price in the first rate cuts for spring 2026, though policymakers caution that geopolitical volatility could shift timelines.
Outlook
Traders will watch next week’s OPEC+ meeting for signs of production coordination and any response to declining oil prices. Meanwhile, consumer spending trends during the ongoing holiday season will serve as a key indicator of whether easing inflation translates to stronger demand.
Sources
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