US-China Trade Talks Held in London Amid Market Optimism

Trade talks between the United States and China resumed in London with hopes of easing escalating tariff tensions, following a recent call between President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping. While Asian stocks rose on optimism for a deal, Wall Street showed mixed results as investors awaited clearer details on tariffs and export controls, particularly regarding U.S. tech and Chinese rare earth minerals. The talks aim to revive a preliminary agreement reached in Geneva, with Washington focusing on easing restrictions on rare-earth exports and China seeking relief from tariff pressures. Despite positive U.S. jobs data suggesting economic resilience, China's slowing export growth and weak producer price data highlight the trade war's toll on both economies. Market analysts emphasize the importance of continued negotiations to prevent further damage, with global investors also watching for upcoming economic data and central bank policies. Meanwhile, additional trade discussions are planned, including Japan's upcoming round of talks in Washington, underscoring the ongoing efforts to manage global trade relations amid geopolitical uncertainty.