Markets remained cautious, watching developments in the coronavirus pandemic. Most Asian and European equity indices closed slightly lower, while the S&P500 is currently up 0.3%. Commodities and bond yields fell further, while currencies were contained.

Sentiment deteriorated amid renewed concerns about the coronavirus pandemic. A strong US payrolls report provided only brief distraction. The S&P500 closed down 0.5%, bond yields fell, and the US dollar rose.

Sentiment rose further amid market optimism the coronavirus pandemic would be contained, also buoyed by confirmation of China’s reduction of tariffs on US goods. The S&P500 is up 0.4% and at a record high. Bond yields preserved recent gains, and the US dollar rose further.

Coronavirus concerns in markets appeared to abate further, buoyed by China’s stimulatory measures as well as the 1.3% rebound in Chinese equities. The S&P500 is up 1.7%, and most commodities, bond yields and commodity currencies are higher.

Coronavirus concerns in markets appeared to abate slightly after China responded with stimulatory measures. The S&P500 is up 0.7%, and bond yields are slightly higher (helped by a solid US manufacturing survey). Commodity remained under downward pressure, while AUD and NZD currencies were fairly stable.

Coronavirus was again the main driver of markets on Friday. The S&P500 fell 1.8% and the VIX index – a barometer of risk aversion – was at the highest since early October. Bond yields and commodity currencies also fell.

US equities fell as the coronavirus epidemic regained centre stage in markets. The S&P500 is down 0.7%, and bond yields and commodity currencies are lower. The GBP rose after the BoE did not cut its policy rate.

US equities are slightly higher amid a mix of solid company earnings and coronavirus news. The S&P500 is up 0.4%, while bond yields and commodity currencies are slightly lower. The Fed kept policy unchanged, as was widely expected, and the EU approved the UK’s Brexit deal.

US equities rebounded as concerns about the coronavirus epidemic appeared to fade and US economic data beat expectations. The S&P500 is up 1.1%, and bond yields are higher.

Sentiment remained depressed as the coronavirus epidemic spread further. The S&P500 is down 1.3%, and bond yields and risky currencies are lower.