European stocks, Asian shares and Wall Street ease due to fresh restrictions

Gulf Today Report

European stocks fell on Thursday due to the slump on Wall Street as concerns for the effect of the fresh lockdowns grows. 

The pan-European STOXX 600 fell 0.7% by 08:10 GMT, with growth-sensitive oil and gas, banking and mining sectors leading early losses.

On the other hand, the prospect of a COVID-19 vaccine has propelled the STOXX 600 to levels hit in February. 

Asian Shares

Asian shares ease on Thursday as fresh US restrictions affect Wall Street and bonds are relying on speculation of aid from Federal Reserve. 

MSCI's broadest index of Asia-Pacific shares outside Japan fell 0.6%, off their historic high. Chinese blue chips added 0.4% as President Xi Jinping vowed to cut tariffs and expand imports of high-quality goods and services. 

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Japan also reported record news cases as Tokyo raised its pandemic alert to the highest level, shoving the Nikkei down 0.8% and away from a 29-year closing top.

Wall Street

On Wall Street, E-mini futures for the S&P 500 remain firm after a dip on Wednesday. 

The Dow slumped 1.16%, while the S&P 500 shed 1.16% and the Nasdaq 0.82%.

Following the announcement of a 95% effective COVID-19 vaccine by Pfizer Inc, its shares advanced. 

However, the US death toll keeps surging leading to government officials in different parts of the country imposing fresh restrictions.