Global markets rally on tech gains and positive jobs data while emerging markets face headwinds from geopolitical tensions, energy price spikes, and trade disruptions.

The S&P 500 and Nasdaq reached record highs on Friday, driven by gains in Nvidia and other technology stocks, while strong U.S. jobs data lifted overall market sentiment across equities.

The IMF Executive Board approved $1.2 billion in financing for Pakistan under its Extended Fund Facility program, contingent on new fiscal, energy, and tax reform conditions as part of ongoing bailout negotiations.

Pakistan's government increased petrol prices by Rs14.92 per liter and diesel by Rs15 per liter, raising concerns about broader price inflation and economic stability in the country.

U.S. container imports fell 5.5% in April—the first decline since 2022—as tariff uncertainty, trade policy disruptions, and Strait of Hormuz tensions weighed on shipping volumes.

Oil prices surged with Brent crude gaining 3% amid escalating Iran-U.S. air strike tensions and ceasefire uncertainty, while ASEAN nations pushed for urgent fuel-sharing agreements to address regional energy vulnerabilities.

AMD and Micron chip stocks surged on renewed optimism in AI data-center demand, marking a dramatic recovery for the semiconductor sector after earlier weakness this year.

India's Swiggy reported a narrower fourth-quarter loss driven by continued growth in its core food delivery business and Instamart quick commerce arm, signaling resilience in Indian e-commerce.

Pakistan's government transferred the Public-Private Partnership Authority to the privatization division as part of a major PPP framework overhaul, with over Rs600 billion in projects under implementation seeking improved execution and investor confidence.

Pakistan's Economic Coordination Committee approved a new used vehicle re-export scheme with potential $300 million in investment, allowing regulated import and refurbishment of vehicles for export markets under Export Development Board oversight.

Gold prices climbed back above a key technical trend line after a sluggish stretch, signaling potential momentum recovery as geopolitical tensions and inflation concerns support precious metal demand.