Stock markets surge, pound in focus

LONDON — Global markets surged higher on Monday as bargain-seekers moved in following sell-offs triggered by virus spikes and the return of some economically damaging containment measures.

As the coronavirus death toll topped one million, the World Health Organisation warned that figure could double without more global collective action.

Major indices took little notice however as the Dow Jones had gained around 1.8 per cent in midday trading, adding to a strong finish the previous week. 

Despite swirling clouds of Brexit uncertainty, London added 1.8 per cent while Frankfurt and Paris gained 3.2 per cent and 2.4 per cent respectively. 

"Investors appear to be warming towards equities and other risk assets again," remarked Fawad Razaqzada, market analyst with ThinkMarket.

"The relatively low (new) COVID-linked deaths mean investors are not showing too much concern towards rising virus cases. Instead, they remain optimistic over the potential approval of a vaccine soon, which together with ongoing central bank support will probably help accelerate the recovery," Razaqzada added.

Elsewhere, investors kept an eye on the resumption of trade talks between Britain and the European Union, hoping for a breakthrough despite feuding over a controversial UK bill that threatens to scupper a deal.

The pound rallied against the dollar and euro on optimism surrounding the latest talks.

Traders also awaited the first US presidential debate this week, which could set the tone for November's election, with many worried about potential scenarios if the vote is close.

The agenda for US data this week includes reports on US manufacturing and consumer confidence and the September employment report. On the corporate front, HSBC shares surged by almost nine per cent in London following news that its biggest investor Ping An Insurance Group had increased its stake in the bank.

Shares in steel giant ArcelorMittal soared by almost 11 per cent after the firm said it would merge its US operations with producer Cleveland-Cliffs.