**Global Market Brief: February 3, 2026** **Headline: Markets React to US-India Trade Deal & Tech Mergers** Global equities are displaying mixed sentiment today as investors digest a major trade breakthrough between the US and India, alongside significant corporate restructuring in the tech sector. **Key Developments** * **US-India Trade Deal:** Markets in India rallied sharply, with the **Sensex surging over 5%** following the announcement of reduced US tariffs on Indian goods (cut to **18%**). This breakthrough has boosted sentiment across emerging markets. * **SpaceX & xAI Merger:** Elon Musk confirmed the merger of SpaceX and xAI, aiming for a valuation exceeding **$1.25 trillion**. The move highlights a strategic pivot toward AI-integrated aerospace capabilities. * **Corporate Leadership:** Disney announced **Josh D'Amaro** as its next CEO, signaling a focus on parks and experiences. **Market Performance** **US Indices (Intraday)** * **Dow Jones:** **49,426** (+0.04%) — Trading flat near record highs. * **S&P 500:** **6,933** (-0.62%) — Pulling back amid tech volatility. * **Nasdaq:** **23,299** (-1.24%) — Under pressure as AI doubts resurface despite the SpaceX news. **International** * **Nifty 50 (India):** Surged **+2.55%** to **25,727**, driven by the trade deal optimism. * **Nikkei 225 (Japan):** Closed up **+3.92%** at **54,720**, reaching new highs on earnings strength. **Commodities & Crypto** * **Oil:** WTI Crude stabilized at **$62.40**, recovering slightly (+0.42%) after recent sell-offs. * **Gold:** Precious metals remain volatile, with Gold trading around **$1,710**, down **0.08%** as risk appetite returns in Asia. * **Silver:** Rebounding significantly, trading up at **$88.19**. **Watchlist** * **Palantir:** Shares popped **+5%** following strong earnings results that beat Wall Street expectations. * **IBM & Salesforce:** Both facing selling pressure, down **-5%** and **-4%** respectively. * **Currency:** The US Dollar Index (DXY) dipped slightly to **97.47**, while the Rupee gained strength against the dollar.