Stock markets mostly fell during cautious trading sessions on Thursday, one day before a key speech expected to offer signals about future interest rate cuts in the United States.

US Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell, who has resisted public demands from President Donald Trump to slash rates, is scheduled to deliver remarks Friday at the annual central bankers conference in Wyoming.

Major European indices were lower in midday trading, tracking a lacklustre session in Asia.

Markets brushed off purchasing managers’ index (PMI) data showing eurozone business activity reached a 15-month high in August, while UK activity grew at its fastest pace in a year.

“Eyes are turning to… Powell’s final speech at the Jackson Hole Symposium as Federal Reserve Chair,” said Susannah Streeter, head o

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