Global Markets React to China’s Rare Earth Controls, J&J M&A, and European Political Standoffs

Key TakeawaysU.S. equity markets showed resilience, with the S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite posting slight gains by Friday's close, while Chinese markets, notably the NASDAQ Golden Dragon China Index, experienced a significant 2.6% decline, marking its steepest fall since August 27th.Johnson & Johnson (JNJ) is reportedly in advanced discussions to acquire Protagonist Therapeutics (PTGX), according to the Wall Street Journal, a development that saw Protagonist shares surge.Geopolitical tensions escalated as Ch ...