Global Markets Navigate BoJ Hold, European Gains, and Strategic Corporate Moves; Trump Signals Nuclear Testing Restart

Group 1: Bank of Japan's Monetary Policy - The Bank of Japan (BoJ) has decided to maintain its short-term policy interest rate at 0.5%, marking the sixth consecutive meeting without a change [2][9] - Speculation about a potential rate hike to 0.75% before year-end has diminished, particularly after the election of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, who is seen as favoring looser fiscal policy [3][9] - Investors are closely monitoring statements from BoJ Governor Kazuo Ueda for indications on future monetary policy adjustments, while the BoJ continues to signal gradual normalization through ETF and J-REIT sales [3][9] Group 2: European and US Market Performance - European stock markets opened positively, with the EuroStoxx 50 up 0.4% and Germany's DAX gaining 0.5%, reflecting cautious optimism among investors [4][5][9] - US futures for Nasdaq and S&P 500 showed slight gains ahead of the market open, following a mixed close on Wednesday, with Nasdaq 100 reaching a record high [6][7][9] - Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell has tempered expectations for further interest rate cuts in December, despite a recent 25 basis point reduction [7][9] Group 3: Starbucks' Strategic Moves - Starbucks is nearing a deal to sell a partial stake in its China business, valued at approximately $5 billion, aiming to attract new investors while retaining a meaningful minority stake [12][13] - The decision comes as Starbucks faces increased competition in China, with its market share declining from 34% in 2019 to 14% in 2024 due to local low-cost chains like Luckin Coffee [13]