The DAX index has edged higher on Friday. Currently, the DAX is trading at 11,463, up 0.32%. In economic news, German retail sales slowed to 0.9%, but beat the estimate of -1.0%. Unemployment claims fell by 7,000, shy of the estimate of 10,000. The unemployment rate for March dipped to 4.9% from 5.0%, the lowest level since reunification in 1990.
The DAX has posted gains this week, after sharp losses last week. The DAX fell 2.2% last Friday, after Germany posted a dismal manufacturing PMI. Manufacturing activity contracted for a third straight month, as the global trade war and damaging tariffs has reduced the appetite for German exports, particularly vehicles and auto parts. Investors are keeping a close eye on the ebb and flow of the U.S.-China trade talks, which continues to affect the markets. The negotiations between the sides continues and there have been reports of progress. However, optimism waned on Thursday, after a senior U.S. official said that it could be months before a deal is reached. As long as uncertainty continues to swirl around the talks, traders can expect swings in the stock markets.
