Israeli tensions in global markets
Iran fired nearly 200 ballistic missiles at Israel. As Israel vowed to retaliate, tensions in the region escalated further. War tensions drove investors to safe havens in global markets.
US stocks, which declined with risk aversion, continue their losses in futures.
Asian stocks, on the other hand, gained, led by Hong Kong, as China announced more stimulus steps to help the real estate sector.
Although markets were closed in China, an index of Chinese stocks traded in Hong Kong rose 8.4 percent, the highest level since November 2022.
The index is set to complete its 13th consecutive session in the plus.
Chinese real estate stocks extended gains on Wednesday after Beijing followed other major cities in China in loosening home buying rules.