Stocks, Euro Rise as Traders Parse French Election: Markets Wrap.

European stocks and the euro rose as the results of the French election indicated a lower likelihood of extreme policies from the far-right. The first round of legislative voting suggested that Marine Le Pen's party faces a tougher path to victory, reducing the risks of disruptive spending plans. The narrowing of the spread on French-German debt also contributed to market optimism. However, some analysts expressed concerns about the potential for a hung parliament and its impact on decision-making and European integration. In other news, US investors are preparing for the second-quarter reporting season, with Goldman Sachs strategists noting that Corporate America faces high earnings expectations. South African assets rallied after President Cyril Ramaphosa announced a new cabinet that includes members of the opposition Democratic Alliance, which is considered business-friendly. Oil prices rose as traders assessed economic outlook and geopolitical risks in Europe and the Middle East. Iron ore also saw gains due to signs of recovery in China's steel-intensive property market and speculation of further support from Beijing. [Extracted from the article]