Emerging Markets Under Pressure Amid Geopolitical Tensions and U.S. Election Uncertainty

Emerging markets experience tight trading as geopolitical tensions and the U.S. election influence investor decisions. While stocks saw slight gains, focus remains on U.S. job data and the upcoming presidential election. Political developments in Botswana and Gabon impact currency and bond trade, with analysts speculating on U.S. election outcomes.

Emerging markets remained largely stagnant on Friday as traders exercised caution in light of increasing geopolitical tensions and the looming U.S. election. MSCI's index for developing economy bourses inched up by 0.2%, ending a trend of weekly declines. Currencies saw minimal movement, with a slight 0.1% gain expected.

Anticipation builds around the U.S. jobs report due later on Friday, which could influence the Federal Reserve's rate decision. Meanwhile, the U.S. presidential race presents uncertainties, with investors contemplating Donald Trump's potential victory against Kamala Harris, despite close polls.

In Asia, stimulus measures fueled optimism in China's real estate sector, while figures showed marginal improvements. In Africa, Botswana's political shift saw the pula edging higher, and key bond revisions loom as Turkey and Egypt await credit ratings from S&P and Fitch.

(With inputs from agencies.)