DEGIRO vs. Interactive Brokers: Best Platform for Active European ETF Investors in 2026

Markets took a breather on Thursday, holding near record highs as investors weighed dovish signals from the Federal Reserve against anticipation for tomorrow’s key inflation report. The S&P 500 and Nasdaq closed little changed, pausing after a multi-week rally driven by optimism over potential rate cuts later this year. ## Equities Hold Near Highs, Awaiting Inflation Clarity The **S&P 500** hovered just below its recent all-time high, closing at **5,295**, virtually flat on the day. The **Nasdaq Composite** inched up by **0.1%** to **16,425**, while the **Dow Jones Industrial Average** slipped **0.2%** to **39,275**. Trading volumes were subdued as investors shifted focus to Friday’s release of the Fed’s preferred inflation gauge—the core PCE index. The market’s muted moves followed cautious but supportive comments from several Fed officials, who reiterated that while inflation is still above target, they see progress and remain open to rate cuts if data confirms disinflation. This steady tone helped maintain risk appetite, but with the next major data point just hours away, few were willing to make bold bets. ## Treasury Yields Edge Lower; Dollar Softens In the bond market, **U.S. Treasury yields** edged down as traders repositioned ahead of the inflation print. The **10-year yield** dipped to **4.18%**, down from 4.22% yesterday. Lower yields reflected market confidence that the Fed could still cut rates later this year if inflation continues to moderate. Currency markets saw the **U.S. Dollar Index (DXY)** slip by **0.2%** to **102.85**. The **EUR/USD** pair firmed slightly to **1.094**, as the euro benefited from the softer dollar and continued signals from the European Central Bank about its own possible rate path. For investors trading U.S. stocks from Europe, this mild FX volatility underscores the value of smart strategies to avoid currency conversion fees. ## Commodities Mixed as Oil Slides, Gold Holds Firm Commodities painted a mixed picture. **WTI crude oil** retreated by **1.3%** to settle at **$77.80** per barrel, pressured by a surprise build in U.S. inventories and ongoing concerns about global demand. Meanwhile, **gold** prices held steady at **$2,200** per ounce, supported by lower yields and persistent geopolitical uncertainty. ## Key Movers: Tech Pauses, Utilities and Consumer Staples Edge Up Technology shares—recent leaders—showed signs of fatigue, with **Apple (AAPL)** and **Nvidia (NVDA)** both flat after outsized gains earlier in the week. Utilities and consumer staples outperformed as investors rotated into defensive sectors ahead of tomorrow’s inflation data. In Europe, ETF investors continued to focus on low-cost platforms, a trend explored in our complete guide to the best low-cost brokers. For those looking to automate their savings, our recent review of setting up an automated euro savings plan with Trade Republic has drawn interest, reflecting a broader shift toward hands-off investing. ## What to Watch All eyes are on Friday’s core PCE inflation reading—arguably the most consequential data point for the Fed’s next move. A cooler-than-expected number could reinforce expectations for rate cuts, while a hot print may prompt a market rethink. Earnings season is winding down, but several large-cap names are still set to report next week. Investors will also track fresh commentary from Fed officials, as well as ongoing geopolitical developments that could sway sentiment in commodities and currency markets. For those navigating these crosswinds, understanding the landscape of European broker options and smart currency management remains essential. And as always, keeping a close eye on inflation data—and the Fed’s reaction—will be key to staying ahead in these markets.