Stocks slip in cautious trading after weak US retail sales data

Global stock markets retreated on Friday following the release of weak U.S. retail sales data. The decline followed a period of record-setting performance, with the S&P 500 having reached a new high on Thursday. Trading activity remained sparse as market participants navigated a cautious environment.

European indexes closed lower, mirroring a mixed performance across Asian markets earlier in the day. Beyond the economic data, investors are weighing the uncertain geopolitical outlook regarding the ongoing conflict in the Middle East as a factor influencing current market sentiment.