U.S. major averages turned lower after manufacturing sector activities contracted for the second month in a row, raising questions about the strength of the economy. European markets advanced on the rate-cut expectation this Thursday. China's manufacturing activity growth accelerated to a 2-year high.
The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite traded at a new intraday record high after Nvidia jumped 5%. European markets lacked direction as investors anticipated an interest rate cut next week. The Shanghai authorities announced measures to support residential property market transactions. The yen remains under pressure.