Global equities moved higher on Friday after Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell signaled that the central bank may pause further rate increases. The comments eased investor concerns about additional tightening and helped lift sentiment across major markets.

Bond yields edged lower as traders adjusted expectations for the path of U.S. monetary policy. The move supported broader gains in stock markets, with futures also pointing higher ahead of the next trading session.

The rally reflected relief that the Fed may be nearing the end of its current tightening cycle, even as inflation and growth data continue to shape forecasts. Investors remained focused on whether policymakers will keep rates steady in the coming months.

The upbeat market tone extended across regions, with global indices advancing alongside U.S. benchmarks. Analysts said the latest shift underscores how closely markets are tracking every signal from the Fed on interest rates and the outlook for borrowing costs.