Global stock markets fall as bond yields pressure equities

Global stock markets mostly declined, with major US indices falling. The Dow Jones dropped 0.26%, the S&P 500 fell 0.17%, and the Nasdaq Composite lost 0.09%. European markets showed mixed results, with the FTSE 100 and CAC 40 declining while the DAX rose. Asian-Pacific indices were mostly positive, led by Japan's Nikkei 225 gaining 1.59%. High global bond yields, near 2007 levels for US 10-year Treasuries, pressured stocks. Weak US consumer confidence in September also hurt sentiment. However, expectations of a Fed rate hike in October fell to 50% after a New York Fed official said there was no rush to raise rates. Chinese stocks gained on government support promises.