BANGKOK — World shares were mostly lower on Wednesday as investors awaited the outcome of the U.S. midterm elections and a major inflation update due Thursday.
Benchmarks fell in London, Paris, Frankfurt and Tokyo. Chinese shares declined after weak inflation data provided further evidence of weakening demand in the world’s second-largest economy. U.S. futures also declined.
With votes still being counted across the country, Republicans still had the opportunity to win control of Congress. But Democrats showed surprising strength, defeating Republicans in some competitive races despite expectations that inflation and President Joe Biden’s low approval ratings would drag the party down.
The elections could determine how much is done in the next several years in Washington, and possibly beyond. If Republicans gain control of at least one house of Congress, standoffs…
