Stronger-than-expected
Chinese growth data spurred concern on Thursday about tighter monetary
policy, prompting a sell-off in equities led by emerging markets.
The euro dipped on
profit-taking after reaching two-month highs in the previous session
but then trimmed losses as speculation grew that the euro zone’s rescue
mechanism for fiscally troubled peripheral states might be strengthened.
Chinese growth
soared past forecasts and inflation slowed less than expected in the
fourth quarter, prompting worries that the government may intensify
tightening. Disappointing U.S. earnings added to the mix.