World stocks held near two-month lows on Tuesday as slightly more optimistic comments from U.S. and Chinese officials on trade brought some comfort, a day after equities suffered their worst selloff so far this year.
Fear the United States and China are spiraling into a fiercer, more protracted trade dispute that could derail the global economy has rattled investors in recent weeks. The sell-off accelerated on Monday after China announced plans for retaliatory tariffs.
But the Chinese government's top diplomat said China and the United States have the "ability and wisdom" to reach a trade deal that is good for both. U.S. President Donald Trump said he was optimistic about resolving the trade dispute.