Issues higher tracking US-China trade hopes, UK political turmoil

LONDON, Feb 20 (AFP): Stock markets around the world rose Wednesday as investors tracked growing optimism that China and the United States will reach a trade deal and as the UK faced more political turmoil with the resignation of three government MPs over Brexit.
Among currencies, the yuan was among the big gainers following a report that the US has called on China to stabilise the unit as part of any agreement between the world's top economic powers.
The pound was lower versus the dollar and euro as British Prime Minister Theresa May heads to Brussels later Wednesday to renew her quest to reopen the terms of the country's Brexit divorce, but appears headed for disappointment.
With less than six weeks until Brexit day, European Commission president Jean-Claude Juncker has agreed to meet May once again, but EU leaders insist they will not restart negotiations.