Stock Market Update: Tech Earnings and Jobs Report Awaited as Stocks Edge Higher

U.S. stocks were mixed on the final trading day of July as investors awaited a busy week of earnings reports and economic data, including the monthly jobs report. The major indexes are set to close the month with strong gains, with the Nasdaq Composite leading the way. The Bank of Japan's announcement of special bond purchases weakened the yen and stabilized bond yields. Chinese stocks rose on better-than-expected manufacturing data and measures to boost domestic demand. Oil prices surged, lifting the S&P 500's energy sector. In Asia, indexes advanced, while the Stoxx Europe 600 finished the month with its second consecutive monthly rise. The Bank of England is expected to raise interest rates later this week.