Markets positive, now facing the test of US trade tariffs
Last week was a positive one overall: solid US macro data and the ability of technology sector companies to reassure investors with strong quarterly results, that helped reduce the volatility triggered by potential new developments on the low-cost AI front in China. The major central bank meetings lived up to expectations, with the Fed on hold and the ECB cutting rates again by 25bps. However, focus is now on the new trade tariffs announced over the weekend by the Trump administration, and that for the time being seem aggressive, in waiting for the trade partners to accept to negotiate new agreements and, most importantly, immigration control. While this approach is nothing new – with bilateral talks already on the agenda today between the US and Mexico and Canada – the markets are reflecting investor tensions.
On the macro front, with the US economy in good health, focus is back on the mix of labour market and inflation data, although the main source of volatility will be the United States’ trade policy.
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