HFMarkets: New market analysis services.

[HFM.]

Date: 19th June 2025.

Fed Members Opt For Hawkish Stace Amid Rising Inflation!

Gold and the US stock market declines as a result of yesterday’s Federal Reserve rate decision and comments. Since yesterday’s open Gold is trading 1.19% lower, the SNP500 0.35% lower, while the real winner seems to be the US Dollar. Why is the US Dollar on the rise?

The Federal Reserve and US Dollar​

The US Dollar Index is trading 0.55% higher from the time the Federal Reserve’s rate decision was made public. The reason for the rise in the US Dollar is the hawkish stance of the central bank. According to the Fed’s report, of the 19 members, seven members believe the monetary policy will not change at all in 2025. Previously, the number of members supporting this option was four.

However, according to economists, the most likely outcome is two rate cuts in 2025. The first takes place in September (0.25%) and the second later in the year. According to Fed Chairman, Jerome Powells, the interest rates will continue to depend on the upcoming data. Although, the data according to the Federal Reserve is going to prompt a hawkish stance. According to the Fed’s projections, economic growth is likely to fall to 1.4% while inflation will rise to 3%. This is due to tariffs and higher oil prices.

This increases the possibility of no rate cuts in 2025. Nonetheless, the employment sector will hold the key if the Federal Open Market Committee starts to consider a cut. Yes, the Fed will be reluctant to cut rates while inflation rises, however, they may not be willing to risk an imbalance in the employment sector or even a recession. Currently, the Unemployment Rate in the US has remained at 4.2% for the past three months. On the other hand, the number of unemployment claims added weekly continues to slowly rise.

US Dollar Index 1-Hour Chart


Today is a bank holiday in the US and no major economic data will be made public. Due to this, investors may also see slightly lower volatility levels due to less orders. Tomorrow the US will release the Philly Fed Manufacturing Index which is known to trigger moderate volatility levels.

Currently, all indices are trading lower while risk indicators trade higher. As a result, the US Dollar is also benefiting from a risk-off appetite within the market. Currently, the US Dollar is the best-performing currency while the New Zealand and Australian Dollars are the worst.

Lastly, investors should note that the possibility of the US attacking Iran seems to be increasing. Democrats insist that Trump must seek congressional approval before engaging in potential military action against Iran. Experts advise the possibility of US involvement is currently 50:50. When the US previously bombed Libya in 2016 the US Dollar significantly declined.

US Dollar Index - Technical Analysis​

The price of the US Dollar Index is trading higher this morning but it is forming a head and shoulder pattern. This provides a slight indication of a retracement, however, if the price rises above 98.67, the head and shoulder pattern will no longer be relevant. The price on a 2-hour timeframe is also trading above the 75-Period EMA indicating buyers are regaining control. The next resistance level on the index can be seen at 99.30.

Key Takeaway Levels:​

1. The US Dollar Index rose 0.55% after the Fed signalled fewer rate cuts in 2025, with seven members now expecting no cuts, up from four.
2. Gold is down 1.19% and the SNP500 is down 0.35% following the Fed’s decision, reflecting market risk-off sentiment.
3. The Fed projects slower growth (1.4%) and higher inflation (3%) due to tariffs and oil prices, but the job market remains a key factor for future rate decisions.
4. Growing speculation about potential US military action against Iran adds uncertainty, supporting the USD as a safe-haven asset.

Date: 19th June 2025.

Fed Members Opt For Hawkish Stace Amid Rising Inflation!

Trading Leveraged products is Risky

Gold and the US stock market declines as a result of yesterday’s Federal Reserve rate decision and comments. Since yesterday’s open Gold is trading 1.19% lower, the SNP500 0.35% lower, while the real winner seems to be the US Dollar. Why is the US Dollar on the rise?

The Federal Reserve and US Dollar

The US Dollar Index is trading 0.55% higher from the time the Federal Reserve’s rate decision was made public. The reason for the rise in the US Dollar is the hawkish stance of the central bank. According to the Fed’s report, of the 19 members, seven members believe the monetary policy will not change at all in 2025. Previously, the number of members supporting this option was four.

However, according to economists, the most likely outcome is two rate cuts in 2025. The first takes place in September (0.25%) and the second later in the year. According to Fed Chairman, Jerome Powells, the interest rates will continue to depend on the upcoming data. Although, the data according to the Federal Reserve is going to prompt a hawkish stance. According to the Fed’s projections, economic growth is likely to fall to 1.4% while inflation will rise to 3%. This is due to tariffs and higher oil prices.

This increases the possibility of no rate cuts in 2025. Nonetheless, the employment sector will hold the key if the Federal Open Market Committee starts to consider a cut. Yes, the Fed will be reluctant to cut rates while inflation rises, however, they may not be willing to risk an imbalance in the employment sector or even a recession. Currently, the Unemployment Rate in the US has remained at 4.2% for the past three months. On the other hand, the number of unemployment claims added weekly continues to slowly rise.

US Dollar Index 1-Hour Chart

Today is a bank holiday in the US and no major economic data will be made public. Due to this, investors may also see slightly lower volatility levels due to less orders. Tomorrow the US will release the Philly Fed Manufacturing Index which is known to trigger moderate volatility levels.

Currently, all indices are trading lower while risk indicators trade higher. As a result, the US Dollar is also benefiting from a risk-off appetite within the market. Currently, the US Dollar is the best-performing currency while the New Zealand and Australian Dollars are the worst.

Lastly, investors should note that the possibility of the US attacking Iran seems to be increasing. Democrats insist that Trump must seek congressional approval before engaging in potential military action against Iran. Experts advise the possibility of US involvement is currently 50:50. When the US previously bombed Libya in 2016 the US Dollar significantly declined.

US Dollar Index - Technical Analysis

The price of the US Dollar Index is trading higher this morning but it is forming a head and shoulder pattern. This provides a slight indication of a retracement, however, if the price rises above 98.67, the head and shoulder pattern will no longer be relevant. The price on a 2-hour timeframe is also trading above the 75-Period EMA indicating buyers are regaining control. The next resistance level on the index can be seen at 99.30.

Key Takeaway Levels:

* The US Dollar Index rose 0.55% after the Fed signalled fewer rate cuts in 2025, with seven members now expecting no cuts, up from four.
* Gold is down 1.19% and the SNP500 is down 0.35% following the Fed’s decision, reflecting market risk-off sentiment.
* The Fed projects slower growth (1.4%) and higher inflation (3%) due to tariffs and oil prices, but the job market remains a key factor for future rate decisions.
* Growing speculation about potential US military action against Iran adds uncertainty, supporting the USD as a safe-haven asset.

Always trade with strict risk management. Your capital is the single most important aspect of your trading business.

Please note that times displayed based on local time zone and are from time of writing this report.

Click HERE to access the full HFM Economic calendar.

Want to learn to trade and analyse the markets? Join our webinars and get analysis and trading ideas combined with better understanding of how markets work. Click HERE to register for FREE!

Click HERE to READ more Market news.

Michalis Efthymiou
HFMarkets

Disclaimer: This material is provided as a general marketing communication for information purposes only and does not constitute an independent investment research. Nothing in this communication contains, or should be considered as containing, an investment advice or an investment recommendation or a solicitation for the purpose of buying or selling of any financial instrument. All information provided is gathered from reputable sources and any information containing an indication of past performance is not a guarantee or reliable indicator of future performance. Users acknowledge that any investment in Leveraged Products is characterized by a certain degree of uncertainty and that any investment of this nature involves a high level of risk for which the users are solely responsible and liable. We assume no liability for any loss arising from any investment made based on the information provided in this communication. This communication must not be reproduced or further distributed without our prior written permission.

 

[HFM.]

Date: 20th June 2025.

The BoE’s Deputy Governor Surprisingly Votes For Rate Cut!

The Great British Pound took advantage of the US bank holiday 0.26% in total on Thursday. The GBP was also one of the best-performing currencies of the Asian Session rising against all currencies. However, the outlook in the short term is quickly changing as the UK continues to release more negative economic data.

GBPUSD 3-Minute Chart

Bank of England​

A positive release from earlier in the week was the UK inflation rate which read 3.4%, higher than previous expectations (3.3%). However, regardless of the higher inflation reading, the Monetary Policy Committee took a dovish approach. The Bank of England did decide to keep interest rates unchanged, however, 3 members of the committee voted to cut interest rates.

In May 2025, the Bank of England cut its official bank rate from 4.5% to 4.25%. Yesterday, economists were expecting only 2 members to vote for an interest rate cut. Alan Taylor and Swati Dhingra are the two most dovish members of the Monetary Policy Committee. Economists were expecting the two to vote for another interest rate cut. However, Deputy Governor Dave Ramsden also joined the 2 in voting for an interest rate cut. This is considered largely dovish regardless of the decision to keep interest rates unchanged.

UK Economic Data​

One of the reasons the Deputy Governor Mr Ramsden chose to cut interest rates instead of a pause was weakening economic data and employment. This morning the UK made public its Retail Sales figures which fell -2.7%, the weakest release in 18 months. The average retail sales figure for the UK in 2025 so far has been +0.8%. Economists were expecting a decline of 0.5%, however, the release of -2.7% is considerably lower than both expectations and the average so far.

Another concern is also the employment sector. The UK’s unemployment claims rose to 1.735 million which is higher than the previous month. The unemployment claims in the previous month were 1.702 million while the UK’s Salary Index has also fallen.

The Bank of England governor did not hold a press conference after the rate announcement. However, the governor is due to speak on the 24th and 26th where investors will for sure request guidance on the future path of interest rates. The UK will also release its Purchasing Managers’ Index on Monday at 08:45 GMT+0.

GBPUSD - Technical Analysis​

The price of the Cable was one of the best-performing currencies during this morning’s Asian Session. However, the price fell 0.25% after the release of the UK’s Retail Sales. The price is now trading below the 200 Period Moving Average on the 3-minute timeframe. The price has slightly retraced back towards the 200 Period MA. However, if the price regains downward momentum. For example, below 1.34688, sell signals can again materialize.

Key Takeaway Points:​

• GBP rose during the US bank holiday and Asian session, but gains faded as weak UK economic data emerged.
• BoE kept rates unchanged, yet three members, including Deputy Governor Ramsden — voted for a cut, signalling a dovish shift.
• UK Retail Sales fell -2.7%, the worst in 18 months and well below expectations, adding to economic concerns.
• Unemployment claims rose to 1.735 million, while GBP/USD fell below key technical levels following the retail sales release.

Always trade with strict risk management. Your capital is the single most important aspect of your trading business.

Please note that times displayed based on local time zone and are from time of writing this report.

Click HERE to access the full HFM Economic calendar.

Want to learn to trade and analyse the markets? Join our webinars and get analysis and trading ideas combined with better understanding of how markets work. Click HERE to register for FREE!

Click HERE to READ more Market news.

Michalis Efthymiou
HFMarkets

Disclaimer: This material is provided as a general marketing communication for information purposes only and does not constitute an independent investment research. Nothing in this communication contains, or should be considered as containing, an investment advice or an investment recommendation or a solicitation for the purpose of buying or selling of any financial instrument. All information provided is gathered from reputable sources and any information containing an indication of past performance is not a guarantee or reliable indicator of future performance. Users acknowledge that any investment in Leveraged Products is characterized by a certain degree of uncertainty and that any investment of this nature involves a high level of risk for which the users are solely responsible and liable. We assume no liability for any loss arising from any investment made based on the information provided in this communication. This communication must not be reproduced or further distributed without our prior written permission.

 

[HFM.]

Date: 23th June 2025.

The USD Benefits From Middle East Escalations

UK and European Purchasing Managers’ Indexes have been made publicly available but so far are not supporting either currency. So far, the best-performing currency is the US Dollar. The US will release its own PMI report at 13:45 GMT+0. The price of the US Dollar continues to witness the impact of the hawkish Federal Reserve and new escalations within the Middle East.

UK and EU PMI Data​

The European PMI reports were the first to be made public. Both French PMI reports fell below expectations and below the previous month’s release. Particularly investors were concerned with the Manufacturing PMI which fell from 49.8 to 47.8. The German Manufacturing PMI read as expected while the Services PMI rose to a 2-month high.

A similar story for the UK, Manufacturing PMI data read higher than expectations while the Services PMI read as expected. However, the Great British Pound index still fell in value despite the report. In addition to this, the Pound also continues to remain under pressure from the Bank of England which held its interest rate at 4.25%, supported by six of the nine governing board members, in response to improved trading conditions following the agreement with the US. The Euro Index is currently trading at 0.56% lower and the Pound at 0.63%.

The Bank of England Governor’s speech tomorrow afternoon, along with Thursday’s address, will play a major role in driving the British Pound. Meanwhile, the Euro will see limited releases, with the German IFO Business Climate standing out as the key focus.

US Dollar And Middle East Escalation​

The best-performing currency of the day is the US Dollar which is currently trading 0.69% higher so far today. The first reaction of the US Dollar after the US bombing of Fordow, Natanz and Isfahan was a downward price movement, however, the market since then has significantly risen in value. The US Dollar is currently trading at its highest price on June 11th.

The US Dollar strengthened as geopolitical tensions escalated after US strikes on Iranian nuclear sites triggering a lower risk appetite. However, traders will be closely monitoring the release of the US Manufacturing and Services PMI. Investors expect both PMI reports to be slightly weaker than the previous month, however, this cannot be certain until the release is made public.

EURUSD - Technical Analysis​

EURUSD 2-Hour Chart

The EURUSD is currently trading below the 75-period EMA and is currently forming a descending triangle pattern on the 2-hour chart. The descending triangle pattern is known to provide a bearish bias as it trades below the 75-period EMA. However, the price is also trading at the support level. On smaller timeframes, the price continues to trade below the 200-period SMA but is retracing higher. However, the retracement is unable to maintain momentum and is forming lower highs.

Key Price Takeaways:​

• USD leads as geopolitical tensions and Fed hawkishness boost demand; up 0.69% today.
• UK and EU PMIs failed to support GBP and EUR despite some stronger readings.
• BoE and ECB speeches/data remain key drivers; markets await US PMI release.
• EUR/USD shows bearish signals, trading below key EMAs in a descending triangle.

Always trade with strict risk management. Your capital is the single most important aspect of your trading business.

Please note that times displayed based on local time zone and are from time of writing this report.

Click HERE to access the full HFM Economic calendar.

Want to learn to trade and analyse the markets? Join our webinars and get analysis and trading ideas combined with better understanding of how markets work. Click HERE to register for FREE!

Click HERE to READ more Market news.

Michalis Efthymiou
HFMarkets

Disclaimer: This material is provided as a general marketing communication for information purposes only and does not constitute an independent investment research. Nothing in this communication contains, or should be considered as containing, an investment advice or an investment recommendation or a solicitation for the purpose of buying or selling of any financial instrument. All information provided is gathered from reputable sources and any information containing an indication of past performance is not a guarantee or reliable indicator of future performance. Users acknowledge that any investment in Leveraged Products is characterized by a certain degree of uncertainty and that any investment of this nature involves a high level of risk for which the users are solely responsible and liable. We assume no liability for any loss arising from any investment made based on the information provided in this communication. This communication must not be reproduced or further distributed without our prior written permission.

 

[HFM.]

Date: 1st July 2025.

Markets Rally into Q2 Close – What’s Fueling the Momentum?

Treasuries and Wall Street ended June – and the second quarter – with strong momentum, closing firmly in positive territory. A combination of quarter-end buying, investor FOMO, and supportive macro drivers helped fuel the rally. Hopes for Fed rate cuts, easing inflationary pressures, renewed tariff negotiations, reduced geopolitical tensions, and optimism around a potential tax bill all played into the bullish mood.

In the bond market, yields fell notably. The 2-year Treasury yield dropped 3.3 basis points to 3.715%, while the 10-year declined 4.3 basis points to 4.234% — both hitting their lowest levels since May 1. For June, the 2-year yield fell 21 bps and was down 16 bps over the quarter. The 10-year yield matched the 21 bps monthly decline but rose 6 bps over Q2.

Equities pushed higher into fresh record territory. The NASDAQ closed up 0.47% at 20,369, securing its third straight all-time high. The S&P 500 gained 0.52% to finish above 6,200 for the first time, while the Dow Jones rose 0.63% to 44,094 — reclaiming the 44,000 level last seen in February. June delivered over 4% gains for both the Dow and S&P, with the NASDAQ soaring 6.6%. For the quarter, the NASDAQ surged 17.75%, marking its strongest performance since Q2 2020.

Volatility eased further, with the VIX inching up 0.4% to 16.73 but still well below its April 8 spike of 52.33. Meanwhile, the US dollar index (DXY) weakened to 96.802, its lowest since early 2022, slipping from an earlier high of 97.318. Gold rose 1% to $3,308.50 per ounce, while crude oil eased 0.69% to $65.07 a barrel.

Markets reacted positively to news that Canada will withdraw its proposed tax on US tech firms, prompting a resumption of trade talks. President Trump had previously halted the negotiations, calling the tax ‘a direct and blatant attack.’ Investors now speculate that easing tensions could prevent further tariff hikes.

Still, uncertainty lingers. Many of Trump’s tariffs are only temporarily suspended and are scheduled to resume on July 9. Analysts at Deutsche Bank warn that the market rebound could give the administration confidence to revive 2018–2019-style tariff escalations.

Asian Markets Mixed as Global Rally Echoes​

Asian markets were mostly in the green on Tuesday, following Wall Street’s back-to-back monthly gains. However, Japan’s Nikkei 225 retreated 1.4% to 39,910.83 despite a better-than-expected Tankan survey showing improved sentiment among large manufacturers.

In China, the Shanghai Composite edged up 0.4% to 3,458.56 as manufacturing and services PMIs both reached three-month highs (49.7 and 50.5 respectively). South Korea’s KOSPI climbed 0.8% to 3,095.67, lifted by rebounding exports, particularly in semiconductors, ships, health products, and electric vehicles — although analysts remain cautious on US auto exports due to tariff headwinds.

Australia’s ASX 200 ticked up 0.1% to 8,545.10, and the Philippine PSEi rose 0.4%. Hong Kong’s markets were closed for the holiday.

In corporate news, tech and M&A headlines fueled gains:

Oracle jumped 4% after CEO Safra Catz revealed multiple multi-billion-dollar cloud deals in the pipeline. GMS soared 11.7% after agreeing to a $5.5 billion cash buyout from a Home Depot subsidiary at $110/share. Rival bidder QXO, which previously offered $95.20/share, saw its stock rise 3.9%, while Home Depot slipped 0.6%. Hewlett Packard Enterprise rose 11.1%, and Juniper Networks gained 8.4% after both companies reached a DOJ agreement that could clear the path for HPE’s $14 billion acquisition of Juniper.

Bank stocks also advanced after the Fed affirmed that major institutions could weather a potential downturn. JPMorgan rose 1%, and Citigroup added 0.9%.

In the bond space, Treasury yields fell ahead of Thursday’s critical nonfarm payrolls report, released a day early due to the July 4th holiday.

In early Tuesday trading, US crude dipped 22 cents to $64.89 a barrel, and Brent lost 21 cents to $66.53. The US dollar edged lower to 143.69 yen, and the euro strengthened slightly to $1.1778.

Gold Prices Surge on Fed Rate Cut Hopes, Dollar Weakness​

Gold rallied for a second day as investors positioned for possible Fed rate cuts and trade volatility. August futures climbed 1.09% to $3,343.60 on COMEX. Spot gold was last seen at $3,322.64 in Singapore, up 0.6%.

Traders have priced in increased odds of two rate cuts in 2025. If upcoming jobs data disappoints, Treasury yields could slide further — a scenario typically favourable for gold. Bullion is now up over 25% year-to-date, trading less than $200 below its record high from April.

Trade concerns also remain in focus. The July 9 deadline for resuming suspended US tariffs is drawing closer, adding a layer of uncertainty to the outlook.

The dollar’s recent weakness — down nearly 11% in H1 2025, its worst first-half showing since 1973 — has also supported gold’s advance.

Analysts continue to see an upside for gold. ‘Despite some recent softness, gold has the clearest upside potential if the dollar continues to weaken,’ wrote Vivek Dhar of the Commonwealth Bank of Australia.

Elsewhere in precious metals:

• Platinum dipped after a stellar 29% rally in June, driven by supply tightness and speculative demand.
• Silver and palladium both edged higher.

Always trade with strict risk management. Your capital is the single most important aspect of your trading business.

Please note that times displayed based on local time zone and are from time of writing this report.

Click HERE to access the full HFM Economic calendar.

Want to learn to trade and analyse the markets? Join our webinars and get analysis and trading ideas combined with better understanding of how markets work. Click HERE to register for FREE!

Click HERE to READ more Market news.

Andria Pichidi
HFMarkets

Disclaimer: This material is provided as a general marketing communication for information purposes only and does not constitute an independent investment research. Nothing in this communication contains, or should be considered as containing, an investment advice or an investment recommendation or a solicitation for the purpose of buying or selling of any financial instrument. All information provided is gathered from reputable sources and any information containing an indication of past performance is not a guarantee or reliable indicator of future performance. Users acknowledge that any investment in Leveraged Products is characterized by a certain degree of uncertainty and that any investment of this nature involves a high level of risk for which the users are solely responsible and liable. We assume no liability for any loss arising from any investment made based on the information provided in this communication. This communication must not be reproduced or further distributed without our prior written permission.

 

[HFM.]

Date: 2nd July 2025.

Canadian Dollar Wobbles as US Tariffs, Weak Economy Hit Loonie.

The threat of US tariffs and Trump’s halt to trade talks weighed on the CAD, with the Canadian economy projected to contract. Steady oil prices did little to help, and the Bank of Canada’s hawkish stance was not enough to stem the decline.

On Monday, White House Economic Adviser Kevin Hassett announced that the United States would soon resume trade talks with Canada. The move followed Canada’s decision to suspend a digital services tax targeting US technology companies. The suspension came just hours before the tax was due to take effect, indicating Canada’s efforts to resume stalled trade talks.

The Canadian Ministry of Finance confirmed that Prime Minister Mark Carney and US President Donald Trump would resume trade talks, with a target of reaching a deal by July 21. The positive developments provided a slight boost to the Canadian dollar (CAD).

Oil Price Pressure, US Debt Outlook

On the other hand, crude oil prices are facing pressure. Investors are weighing easing risks in the Middle East versus the prospect of a possible output increase by OPEC+ in August. This could potentially weigh on the Loonie, the commodity-linked Canadian dollar, and could limit further downside for the USDCAD pair.

Meanwhile, if Trump’s ‘One Big Beautiful Bill’ is passed, it is expected to add about $3.8 trillion to the US federal deficit. This widening fiscal imbalance could further weigh on the US dollar (USD) and potentially boost demand for gold as a safe-haven asset.

US Economic Data to Watch​

On the economic front, the ISM Manufacturing PMI for June is expected to edge up from 48.5 to 48.8, indicating a slight increase in factory activity. The ADP employment report is also projected to show an increase in private sector job creation, with 85,000 jobs added compared to 37,000 in the previous month.

However, the main focus will shift to Friday’s Non-Farm Payrolls (NFP) report. Expectations point to a slowdown in hiring, with 110,000 jobs added in June, down from 139,000 in May. The unemployment rate is expected to edge up from 4.2% to 4.3%, reinforcing the narrative of a cooling labour market. What do you think, will the NFP report be the main determinant of the US Dollar’s movement this week?

Canadian Dollar Under Pressure: US Tariff Threats, Weak Economy Hit Loonie​

The Canadian Dollar (CAD) recently weakened above $1.37 per USD, pressured by a combination of new US tariff threats and trade policy uncertainty. The CAD had previously strengthened, but market sentiment has now turned around. The weakness was triggered by President Trump's announcement that he was ending all trade discussions with Canada over Canada's new digital services tax. Trump also warned of retaliatory tariffs, which immediately rattled exporters and dented confidence in near-term economic growth.

Domestically, the Canadian economy is expected to contract by a 0.1% monthly rate in April and May, highlighting Canada's vulnerability to potential US levies and dampening the outlook for trade-sensitive sectors. Although the Bank of Canada (BoC) kept its policy interest rate at 2.75%, citing strong core inflation and signalling that no further rate cuts are imminent, this hawkish stance has not been enough to counter the pressure from resurgent tariff fears.

From a technical perspective, the intraday bias in USDCAD is neutral after a temporary rebound from 1.3590. Broadly speaking, the pair is still likely to move to the bearish side below 200 bar EMA. On the downside, with a break of the 1.3590 temporary low a retest of the 1.3538 low should be done first. A strong break there would resume a larger decline. For now, the risk remains on the downside as long as the 1.3797 resistance holds, in case of a recovery.

Always trade with strict risk management. Your capital is the single most important aspect of your trading business.

Please note that times displayed based on local time zone and are from time of writing this report.

Click HERE to access the full HFM Economic calendar.

Want to learn to trade and analyse the markets? Join our webinars and get analysis and trading ideas combined with better understanding of how markets work. Click HERE to register for FREE!

Click HERE to READ more Market news.

Ady Phangestu
HFMarkets

Disclaimer: This material is provided as a general marketing communication for information purposes only and does not constitute an independent investment research. Nothing in this communication contains, or should be considered as containing, an investment advice or an investment recommendation or a solicitation for the purpose of buying or selling of any financial instrument. All information provided is gathered from reputable sources and any information containing an indication of past performance is not a guarantee or reliable indicator of future performance. Users acknowledge that any investment in Leveraged Products is characterized by a certain degree of uncertainty and that any investment of this nature involves a high level of risk for which the users are solely responsible and liable. We assume no liability for any loss arising from any investment made based on the information provided in this communication. This communication must not be reproduced or further distributed without our prior written permission.

 

[HFM.]

Date: 3rd July 2025.

Markets Soar as Vietnam Tariff Deal Eases Trade Tensions Ahead of Key Jobs Report.

Global financial markets moved higher this week, with Wall Street hitting fresh record highs after President Donald Trump announced a last-minute trade agreement with Vietnam, easing concerns about aggressive tariff hikes. The deal, finalised just days ahead of a July 9 deadline, marks the third such trade accord under the administration’s push for ‘reciprocal tariffs’ and offers a temporary sigh of relief to investors navigating an increasingly volatile global outlook.

But while the headline deal offered a near-term boost to equities, underlying tensions around fiscal policy, global debt burdens, and upcoming US jobs data kept markets on edge.

Vietnam Trade Agreement Lifts Sentiment, but Tariffs Still High​

Trump’s announcement confirmed that Vietnamese exports to the US will be subject to a 20% tariff, significantly lower than the threatened 46%, but still more than double historical rates. In return, Vietnam will drop tariffs on US goods.

The agreement arrives amid growing pressure on America’s trading partners to meet Washington’s demands. Dozens of economies, including Japan and the EU, are still racing to finalise similar deals before steep tariff increases take effect on July 9. Trump has already warned Japan that if negotiations fail, tariffs could spike to 30–35%, well above the temporary 10% rate introduced earlier this year.

The broader message: the risk of global tariff escalation remains very real.

Wall Street Breaks Records as Investors Bet on Policy Clarity​

US equities cheered the trade progress. The S&P 500 climbed 0.47%, the Nasdaq surged 0.94%, and both closed at new all-time highs. The Dow Jones edged slightly lower by 0.02%. Investors were also buoyed by renewed optimism around Trump’s proposed tax and spending package, which aims to make tax cuts permanent and scale back regulations.

Yet, beneath the surface, uncertainty lingers. Treasury yields climbed as the Senate passed the OBBB bill, stoking fears about deficit spending. The 10-year Treasury yield rose to 4.277%, while the 2-year rate edged up to 3.785%. Bond markets remain sensitive to the growing national debt and the prospect of further supply.

Tax Bill Faces Hurdles, Fuels Fiscal Concerns​

Trump’s ambitious tax and spending bill, valued at $3.3 trillion, is facing resistance in the House. While it proposes making earlier tax cuts permanent and includes deregulation efforts, critics warn it would significantly expand the national debt and cut social safety net programs.

These concerns spilt into the bond market, with even Japanese government yields rising, despite a strong 30-year auction. Globally, investors are re-evaluating the balance between stimulus and sustainability.

Dollar Pulls Back, Commodities Gain​

Currency markets reflected a mixed mood. The US dollar index (DXY) initially rallied to 97.152 but closed the day lower at 96.787, giving support to commodities. The British pound held firm at $1.3628 after nearly 1% losses the previous day. Political stability returned after UK PM Keir Starmer publicly backed Finance Minister Rachel Reeves, whose emotional parliamentary appearance followed controversy over welfare policy U-turns.

The euro slipped to $1.1788, still near its recent high, while the yen weakened slightly to 143.84 per dollar.

Gold prices firmed, and oil advanced sharply, with Brent crude nearing $69 and WTI above $67, following the Vietnam deal and ahead of this weekend’s OPEC+ meeting, where producers are expected to boost output quotas.

Meanwhile, copper surged to a 3-month high, nearing $10,000 per ton on the London Metal Exchange, as traders scrambled to ship supplies to the US in anticipation of tariffs. LME inventories have fallen to their lowest since 2023, and the rush has pushed the market into what analysts call ‘an emotional frenzy.’ The LME recently stepped in with new rules to manage speculative positions.

Asia Mixed as Tariff Risks and US Data Loom​

Asian stock markets were mixed on Thursday. Vietnam’s index rose 0.5% to a 2-year high, while the Vietnamese dong hit a record low of 26,229 per dollar. Japan’s Nikkei fell 0.1%, and Hong Kong’s Hang Seng dropped 1%, though China’s blue chips gained 0.5%.

Investors remain cautious. AMP’s chief economist, Shane Oliver, warned that the Vietnam deal could set a precedent for similarly aggressive trade measures against Europe and Japan.

South Korea’s President Lee Jae Myung also struck a pessimistic tone, saying US negotiations were ‘difficult’ and that a deal may not be reached in time.

All Eyes on US Nonfarm Payrolls​

With the July 4 holiday approaching, markets are now laser-focused on Friday’s nonfarm payrolls report. While the consensus points to a 130,000-job increase, recent weakness in the ADP private payrolls, which showed a 33,000-job drop, suggests downside risks. The services sector bore the brunt of the losses, especially in professional, educational, and health services, while leisure and manufacturing saw modest gains.

Bloomberg’s whisper number has already dropped to 98,000, indicating that expectations are being recalibrated. The data could prove decisive in shaping the Federal Reserve’s next move on interest rates.

Conclusion: A Calm Before the Storm?​

While markets welcomed the easing of trade tensions with Vietnam, the bigger picture remains uncertain. The threat of broader tariff hikes, unresolved fiscal debates in Congress, and a pivotal US jobs report all loom large. Investors are watching closely, not just for short-term reactions but for clues about the direction of monetary policy, global trade, and commodity demand in the second half of 2025.

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Please note that times displayed based on local time zone and are from time of writing this report.

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Andria Pichidi
HFMarkets

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