Global markets, including Wall Street, Asia-Pacific, and European stocks, experienced gains as investors reacted positively to signs of easing tensions in the U.S.-China trade war. President Donald Trump's softened stance on tariffs and his comments on the Federal Reserve, including his statement that he had 'no intention' to fire the Fed head, contributed to the rally. The Dow Jones Industrial Average rose 419 points, while the S&P 500 and Nasdaq composite also saw significant increases.
The U.S. dollar initially rose but later showed mixed performance throughout the week. Reports indicated that China might suspend tariffs on certain U.S. products, which added to the optimism about a potential de-escalation in trade tensions. However, Trump's mention that U.S. tariffs on imports from China could come down 'substantially' from the current 145% provided further relief. Despite these developments, the dollar ended the week with a slight decline, reflecting ongoing uncertainties.
Gold prices fluctuated amid the trade developments. Initially rising due to dip buying, gold later steadied at $3,348 an ounce as investors assessed the potential for a U.S.-China trade deal. U.S. gold futures gained 0.3% to $3,359. Despite the hopes of easing tensions, gold maintained its appeal as a safe-haven asset amidst global uncertainties, with traders expecting around 84 basis points worth of rate cuts by the end of 2025.
U.S. #Dollar Strengthens Amid Easing Trade Tensions
On Friday,the U.S. dollar gained ground against major currencies, buoyed by signs of de-escalation in the ongoing trade dispute between the United States and China.Reports emerged that China may suspend tariffs on certain U.S.
NY foreign exchange market = dollar rises slightly, rising even on a weekly basis due to signs of easing US-China tension https://t.co/YkmfCkQHV3 https://t.co/YkmfCkQHV3