HFMarkets (hfm.com): New market analysis services.

[HFM]

Date: 11th March 2025.


Recession Fears Grow as Market Sell-Off Deepens.



Trading Leveraged products is Risky


Recession fears escalated following weekend comments from President Donald Trump, who described the US as being in a "period of transition" when questioned about economic risks. Concerns over tariffs and their global economic impact have heightened uncertainty and weakened investor confidence. A JPMorgan model recently indicated a 31% market-implied probability of a US recession, while a similar Goldman Sachs model suggests rising recession risks. Meanwhile, disappointing earnings guidance from major firms, including big tech companies, has fueled a bearish market outlook.


Broader market fears are compounding the downturn. Investors remain wary of economic recession signals, exacerbated by trade uncertainties and shifting fiscal policies. The S&P 500 has erased its post-election gains, and speculative assets—including crypto-linked stocks and ETFs—are facing aggressive sell-offs.


Stock Market Plunge: Major Indexes in the Red


The NASDAQ tumbled -4.0%, while the S&P 500 dropped -2.70%, and the Dow Jones declined -2.08%, pushing major indexes into negative territory for the year. Global equities also suffered sharp declines.





Amid this turmoil, Treasury yields fell as investors sought safe-haven assets, reinforcing expectations of Federal Reserve rate cuts in June. The 2-year yield dropped -11.6 bps to 3.883%, while the 10-year yield slipped -8.5 bps to 4.218%. The US Dollar Index (DXY) firmed slightly to 103.926, recovering from its session low of 103.559, the weakest level since November.





Commodities Struggle Amid Market Volatility


Despite Wall Street’s sell-off, gold remained flat at $2,888 per ounce, failing to gain traction as a safe-haven asset. Oil prices also dipped by -0.26% to $65.86 per barrel, reflecting broader economic concerns.


Oil tracked equity markets and risk assets amid concerns that tariffs and other measures could stunt growth in the world’s largest economy. Oil has fallen nearly 20% from its mid-January high as Trump’s tariff hikes and push to cut federal spending darken the economic outlook for the largest oil producer and consumer. Other bearish factors include OPEC+ plans to increase supply and weakening demand in China, where refiners are being urged to shift away from producing key fuels like diesel and gasoline.


US Energy Secretary Chris Wright provided some bullish sentiment, stating that the Trump administration is prepared to enforce US sanctions on Iranian oil production. He made the remarks at the CERAWeek by S&P Global conference in Houston on Monday.


Executives from major oil producers—including Chevron Corp., Shell Plc, and Saudi Aramco—expressed strong support for Trump’s energy dominance agenda at the gathering. Vitol Group CEO Russell Hardy projected oil prices to range between $60 and $80 per barrel over the next few years.





Key US Economic Data Releases This Week


Investors are bracing for significant economic data, including the Consumer Price Index (CPI), Producer Price Index (PPI), and the Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey (JOLTS) report. While the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) remains focused on inflation, Tuesday’s JOLTS report could drive market reactions amid heightened recession concerns.


In December, job openings declined -556K to 7.6 million, near the lowest level since January 2021. The opening rate has also fallen to 4.5%, down from 5.3% a year ago. Meanwhile, the quit rate—a key measure of labour market confidence—held at 2.0%, compared to 3.0% at its peak.


Federal Reserve Rate Cut Expectations Shift


Federal Reserve Rate Cut Expectations Shift
Fed funds futures indicate expectations for three quarter-point rate cuts in 2025, as economic slowdown concerns overshadow inflation fears. The futures market now anticipates the first rate cut in June, with the implied rate reflecting -30 bps in cuts. September pricing suggests -59 bps, while December signals -78 bps in total easing. However, the Fed remains in its blackout period ahead of its March 18-19 meeting.


Tech Stocks Hit Hard as Nasdaq 100 Falls 3.8%
The Nasdaq 100 suffered its worst single-day decline since October 2022, falling -3.8%. At intraday lows, the index was down -4.7%, erasing more than $1 trillion in market value.


Key factors driving the sell-off include tariff-related uncertainty, declining confidence in AI spending, and disappointing inflation and labour data. The so-called "Magnificent 7" tech stocks, which led the recent bull market, experienced steep losses.


Among the biggest losers were:


Tesla (-15.4%) – its worst day since September 2020 amid falling sales and concerns over CEO Elon Musk’s focus on the company.
MicroStrategy (-16.7%)
AppLovin (-12%)
Palantir (-10.1%)
Atlassian (-9.6%)


Broader Market Impact: Treasury Yields Drop as Safe-Haven Demand Rises


As recession fears mount, Treasury yields fell, with the 10-year yield hitting its lowest level this year. This decline reflects investors' growing preference for safer assets.


On the risk-asset front, Bitcoin plummeted to nearly $77,000, marking its lowest level since November, as investors moved away from speculative assets amid economic uncertainty.


Cryptocurrency-related exchange-traded funds (ETFs) have been hit hard. Among the biggest losers were two leveraged ETFs tied to Bitcoin-holding firm MicroStrategy, both of which dropped over 30% in a single day. Additionally, an ETF doubling the daily returns of Robinhood Markets Inc.—a favoured brokerage among crypto traders—plummeted 40%. Leveraged Bitcoin funds fell approximately 20%, while those focused on Ethereum declined 26% amid the broader digital asset selloff.


The downturn highlights growing uncertainty in the crypto market, particularly as speculation surrounding regulatory policies and economic conditions intensifies. Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies initially surged post-election, driven by optimism over potential policy shifts.


With key economic reports and the Fed meeting approaching, markets remain on edge. Recession fears, tech sell-offs, and shifting rate-cut expectations continue to drive volatility. Investors will closely watch upcoming data releases to gauge economic resilience and potential Federal Reserve actions in the coming months.


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: 26th March 2025.


GBP Comes Under Pressure From Tough Budget and Low Inflation!



Trading Leveraged products is Risky


The British Pound is one of the worst-performing currencies of the day. The poor performance is due to pressure from low Inflation and what investors expect to be a tough budget. Why is the UK announcing a stricter budget and for how long will there be pressure on the GBP? Let’s find out!


Reasons Investors Are Cautious About The New UK Budget


The Pound has fallen 0.32% against the USD and more than 0.50% against the Australian and Canadian Dollar. The Pound is not the worst-performing currency of the day yet, but if the GBPJPY continues to decline as it has over the past hour, the GBP will be at the bottom of the table.


The downward momentum is due to the inflation rate which fell from 3.00% to 2.8%. Previously investors were expecting the rate to remain at 3.00%. Many investors fear the fall in inflation is due to weak economic growth and struggling consumer demand. If this continues to be the case, the Bank of England is likely to consider a rate cut.



GBPUSD 30-Minute Chart on March 26th


The Confederation of British Industry (CBI) released its retail sales index for March today, showing a decline from -23.0 to -43.0, the lowest level in eight months, compared to the initial forecast of -28.0. According to CBI experts, businesses in the retail and wholesale sectors are experiencing pressure from global trade challenges, while the new government budget, which entails a substantial rise in debt, is further straining demand.


Another key factor contributing to the Pound’s downfall is the UK’s budget and the chancellor's speech. The new UK budget will be released today and the Chancellor will speak in parliament at 12:30 GMT. Investors fear that the chancellor will announce further austerity measures and cuts to the budget. This is mainly in order to spend more on defence and adjust the budget to the weaker economic performance.


The chancellor has also stated that 10,000 public sector jobs may be eliminated, with additional savings potentially coming from changes in the accounting treatment of billions of pounds reallocated from overseas aid to the defence budget.


The question that traders are asking is whether the Pound will continue to decline. This will primarily depend on how strict the budget is, the chancellor's growth projections and how the bond market reacts. Nonetheless, the technical analysis continues to provide a bearish and dim bias for the upcoming 24 hours.


GBPUSD - Technical Analysis Points Towards A Weakening GBP


The GBPUSD has now been declining since 18:00 GMT Tuesday and failed to form a higher high. Therefore price action is partially indicating downward price movement and this signal will likely strengthen if the price falls below 1.29011. The price is also trading below the 75-bar EMA, 100-bar SMA and below the neutral level of the RSI. These factors also strengthen the bearish bias of the currency exchange.


The US Dollar index is currently trading higher this morning but traders will monitor how the index will react to the European open. This is because the index has fallen 0.08% since the European Cash Open. Nonetheless, the momentum continues to remain mainly in favour of the Dollar. The only concern for traders is the support level at 1.29011.



USDX (US Dollar Index) 30-Minute Chart on March 26th


Key Takeaway Points:
1. Pound Weakness: The British Pound is struggling due to lower inflation and budget concerns.
2. Retail Sales Drop: The CBI retail index hit an eight-month low, signalling economic strain.
3. Austerity Fears: Investors worry about public sector cuts and defence spending shifts. The bond market reaction will be key for the Pound.
4. Bearish GBP Outlook: Technical indicators suggest further decline, pending budget impact.


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: 24th April 2025.


The Dollar's Role in a Recession Is Real—but Not Solo!



Trading Leveraged products is Risky


Key Takeaways


* The US dollar appears overvalued based on historical metrics.
* Foreign investor exposure to US assets is at record levels.
* Slower US economic growth and rising policy risks may reduce demand for the dollar.
* The greenback’s reserve currency status remains secure, but depreciation pressures are building.
* Inflation, trade balance improvements, and financial stability are all tied to the dollar’s trajectory.
* Trade policy, more than the dollar itself, may determine the path forward for the US economy.


Forecasting currency movements—especially the US dollar—is notoriously difficult. Compared to predicting GDP growth, inflation, or interest rates, estimating exchange rate trends poses even greater challenges. Yet, despite this complexity, there’s growing evidence that the dollar's recent 5% drop on a trade-weighted basis could be just the beginning.


The Dollar’s Decline: A Signal or a Catalyst?


According to the Federal Reserve, the real effective value of the US dollar remains significantly elevated—nearly two standard deviations above its long-term average since 1973. Historically, similar levels were observed only in the mid-1980s and early 2000s. Both periods were followed by sharp dollar corrections, falling by 25% to 30%.


Could a deeper depreciation trigger broader financial consequences?


Massive Foreign Exposure to US Assets Raises Red Flags


Global investors have significantly increased their exposure to US assets. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) estimates that foreign investors now hold around $22 trillion in US-based assets—representing approximately one-third of their total portfolios. Half of this investment is in equities, many of which are unhedged against currency risk. Should these investors begin reducing their exposure to US markets, the dollar could experience intensified selling pressure.


Even a pause in foreign inflows may weigh heavily. The United States runs a current account deficit of roughly $1.1 trillion per year, which must be financed through capital inflows. In reality, most of this financing has traditionally come from foreign purchases of US portfolio assets. If foreign demand for these assets falters, prices may fall, the dollar could weaken, or both could occur simultaneously.





Slowing US Growth Could Dampen Dollar Strength


If the US economy were expected to continue outperforming other global economies, dollar strength might be more sustainable. However, this no longer appears likely. Economic growth projections have been downgraded across major economies, and the US has been hit hardest. For example, Goldman Sachs has revised its 2024-2025 US GDP forecast from 1% to just 0.5%.


With rising policy uncertainty, weaker corporate earnings, and doubts about the Federal Reserve’s independence, international investors may become more cautious about increasing their US holdings.


Dollar Depreciation Isn’t a Death Blow—But It’s Not Irrelevant


Despite these concerns, a weaker dollar does not necessarily imply the end of its global dominance. It’s important to separate dollar depreciation from a loss of its global reserve status. Historically, the greenback has faced major swings before without losing its dominance as the world’s primary reserve currency. Its role as a global medium of exchange and store of value remains deeply embedded in the international financial system.


Implications of a Weaker Dollar


* Consumer Prices May Rise
A falling dollar could amplify the inflationary effects of recent tariffs. Core inflation, measured by the Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) Price Index, may rise from 2.75% to 3.5%, with dollar weakness potentially adding another 0.25 percentage points. Ultimately, American consumers are likely to bear the brunt of higher import costs.
* Exports Become More Competitive
A weaker dollar reduces the price of US exports (in foreign currency terms) while making imports more expensive. Over time, this shift could help reduce the US trade deficit—aligning with longstanding policy goals.
* Financial Conditions Could Tighten
While a depreciating dollar can support easier financial conditions, the context matters. If the drop is driven by reduced demand for US assets, including Treasuries, the benefits could be offset by rising borrowing costs or declining market confidence.


The True Recession Risk Lies in Trade Policy, Not the Dollar Alone


While dollar movements matter, they’re unlikely to cause a recession on their own. The bigger threat is aggressive trade policy. Additional tariffs, especially if introduced after the current 90-day pause, or an escalation in the US-China trade conflict, could tip the balance. These decisions could undermine investor confidence and business activity—regardless of where the dollar stands.


The dollar is part of the recession puzzle—but not the whole picture. Its overvaluation, dependency on foreign investment, and declining support from global investors could compound economic vulnerabilities. Still, it's policy—especially on tariffs—that could ultimately determine whether the US slides into recession.


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: 16th May 2025.


NASDAQ - Producer Inflation Down But Fed Will Not Budge!



Trading Leveraged products is Risky


The NASDAQ increased in value for a third consecutive day and has now fully recovered all previous losses in 2025. The NASDAQ is now trading 1.70% higher in 2025 and is in the positive zone for the first time since February 27th. The upward price movement continues due to investor confidence rising, particularly after yesterday’s lower producer inflation.


NASDAQ - US Inflation and Economic Data


The NASDAQ during the Asian and European sessions fell lower, witnessing only the second dip of the week. However, the price action quickly changed after the US released its producer inflation and retail sales. The positive developments from the US-China trade negotiations will now start to fade, meaning investors will need further price drivers. As the price fell during the first two sessions of the day, this price driver can be derived from the latest US data.


The US producer inflation (Producer Price Index) read 0.5%, which is 0.7% lower than the previous expectations. The Core Producer Price Index read 0.4%, again significantly lower than what the market was expecting. As a result, the producer inflation over a period of 12 months fell from 2.7% to 2.4%. The lower inflation figures continue to support the stock market as it is known to boost consumer demand while pressuring the Federal Reserve to lower interest rates.


The inflation data from Tuesday (consumer inflation) and yesterday (producer inflation) was one of the main price drivers. However, the NASDAQ also reacted positively to the Retail Sales, which rose above expectations. The weekly US unemployment claims came in at 1.881 million, lower than expected.


However, a negative development came from Applied Materials’ quarterly earnings report, which was that the company’s revenue failed to meet expectations. As a result, the stock fell 5.50% after the market close. Applied Material is the 26th most influential company within the NASDAQ, holding a weight of 0.89%.


Even though the NASDAQ managed to increase after the inflation announcement, investors were concerned that only 51% of the most influential stocks rose in value. The upward price movement was largely due to the strong performance by Cisco Systems (+4.85%), Netflix (+2.34%) and PepsiCo (+2.37).



NASDAQ Companies Performance


The NASDAQ - The Federal Reserve


One of the main risks for the NASDAQ is connected to the trade policy with Europe, which remains one of the only trade partners to not sign a trade policy. In addition to this, a possible external risk remains the Federal Reserve, which is yet to indicate any concrete rate cuts.


The Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell highlighted the agency’s cautious stance. He stated that borrowing costs are likely to remain elevated over the long term due to structural economic shifts and ongoing uncertainty in government policy. We can see here that the Federal Reserve is reluctant to give an indication of any rate cuts despite the lower inflation figures. However, the next inflation announcement in June will be the first release after the US tariffs on China and Europe. This is likely to be the most important inflation reading of 2025.


Currently, based on the Chicago Exchange, there is an 8% chance of a rate cut in June, a 38% chance in July and a 75% chance in September. The report indicates that by the end of 2025, the most likely scenario is the Fed lowering rates to 3.75%–4.00%.


NASDAQ - Technical Analysis


For the NASDAQ, technical analysis indicates a neutral signal for the short-term with a bullish bias in the long-term. In the short term, the price is forming a symmetrical price pattern, which indicates range-bound trading conditions. The price is also at a key psychological level as the index rises to the previous highs. Due to this, investors are now contemplating what the asset’s intrinsic value is.


However, in the long term the price is obtaining bullish signals as the price trades above the trend-lines, moving averages and above the 50.00 level on the RSI.



NASDAQ 15-Minute Chart


Key Takeaway Points:


* The NASDAQ has risen for three straight days, now up 1.70% YTD and in positive territory for the first time since February.
* Lower-than-expected producer and consumer inflation boosted investor sentiment, reinforcing hopes for rate cuts and supporting retail sales growth.
* Despite index gains, only 51% of the top NASDAQ stocks rose. Applied Materials missed earnings, dropping 5.5%, while Cisco, Netflix, and PepsiCo outperformed.
* Powell signalled no immediate rate cuts despite cooling inflation. Markets expect a 75% chance of a cut by September, with rates likely to fall to 3.75%–4.00% by year-end.


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: 5th June 2025.


ECB Rate Cut Expected Today: Inflation Drops Below 2% Target as Global Markets React.



Trading Leveraged products is Risky


European Central Bank Poised for Second Rate Reduction in 2025.


Financial markets are positioning for another interest rate reduction from the European Central Bank during today's highly anticipated monetary policy announcement. This potential move comes as eurozone inflation has fallen below the central bank's target threshold for the first time in months.


May Inflation Data Strengthens Case for Monetary Easing


Recent economic indicators have reinforced expectations for accommodative monetary policy across the eurozone. Consumer price inflation unexpectedly declined to 1.9% annually in May, representing a significant drop from April's 2.2% reading. This figure not only fell short of economist predictions of 2.0% but also marked the first instance of inflation dipping below the ECB's benchmark target since September 2024.


The surprising inflation deceleration reflects broader economic headwinds, including business uncertainty stemming from international trade tensions and subdued consumer spending patterns. These factors have collectively undermined pricing power across multiple economic sectors.


Core inflation metrics, which exclude volatile energy and food components, similarly demonstrated cooling trends. The measure retreated to 2.4% in May from 2.7% the previous month, falling below analyst estimates of 2.5%. Monthly core price increases registered a modest 0.1%, signalling persistent disinflationary pressures.


Recent ECB Policy Context


The central bank previously implemented a 25 basis point rate reduction during its April meeting, lowering the deposit facility rate to 2.25%. Market participants are now pricing in additional easing measures for June, though expectations for subsequent cuts remain divided. A potential pause in July as policymakers assess incoming economic data and inflation trajectories.


Markets are now pricing in another cut in June, though expectations for further easing beyond that remain uncertain. A potential pause in July is gaining traction, as the ECB evaluates incoming economic data and inflation dynamics.





Asian Markets Show Mixed Performance Amid Global Uncertainty


Regional Stock Performance Varies


Asian equity markets displayed divergent trends Thursday as Wall Street's recent momentum showed signs of fatigue following disappointing US economic reports. Futures contracts pointed lower while commodity prices experienced declines.


Japan's Nikkei 225 index retreated 0.2% to close at 37,658.46, while Australia's S&P/ASX 200 declined marginally by 0.1% to 8,535.10. Conversely, South Korea's Kospi index surged 2.1% to 2,829.48, buoyed by political developments as the country's new president, liberal politician Lee Jae-myung, assumed office with promises to reinvigorate North Korean dialogue and strengthen trilateral cooperation with the United States and Japan.


Hong Kong's Hang Seng index gained 0.9% to reach 23,856.54, while mainland China's Shanghai Composite remained essentially flat, declining less than 0.1% to 3,374.30.


US Market Reaction to Economic Data


Wednesday's US trading session concluded with mixed results as major indices responded to weaker-than-anticipated economic indicators. The S&P 500 finished virtually unchanged at 5,970.81, remaining 2.8% below its record high. The Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 0.2% to 42,427.74, while the Nasdaq composite advanced 0.3% to 19,460.49.


Bond markets experienced more pronounced movements as Treasury yields declined sharply following disappointing economic updates. One report indicated contraction in the US services sector, contradicting economist expectations for growth. The Institute for Supply Management survey revealed that tariff-related uncertainty was hampering business forecasting and planning capabilities.


A separate ADP employment report suggested significantly weaker private sector hiring than anticipated, potentially foreshadowing challenges in Friday's comprehensive Labor Department jobs report—one of Wall Street's most closely monitored monthly releases.


Federal Reserve Policy Implications


Trump Administration Pressure on Monetary Policy


The weaker economic data prompted increased speculation about Federal Reserve rate cuts later this year. President Donald Trump publicly criticized Fed Chair Jerome Powell on his Truth Social platform, stating: "'Too Late' Powell must now LOWER THE RATE. He is unbelievable!!!"


The Federal Reserve has maintained its current rate stance throughout 2025 after implementing cuts through late 2024. The central bank's cautious approach reflects an ongoing assessment of Trump administration tariff policies and their potential economic and inflationary impacts. While lower rates could stimulate economic activity, they might also contribute to inflationary pressures.


International Trade Developments


EU-US Trade Negotiations


Trade tensions continue influencing global market sentiment as investors seek clarity on tariff policies. The European Union's chief trade negotiator, Maroš Šefčovič, met with US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer during OECD meetings, though concrete agreements remain elusive.


Trump's steel and aluminium tariff increases took effect Wednesday, particularly impacting Canada and Mexico. Simultaneously, the administration requested ‘best offers’ from trading partners to prevent additional import levies scheduled for July implementation.


Global Diplomatic Efforts


International efforts to address trade uncertainties continue with Japan dispatching key negotiator Ryosei Akazawa for US discussions Thursday. Germany's new chancellor, Friedrich Merz, is also scheduled for Washington meetings as European leaders seek to minimize trade disruption.


Currency and Commodity Markets


Foreign Exchange Movements


Currency markets reflected ongoing uncertainty with the dollar index rising 0.1% to 98.879, partially recovering from Wednesday's 0.5% decline. The dollar strengthened 0.2% against the yen to 143, while the euro remained relatively stable at $1.1411 following a 0.4% gain in the previous session.


Commodity Price Action


Precious metals and energy markets faced pressure as spot gold declined 0.2% to $3,367.30 per ounce, paring previous gains. Oil prices retreated following US inventory builds and Saudi Arabia's price cuts for Asian crude buyers, with US crude falling 0.5% to $62.58 per barrel.


Australian Economic Indicators


Consumer Spending Concerns


Australian economic data revealed persistent consumption challenges despite monetary easing efforts. Household spending increased only marginally in April, indicating consumption continues lagging income growth despite lower borrowing costs and reduced inflation.


Given that household spending represents approximately 52% of Australia's GDP, weak consumption significantly impacted first-quarter growth, which expanded by just 0.2%. The Reserve Bank of Australia previously revised consumption forecasts downward when implementing a quarter-point rate cut to 3.85% in May, and may require further downgrades.


Market expectations suggest additional RBA easing as early as July, with rates potentially reaching 2.85% by early next year as policymakers address economic headwinds.


Market Outlook and ECB Guidance


Central Bank Communication Focus


Market participants view today's ECB rate cut as virtually certain, shifting attention to President Christine Lagarde's forward guidance regarding future policy direction. Executive Board member Schnabel may have gone on record to note her preference for unchanged rates, but the dovish camp has dominated the headlines over the past weeks. On top of that, preliminary inflation reports for June and updated inflation forecasts are likely to back the arguments of the likes of Villeroy, who continues to argue for even lower rates.


If the ECB fails to deliver a dovish statement today this could upset the equity markets as well as give the euro’s upward trend additional momentum.


Alternatively, in the less likely, but possible event that the ECB keeps rates steady, it could well deliver another cut in July, when the tariff outlook may be clearer. Either way, the hurdles to additional cuts are starting to get higher and Lane's focus on being agile on rates amid heightened uncertainty suggests that the ECB could make a quick turnaround, if and when the outlook changes.


The central bank's communication strategy will prove crucial as markets navigate competing forces of disinflationary pressures, trade policy uncertainty, and varying regional economic performance. Today's decision and accompanying guidance will likely influence global monetary policy expectations and market positioning heading into the summer months.


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: 20th June 2025.


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



Trading Leveraged products is Risky


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 Levels:
* 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.


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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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Michalis Efthymiou
HFMarkets


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