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Date: 13th January 2025.

Global Market Update: Asian Stocks Fall, Pound Weakens,Oil Surges Amid Fed and Geopolitical Shifts.


Trading Leveraged Producys is Risky

Asia & European Sessions:

* Asian markets tumbled alongside European and US equity futures as investors scaled back expectations of near-term interest rate cuts by the Fed, following stronger-than-expected US payroll data.
*Bank of America has revised its outlook, no longer anticipating two 25 bps rate cuts this year and warning that the Fed’s next move could be a hike. Goldman Sachs also adjusted its forecast, expecting two rate cuts instead of three for 2025.
*Chinese equities also slid further despite data showing record exports for 2024, as concerns linger over potential higher US tariffs once President-elect Donald Trump takes office.
*The Pound extended its decline from last week, hitting a multi-month low.
*Oil prices surged to a 4-month high due to fresh US sanctions on Russia. These measures included restrictions on two major oil exporters, insurance companies, and over 150 oil tankers.
*China Intervenes to support the Yuan: China intensified its efforts to stabilize the yuan after the currency neared record lows in offshore trading. The People’s Bank of China, along with other regulators, vowed to strengthen oversight of the foreign exchange market, crack down on disruptive activities, and prevent further declines in the yuan.
*Geopolitical tension continues as Justin Trudeau stated that Canada is ready to respond with counter-tariffs against the US if President-elect Donald Trump follows through on his threat to begin a trade war in North America.

Canada is the largest buyer of US-made products, purchasing approximately $320 billion worth in the first 11 months of last year. He emphasized that Canada is the top export partner for 35 US states, and any trade restrictions would ultimately hurt American businesses and workers. Recalling the 2018 tariffs on steel and aluminum under the Trump administration, Trudeau pointed out that Canada had responded by imposing duties on various US goods, including appliances, bourbon whiskey, and boats. He reiterated that his government is ready to take similar action if necessary.



Financial Markets Performance:

*The USDIndex has inched up to 109.84, despite the fact that the Yen strengthened. EURUSD and cable remain under pressure.
*The Pound fell as much as 0.7% to $1.2126, marking its lowest level since November 2023, amid stagflation concerns and budget jitters. This extended a 1.7% drop from the previous week.
“A slowing economy and widening deficits in both the current account and fiscal balances are weighing on the pound,” said Christopher Wong, a currency strategist at Oversea-Chinese Banking Corp.

*Oil markets were in focus as UKOIL rose above $81 per barrel during Asian trading hours & USOIL to $77.55 driven by US sanctions targeting Russia’s energy sector.
*Gold is steady at $2686.

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.

Date: 14th January 2025.

Asia & European Sessions: Market Sentiment Shifts on Tariff Talks and Inflation Data Focus.



Trading Leveraged Producys is Risky

Asia & European Sessions:

*Bearish momentum after Friday's meltdown, rising oil prices, technicals, and apprehension over upcoming inflation reports left the market heavy and buyers scarce.
*Market sentiment got a boost by a Bloomberg source story suggesting that President-elect Trump's team considers a gradual fading in of tariffs. The report boosted stock market sentiment in Asia and Europe.
*Trump team studies gradual tariff hikes . Bloomberg cited "people familiar with the matter" as saying that "members of President-elect Donald Trump's incoming economic team are discussing slowly ramping up tariffs month by month, a gradual approach aimed at boosting negotiating leverage while helping avoid a spike in inflation". "One idea involves a schedule of graduated tariffs increasing by about 2-5% a month, and would rely on executive authorities under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act." The sources said the proposal is still in its early stages and has not yet been presented to Trump.
*Bond yields finished marginally off their highs on possibility of gradual tariffs. The curve steepened slightly to 39 bps from 37.5 bps Friday and is out from 31.7 bps at the start of the month.
*Chinese shares rallied as much as PBoC to enhance policy tools, which allow institutional investors to access central bank funding for buying stocks. Coupled with a jump in new yuan loans that helped the Hang Seng to close 1.8% higher, while the CSI300 jumped 2.6%. Eurozone stock markets are also finding buyers, and the DAX is up 0.6%. The FTSE100 is underperforming, but yields are down also in the UK.
*US inflation is the focal point this week with key data due out, and it doesn't look pretty. Attention is on CPI (Wednesday) where we are forecasting monthly increases of 0.3% for headline and core metrics, with the y/y measures at 2.8% for the headline and 3.3% for the core. However, also due are today's report from the NY Fed on 1-year inflation expectations, PPI today, and trade prices (Thursday), along with the price numbers in the Empire State (Wednesday) and Philly Fed (Thursday) indexes.



Financial Markets Performance:

*The USDIndex hit a session low of 109.33.
*EURCHF presents a rectangle identified at 14-Jan-04:00. This pattern is still in the process of forming. Possible bullish price movement towards the resistance 0.9437 within the next 3 days. Supported by Upward sloping Moving Average.
*Oil prices are slightly lower, and the USOIL contract is at USD 78.65 per barrel.
*Gold is a tad higher at $2670.1 per ounce.

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.

Date: 17th January 2025.

Last Trading day under Biden Administration.


Trading Leveraged Producys is Risky

Asia & European Sessions:
*Yields remain richer after dovish comments from Fed Governor Waller. His comments that the FOMC could cut rates in 1H, and would not rule out March added to the bullish enthusiasm from the cooling in CPI and PPI. Additionally, thoughtful and tempered remarks from Treasury Secretary nominee Bessent did not ring any alarm bells.
*Wall Street ended lower on profit taking following yesterday's big gains, failing to get any further mileage out of the rally in Treasuries. The NASDAQ slid -0.89%. The S&P500 dipped -0.21%, and the Dow was down -0.16%.
*Pound plummeted after UK December Retail Sales. UK December retail sales contracted -0.3% m/m in the overall measure and -0.6% m/m excluding fuel. A disappointing report, especially as November readings were revised down from 0.2% m/m to 0.1% m/m in the overall number and to 0.1% m/m from 0.3% m/m in the ex-fuel report. There has been somewhat conflicting stories about retail sales developments ahead of Christmas, but these numbers confirm that consumption remains depressed, which adds to the disappointing monthly GDP reading this week. With inflation coming in lower than anticipated, the data will back expectations for another rate cut from the BoE at the next meeting.
*The BOJ is expected to raise interest rates next week, barring any significant market disruptions as US President-elect Donald Trump takes office. Overnight index swaps on Friday indicated a 99% probability of a BOJ rate hike at its January 23-24 meeting, up from 71% on Wednesday. Momentum increased on Thursday following a Bloomberg report suggesting central bank officials see a strong likelihood of a rate hike unless Trump's inauguration introduces significant surprises.



Financial Markets Performance:

*The USDIndex ended weaker too at 108.974, dipping from the day's high of 109.384.
GBPUSD dipped to 1.2159 after data, before correcting back to 1.2197 due to oversold conditions.
Yen remains supported by hawkish BoJ bets and USDJPY has corrected to 154.95 as markets weigh the chances of a rate hike next week.
USOil was well supported above $77.80, amid weaker than expected US inflation boosted dovish Fed bets, demand expectations and ahead of Trump administration. USOIL & UKOIL continued to trade near 6-months highs, as traders weigh potential supply disruptions and the ongoing decline in US stockpiles. OPEC meanwhile is sticking with a demand outlook that expects a rise of 1.43 million barrels per day next year, which reflects steady growth. Confirmation of a ceasefire and hostage deal between Israel and Hamas may have helped prices to ease slightly.
Gold steadied above $2700 level.

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.

Date: 20th January 2025.

The NASDAQ Rises As Trump Inauguration Edges Closer!


Trading Leveraged Producys is Risky

US indices increased in value for the first time after struggling for 5 consecutive weeks. Of the main US indices the NASDAQ witnessed the strongest gains (4.12%). Risk indicators point to a higher risk appetite under the new US President, Donald Trump. President Trump's inauguration will take place this afternoon and has promised to sign over 100 consecutive orders within his first week.

NASDAQ - Higher Investor Confidence!

NASDAQ traders begin to stomach less frequent interest rate adjustments, the market turns its attention to earnings and Trump’s presidency. Investors are becoming more bullish under expectations that Trump will apply policies to support the US economy and entice further investment into the US stock market. A "risk-on" sentiment is evident in today's sessions, reflected in risk indicators like the VIX, High-Low Index, and Bond yields.



Investors this week will concentrate on two factors. The first factor is Trump’s consecutive orders which he has advised will be signed within his first week. Investors will closely monitor how and if these policies influence the US economy and stocks. The second factor is earnings season, which will start to gain momentum this week. Tomorrow, Netflix will release its quarterly earnings report after the market closes.

Netflix is the NASDAQ’s 10th most influential company and 11th most impactful stock. Analysts expect the company’s earnings per share to drop from $5.40 to $4.21, but for Revenue to rise to $10.11 Billion. If Netflix is able to beat the earnings per share and revenue expectations, fundamental elections would indicate a rise in the price. Over the past 12 months the price has risen 76%. A further increase would further support the NASDAQ.

Thereafter, investors will turn their attention to Intuitive Surgical’s earnings report. Currently, investors believe the company’s earnings per share and revenue will rise compared to the previous quarter. Intuitive’s stock has risen by more than 9% in the past week alone indicating that investors believe the company will continue to beat earnings expectations. The company has beat expectations over the past 12-months.

How are Markets Reacting to Trump's inauguration?

Trump pledged to issue executive orders aimed at advancing artificial intelligence programs and establishing the Department of Government Efficiency (Doge). Analysts expect these two alone to support US stocks. However, investors are not yet certain to what extent upcoming tariffs will pressure the NASDAQ and stocks. During the previous trade wars, the NASDAQ fell by 25% over a period of 4-months.

Traders also should note that the NASDAQ rose in the 6-weeks after Trump won the elections. Over the past week, the VIX index fell by more than 12% indicating that the market believes US stocks will perform well under a Trump presidency. Simultaneously, US Bond yields have fallen from 4.80% to 4.58% which is known to positively influence the US stock market. Both the VIX and lower bond yields indicate higher investor confidence as Trump advises that policies will prompt more employment, US made products and more pro-US policies.

NASDAQ - Technical Analysis

The price of the NASDAQ trades above the 200-bar Moving Average on a 5-minute Chart indicating bullish price movement. Moving Averages have also crossed over upwards and the price trades above the VWAP indicating that the asset is maintaining its bullish momentum. Price action is also forming clear higher highs and higher lows, but investors will be cautious if the price does not find resistance at the $21,637 resistance level. In order to break above this level, investors will be hoping for positive earnings data from Netflix and Intuitive.



Key Takeaways:

* President Trump's inauguration will take place this afternoon with promise to sign over 100 consecutive orders within his first week.
* US indices rise after 5 weeks of declines, with the NASDAQ leading at 4.12%.
* Trump pledged to issue executive orders aimed at advancing artificial intelligence programs and establishing the Department of Government Efficiency.
* Analysts expect Netflix earnings per share to drop from $5.40 to $4.21, but for Revenue to rise to $10.11 Billion.
* Investors are becoming more bullish under expectations that President Trump will apply policies to support the US economy and entice further investment into the US stock market.

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.

Date: 21st January 2025.

Gold Surges Past Key Resistance Level, Undeterred by Looming Tariffs.


Trading Leveraged Producys is Risky

Gold prices have risen to their highest level since November 6th, nearing a full correction from the post-election decline. In recent months, analysts have made clear predictions regarding the price of Gold rising to $3,000 in the first half of 2025. This prediction took a hit after the US elections triggered a 6.50% rise in the US Dollar. Is a $3,000 target possible?

How Does Trump Influence Gold?

The focus of the market over the past week has been the influence of a Trump Presidency on tradable assets. So far in January 2025, the price of gold has risen by more than 4.00%. This suggests that investors are confident Trump will not negatively impact gold in the medium to long term. However, investors are also considering the possibility of higher import duties on nearly all goods entering the United States, particularly from Canada, Mexico, and China.



These measures could disrupt global supply chains if these countries choose to retaliate. As a result, the Federal Reserve may cut less in 2025 and the US Dollar may increase further. This is the market’s main concern and could potentially pressure Gold prices lower. In 2018, during the previous “trade wars”, Gold prices fell for 6-consecutive months. However, many economists believe the Federal Reserve will be forced into cutting on 3 occasions. If this does transpire, the price of Gold will be supported further.

Trump did not give any concrete signals on tariffs during his speech. The Republican administration seems likely to focus on targeted tariff increases, particularly on critical imports such as electric vehicles. Tesla Stocks are already trading 0.50% higher before the market opens.

UCFTC Gold Report And Influential Factors

The US Commodities Future Trading Commission also confirms the increase in demand via order flow analysis. The Commission’s data shows net speculative positions rose to 279.4K from 254.9K last week. Buyers have been actively forming positions, with their balance reaching 221.6K compared to 9.1K for sellers. Last week, buyers added 14.9K contracts, while sellers reduced theirs by 3.1K, reflecting strong confidence in the continued upward trend of XAU/USD.

When monitoring external factors and its influence on the price of Gold, traders will most likely continue to monitor Bond Yields, Earnings Reports and the US Dollar. Currently, lower bond yields are supporting Gold prices but this is something investors will need to continue monitoring. Gold prices may also potentially benefit from weaker earnings data to a certain extent. The most volatile day this week will most likely be on Friday as the Bank of Japan confirms its Interest rate decision and global economies release their PMI reports.

Gold’s Performance - Technical Analysis.

The price of Gold this morning is trading 0.75% higher than its open price. The retracement seen during the previous week was weaker than the average retracement size seen over the past 30-days indicating the momentum of the bullish price movement. The average bullish impulse wave measures 2.75% and the current impulse wave reads 1.49%. Therefore, if the asset was to continue similar price movements, the price potentially could rise to $2,763. However, this would depend on how upcoming events influence the price.



Currently, technical analysis is providing a bullish bias as the asset breaks through the resistance level seen on a daily timeframe. In addition to this, the price trades above all Moving Averages and Cumulative Delta Statistics show higher volume in favour of buy orders. For this reason, the asset is witnessing bullish signals. However, if the price declines or retraces, traders should be cautious, as the bullish trend may regain momentum when the price approaches the 200-Period Moving Average on the 5-minute timeframe.

Key Takeaways:

* Gold prices have risen to their highest level since November 6th.
* Last week, buyers added 14.9K contracts, while sellers reduced theirs by 3.1K, reflecting strong confidence in the continued upward trend of XAU/USD.
* Currently, technical analysis is providing a bullish bias as the asset breaks through the resistance level seen on Gold’s daily timeframe
* Economists believe the Federal Reserve will be forced into cutting on 3 occasions.

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.

Date: 22nd January 2025.

Netflix Earnings Surge Driving the NASDAQ to Monthly Highs!


Trading Leveraged Producys is Risky

The NASDAQ increases in value for a fourth consecutive day, gaining momentum after Netflix stocks rise more than 15%. Earnings reports are gaining speed for the technology sector, but why has Netflix stocks seen such a high and sudden rise in demand?

Netflix Stocks Increase 15% Supporting the NASDAQ!

Netflix stocks have been one of the best-performing stocks within the NASDAQ, rising more than 79% in 12 months. However, even for Netflix, a 15% rise in less than 24 hours is considered substantial. The quarterly earnings report was made public by Netflix after the market closed on Tuesday. The earnings report confirmed the following:

1. Netflix beat their earnings per share expectations - $4.27 reported vs $4.21 expectations.
2. Netflix’s revenue surpasses the previous quarter - $10.25 billion this quarter vs $9.82 billion in the previous quarter.
3. The online streaming company confirms projects to expand into live sport and event streaming will proceed. In addition to this, the company’s forward guidance for 2025 remains positive.

Netflix is the 10th most influential company for the NASDAQ meaning the positive earnings data and bullish price movement supports the overall price of the NASDAQ. In addition to this, the positive earnings improve the sentiment towards the entire US technology sector. Investors will now turn their attention to the quarterly earnings report for Intuitive Surgical. Intuitive Surgical stocks on Tuesday rose 1.94%.

How is the Economy And Politics Affecting the NASDAQ?



The US stock market is witnessing an upward correction after struggling in the last weeks of 2024. The bullish price movement is a result of a sharp decline in bond yields, the new US administration and earnings season. Investors remain relieved that bond yields have fallen back down from the 5.00% level. If bond yields continue to decline further, particularly below 4.50%, the move would be deemed as positive for the US stock market.

President Trump took office on Monday and so far the pro-US rhetoric from the President, Vice President and Secretary of State continues to support the stock market. So far, the main concern is how upcoming tariffs can negatively affect inflation and growth. However, some economists advise tariffs will become the “norm” and may have a lesser effect compared to 2018. However, this is something traders will continue to evaluate and monitor.

The VIX this morning fell 0.83% lower and trades more than 5.70% lower over a 7-days. The lower VIX indicates a higher risk appetite towards the stock market. If the VIX continues to decline a strong buy indication may materialize.

On the most influential stocks for the NASDAQ, 82% rose in value on Tuesday. However, Apple stocks, the most impactful stock, fell 3.19% due to poor sell data. If Apple stocks continue to decline, the NASDAQ’s upward trend may come under strain. In the meantime, investors over the next week will continue to monitor upcoming earnings reports.

NASDAQ - Technical Analysis

The price of the index is trading significantly higher than all Moving Averages on a 2-hour timeframe and relatively high on oscillators. These factors indicate that buyers are controlling the order book. However, price action also confirms the latest impulse wave measures 3.43% which is normally the point at which the index retraces. This is something that investors may also consider.

The retracement potentially also may be triggered by Netflix buyers quickly selling to cash in profit after the sudden 15% bullish surge. If a retracement does indeed form, price action and the 75-period EMA indicates that the pullback may drop as low as $21,391.30.



Key Takeaways:

* The NASDAQ increases in value for a fourth consecutive day, but price action signals a possible retracement before continuing its bullish trend.
* Netflix stocks increase more than 15% due to strong earnings data.
* Netflix beat earnings and revenue expectations by 1.39% and confirmed projects to add live sports streaming to its platforms.
* The VIX trades more than 5.70% lower over a 7-days and US Bond Yields remain at recent lows.
* On the most influential stocks for the NASDAQ, 82% rose in value on Tuesday.

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.

Date: 23rd January 2025.

How Low Can Oil Prices Fall After Renewed Downward Pressure?


Trading Leveraged Producys is Risky

Since Donald Trump became President of the US, Crude Oil prices have fallen 3.70% retracing back from the 27-week high. Analysts still believe the price of oil per barrel will fall under the Trump presidency, as per previous statements. President Trump himself previously stated he wants oil priced closer to $45 per barrel. However, how long can oil prices fall and how quickly?

What’s Driving Oil Prices Lower?



Investors are closely watching the next steps of U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration. Yesterday, Trump announced plans to impose a 10% tariff on all Chinese exports, scaling back from the 100% tariff he promised during his campaign. This news has reassured investors, but experts caution that this move could be just the beginning. Over time, the U.S. may increase pressure on its top economic rival, potentially slowing the Chinese economy and reducing its energy demand.

China is currently the largest importer of Crude Oil followed by the US, India and Japan. Therefore, a poorer economic outlook for China can pressure oil prices in 2025. The performance of the Chinese economy will also depend on the 10% tariffs and if these will indeed rise over time.

The US President is also attempting to create an imbalance between supply and demand in order to pressure prices lower. On the President's first day he launched significant changes to the US’s energy policy, reversing restrictions on coastal oil field development imposed by the former President. Trump also advocated for boosting oil production at existing fields and declared a national energy emergency, aiming to attract investment in the mining sector and bolster the US oil reserves. If Trump is successfully able to considerably increase supply, the price of Crude Oil is likely to come under pressure. Only if demand equally improves will supply-demand imbalances be avoided.

Meanwhile, a sharp drop in oil prices is being mitigated by poor weather conditions along the Gulf Coast, which could disrupt production in key high oil-producing countries. Although, this is not likely to continue in the medium to long term. The Middle East and high-producing countries in recent years have aimed to keep oil prices between $70-$80 per barrel. Therefore, traders will also monitor if these countries will look to structure countermeasures to reduce the downward pressure. For example, by reducing production levels.

How Low can Crude Oil Prices Fall?

The average price of oil over the past 5 years is $70 per barrel, $5 (-5.60%) lower than the current price. However, the average price of this period takes into consideration the oil crisis from 2022 where prices rose above $100. More realistic support levels can be seen at $62 per barrel. The price has found support at this level in 2021, 2023 and 2024.



Some economists, such as Tom Kloza, suggest that Crude Oil could potentially drop to $40 per barrel. This would occur if OPEC nations decide to reverse previous production cuts. However, most economists believe it's more realistic to expect Crude oil prices to drop between $54 to $62 per barrel in the medium to long term. Other organizations, such as the US Energy Information Administration believe oil will only drop to $74 per barrel in 2025 and $66 per barrel. According to the EIA, their predictions, which are higher than most, are due to strong economic activity.

In terms of indications and technical analysis, most point towards a downward trend. The price of Crude Oil is currently trading below most trendlines and the Volume-Weighted Average Price. In addition to this, Oscillators such as the RSI and MACD also indicate sellers are controlling the price movement. However, Crude Oil Traders should note this outlook may change if the price gains bullish momentum above $76.38.

Key Takeaways:

* President Trump aims to bring Crude Oil prices back down closer to $40 per barrel.
* Trump is driving a supply-demand imbalance to lower prices, starting with reversing oil field restrictions.
* Economist Tom Kloza suggests Crude Oil could drop to $40 per barrel if OPEC reverses previous production cuts.
* Most economists believe oil prices will fall to between $54 to $62.
* The average price of Crude Oil over the past 5 years is $70 per barrel.

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.