US consumer confidence fell, market sentiment weakened, Richmond Fed index rose, gold and oil declined, S&P 500 dropped.
US 5-year note yield drops, AUD/USD struggles, USD/JPY rises, gold weakens, Bitcoin falls, Germany’s elections loom.
Australia will release January’s CPI data on 26 February 2025, with inflation rising despite recent declines.
Thomas Barkin expects lower PCE inflation, supports a cautious approach, and stresses maintaining modestly restrictive policy amid uncertainty.
Navarro suggested possible tariff exemptions, contrasting administration views. Markets reacted, with gold recovering and USD/JPY rallying.
Trump orders Commerce to investigate copper tariffs, citing national security and China’s market control, with no exemptions.
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent emphasized tariffs, industrial capacity, Treasury yields, secure supply chains, and fiscal deficit goals.
Major US stock indices fluctuated around their 100-day moving averages, with NASDAQ closing below this level.
Home Depot stock rose 3.8% on strong earnings, while Lowe’s fluctuated. US housing recovery expected in 2025.
Zelensky to visit Washington Friday to finalize a deal on Ukraine’s mineral resources and investment fund.
