Easing Policies and Trump Tariffs Drive Global Markets (02.12.2025)

Global markets are bracing for volatility as Trump's tariff announcements and divergent central bank policies fuel uncertainty. The euro rebounded near $1.03 amid cautious ECB signals, while the yen strengthened on hawkish BOJ hints. 

Gold surged above $2,710 on strong safe-haven demand driven by trade tensions, and silver hit a six-day high on insistent industrial demand and supply shortages. Meanwhile, the pound recovered following a temporary pause in tariffs, though lingering trade risks continue to weigh on sentiment. Investors now await further economic data and policy cues to chart the next market moves.

EUR/USD Steady as Markets Await Key US Inflation Report

EUR/USD trades near 1.0450, with the dollar index steady at 108 on Wednesday, as markets await a key inflation report. January CPI is expected to show core inflation rising to 0.3% from 0.2% MoM, while annual inflation may ease to 3.1% from 3.2%. Fed Chair Powell told Congress the Fed isn’t rushing to cut rates, citing economic strength and inflation risks. He warned that premature easing could stall inflation progress, while delays could harm growth. Markets also assess the impact of Trump’s latest tariff hike.

From a technical perspective, the first resistance level is at 1.0400, with further resistance levels at 1.0460 and 1.0515 if the price breaks above. On the downside, the initial support is at 1.0275, followed by additional support levels at 1.0220 and 1.0180. 

Yen Falls Below 153 as BOJ Offers Little Policy Clarity

The yen fell below 153 per dollar on Wednesday, hitting a one-week low after BOJ Governor Ueda gave little clarity on rate policy. He reiterated the BOJ's commitment to a 2% inflation target, despite board member Tamura suggesting rates may rise to 1% in late 2025. The yen also weakened as Trump’s escalating tariffs raised inflation concerns, limiting the Fed’s ability to cut rates.

The key resistance level appears to be 153.85, with a break above it potentially targeting 154.90 and 156.00. On the downside, 151.90 is the first major support, followed by 151.25 and 149.20 if the price moves lower. 

Gold Falls from $2,940 Peak Amid Fed’s Hawkish Stance

Gold fell below $2,900 per ounce on Wednesday, extending losses after hitting a record $2,940. The drop followed Fed signals that rate cuts aren’t imminent, shifting focus to US inflation data. While inflation hedging supports gold, the Fed’s stance limits its appeal. Safe-haven demand remains strong amid Trump’s tariffs, trade war fears, and geopolitical tensions, with Israel threatening to end the Gaza ceasefire. Dovish central banks and rising gold purchases also provide support, while India’s gold leasing rates hit record highs.

Technically, the first resistance level will be 2949 level. In case of this level’s breach, the next levels to watch would be 2975 and 3000. On the downside, 2885 will be the first support level. 2830 and 2760 are the next levels to monitor if the first support level is breached. 

GBP/USD Rises as Traders Scale Back Aggressive BoE Easing Bets

The British pound rose to $1.2440, rebounding from a three-week low as traders adjusted rate cut expectations after BoE policymaker Catherine Mann’s comments. Although she voted for a 50bps cut, she clarified it wasn’t a signal for aggressive easing but aimed to improve market communication. She emphasized the need to maintain monetary restrictions due to structural challenges in returning inflation to 2%, leading traders to lower 2025 rate cut expectations to 62bps. Focus now shifts to upcoming GDP estimates, Q4 figures, and December’s industrial and manufacturing output.

The first resistance level for the pair will be 1.2500. In the event of this level's breach, the next levels to watch would be 1.2600 and 1.2650. On the downside 1.2340 will be the first support level. 1.2265 and 1.2100 are the next levels to monitor if the first support level is breached.

Silver Steady Amid US Tariffs, China Retaliation, and EU Trade Warning

Silver trades around $31.8 per ounce on Wednesday, steady as safe-haven demand rises after Trump’s 25% tariff on steel and aluminum, with more expected. China’s retaliatory tariffs take effect today, while Germany warns of an immediate EU response to US tariffs. Silver is also supported by strong industrial demand, particularly in renewables, and ongoing supply shortages.

Technically, the first resistance level will be 32.50 level. In case of this level’s breach, the next levels to watch would be 33.00 and 33.50. On the downside, 31.40 will be the first support level. 30.90 and 30.20 are the next levels to observe if the first support level is breached.