Gold Surges Past $3,000, Silver Rallies as Trade Risks Mount

EUR/USD Dips Amid U.S.-EU Trade Tensions

EUR/USD is slightly down, hovering near 1.0915 in early Asian trading. The Euro faces pressure from rising U.S.-EU trade tensions after Trump announced new tariffs on European goods. Washington imposed duties on steel and aluminum, prompting Brussels to prepare countermeasures, while Trump threatened a 200% tariff on European wine and spirits, adding downside risks for the Euro.

However, losses may be limited by Germany’s fiscal policy shifts. The Green Party supports debt restructuring, and incoming Chancellor Friedrich Merz proposed a €500 billion infrastructure fund with borrowing rule adjustments. The measures expected to be passed this week could support the Euro.

Weak U.S. Retail Sales data also weigh on the Dollar. February sales rose just 0.2% vs. the expected 0.7%, while January’s figures were revised lower to -1.2%. Annual sales growth slowed to 3.1% from 3.9%, fueling concerns about consumer spending and offering near-term support for EUR/USD.

Key resistance is at 1.0950, followed by 1.1000 and 1.1050. Support stands at 1.0880, with further levels at 1.0800 and 1.0730. 

Japanese Yen Hits Two-Week Low Before BoJ Meeting

The yen fell past 149.5 per dollar, a two-week low, ahead of the BoJ's policy decision. The central bank is expected to hold rates at 0.5% on Wednesday while assessing U.S. policy impacts. Despite a pause, rate hikes are anticipated later this year as rising wages and inflation support policy normalization. Major firms agreed to wage hikes for the third straight year, increasing consumer spending and inflation.

Key resistance is at 150.30, with further levels at 152.00 and 154.90. Support stands at 147.00, followed by 145.80 and 143.00.  

Gold Surges Past $3,000 Amid Fed Uncertainty

Gold surged past $3,000, hitting a record high as safe-haven demand grew ahead of the Fed's rate decision. While rates are expected to remain unchanged, investors await economic projections and Powell’s remarks for policy clues amid trade tensions. Market jitters also rose after Trump warned Iran over Houthi rebel attacks and planned talks with Putin on ending the Ukraine war.

Key resistance stands at $3045, with further levels at $3100 and $3,150. Support is at $3000, followed by $2,980 and $2,916.    

Pound Steady Near Four-Month Low Amid BoE Rate Hold Expectations

The pound traded at $1.294, near a four-month low, as investors awaited the BoE's Thursday decision. The central bank is expected to hold rates at 4.5%, balancing weak growth and inflation risks. Despite forecasts for 2025 rate cuts, none are expected now. The UK labor market is weakening, with unemployment set to hit 4.5% and wage growth slowing. Markets also await Chancellor Reeves’ Spring Statement on March 26 for economic updates. In trade talks, the UK is taking a softer stance with the US than the EU.

If GBP/USD breaks above 1.3050, the next resistance levels are 1.3100 and 1.3150. On the downside, support stands at 1.2860, with further levels at 1.2800 and 1.2715 if selling pressure increases.

Silver Surges to $33.90 as Safe-Haven Demand

Silver surged to $33.90, its highest since October 2024, driven by a weaker dollar, geopolitical tensions, and strong industrial demand. Recession fears and trade disputes have supported safe-haven buying, with Trump planning new tariffs on China, steel, and aluminum starting April 2. Middle East tensions added support, as Netanyahu confirmed intensified military action in Gaza. Supply constraints and record industrial demand, especially in solar, 5G, and automotive sectors, further fueled the rally.

If silver breaks above $34.00, the next resistance levels are $34.85 and $35.00. On the downside, support is at $33.80, with further levels at $33.15 and $32.75 if selling pressure increases.