Tariff Tensions and Bank Signals Drive Market Volatility (02.06.2025)

EUR/USD Rises as Dollar Weakens Amid Trade War Concerns

The euro climbed above $1.04 as a weaker dollar and Trump’s tariffs fueled economic concerns. China retaliated with its own levies, escalating trade tensions. Meanwhile, Eurozone business activity rebounded after two months of decline. The ECB cut rates and hinted at more easing in March, with US tariffs potentially pressuring it to loosen policy further. Investors now expect the ECB’s deposit rate to fall to 1.87% by December.

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 1.0350, followed by additional support levels at 1.0220 and 1.0180. 

Yen Strengthens Past 152 as BOJ Signals Possible 2025 Rate Hike

The yen strengthened past 152 per dollar, an eight-week high after BOJ board member Naoki Tamura suggested raising rates to 1% in late 2025. Finance Minister Katsunobu Kato warned of rising inflation, while strong wage data reinforced expectations of continued BOJ tightening. Real wages rose for a second month in December, with nominal wage growth hitting a 30-year high due to winter bonuses. The BOJ, which raised rates in January, remains open to further hikes. A weaker US dollar and lower Treasury yields, driven by mixed US data and easing trade war fears, also supported the yen.

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 Holds Near Record $2,860 as Rate Cut Expectations Rise

Gold held near $2,860 per ounce, a record high, as expectations of lower interest rates increased its safe-haven appeal. Weak US services data signaled a potential slowdown, leading investors to anticipate two Fed rate cuts this year. The ECB and BoC have already cut rates, and the RBI and BoE are expected to follow. Gold also gained support from geopolitical risks, including Trump’s remarks on Gaza and Iran, as well as concerns over the US-China trade war’s economic impact.

Technically, the first resistance level will be 2879 level. In case of this level’s breach, the next levels to watch would be 2917 and 2950. On the downside, 2830 will be the first support level. 2790 and 2760 are the next levels to monitor if the first support level is breached. 

Pound Hits Three-Week High as Markets Await BoE Cut

The British pound rose above $1.25, its highest since January 7, as the US dollar weakened and the focus shifted to the Bank of England’s Thursday decision. Policymakers are expected to cut rates by 25bps to 4.5%, reflecting slowing growth and easing services inflation. Market sentiment remained cautious over US tariffs, with concerns about a US-China trade conflict impacting global stability. Meanwhile, UK input price inflation hit an 18-month high in January, according to the latest PMI report.

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 Rallies on Trade War Concerns and Strong Industrial Demand

Silver rose above $32 per ounce on Wednesday, a three-month high, as trade and economic uncertainties fueled safe-haven demand. A weaker US dollar also supported prices. The US delayed 25% tariffs on Mexico and Canada but enforced a 10% levy on Chinese imports, prompting Beijing to impose its own tariffs and consider sanctions on US firms. Meanwhile, the Silver Institute projected a fifth consecutive year of market deficits in 2025, driven by strong industrial demand and retail investment, offsetting weaker jewelry and silverware consumption.

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, 31.80 will be the first support level. 30.90 and 30.20 are the next levels to observe if the first support level is breached.