Tariffs Fuel Recession Fears, Gold Attracts Capital (04.09.2025)

Dollar Under Pressure from Recessionary Signals

EUR/USD climbed about 80 pips to 1.1040 on Wednesday as the dollar index slipped below 105.5, marking a second day of losses. The U.S. dollar weakened amid growing fears of recession, triggered by President Trump's sweeping tariffs. China now faces a 104% levy, with Beijing vowing to "fight to the end." Market sentiment remained cautious as trade negotiations stalled, despite Trump’s outreach to major partners. Concerns that the escalating trade war may tip the U.S. into recession have increased expectations of further Fed rate cuts, weighing on the dollar.

Key resistance is at 1.1100, followed by 1.1150 and 1.1215. Support lies at 1.0900, then 1.0850 and 1.0730.

Yen Appreciates with Trade Turmoil

The Japanese yen rose above 146 per dollar on Wednesday, extending gains as Trump's looming tariffs drove safe-haven flows. The dollar weakened on recession fears tied to escalating trade tensions and potential Fed rate cuts. New U.S. tariffs include a 24% duty on Japanese goods and a 25% car import levy. Trump confirmed that Japan will send a delegation to renegotiate terms, while PM Ishiba urged a policy rethink. Domestically, Japan's current account surplus hit a record in February, supported by strong exports and reduced imports, boosting the yen further.

Key resistance is at 148.70, with further levels at 152.70 and 157.70. Support stands at 145.60, followed by 143.00 and 141.80.

Gold Experiences Surge with Economic Fears

Gold soared to around $3,000 per ounce as investors sought refuge from intensifying trade war concerns and recession risks. The U.S. confirmed a new round of tariffs with no exemptions, China faces a record 104% hike. Trump also warned of a forthcoming pharmaceutical import tariff. The market is now focused on the Fed's March meeting minutes, set for release later today, for potential rate cut clues. Ongoing central bank purchases and strong ETF demand, China’s ETF added 233,000 ounces, also supported the rally.

Key resistance is at $3,035, followed by $3,085 and $3,105. Support stands at $2,956, then $2,930 and $2830.

Sterling Remains Firm Despite Inflationary Pressures

GBP/USD traded around 1.2830 on Wednesday, holding gains from the previous session. However, ongoing global trade tensions and fears of goods dumping from China and Europe weighed on sentiment. Though U.S. tariffs are relatively lower on the UK, broader economic concerns persist. At the same time, rising inflation risks may lower expectations for rate cuts, providing some support to the pound.

If GBP/USD breaks above 1.2850, resistance levels are at 1.2900 and 1.2940. Support is at 1.2715, followed by 1.2650 and 1.2600.

Yields and Trade Wars Induce Silver Instability

Silver dropped below $30 per ounce, hitting $29.57 on April 4, its lowest since mid-January, as rising U.S. Treasury yields made non-yielding assets less attractive. The U.S. announced a 104% tariff on Chinese imports starting at midnight, intensifying trade war concerns. Although over 70 countries have reportedly requested tariff relief, market sentiment remains cautious. The EU’s retaliatory tariff plans further fueled risk aversion, pressuring industrial metals. Still, expectations of Fed rate cuts and safe-haven demand offer some support.

Technically, the first resistance level is located at 30.90. In case of its breach, 31.40 and 32.50 could be monitored respectively. On the downside, first support is at 29.00. 28.40 and 27.50 would become the next support levels if this level is passed.