Author: Mostafa

Precious Metals & Crypto Under Pressure from Strong Dollar
Gold & Bitcoin React to Strong US Data and Crypto Regulation Moves

Gold prices remained largely unchanged on Friday and were on track for a weekly decline, pressured by a stronger dollar and solid US economic data. Platinum, however, surged to its highest level since August 2014.

As of 06:40 GMT, spot gold held steady at $3,339.20 per ounce, while US gold futures hovered at $3,344.60. Gold is set for a 0.5% weekly drop.

Despite the dollar slipping by 0.1% against major currencies on Friday, it was still poised for a second consecutive weekly gain, making dollar-priced gold more expensive for holders of other currencies.

✅ US Economic Strength Supports Dollar

Recent economic data continues to underscore the resilience of the US economy, limiting expectations of aggressive monetary easing by the Federal Reserve:
- Retail Sales: Jumped 0.6% in June, surpassing forecasts after a revised 0.9% decline in May.
- Jobless Claims: Fell by 7,000 to 221,000, below expectations of 235,000.
- CPI Data: Reinforced the Fed’s cautious stance on rate cuts, indicating persistent inflation.
Political tensions surfaced again with President Trump denying plans to dismiss Fed Chair Jerome Powell, yet leaving the door open to the possibility.

Investors remain on edge with less than two weeks until the August 1st tariff deadline, contributing to market caution.

✅ Outlook for Gold Prices

Market consensus suggests that any future Fed rate cuts, expected in 2025 and 2026, could be key drivers for gold’s potential rebound.

✅ Precious Metals & Crypto Movements
- Asian currencies: Slight changes on Friday but on course for weekly losses due to dollar strength and Fed policy uncertainty.
- Asian markets: Watching Japan’s inflation data closely.
- US Dollar Index: Down 0.2% in Asian trading but set for a weekly gain.
Meanwhile, Bitcoin climbed above $120,000, heading for a fourth consecutive weekly gain after the US House of Representatives passed three significant crypto regulatory bills.

Bitcoin rose 1.7% to $120,552.8, having touched an all-time high of $123,000 earlier in the week. However, profit-taking and regulatory uncertainties capped further gains.

These bills aim to establish a clearer legal framework for digital assets, signaling a unified push during “Crypto Week” to reform crypto regulation in the US. While progress is evident, the final approval in the Senate remains pending.

✅ Conclusion:

Despite a slightly weaker dollar on Friday, solid US data and political tensions continue to weigh on precious metals while crypto markets rally cautiously on hopes for regulatory clarity. Investors should stay alert for policy shifts and upcoming economic indicators.
July 18, 2025
Breaking News: US Retail Sales Rebound Defies Tariff Fears
Stronger Spending Signals Consumer Resilience Despite Inflation

US Retail Sales Surge in June
Retail sales in the US rebounded significantly in June, suggesting that the tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump have not yet had a major impact on consumer spending habits.
- Overall retail sales rose by 0.7%, far exceeding economists’ forecasts of a 0.6% increase.
- This rebound comes after a 0.9% decline in May, based on revised US Census Bureau data.
Philadelphia Fed Business Outlook
Meanwhile, the Philadelphia Federal Reserve’s Industrial Business Outlook survey showed a notable recovery in sector activity, with the index climbing to 15.9 points in July, compared to -4.0 in June, well above expectations of -1.2.

Core Sales — A Boost to GDP Growth
Core retail sales — which exclude volatile items and are key to calculating GDP growth — rose 0.5%, ahead of the expected 0.3%, and up from 0.2% in May.

Excluding Autos & Fuel
June sales excluding autos and fuel increased by 0.6%, doubling analyst forecasts of 0.3%. In May, this category showed no growth.

Sector Highlights:
- General merchandise stores: +1.8%
- Auto dealers and parts: +1.2%
Despite the robust sales data, investors still expect the Federal Reserve to proceed with potential interest rate cuts, even after this week’s data showed persistently high inflation.

Conclusion:

June’s retail sales rebound highlights strong consumer confidence, despite inflation and tariff concerns. While the Fed faces complex signals between resilient consumption and sticky inflation, traders should monitor upcoming monetary policy decisions closely.
July 17, 2025
UK Unemployment Rises & Global Market Turmoil

Labor, Gold, and USD Under Pressure

UK Labour Market Weakness & Interest Rate Outlook

The UK unemployment rate rose more than expected in May, according to Thursday’s data, while wage growth slowed slightly — providing the Bank of England (BoE) room to cut interest rates again next month.

The unemployment rate climbed to 4.7% in the three months to May, up from 4.6% previously, surpassing expectations. This is the highest level since June 2021.

Wage growth across the economy, excluding bonuses, slowed to an annual rate of 5.0%, down from the revised 5.3% in the previous period.

This weakness in the labor market, combined with slower wage growth, is likely to encourage BoE policymakers to lower rates again in August, following four quarter-point cuts since last year.

UK inflation has steadily climbed, reaching 3.6% in June, the highest in over a year, though the BoE anticipates inflation to return to target by Q1 2027.

Meanwhile, GDP data showed an unexpected contraction in May, hinting at broader economic sluggishness.

Gold Prices & Metals Amid Global Uncertainty

Gold prices dipped in Asian trading on Thursday, with some improvement in risk sentiment after US President Donald Trump downplayed the likelihood of firing Fed Chair Jerome Powell.

Broader metals also remained flat due to the strong US Dollar, which stabilized near a three-week high after the recent inflation data.

Despite this, demand for gold as a safe haven remains strong, especially amid the tariff uncertainties imposed by Trump, which are set to take effect in two weeks.

Platinum and silver largely outperformed gold.

Trump, the Fed, and the Resilient Dollar

Trump stated on Wednesday that it is “highly unlikely” he would dismiss Fed Chair Powell, though it remains possible if fraud is found in the Fed’s ongoing renovation project.

Concerns about Powell’s job security grew after Trump intensified his criticism of the Fed, with some Republicans echoing calls for Powell’s removal.

Trump accused Powell of being too slow in cutting US rates and demanded immediate action to prevent economic damage. However, Powell and several Fed policymakers indicated that rates would remain unchanged until the inflationary impact of Trump’s tariffs becomes clearer.

This moderation by Trump helped marginally improve market sentiment, reducing short-term demand for gold and boosting US stocks.

The Fed is widely expected to hold rates steady this month, especially after recent inflation data showed sustained price pressures in June.

The Dollar remains strong, supported by expectations for retail sales and jobless claims data to provide further economic insights.

Conclusion:

The global economic landscape remains fragile — with the UK labor market weakening, gold markets swaying with political signals, and the Dollar showing strength. Traders should stay vigilant and adaptive with informed strategies.

July 17, 2025
Global Markets Under Pressure: Gold, Oil & Crypto in Focus

Trump, Tariffs & Regulation Stir Volatility

Global financial markets are witnessing heightened volatility, driven by escalating trade tensions and regulatory shifts.

Gold Rises Amid Trade Tariffs & Geopolitical Tensions

Gold prices climbed in Asian trading on Tuesday, fueled by persistent concerns over U.S. President Donald Trump’s trade tariffs, enhancing the demand for safe havens. Adding to this trend, moderate economic data from China supported gold’s momentum.

Heightened geopolitical tensions between Russia and Ukraine also reinforced safe-haven buying. Trump recently sent more weapons to Kyiv and threatened stricter sanctions on Russia’s oil sector.

Gains in gold followed recent sessions of strength, particularly amid uncertainty surrounding Trump’s tariff policies. The latest announcements included 30% tariffs on Mexico and the European Union, with the EU preparing possible retaliatory measures despite Trump signaling openness to negotiations.

Major economies still have over two weeks to finalize trade deals with Washington, keeping markets on edge about a potential renewed global trade war.

Dollar Steady, Eyes on U.S. Inflation Data

The U.S. dollar stabilized after strong recent gains, with markets focused on upcoming Consumer Price Index (CPI) data for June. These figures are expected to reveal further insights into the inflationary effects of Trump’s tariffs.

A stable CPI would give the Federal Reserve less incentive to cut interest rates further, especially amid tariff-driven uncertainty.

China’s Economy Shows Resilience

Data released on Tuesday revealed that China’s economy grew 5.2% year-on-year in Q2 2025, surpassing expectations of 5.1%, buoyed by resilient exports and government stimulus.

Additionally, industrial production rose more than expected in June, while retail sales disappointed slightly, and unemployment held steady at 5%.

Oil Dips on Russia Deadlines & China Data

Oil prices edged lower in Asian markets as traders assessed Trump’s 50-day ultimatum for Russia to end the Ukraine war, coupled with threats of sanctions on Russian oil buyers. Markets also digested key Chinese economic indicators, including GDP and industrial production.

Bitcoin Soars Ahead of U.S. Crypto Legislation

Bitcoin remains in the spotlight this week, hitting new record highs, bolstered by strong ETF inflows and optimism over a friendlier U.S. crypto regulatory environment.

Investor sentiment improved with expectations that the U.S. House of Representatives will discuss significant crypto bills such as the Genius Act, Clarity Act, and Anti-Surveillance State CBDC Act. These bills, endorsed by Trump — who dubbed himself the “Crypto President” — aim to establish clear frameworks for stablecoins, crypto asset custody, and the broader digital finance ecosystem.

Conclusion

Global markets remain on high alert, influenced by trade conflicts, economic data, and the evolving regulatory landscape for cryptocurrencies. Traders and investors alike are navigating a complex web of geopolitical developments and policy shifts that could shape the second half of 2025

July 15, 2025
Markets on Edge: Gold, Oil, and Bitcoin React to Trump Tariffs

Tariffs, Inflation & Crypto Week in Washington

Gold & Safe Haven Demand

Gold extended its gains from last week after former US President Trump announced a 30% tariff on Mexico and the European Union. These latest tariffs, set to take effect from August 1, add to previous levies on major economies like Japan (25%), South Korea (25%), Brazil (50%), and copper imports (50%).

The threat of escalating trade wars spurred safe haven demand, supporting gold prices. Additionally, the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict fueled caution, especially after reports that Trump plans to send offensive weapons to Ukraine.

However, gold’s gains were somewhat limited due to its strong year-to-date rally in 2025, while other precious metals hit multi-year highs recently.

Oil & Currency Markets

Oil prices edged higher in Monday’s Asian trading, buoyed by the prospect of additional US sanctions on Russia and continued tariff tensions.

Asian currencies stabilized after last week’s losses, with investors digesting solid GDP data from Singapore and positive trade figures from China.

Market attention now shifts to US inflation data (CPI) for June, due Tuesday, with analysts watching for signs that Trump’s tariffs may have pushed prices higher. Persistent inflation could reinforce the Federal Reserve’s decision to keep interest rates steady, despite Trump’s calls for immediate cuts.

Bitcoin & Crypto Momentum

Bitcoin soared to a new record high of $120,000 in Asian trading, driven by institutional adoption optimism and anticipation of the upcoming Crypto Week in Washington.

Investor sentiment was lifted by expected congressional discussions on key crypto legislations like the Gensler Bill, the Clarity Act, and the Anti-Surveillance CBDC Act.

These regulations could establish comprehensive frameworks for stablecoins, asset custody, and the broader digital financial system.

Institutional demand remains robust, with US spot Bitcoin ETFs witnessing record inflows, and asset giants like BlackRock and Fidelity expanding their crypto holdings.

Additionally, a major Chinese regulator held a strategic session on stablecoins and digital currencies, hinting at a potential policy shift in China despite the current crypto trading ban.

Conclusion

Global markets are navigating a turbulent landscape shaped by tariffs, inflation fears, and crypto regulatory shifts. Investors remain watchful ahead of key data releases and policy developments that could define the next market moves.

July 14, 2025
UK Economy Shrinks Again and Global Markets React

From Britain’s slowdown to China’s crypto pivot and Trump’s new tariffs

UK Economy

UK Economy Contracts for Second Straight Month in May

The British economy shrank by 0.1% in May, following a sharper 0.3% contraction in April — the biggest drop since October 2023. Industrial output declined by 0.9% and manufacturing by 1.0%, failing to meet growth expectations.

The drop was linked to legal service slowdowns, rising energy bills, increased national insurance, and tariff uncertainties. On a yearly basis, GDP growth slowed to 0.7% in May from 0.9% in April.

Treasury Secretary Rachel Reeves may be forced to raise billions in taxes amid political resistance, while the Bank of England is expected to cut rates further — from 4.25% now to 3.75% by year-end.

Global Crypto Shift

China Signals Policy Shift Amid Bitcoin Surge

A key Chinese regulatory body convened this week with over 60 officials to discuss digital assets and stablecoin strategy. The move comes as Bitcoin hits record highs, surpassing $118,000, driven by strong institutional demand and favorable U.S. regulations.

China’s openness to evolving its digital currency framework marks a potentially significant policy shift.

Commodities & Tariffs

Gold Rises on Safe-Haven Demand Amid Tariff Threats

Gold prices climbed in Asian trading on Friday, supported by safe-haven demand after Donald Trump threatened to impose 35% tariffs on Canadian imports starting August 1. The geopolitical tension in the Middle East added to the demand.

Meanwhile, the U.S. dollar index rose 0.3% during Asian trading hours, and futures added 0.2%, maintaining their weekly upward trend. Platinum and gold outperformed silver this week.

Conclusion:

With the UK economy under pressure, global policy shifts in digital assets, and renewed U.S. trade tensions, investors face a complex market outlook. Staying informed is essential as central banks and governments shape the next phase of economic policy.

July 11, 2025
Gold Holds, Oil Shaken, and Copper Heats Up

Tariff Tensions and Fed Signals Shape the Markets

Gold prices edged slightly higher in Asian trading on Thursday, staying largely within recent ranges. Copper futures in the U.S. continued their upward trend after President Donald Trump reaffirmed his intention to impose tariffs on copper imports. Meanwhile, the broader U.S. dollar index showed mixed movement as uncertainty about Federal Reserve rate cuts persisted.

Gold received mild support from a weakening U.S. dollar, following Fed minutes that revealed most policymakers still back rate cuts this year. However, disagreement remains on timing, particularly due to concerns over the inflationary impact of Trump’s tariffs.

President Trump announced late Wednesday a 50% tariff on all U.S. copper imports effective August 1. This move could significantly tighten domestic copper supply, considering the U.S. imports at least half of its demand.

In the oil market, crude prices hovered near two-week highs, even as U.S. crude inventories surged by 7.07 million barrels—well above expectations. However, gasoline stocks fell by 2.65 million barrels, reflecting strong holiday travel demand.

Tensions in the Red Sea flared again after an attack sunk a cargo ship, killing at least four crew members. The Houthi-linked assault has raised shipping and supply concerns. Meanwhile, OPEC+ prepares to ramp up production in September, including the UAE’s planned quota increase.

Conclusion

Markets are being pulled in multiple directions—from Trump’s aggressive tariff plans to conflicting Fed signals and renewed geopolitical risks in energy shipping routes. Staying informed and agile is crucial in this volatile environment.

July 10, 2025
Gold Holds Steady Amid Market Tensions
Investors Await U.S. Fed and Tariff Signals

Gold prices steadied at a level not seen in over a week and a half, hovering around the 3284–3285 USD range during Wednesday’s Asian session. This comes as the metal appears to be consolidating slightly lower, with investors cautious amid ongoing trade tariff uncertainties.

The U.S. Federal Reserve continues to play a dominant role in shaping expectations, with Fed Chair Jerome Powell maintaining a hawkish stance, keeping pressure on gold prices. Despite a moderate rebound, gold failed to break above recent highs and showed limited momentum due to elevated U.S. Treasury yields and a stronger dollar.

At the same time, investor sentiment remains cautious due to fears of economic impacts from tariffs and political tensions, including U.S. President Donald Trump’s threats of new duties.

Highlights:
- Fed Meeting Minutes:
  Investors await the release of Fed meeting minutes for further insights into interest rate policy. Any indication of rate cuts could pressure the U.S. dollar and boost gold prices.
- Market Outlook:
  While many investors are wary of higher U.S. yields and a stronger dollar, expectations of policy easing by the Fed and political uncertainties still provide some support for gold.
- U.S. Bond Yields:
  Rising U.S. 10-year government bond yields have capped gold’s gains, with the dollar also near a two-week high, reducing gold’s appeal as a safe-haven.
Asian currencies fell broadly on Wednesday, with investors bracing for more tariffs after U.S. President Trump’s recent threats. Meanwhile, New Zealand’s central bank kept interest rates unchanged but signaled potential easing ahead, adding to market volatility.

In China, consumer data slightly improved in June, aided by government stimulus and efforts to ease the burden of trade tensions. The New Zealand dollar dropped 0.3% against its U.S. counterpart.

Conclusion

Gold remains in a consolidation phase, with investors closely watching the Fed’s next moves and geopolitical developments. Until clearer signals emerge, price movements are likely to remain constrained by yields and dollar strength.
July 9, 2025
Gold Steady, Oil Falls Amid Trump Tariff Shock
Rising Dollar, Trade Tensions Shape Market Outlook

Gold Prices Hold Steady Amid Trump’s Tariff Threats
Gold prices remained stable in Asian trading on Tuesday after U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariff threats prompted some demand for safe-haven assets. However, a recovering dollar limited gains in metal markets.

The dollar strengthened following Trump’s tariff announcement, with expectations of stable U.S. interest rates in the short term supporting the greenback. The stronger dollar, in turn, weighed on metal prices.

The greenback has largely maintained its recovery from recent three-year lows, supported by strong U.S. economic data that has reduced bets on a Fed rate cut. Trump’s tariff threats also triggered demand for the dollar, as fears of inflation rise.

Trump told reporters Monday that he is not “100% firm” on the August 1 deadline and that his administration is open to further trade talks.

These remarks, along with a recent extension of the July 9 deadline, led some to believe Trump may not fully follow through with the tariff hikes, slightly boosting market risk appetite. Asian stocks rose Tuesday, reversing early Wall Street futures losses.

Trump Announces Tariff Hikes on 14 Nations
Despite that optimism, Trump later released a series of messages announcing high tariffs on many Asian and African countries. These include:
- 25% on South Korea, Japan, Malaysia, and Kazakhstan
- 30% on South Africa
- 32% on Indonesia
- 35% on Bangladesh
- 36% on Thailand
This renewed tension dented risk appetite and pushed Wall Street into sharp losses, while also supporting gold prices.

Gold Holds Near Record Highs
Gold has remained in a narrow trading range in recent weeks. The overall safe-haven demand due to Trump’s tariffs was limited, while strong U.S. data lowered the chance of imminent rate cuts. Yet, gold prices hovered close to their record high of $3,500 reached earlier this year.

Oil Prices Fall on Tariff Concerns and OPEC+ Supply
Oil prices dropped in Asian trading as markets assessed the impact of Trump’s planned tariffs on major trade partners. Additional pressure came from concerns about a global oversupply due to increased OPEC+ output.

Trump’s Monday announcement warned 14 nations of sharply higher tariffs by August 1. The list includes major U.S. energy trade partners like Japan and South Korea, along with smaller exporters such as Serbia, Thailand, and Tunisia.

Letters outlined:
- 25% tariffs on all goods from Japan and South Korea
- Up to 40% tariffs on other countries
While Trump signed an executive order to extend the deadline from July 9 to August 1, he said the date is “firm but not 100% firm,” suggesting some room for negotiation.

High tariffs on energy importers like Japan, South Korea, and India could disrupt trade flows and harm industrial output.

Australian Central Bank Holds Rates Steady Amid Global Uncertainty
The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) held its benchmark interest rate steady at 3.85%, surprising markets that expected a 25bps cut to 3.60%. The vote was split 6-3 in favor of maintaining rates.

The RBA cited a need for more clarity on inflation trends and raised concerns over international economic headwinds, particularly the uncertain scope of U.S. tariffs.

While Australian inflation has declined significantly since its 2022 peak, recent CPI data came in slightly stronger than expected, raising caution among policymakers.

Markets had broadly expected a rate cut — the third this year — following February’s easing cycle start. Slowing growth, cooling inflation, and global tariff risks had all pressured the RBA to loosen policy.

Still, the RBA warned of uncertain U.S. trade policy and noted that signs of slowing domestic demand and spending are appearing. However, Australia’s labor market remains tight.

Conclusion

The global markets are navigating a turbulent landscape shaped by Trump’s aggressive trade moves, a resilient U.S. dollar, and cautious central bank policies. While gold finds safe-haven support, oil faces pressure from both oversupply and geopolitical risks. Investors should prepare for further volatility ahead.
July 8, 2025
Breaking News: Tesla Drops Nearly 7% Amid Rising Tensions Between Trump and Elon Musk
Tesla Stock Under Pressure
- Tesla shares dropped nearly 7% in pre-market trading on Monday after CEO Elon Musk announced plans to form a new U.S. political party.
- Investor concerns escalated, questioning Musk’s focus on Tesla’s future amidst his growing political ambitions.
- Tesla reported a second consecutive quarterly drop in vehicle deliveries.
Political Tensions and Leadership Concerns
- The public clash between Musk and Trump intensified, particularly after disputes over tax policies.
- Trump publicly dismissed Musk’s party idea as “ridiculous,” raising potential conflicts of interest, especially concerning Musk’s roles in government contracts and space ventures.
- Investors are questioning whether Tesla’s board will intervene as Musk continues to expand his political and business engagements beyond Tesla.
Market Performance and Valuation
- Tesla shares have fallen around 35% since peaking in December following Trump’s re-election.
- Tesla is now the worst-performing stock this year among the “Magnificent Seven” U.S. growth companies.
- Fair value estimates place Tesla’s stock at around $276.88, suggesting a possible 6% further downside from current levels.
- The stock remains highly volatile, reflecting differing analyst valuations and the company’s position in the rapidly evolving EV market.
Conclusion:

Elon Musk’s political ambitions are reshaping investor sentiment around Tesla, adding uncertainty to an already challenging market environment driven by slowing sales, leadership concerns, and valuation risks.
July 7, 2025