Shares of General Motors have increased by 5%, while Ford has risen by 1.7% in pre-market trading. Recent reports suggest discussions between the Trump administration and officials from Canada and Mexico may lead to exemptions for certain companies.

These exemptions could apply to those complying with the 2020 U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement’s rules of origin, mainly targeted at automakers. The potential exemption may last for only 30 days, dependent on plans for increased US production, although details remain undecided.

SP 500 Futures Stability

S&P 500 futures have returned to flat trading. An announcement from Trump regarding these changes is expected later today.

A 5% rise in General Motors shares and a 1.7% gain in Ford stock before the market opens indicate traders are reacting swiftly. This movement in price follows emerging reports of possible exemptions related to the 2020 U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement. If implemented, these exemptions could impact manufacturers meeting certain origin requirements, with a provisional 30-day limit based on proposed production increases within the United States. The exact conditions, however, have yet to be finalised.

Equities linked to automobile production are not the only assets experiencing shifts. Futures for the S&P 500 initially dipped but have since stabilised. Market participants appear to be hesitating until further confirmation emerges. With Trump expected to release more information later in the day, short-term positioning could shift abruptly once details become clearer.

For those tracking these developments, two factors require meticulous attention. Firstly, firms that may qualify for exemptions could anticipate temporary advantages, but the brief time frame means any benefits would rely heavily on swift operational adjustments. Secondly, volatility in equities and derivatives is likely to remain heightened until clear confirmation arrives. Recent price action suggests many have already attempted to position themselves ahead of the official statement.

Market Response To Exemptions

While headline index movements have been relatively subdued, the response within automotive stocks highlights sector-specific focus. If exemptions come with stricter production conditions, some manufacturers could see further shifts in valuation within the coming sessions. Those watching price movements should factor in that an early reaction does not necessarily indicate the longer-term direction.

Should today’s announcement include definitive terms, reactions in futures and options markets could accelerate. The brief nature of the potential exemption might also lead to a reassessment of medium-term strategies. With various moving parts still unresolved, preparation for swift adjustments remains paramount as clarity emerges.

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In February 2025, ADP reported US employment growth of 77,000, falling short of the expected 140,000. This marks the lowest reading since July, with the previous figure revised from 183,000 to 186,000.

Employment in the goods-producing sector increased by 42,000, while the service-providing sector saw a rise of 36,000, compared to 190,000 previously. Pay gains for job stayers remained at 4.7%, whereas pay growth for job changers decreased slightly to 6.7%.

Job Loss In Key Sectors

The report noted job loss particularly in the southern and western US, affecting sectors such as education, health, and trade. However, manufacturing showed strength, conflicting with results from the ISM manufacturing survey.

A jobs report undershooting expectations is never just a number—it’s a shift in direction that forces a reassessment of market positioning. With hiring momentum slowing sharply from prior months, traders will need to weigh whether this is an early sign of a broader slowdown or a temporary hiccup. The downward revision to the prior month’s data, though marginal, only reinforces the idea that employment conditions may not be as robust as they once appeared.

Breaking the details down further, the goods-producing sector holding firm with a 42,000 job increase looks encouraging, but the service-providing group paints a different picture. The contrast is undeniable. Services employment barely moved forward, a stark difference from the previous month’s 190,000 gain. Considering that services make up the bulk of the US economy, the weak figure cannot be ignored. There is also a notable change in pay trends. Workers staying in the same job are still seeing earnings grow at 4.7%, but those switching roles are no longer commanding the same level of pay increases. Their wage growth slipping to 6.7% suggests less bargaining power than before, hinting at cooling demand for labour.

Regional Employment Trends

Regional differences further illustrate the uneven nature of job trends. The South and West, two areas that have been economic powerhouses in recent years, are now shedding jobs, particularly in education, healthcare, and trade. These are not marginal industries. When hiring slows in sectors that traditionally offer stability, the broader implications will be scrutinised. Tying this in with other data, manufacturing stands out as a rare bright spot, which is surprising in light of ISM’s manufacturing report indicating weakness. This creates a contradiction. Either companies in the sector are expanding their workforce despite softer growth, or there is a disconnect between survey-based data and actual hiring numbers.

The weeks ahead will demand close attention to corroborating economic indicators. If upcoming data echoes the softness in hiring, adjustments across rate expectations and risk positioning will follow. However, should other reports contradict it, markets may reconsider whether this month’s employment weakness is truly the start of a trend or just an anomaly.

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The USD is weaker at the start of the US session, with the EUR showing the most upward movement, gaining nearly 0.80%. The GBP and JPY are also higher, up about 0.3% versus the dollar.

The EURUSD is trading near 1.0695, testing key levels, including the 200-day moving average. The USDJPY is fluctuating above 149.22 following BOJ comments about gradual rate hikes, while the GBPUSD has outperformed, surpassing its 200-day moving average.

Market Trends And Yields

US yields have risen with a steeper yield curve, and stock futures suggest a rebound after previous declines. Significant movements are also noted in European indices, with the German DAX up 3.3%.

Key updates include Trump’s focus on tariffs and economic measures, BOJ’s gradual rate increase approach, and the RBNZ’s leadership transition. US mortgage applications surged by 20.4%, driven by refinancing, as the mortgage market remains at late December’s levels. The White House reports progress in peace talks, potentially impacting aid to Ukraine.

Currently, crude oil and gold have decreased, while silver and Bitcoin have seen gains.

The dollar has started the US session on the weaker side, with the euro leading in strength. A rise of almost 0.80% places EURUSD near 1.0695, where it is testing levels that many watch closely, including the 200-day moving average. Meanwhile, the pound and yen have seen modest gains of about 0.3% against the greenback.

USDJPY has been moving above 149.22, still reacting to statements from policymakers in Japan discussing a careful approach to increasing interest rates. Sterling, on the other hand, has performed better, pushing past its own 200-day moving average—a technical signal that often shifts sentiment.

In US bond markets, yields have climbed, and the curve has steepened, suggesting expectations around growth and policy are shifting. Futures tied to American stock indices point to a recovery following previous declines. European equities have also advanced, with the DAX rising by 3.3%.

Economic Policies And Global Updates

Among policy updates, Trump has remained focused on trade actions and economic policies, while adjustments in interest rates remain a topic for officials in Japan. In New Zealand, a transition in the Reserve Bank’s leadership could bring adjustments in policy down the line. Meanwhile, mortgage activity in the US has picked up sharply, jumping 20.4%. Most of this increase has come from refinancing demand, though applications still reflect levels last seen in late December.

Further developments include updates from the White House on diplomatic efforts, with reports of progress in negotiations that could impact aid policies regarding Ukraine.

Commodity markets have moved in different directions. Oil and gold have slipped lower, while silver and Bitcoin have gained.

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Italy’s final GDP for the fourth quarter has been revised to a growth of 0.1% compared to a preliminary estimate of 0.0%.

This revision marks a slight increase from the previous quarter, which also recorded 0.0%. The data, released by Istat on 5 March 2025, reflects the economic performance at the end of the previous year, noted to be somewhat delayed in publication.

Impact Of The Revision

The change in GDP figures means the economy expanded slightly more than originally reported. Although the difference is not large, it provides a better indication of the country’s performance in the final months of last year. With the prior estimate showing no growth, even a small upward adjustment alters the broader assessment of economic stability.

Market participants often react to such revisions, particularly those who focus on economic cycles when making decisions. A shift from stagnation to mild expansion may affect sentiment, even if underlying conditions remain largely unchanged. It suggests the slowdown was not as pronounced as initially recorded, which could influence expectations for the coming months.

The report also confirms that growth across the last six months remained subdued. A flat reading in the previous quarter combined with this marginal uptick indicates a lack of strong momentum. Given that revisions are backward-looking, their immediate impact on markets tends to be tied to forward expectations rather than the past.

Looking Ahead

With this data in hand, attention will likely shift to upcoming releases that provide more insight into whether this modest increase is the beginning of a stronger phase or simply a small fluctuation within an otherwise weak period. Those making decisions based on economic performance should take note of whether subsequent indicators align with this revision or suggest a different course for the months ahead.

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The EUR/USD pair has reached its highest level since 11 November, approaching the 1.0700 mark. This movement has been supported by recent easing in German debt brake rules and a weaker dollar this week.

Currently, GBP/USD has increased by 0.2% to 1.2815, while USD/JPY has decreased by 0.3% to 149.35. The upcoming US ADP employment change and ISM services PMI reports are expected to influence the dollar’s performance. Observers will monitor these developments closely as the EUR/USD pair tests the next key resistance level.

Euro Gains Strength

The euro has been gaining strength, helped by adjustments to Germany’s fiscal policies. The dollar, on the other hand, has been struggling this week. This combination has pushed EUR/USD towards 1.0700, the highest level since early November. Investors have been reacting to news about Germany softening its debt restrictions, which has led to optimism about economic stability in Europe. At the same time, a weaker dollar has given the euro more room to rise.

The pound, though not making drastic moves, has continued to show upward momentum. It has climbed slightly, while the yen has gone in the opposite direction, strengthening against the dollar. The 0.3% drop in USD/JPY suggests a small but notable shift in sentiment, as traders weigh their positions.

Attention now turns to fresh data from the United States. Employment figures and service sector performance will play a role in shaping expectations. If the reports suggest strength in the job market, the dollar could regain some ground. A weaker reading, however, may cause further softness. These factors matter because they influence speculation about interest rates. When labour market conditions remain strong, policymakers have more justification to keep rates high. If cracks start to show, expectations could shift.

Market Volatility Ahead

As EUR/USD pushes against resistance, traders may reconsider their positions. The recent rally has been steady, but the hurdles ahead will test whether the move can continue. Momentum matters in moments like this. If buyers continue to step in, the pair could break above this level. If hesitation sets in, the trend may slow, or even reverse.

For those focused on price movements, upcoming data releases may introduce volatility. This makes it necessary to stay alert to new information, particularly regarding how markets react in real time. The pace of price adjustments will offer clues about whether the latest trends have more room to run or if they start to fade.

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Eurostoxx futures have risen by 1.9% in early European trading, indicating a potential recovery for equities following a volatile week. The DAX experienced a drop of 3.5% yesterday as European indices did not benefit from a late rebound in US stocks.

Recent news from Germany and a more optimistic tone from US futures, with the S&P 500 up by 0.7%, are contributing to expectations for a stronger session ahead. This shift in sentiment suggests a turnaround might be underway for European markets.

European Markets Recovering

European markets appear to be finding their footing after a turbulent period, with early trading showing a recovery in equity futures. The sharp decline in Germany’s primary index yesterday underscored how the region lagged behind Wall Street’s late-session gains, raising concerns over divergence between markets. However, today’s trading suggests sentiment may be improving as investors react to both regional developments and the latest moves in US futures.

A 1.9% rise in Eurostoxx futures signals renewed confidence, particularly as it coincides with a more upbeat mood in the United States. The S&P 500’s early climb of 0.7% sends a strong message that traders are beginning to price in a potential stabilisation. Europe’s reaction will be closely watched, given that recent sessions have failed to maintain momentum from across the Atlantic. Markets are starting to reflect fresh optimism, but the persistence of this recovery will depend on whether buyers remain committed throughout the day.

Volatility has been a dominant theme, particularly with yesterday’s sharp moves. The steep 3.5% drop in the DAX illustrated how selling pressure persisted despite attempts at recovery elsewhere. This selloff was driven by a combination of broader risk aversion and local economic factors, putting further pressure on valuations. Today’s early gains are encouraging, but it remains to be seen whether they will hold. If bulls maintain control, this could lead to more sustained strength heading into next week.

For traders focused on derivatives, these moves provide both opportunity and caution. Increased swings in price action highlight the need for adaptability. With European indices responding more slowly to US market swings, timing becomes even more important. If momentum holds, short-term positioning may need adjustment to account for a market that is shifting from reactive to proactive.

Key Market Considerations

Key considerations in the next few sessions will be whether European buyers follow through on early strength and if US markets extend their gains. If sentiment continues to improve, it could support further upward movement in European futures. However, hesitation or another wave of selling would bring fresh challenges. The next steps depend on how market participants interpret today’s early strength.

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Uchida from the Bank of Japan stated that uncertainty remains regarding the impact of US tariffs on the global economy. He noted that higher tariffs will affect Japan’s economy and prices, with a comprehensive assessment to be made using new projections in the upcoming 1 May meeting.

There are currently no plans to sell the Bank of Japan’s ETF holdings. Uchida remarked that the outcome of this year’s wage negotiations does not influence their perspective. The timing for the next rate hike is uncertain, with March potentially being early. Current trader expectations indicate around an 18% likelihood of a rate hike, which may change based on future communications from the Bank.

Uncertainty In Trade Policies

Uchida’s comments highlight the uncertainty surrounding the effects of US trade policies on international markets. Higher tariffs could influence Japan’s economic growth and consumer prices, but the full extent will only become clearer once fresh projections are available. With the next policy meeting scheduled for 1 May, there remains a waiting period before any potential adjustments are considered. Given the reliance on updated data, market participants should remain attentive to any shifts in outlook from policymakers.

On exchange-traded fund holdings, the Bank of Japan does not currently plan to reduce its portfolio. This stance suggests an intention to maintain stability in domestic financial markets. While concerns about the longer-term impact of these assets exist, there appears to be no immediate urgency to alter that position. Any potential changes would likely be telegraphed well in advance, reducing the chance of sudden shifts in market sentiment.

Regarding interest rates, Uchida indicated that the outcome of annual wage negotiations does not alter their perspective. In other words, broader economic conditions, rather than short-term wage developments, guide policy decisions. This suggests a more measured approach to rate policy rather than reacting to individual economic indicators.

Market Expectations And Future Guidance

The exact timing of another rate increase remains uncertain. March may be too soon, as suggested in the statement. Current market pricing reflects an 18% probability of an adjustment, though expectations can shift as more communication from policymakers emerges. Future guidance from the central bank will play a substantial role in shaping these probabilities.

With upcoming economic data and policy statements, a careful approach is warranted. The next few weeks may bring adjustments to market expectations, with traders needing to interpret the ongoing communications from both domestic and global policymakers.

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Shinichi Uchida, Deputy Governor of the Bank of Japan, stated there is no pre-established plan for the pace of future interest rate hikes. He noted that rate adjustments are not guaranteed at every policy meeting.

Uchida emphasised the importance of wage developments in understanding Japan’s inflation trends. He acknowledged the need to closely monitor the prices of goods, as this affects inflation expectations and will inform discussions on policy decisions during meetings based on economic and price movements.

Policy Decisions Based On Data

The absence of a predetermined roadmap for interest rate increases means every policy decision will depend on incoming data rather than a fixed schedule. Markets expecting adjustments at each gathering of the central bank could find themselves recalibrating their assumptions. If inflation data or wage growth fails to align with the bank’s expectations, policy action may not materialise as frequently as some anticipate.

Wages occupy a central position in the current approach to inflation assessment. Without sustained growth in worker compensation, any inflationary pressures from goods or services could struggle to maintain momentum. If salaries fail to keep pace with price increases, consumer spending may weaken in the longer run, influencing broader monetary policy choices. Recent patterns in corporate earnings and labour negotiations merit ongoing attention, as they will affect officials assessing inflation’s durability.

Price levels remain under scrutiny. Cost movements across essential goods not only shape consumer sentiment but also contribute to broader inflation trends. A rapid acceleration in price increases may lead to a stronger policy response, whereas a more moderate trajectory could see a cautious stance. We recognise that inflation expectations can shift abruptly, with external economic conditions—such as currency fluctuations or import costs—amplifying domestic price trends. Any deviation from anticipated inflation outcomes may prompt discussions on whether adjustments to the current approach are warranted.

Market Expectations And Flexibility

Short-term market positioning should account for fluidity in policy expectations. Any assumption that rate moves will follow a set pattern could prove misplaced. Unexpected economic developments—whether wage-driven or price-related—have the potential to steer decision-making in directions not fully priced in by markets. Traders who remain adaptable and responsive to new information will be in a stronger position to navigate forthcoming shifts.

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Okta (OKTA) experienced a substantial post-earnings increase, rising over 25%, exceeding the anticipated 12% move. It reached $109.78, breaking past the $100 resistance level and approaching $110.

Key resistance levels lie between $111.35 and $115.35, with historical price points including $111.35 from March 2024, $112.08 from February 2024, and $114.50 as an upper target. Potential pullback areas may see the stock retracing to $100.75, possibly taking two to three weeks.

Future Price Expectations

Looking ahead to the next earnings report on May 29, 2025, prices could advance towards $140-$150. Current RSI readings show that Okta is in overbought territory, with historical data suggesting a careful approach if RSI nears 85.

The sharp surge in Okta’s stock price following earnings reflects a reaction stronger than predicted. With an expected move of around 12%, the actual rally of over 25% has pushed shares through a key psychological threshold at $100, now setting sights on higher resistance levels.

When we look at past price behaviour, notable areas of resistance can be identified between $111.35 and $115.35. These markers, derived from past trading activity earlier this year, highlight potential zones where selling pressure may emerge. The levels at $111.35 and $112.08, both tested in early 2024, along with $114.50 as a higher-range target, suggest a challenging path ahead. If buyers continue to drive momentum, a further breakout remains possible, but a retracement towards $100.75 should not be ruled out. Such a pullback, historically taking two to three weeks to develop, would align with previous post-earnings patterns.

Future movements will also be shaped by the upcoming earnings report set for May 29, 2025. Given recent price action, an extension upwards to the $140–$150 range remains within reason. However, momentum indicators provide an additional layer of insight. The current Relative Strength Index reading suggests overbought conditions, which typically indicate the possibility of temporary weakness. If RSI nears 85, historical trends suggest that short-term rallies may lose strength before regaining footing.

Short Term Outlook

The focus now is on short-term consolidation versus continued upside. With recent gains pushing shares towards resistance, whether bullish momentum persists or sellers begin to take profits will define price direction in the coming weeks.

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A news conference is set for 3pm Beijing time on Thursday, March 6, 2025. It will occur at 0700 GMT and 0200 US Eastern time.

Key officials from various governmental bodies will attend, including Pan Gongsheng from the People’s Bank of China and Lan Fo’an, finance minister, among others.

China’s Economic Objectives

They are expected to discuss strategies for meeting China’s economic objectives for 2025, along with addressing queries related to development reform, the fiscal budget, commerce, and financial markets.

This gathering comes at a time when investors are dissecting recent policy moves and assessing how they might reshape expectations. With Pan and Lan scheduled to appear, the agenda will not be limited to broad economic goals but will likely touch on finer details that could sway sentiment in specific sectors. Officials in attendance will have the opportunity to outline fresh initiatives or reinforce existing commitments, both of which will be watched closely.

For those following movements in financial markets, the words of these policymakers will carry weight. The central bank’s stance on liquidity and credit conditions will be one area of focus, given how these factors influence borrowing costs and investor confidence. Any reference to lending support or constraints on speculative activity may be interpreted as a clue about future monetary direction.

Lan’s role in the discussion will be equally important. With control over state expenditure, his comments on fiscal priorities could indicate whether authorities plan to boost investment in infrastructure, offer tax relief, or tighten public spending. If proposed policies align with previous statements, that could affirm existing market positions. However, any shift—whether due to external pressures or domestic concerns—could require adjustments in outlook.

Trade And Market Implications

Beyond specific remarks, the manner in which these officials address questions will be telling. Concise and direct responses could imply clarity in decision-making, whereas vague or conditional phrasing may lead to uncertainty about how committed they are to various approaches. Market participants will need to assess not just official pronouncements but also the underlying tone and consistency of their messaging.

With external trade conditions under scrutiny, discussions around commerce may attract more attention than in previous years. Global demand fluctuations, shifting supply chains, and adjustments to export policies are all factors that could influence upcoming strategies. If policymakers signal confidence in trade resilience, that may encourage a more stable outlook. Conversely, any suggestion of mounting headwinds could introduce fresh concerns.

Ultimately, this briefing serves as an opportunity for officials to assert control over the economic narrative, providing reassurances where needed while setting expectations for potential shifts in focus. How markets interpret these signals will depend not just on what is said, but how well it aligns with prior commitments and economic realities.

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