Consumer confidence in Portugal declined to -15.3 in February, down from -15.1 the previous month. This marks a continuation of a downward trend in consumer sentiment.

Across the Eurozone, inflation trends varied, with expectations of a decrease in February. While France may see a notable drop in inflation due to reduced electricity prices, other areas continue to experience rapid service price increases.

The financial markets are reflecting various pressures, including ongoing uncertainties related to US tariffs and the stability of cryptocurrencies like Solana.

A decline in consumer confidence in Portugal means households are feeling less optimistic about their financial situation and the broader economy. This often leads to reduced spending, which can slow growth. Traders generally watch these figures closely, as shifting sentiment can impact market expectations and asset prices.

Inflation trends within the Eurozone remain mixed. In France, a decrease in price pressures could bring some relief, largely driven by falling electricity costs. However, price increases in services elsewhere may counterbalance that. A slower pace of inflation may lead to changes in interest rate expectations, which would affect markets.

At the same time, financial markets are dealing with uncertainties beyond Europe. Tariff policies in the United States continue to create concerns for global trade. The reaction to these policies can influence market moves in ways that are not always straightforward. Price swings in cryptocurrency markets, particularly in assets like Solana, add another layer of unpredictability.

For derivatives traders, all of this brings both risks and opportunities. If inflation in parts of the Eurozone slows, speculation around interest rate moves by the European Central Bank will intensify. This could trigger volatility in foreign exchange markets, particularly in the euro. The influence of energy costs on inflation also means commodities may experience price shifts.

Outside Europe, tariff uncertainty in the US could lead to unexpected changes in demand for various goods. That tends to spill over into multiple markets, from equities to bonds. Meanwhile, cryptocurrency traders are already seeing how instability in digital assets like Solana affects both short-term price moves and broader market sentiment.

In the next few weeks, traders will need to stay alert to shifting expectations. Any change in economic data, policy responses, or global trade decisions could speed up market movements. Being able to interpret these shifts in real-time will be key in navigating the risks and opportunities ahead.

The US dollar remains strong across major foreign exchange markets, with tariff uncertainty causing riskier trades to be sidelined. The British pound is similarly under pressure, particularly during Asian trading hours.

A recent report from the Confederation of British Industry revealed that profitability among business and professional firms has decreased to -37 in the last three months, a sharper decline than the -32 recorded previously and the steepest since August 2020.

Businesses are facing rising employment costs stemming from autumn budget measures, while demand conditions continue to be weak. Additionally, the pronounced decline in consumer services firms indicates a cautious attitude towards spending among households.

This suggests that traders should be prepared for continued weakness in confidence among businesses, which might weigh on broader economic sentiment. A downturn in business profits, particularly one that accelerates, often leads to reduced investment and hiring, which then filters through to wider market conditions. Given that business and professional services are integral to the UK economy, a contraction in this sector raises concerns about overall stability.

Employment costs are rising due to policy adjustments, which means firms are under greater pressure to manage finances carefully. When costs climb while demand remains subdued, companies look for ways to protect margins, often through scaling back recruitment or, in some cases, reducing headcount. This could have implications for household spending, particularly if job security becomes an issue. The timing is especially important as wage growth had previously supported consumption, but this influence may be fading.

Consumer caution is reflected in the services sector, which is experiencing an even sharper drop in confidence. This means people are more hesitant to commit to discretionary purchases, likely due to concerns over their own financial security. If this trend persists, traders should keep a close watch on retail and hospitality performance, as these are often early indicators of broader shifts in sentiment.

Meanwhile, the US dollar’s continued resilience is limiting risk appetite across markets. With tariffs creating uncertainty, more speculative positions are being avoided, which naturally lends support to safer assets. The pound remains under pressure, and overnight sessions in Asia continue to highlight its vulnerability. Movement during those hours is often driven by external developments rather than domestic factors, which means any sharp moves could set the tone for European trading.

In the coming weeks, attention should remain on data releases that provide insight into consumer behaviour and business sentiment. If profitability continues to deteriorate, pressure may build on policymakers to reconsider aspects of fiscal policy. However, as employment costs are already set to increase, any relief is unlikely to come quickly. For now, the focus remains on how businesses adapt to weaker demand and higher costs, as well as any signals that could shift expectations on future monetary or fiscal decisions.

Consumer confidence in Italy for February was recorded at 98.8, surpassing the forecasted figure of 98.4. This marks a positive shift in consumer sentiment.

The European trading hours have shown the EUR/USD remaining under 1.0500, impacted by uncertainties surrounding US tariffs. The GBP/USD also remains weak below 1.2700 due to similar US Dollar strength.

In commodities, gold has dropped to a ten-day low near $2,880, pressured by ongoing confusion about US tariffs. Meanwhile, inflation in France is expected to decline in February, influenced by a significant cut in regulated electricity prices.

This stronger-than-predicted consumer confidence in Italy suggests people are feeling better about their financial situations and the economy in general. When people feel more comfortable, they tend to spend more, which can help businesses and, in turn, the broader economy. However, traders need to assess whether this is part of a bigger trend or just a temporary uptick.

The EUR/USD holding below 1.0500 reflects hesitation in the market. With traders unsure about the effect of potential US tariffs, the Euro is struggling to gain ground. This type of uncertainty can make currency markets more unpredictable, particularly when mixed with broader US Dollar strength. Similarly, the Pound’s weakness continues, which means we should watch for any shifts in sentiment that could shake this stability.

Gold taking a hit and dropping within reach of $2,880 is telling. When uncertainty strikes, gold often acts as a safe place for investors, but if other factors weigh it down, that safety net can weaken. Right now, investors appear to be reconsidering their approach as they wait for more clarity on trade policies. That means price swings in gold could persist as new information comes out.

Meanwhile, inflation in France looks set to ease, largely due to lower regulated electricity prices. This planned cut can offer some relief for households but could also mean softer overall inflation figures. If this continues, traders should be weighing how it might shape the European Central Bank’s decisions. Any confirmation of cooling inflation could influence expectations around rate adjustments in the coming months.

With all these factors aligning, the next few weeks may require a careful look at both policy changes and market sentiment to navigate the uncertainty ahead. Attention should remain on key data releases and official statements that could trigger sudden shifts.

The People’s Bank of China (PBOC) Deputy Governor Lu Lei has stated that the bank should facilitate fundraising by issuing special treasury bonds to assist state-owned banks in replenishing their Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) capital. This action aims to strengthen banks’ capital reserves, improving their capacity to manage risks and support the economy.

Furthermore, the PBOC is urged to further reforms in policy and development banking, focusing funding on the technology and manufacturing sectors. This approach intends to bolster these industries and contribute to economic stability.

Lu’s remarks suggest that authorities are taking steps to ensure banks remain well-capitalised despite ongoing pressures. Raising funds through special treasury bonds addresses potential shortfalls in CET1 capital, which is essential for absorbing financial shocks. By reinforcing buffers in this way, we can infer that policymakers are prioritising resilience in the banking sector, particularly among state-owned institutions that play a central role in lending.

Encouraging banks to increase exposure to technology and manufacturing aligns with broader economic objectives. There has been a stronger emphasis on steering financial resources towards sectors deemed vital for long-term growth. If implemented effectively, these reforms could direct credit where it is most needed, fostering expansion in industries that are central to national strategy.

At the same time, there may be broader implications for market participants watching funding conditions. Increased capital reserves might reassure investors regarding banking stability, but depending on how these special bonds are structured, they could also affect liquidity available elsewhere. The timing and scale of issuance will likely determine how funding costs adjust in the near future.

With these factors shaping expectations, market behaviour could reflect shifting confidence in economic support measures. Any adjustments in credit conditions or banking policies will influence sentiment, particularly for those assessing financial risk and asset pricing. Monitoring official statements and new policy measures will be necessary to gauge any potential knock-on effects.

On Thursday, several Federal Reserve speakers are scheduled to present on various subjects. The timetable follows GMT/US Eastern time format.

Michael Barr, Vice Chair for Supervision, will discuss “Novel Activity Supervision” at 1500/1000. Michelle Bowman, a Federal Reserve Board Governor, will address “Community Banking” at 1645/1145.

Beth Hammack, President of the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland, will speak on “Financial Stability” at 1815/1315. Patrick Harker, President of the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia, will present the economic outlook at 2015/1515.

Hammack and Harker’s topics are particularly relevant to traders, and questions regarding the economy and policy may arise during subsequent Q&A sessions.

Beth and Patrick will likely attract attention given their topics and timing. Market participants will parse their remarks closely, looking for signs of caution or confidence in economic conditions. Given recent data releases, any mention of inflation persistence or indications of shifting policy will draw an immediate reaction. If Beth highlights financial risks tied to current market volatility, concerns may grow regarding liquidity conditions. If Patrick’s outlook hints at slower growth or mentions labour market pressures, expectations for rate adjustments may shift.

We should also remain attentive to how questions are handled. Sometimes, prepared statements offer little new information, but Q&A sessions can yield unexpected moments. If they express concerns about inflation staying above target, traders will likely adjust expectations for the next policy move. On the other hand, if they downplay the latest price pressures, views on the path ahead may soften. Those considering near-term positions tied to rate outlooks should factor in potential shifts in sentiment.

Elsewhere, Michael’s remarks on supervision could touch on regulatory adjustments that affect financial firms. While not directly market-moving, any suggestions of tighter oversight could influence expectations for banking liquidity. Michelle’s discussion on community lending is more specialised, but if she raises concerns about credit conditions, it may play into broader economic confidence.

It’s not just what is said but how it’s delivered. Tone often carries as much weight as the words themselves. A cautious delivery may unsettle those expecting reassurance, while a more confident approach may encourage risk appetite. Immediate reactions could set the tone for positioning over the following days.

On Thursday, the price of West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude oil decreased to $68.53 per barrel from $68.67 the previous day. Brent crude also fell, trading at $72.09, down from $72.20.

WTI oil is a prominent type of crude oil on international markets, known for its low gravity and sulfur content. It is sourced in the United States and is a benchmark for oil prices globally.

Supply and demand primarily drive WTI prices, influenced by global economic conditions and geopolitical events. The decisions of OPEC and inventory data also play significant roles in shaping oil prices.

The American Petroleum Institute (API) and the Energy Information Agency (EIA) regularly release inventory reports, impacting market pricing. An inventory drop can signal heightened demand, while an increase may reflect surplus supply.

OPEC’s production decisions can directly affect WTI prices. Lower production quotas tend to lead to higher prices, while increases can result in lower prices. OPEC+ includes additional non-OPEC members, such as Russia, further influencing the markets.

Price movements in crude oil, such as those seen this week, may not appear dramatic at a glance, but for those trading derivatives tied to WTI and Brent, even small shifts can carry weight. When prices dip slightly, traders might see it as an opportunity or a warning, depending on the wider context.

Market participants closely track data from the API and EIA, as these reports can sway sentiment overnight. If inventory levels fall more than expected, it often implies stronger demand, which can encourage bullish positioning. On the other hand, an unexpected surplus may give rise to selling pressure, particularly if broader economic indicators point to weakening industrial activity or consumer consumption.

OPEC’s role cannot be overstated. When Mohammed and other ministers within the organisation announce production cuts, prices typically find support, as supply is tightened relative to demand. However, if the group signals an increase in production, traders may anticipate downward pressure. Decisions from Alexander and his allies within OPEC+ often introduce additional uncertainty, given the interests of non-OPEC producers like Russia.

Beyond these supply-side fundamentals, macroeconomic trends add another layer of complexity. Inflation, interest rate decisions from central banks, and consumer confidence influence energy demand expectations, feeding into short-term price moves. If Jerome and other policymakers suggest further tightening, market participants might expect reduced demand growth, weighing on crude valuations. Conversely, when signals point toward easing policies, optimism around future consumption tends to strengthen.

In the weeks ahead, those trading oil derivatives must weigh these overlapping factors carefully. A close watch on upcoming inventory reports, messages from policymakers, and production signals from Vienna could prove useful. Rapid shifts in sentiment often surprise even seasoned traders, but staying engaged with the latest reports and positioning accordingly can help navigate these fluctuations with a measured approach.

Trafigura Group, a commodities trader based in Singapore, has identified U.S. foreign policy towards Iran as a major risk influencing crude prices. Ben Luckock, the head of oil trading, noted that Iran’s oil exports have increased, while the uncertainty surrounding potential political changes in the U.S. could create market volatility.

Global oil supply remains stable, potentially mitigating disruptions. Luckock also indicated that the U.S. might resume Russian oil imports ahead of Europe if a resolution regarding Ukraine is achieved. The emergence of a shadow fleet of around 1,000 tankers transporting oil from Russia, Iran, and Venezuela is an important factor in global oil supply dynamics.

Ben’s assessment of geopolitical risks highlights the weight that U.S. policy decisions carry in shaping market conditions. The increase in Iranian oil exports suggests a more lenient approach for the time being, but there is no assurance that this will continue. A shift in leadership in Washington later this year could trigger tighter restrictions, possibly cutting off some of this supply and leading to price fluctuations. Traders will need to stay alert to any signals out of the U.S. regarding sanctions or diplomatic efforts, as even minor developments could alter expectations.

Supply stability provides a degree of offset against unexpected disruptions. Even so, the reliance on unsanctioned shipments via a growing fleet of unregistered tankers introduces additional unpredictability. These vessels, moving oil from countries facing sanctions, enable flows that might otherwise be constrained. However, any tightening of enforcement measures by Western governments could create friction, either by limiting available transport capacity or by adding further compliance risks for buyers.

If tensions in Ukraine ease, the possibility that Washington could reverse restrictions on Russian oil imports ahead of similar action from European nations presents another variable. The timing of such policy shifts will be key, especially in relation to broader diplomatic discussions. The market may begin to price in expectations before an official decision is made, leading to movements in futures contracts as participants adjust their exposure accordingly.

At the same time, the presence of a vast fleet operating outside standard regulatory frameworks poses questions about long-term supply chains. With around 1,000 vessels engaged in these trades, a considerable volume of oil is circumventing traditional tracking mechanisms. Any crackdown on these operations could disrupt availability, adding another source of uncertainty.

Keeping track of policy announcements, enforcement actions, and shipping activity will be necessary to gauge market movements in the weeks ahead. Shifts in supply chains could emerge suddenly, especially if there are stricter controls on the movement of oil from sanctioned nations. Anticipating these adjustments will require close attention to government actions and trading patterns.

The S&P 500 has increased by only 2% and the Nasdaq has remained stable this year, leading many exchange-traded funds (ETFs) to perform similarly. Index ETFs typically mirror broad indexes, which have underperformed recently.

As index returns are projected to be lower than in previous years, there is potential value in actively managed ETFs. These funds are overseen by professional managers who select individual stocks.

The Cambria Global Value ETF (GVAL) has yielded approximately 11.4% year-to-date, outperforming major benchmarks. With an expense ratio of 0.64%, it comprises 214 stocks, including Moneta Bank, the First American Treasury Obligations Fund, and Komercni Banka.

The T. Rowe Price International Equity ETF (TOUS) focuses on non-US stocks, predominantly in developed markets. It has returned 9.8% so far this year, with a 0.50% expense ratio and holdings such as ASML Holding, Rolls Royce, and AstraZeneca.

Managed by Cathie Wood, the ARK Fintech Innovation ETF (ARKF) targets stocks involved in fintech. It is up 6% year-to-date and has seen a 44% increase over the past year. The fund has an expense ratio of 0.75% and includes stocks like Shopify, Coinbase Global, and Robinhood.

When we look at what has happened so far this year, one thing is clear—broad market indices have not had the kind of momentum that many investors might have hoped for. The S&P 500 has crept up by just 2%, while the Nasdaq has barely moved at all. This is reflected in many exchange-traded funds that track these indices since they are designed to follow their performance closely. When these benchmarks slow down, so do funds that mirror them.

This raises an important question for traders—should they continue to rely on passive, index-based ETFs, or consider actively managed funds where professional stock pickers make the decisions? The latter have demonstrated some promise, given that overall index returns are not keeping pace with past years.

Take the fund overseen by Meb Faber, for instance. So far this year, it has returned approximately 11.4%, far better than the largest market benchmarks. It holds more than 200 stocks, including banks from Europe and the US. While it comes with an expense ratio of 0.64%, traders may see this as a worthwhile cost if the performance gap remains wide.

Then there’s the ETF run by T. Rowe Price, which chooses stocks outside the US, mainly in well-established economies. It has delivered a return of 9.8% this year, also outpacing broad index funds. With a fee of 0.50%, this fund includes major names like a semiconductor firm based in the Netherlands and a well-known UK aerospace company.

Meanwhile, Cathie’s fund continues to focus on fintech companies, and it has grown by 6% this year. But for those who have been holding onto it for longer, the past 12 months have been even stronger, with a 44% increase. Given its focus on financial technology firms, the stocks in this fund include a Canadian e-commerce giant, a well-known cryptocurrency exchange, and a trading platform that gained attention during the retail investing surge. While it carries an expense ratio of 0.75%, some may find that justified if the sector continues its upward trajectory.

For those trading derivatives, these trends are worth paying attention to. The past few months suggest that broad indices have not been the easiest way to capture gains, and actively managed strategies have, in some cases, delivered better outcomes. If this pattern persists, those positioning themselves in the weeks ahead might need to reconsider how they allocate trades. Whether the approach should lean towards stock picking or sector-based funds depends on how these strategies continue to play out.

The article outlines a trading strategy for buying Tesla (TSLA) stock within a specific price range of $280.19 to $284.88. The plan includes three buy orders, a stop loss set at $277.23, and a take profit target at $304.74, resulting in a risk-reward ratio of over 4.5.

The buy orders consist of 100 shares at $284.88, 200 at $283.77, and 300 at $280.19, culminating in 600 total shares for a full cost of $169,299. Partial profit-taking is planned at various price levels to secure gains while maintaining upside exposure. The strategy emphasises monitoring historical support zones and bullish order flow.

What this means is quite clear—entry into Tesla shares should happen gradually within the designated range, rather than all at once. By layering buy orders, the traders spreading their risk, ensuring that if the price drops further within the range, a better average cost is achieved.

The stop loss at $277.23 safeguards the position from excessive downside. If the price falls below this level, selling the shares prevents a deeper loss. With the total purchase amount being $169,299, such a protective measure ensures that losses remain contained if the trade does not work out.

On the other side, the goal is to sell at $304.74. If the price reaches this target, the reward is over 4.5 times the potential loss. That ratio is favourable. The approach incorporates partial profit-taking at intermediate levels, which allows gains to be secured before the stock moves through the full range. That prevents missing out if the price reverses before reaching the highest objective.

Much of this relies on historical data—the plan is based on past price action, where Tesla has shown support, and how it has behaved when buyers have stepped in previously. The presence of bullish order flow suggests that demand has been strong enough in the past to support higher prices.

For the coming weeks, staying aware of price action in relation to these levels is key. Placing orders too early could lead to paying more when further price movement allows for a better entry. Too much hesitation could mean missing the opportunity altogether. This also requires watching for behaviour near the stop loss—frequent approaches to that level could suggest weakness that might warrant reassessment.

With Tesla, volatility is always a given. That means a sharp move could fill buy orders quickly. On the other hand, if the stock climbs too fast, entry opportunities may not materialise. The balancing act is being patient while remaining prepared to act.

Gold prices in the Philippines decreased on Thursday. The price for gold per gram was PHP 5,400.44, down from PHP 5,430.83 the previous day.

The price for gold per tola fell to PHP 62,991.00 from PHP 63,344.18. Current gold prices are listed as follows: 1 Gram at PHP 5,400.44, 10 Grams at PHP 54,005.54, Tola at PHP 62,991.00, and Troy Ounce at PHP 167,973.80.

Various factors influence gold prices, including geopolitical tensions and interest rates. A strong US Dollar generally keeps gold prices lower, while a weaker Dollar can cause prices to rise.

Gold prices in the Philippines have slipped, with rates down from the previous day’s figures. A dip like this often catches the attention of traders who track precious metals closely. For those dealing in derivatives, these movements are more than just numbers—they mean adjusting positions and reassessing strategies.

With the gold price per gram sitting lower, it’s clear that outside pressures are influencing the market. Interest rates and geopolitical uncertainties often drive gold price fluctuations, but the role of the US Dollar is just as important. When the Dollar strengthens, gold tends to become less attractive, making it cheaper in other currencies. On the flip side, a weakening Dollar can push prices higher, as gold becomes a preferred safe-haven asset.

What stands out now is the US Dollar’s impact. If it continues to hold strong, gold prices may stay under pressure. However, if the Dollar starts to weaken due to policy changes or economic trends, we could see a rebound. Traders will be watching for any signs of shifting sentiment, particularly from central banks and policymakers.

Right now, looking at interest rate expectations will be just as useful as tracking gold price charts. If there’s any indication that rates might be adjusted, it could change the entire picture. Lower interest rates generally benefit gold, since non-yielding assets like gold become relatively more attractive compared to bonds or other interest-bearing investments.

For those trading derivatives, price swings like this call for a careful approach. Markets don’t move in straight lines, and gold often reacts quickly to news. Staying alert to global developments will be essential in the weeks ahead, especially as economic data continues to shape expectations.

Seeing gold prices take a hit in the Philippines might raise concerns for some, but for traders, it’s more about planning the next move rather than reacting to short-term shifts. If patterns emerge that suggest further declines or a possible bounce, traders will need to position themselves accordingly.