US crude oil inventories increased by 3,614,000 barrels, surpassing the anticipated 341,000. The previous week saw a decline of 2,332,000 barrels.

Gasoline inventories fell by 1,433,000 barrels, compared to the expected drop of 369,000. Distillate stocks decreased by 1,318,000 barrels, while a rise of 220,000 was forecasted.

Refinery utilisation decreased by 0.6%, contrary to an expected increase of 0.2%. Late private data reported a decline in crude oil of 1,455,000 barrels and gasoline of 1,249,000, while distillates increased by 1,136,000 barrels.

Wti Crude Prices Drop

WTI crude oil priced at $65.93 today, marking the lowest level since September. US production is expected to decline this year if prices remain at this level.

A sharp rise in crude inventories suggests weaker demand or stronger supply than anticipated. The stockpile increase of over 3.6 million barrels is far beyond the expected build, which was just over 300,000. In contrast, the previous week saw a drawdown, making this shift more pronounced. When crude stocks grow at this pace, it often indicates that refineries are not processing as much, exports are slower, or production is outpacing consumption. This change in supply dynamics affects short-term pricing and market sentiment.

Petrol inventories continued their downward movement, shedding over 1.4 million barrels, which was a much steeper drop than projected. With distillates also falling when an increase was expected, it points to either stronger-than-predicted consumption or supply chain adjustments. The fact that refinery utilisation edged down rather than increasing adds another layer of constraint. If refineries are cutting back on output, it suggests a pullback in margins or a shift in operational plans.

Market Reactions And Forecasts

Private data released earlier had forecasted a crude drawdown, but government figures contradicted this. Such discrepancies are not unusual but can shape reactions when markets open to fresh data. Private reports pointed to a decline in crude and petrol but showed that distillates had grown. When official numbers move in the opposite direction to industry expectations, it adds uncertainty and can lead to quick shifts in pricing strategies.

With WTI crude slipping below $66, its lowest since September, pressure on US producers rises. If prices remain near these levels, production growth forecasts may be revised downward. Lower pricing discourages expansion, particularly for operations with higher extraction costs. Should this persist, supply adjustments may follow, though the timing would depend on broader economic indicators and policy shifts. When storage builds and demand signals soften, price recoveries can take longer.

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WTI crude oil prices have fallen below $66, marking the first occurrence since September. This week has experienced a notable decline of $4 in crude oil, with around half of that drop happening today.

The decrease has brought prices near the September 2024 low of $65.27, potentially leading to further reductions towards the 2023 spike lows. If these levels are breached, prices could approach those seen during the pandemic in 2021.

Opec Output Decision

OPEC+ is considering its decision to increase output by 170,000 barrels per day for April, as profits from this additional oil may be outweighed by the current price fall.

This latest price movement indicates a shift in the market that requires attention. The drop below $66 is not just a number—it represents a break in a level that had held firm for months. Given that crude is now near the lowest point seen in September, further declines may be on the horizon. If that threshold fails to hold, attention will turn to levels last tested in 2023. A failure there would bring prices into territory not seen since the pandemic-era volatility of 2021.

With OPEC+ weighing whether to proceed with an increase of 170,000 barrels per day in April, its decision carries added weight. The intention behind raising output was based on an expectation of steady or higher prices, yet the recent downturn may prompt a reassessment. Additional supply in a fragile market could add more downward pressure, especially when current prices already challenge some producers’ profit margins.

We have seen a steady stream of macroeconomic data that supports this downward move. Recent indications of slower global demand, compounded by a stronger dollar, add layers of pressure. Refiners are also adjusting their buying behaviour, with some holding off purchases in anticipation of further price weakness. This all contributes to a short-term outlook where buyers are hesitant, weighing the risks of stepping in too early against the possibility of even lower levels ahead.

Technical Market Outlook

Technical factors offer little reassurance at this stage. Current pricing has already tested a major support zone, yet momentum favours the downside. If sellers maintain control, another wave lower becomes increasingly possible. The next target rests in the 2023 low range, with further breaks potentially opening the door to levels reminiscent of the drastic declines witnessed in 2021.

Market participants should closely monitor OPEC+ discussions, as any shift in planned production levels could alter the near-term direction. The ability of producers to adjust to the latest drop will be critical in shaping what comes next. For now, the price movement suggests heightened caution among buyers, while sellers remain emboldened by the downward trend.

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The Governor of the Bank of England, Andrew Bailey, indicated that a soft economy makes the likelihood of second-round effects on inflation less probable. He anticipates a rise in inflation, although not to the levels observed in previous years.

Additionally, BOE Chief Economist Huw Pill noted that existing evidence does not support a rapid reduction in the bank rate. He mentioned that successful disinflation could lead to rate cuts later in the year, but the extent and timing of these cuts will depend on the evolution of inflation risks.

Economic Weakness And Inflation Risks

Bailey’s comments suggest that the current weakness in economic activity reduces the possibility of inflation becoming entrenched due to higher wages or persistent price increases. This implies that monetary policymakers may not need to maintain restrictive measures for as long as previously feared. Still, with inflationary pressures expected to pick up again, albeit at a slower pace, interest rate discussions will remain highly dependent on incoming data.

Pill’s remarks reinforce this view, emphasising that while inflation is subsiding, it has not yet retreated far enough to justify a swift easing of monetary policy. His statement acknowledges progress but also underscores the need for caution. If inflation risks fade in the coming months, the discussion around lowering borrowing costs will become more relevant. However, there remains considerable uncertainty around timing, making it clear that traders should not expect an immediate shift.

Taken together, these perspectives highlight the ongoing tension between inflation control and economic weakness. Market participants must carefully assess forthcoming data to gauge when policymakers might feel comfortable easing financial conditions. Although disinflation has materialised, policymakers remain wary of moving too soon and potentially reigniting price pressures. As a result, expectations for rate adjustments must be aligned with actual progress in curbing inflation rather than assumptions of a fixed roadmap.

Market Volatility And Policy Signals

In the short term, volatility is likely to persist as traders react to inflation readings, economic output figures, and policymakers’ guidance. Signals from decision-makers suggest that while rate cuts remain on the table for later this year, they will only materialise if inflation does not rebound in a way that forces the central bank to hold firm. Assessing the timing of monetary policy shifts requires a thorough understanding of how inflation trends interplay with growth concerns. Any misalignment between expectations and policy actions could introduce sharp price swings in rate-sensitive instruments.

While economic softness offers some reassurance that second-round inflation effects will not take hold, the risk has not entirely disappeared. If wages grow too quickly or supply chain disruptions re-emerge, policymakers may hesitate to loosen policy, leaving markets to adjust accordingly. The coming weeks present a balancing act between inflation’s trajectory and economic stability, with decisions likely to remain driven by incoming economic signals rather than predetermined paths.

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Today’s stock market shows strong gains in the technology sector, particularly among semiconductor firms, while energy stocks are experiencing declines.

Nvidia (NVDA) rose by 1.40% and Broadcom (AVGO) increased by 2.15%, reflecting positive sentiment towards technological development despite previous supply challenges.

Energy Sector Declines

In contrast, Chevron (CVX) and Exxon Mobil (XOM) fell by 1.10% and 1.54%, respectively, amid fluctuating oil prices and demand issues affecting the sector.

Meta (META) gained 0.52% due to burgeoning social media engagement, while Google (GOOG) climbed by 0.29%.

The market sentiment remains optimistic, with digital innovation driving growth, although energy sector fluctuations pose concerns over inflation.

Considering the performance of semiconductors, increasing exposure in this sector may be advantageous.

Current uncertainties in oil prices suggest caution regarding energy investments, while diversification within communication services could provide stability.

The upward movement in semiconductor stocks highlights confidence in technological progress, despite previous concerns over supply constraints. Nvidia and Broadcom have both posted gains, reinforcing the idea that demand remains strong for advanced computing solutions. This suggests that investors are increasingly favouring industries poised for expansion rather than those tied to commodities with unpredictable price shifts.

Meanwhile, the pullback in energy stocks follows ongoing volatility in crude oil prices. Declines in Chevron and Exxon Mobil indicate that investors may be adjusting expectations based on concerns about supply and demand imbalances. Sharp movements in oil prices often lead to broader discussions about inflationary pressures, as fluctuations in fuel costs impact multiple industries. This is worth monitoring, as any persistent weakness in energy stocks could suggest further reassessments of the industry’s outlook.

In the communication sector, Meta’s moderate increase reflects continued engagement across its platforms, while Google’s smaller advance signals steady investor confidence. Although gains here are more subdued, consistent momentum in digital advertising and online activity still makes communication services an area of opportunity. Stability in these stocks, even as broader market conditions shift, provides favourable conditions for those seeking lower volatility.

Investment Considerations

Given the strength of semiconductors, exposure to technology appears increasingly appealing. The sector has demonstrated resilience, and recent movements suggest that capital flowing into these stocks is not slowing. As a result, continued allocation towards these firms could offer benefits, particularly in an environment where innovation remains a major driver of performance.

On the other hand, uncertainty in oil markets calls for a cautious approach to energy holdings. Sharp declines in key players should not be ignored, as they reflect ongoing reassessments of future demand. Keeping a balanced portfolio remains preferable, especially with variable factors influencing commodity markets.

For those looking to maintain stability, diversification within digital services could provide a way to manage exposure while still participating in parts of the economy demonstrating steady progress. Communication firms have maintained investor interest, even without dramatic increases, which reinforces their value as part of a well-rounded set of holdings.

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The Bank of England’s Greene has indicated that persistent inflation is unlikely to decrease without intervention. He supports a cautious approach to removing monetary stimulus, suggesting monetary policy may need to remain strict.

This year is expected to show above-target inflation for the fifth consecutive time. Greene emphasised the importance of clear communications regarding monetary policy changes and noted the risks of second-round effects from inflation.

Ongoing Trends Towards Deflation

He discussed ongoing trends towards deflation and mentioned that every Monetary Policy Committee meeting will be crucial. Wage direction remains unclear, and there may be a larger output gap than previously estimated.

Greene’s comments reinforce the position that stricter monetary conditions may be necessary for longer than some had expected. With inflation persistently above target, the risk of loosening policy too soon becomes apparent. Price pressures have proven stubborn, and any premature adjustment in rates could allow inflation to embed itself further into wages and broader pricing mechanisms.

The reference to second-round effects highlights a particular concern: inflation does not simply exist in isolation but instead feeds into expectations, wage-setting, and business costs. If firms continue to raise prices in response to higher labour costs, the cycle becomes harder to break. There is, therefore, a clear argument for maintaining restrictive measures until sufficient evidence emerges that inflation trends are firmly under control.

Deflationary trends, however, introduce an additional layer of complexity. While headline inflation remains elevated, certain sectors are showing signs of cooling. The challenge lies in distinguishing between short-term fluctuations and a broader shift in dynamics. If deflationary pressures grow, policymakers could find themselves facing competing risks—tightening too much could suppress growth, yet easing prematurely would undermine the progress made in fighting inflation.

Impact Of Wage Growth And Output Gap

Much of this will come down to data emerging over the next few months. Wage growth remains an open question. While some indicators point to moderation, others still suggest a system catching up to past price increases. If wage pressures persist, it will be harder to justify shifting towards a looser stance.

The mention of a potentially larger output gap also carries weight. If estimations have indeed been too conservative, that would imply there is unused capacity in the system, which could act as a dampener on inflation. That said, revisions to such estimates tend to take time, and betting too heavily on them before clearer signals appear would be risky.

Each policy meeting in the near future is set to be highly consequential. Adjustments in rates or guidance could shift expectations quickly, and any misstep in communication risks unsettling markets. That makes clarity in messaging particularly important. Traders will need to parse not only decisions but also the language used to justify them, as even the slightest indication of changing priorities could have immediate effects.

For now, caution appears to be the prevailing sentiment, and warnings about inflation persistence should not be overlooked. The balance between maintaining discipline and avoiding unnecessary economic slowdown will require careful judgement, and responses will need to be grounded in clear signals rather than guesswork.

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The Supreme Court has reinstated an order mandating foreign-aid payments authorised by Congress, with a decision passed by a vote of 5-4. This ruling challenges the perception that former President Trump can act unchecked due to perceived support from the Court.

The ruling may set the stage for ongoing conflicts between the legal system and the actions taken by Trump. This case reinforces the notion that judicial review remains essential in overseeing executive authority.

Presidential Authority And Legal Oversight

This decision highlights a fundamental check on presidential authority. The Court’s majority upheld a congressional directive, reaffirming that appropriated funds must be allocated as intended, even when the executive branch resists. A ruling like this not only upholds legislative power but also signals to future administrations that statutory obligations cannot be dismissed at will.

Roberts and the justices who sided with him have made it apparent that deference to executive power has limits. The outcome underscores that adherence to enacted law is not optional. While some may have assumed that a Court with a conservative majority would broadly favour actions taken by Trump, this vote disrupts that assumption.

The dissenting justices argued that the judiciary should not override presidential discretion in matters touching on foreign affairs. Their position suggests concerns over excessive judicial intervention in the responsibilities of the executive branch. However, the majority insisted that when Congress earmarks funds for a specific purpose, failing to distribute them contradicts established legal obligations.

This ruling introduces another layer of complexity for those assessing institutional authority and the balance between branches of government. Predictability in judicial decisions is vital, particularly in matters involving fiscal directives. Any belief that legal challenges against unfulfilled legislative mandates would be dismissed outright is now under strain.

Implications For Future Governance

Markets have already responded to the uncertainty this generates. Federal spending directives can have broad effects, particularly when funds are blocked or redirected. Those with vested interests in policy-driven financial shifts should consider how judicial enforcement of spending laws may alter expectations.

The ruling also raises further questions about how the Court will approach future disputes concerning executive resistance to legislative controls. The judiciary has now demonstrated that unilateral actions disregarding clear legal directives will not be automatically endorsed. That precedent may inform subsequent challenges involving executive authority beyond fiscal considerations.

Those evaluating volatility tied to political and legal factors should reassess previous assumptions. The assumption that legal objections to executive decisions would fail to gain traction is no longer a given. If further cases follow this pattern, expectations regarding executive flexibility may need re-evaluating.

For now, attention will remain on how the administration navigates this judicially enforced obligation. Compliance, delay, or the search for alternative justifications could each carry distinct implications. Observers should closely follow any steps taken in response, as each could shift the outlook on executive influence over legislated financial commitments.

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The USDCAD is currently experiencing volatile movements following similar patterns this week. It has struggled to maintain momentum above the 61.8% retracement level of 1.4547 and remains within a “Red Box” consolidation zone between 1.4268 and 1.4471.

Key resistance is noted at the upper boundary of this range, aligning with the 50% midpoint of the 2025 trading range. The 100-hour moving average at 1.44487 may serve as an intraday pivot, while support levels include 1.4366 and the rising 200-hour MA at 1.4354, which if breached could shift focus lower.

Market Conditions And Boundaries

Market conditions provide clear boundaries for traders, indicating potential breakout points. While early-week buying was prominent, selling pressure has returned, raising questions about the sustainability of this trend.

The trading range outlined earlier remains a focal point. With price action still fluctuating within this zone, traders will need to consider whether momentum is truly building or if this is merely a temporary consolidation phase before another directional move. The earlier failure to sustain levels beyond the 61.8% retracement at 1.4547 indicates hesitation, and without stronger buying interest, it will be difficult for upward continuation to establish control.

Resistance at the upper boundary of 1.4471 keeps a lid on advances, and given that this aligns closely with the 50% midpoint of the broader 2025 range, many will be watching for reactions around this mark. It remains a technical hurdle, and without a decisive break higher, any bullish attempts risk falling back into familiar territory. The 100-hour moving average at 1.44487 remains an area of interest for intraday movement, as brief recoveries could be capped there if seller pressure persists.

On the downside, clear levels have already emerged. The 1.4366 support, together with the rising 200-hour moving average at 1.4354, offers a structural floor. If sellers push below, attention naturally shifts towards lower targets, potentially drawing more selling interest into play. Breaching both of these levels would undermine current consolidation and provide reason to reassess expectations.

Trader Sentiment And Outlook

The market has highlighted clear boundaries, with price action respecting technical markers for much of the week. Early strength hinted at potential continuation, but renewed selling interest has cast doubt on the sustainability of that move. Watching how price behaves around these levels in the coming days will be essential, as failure to regain lost ground could embolden those favouring lower prices.

The hesitancy near resistance suggests buyers may need stronger conviction before they can mount a lasting push higher. Sellers have demonstrated their willingness to step in, and as long as this remains the case, upside progress may continue to struggle against overhead pressure. Whether the coming sessions bring another breakout attempt or a deeper retracement will depend heavily on how the market treats these well-defined levels.

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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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