Asian stocks and U.S. futures fell on Monday amid growing concerns over President Trump’s criticism of the Federal Reserve, persistent tariff uncertainty, and a surge in safe‑haven gold prices—while oil retreated on signs of progress in U.S.–Iran nuclear talks.
Market Snapshot
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U.S. Futures:
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S&P 500 futures: –0.64%
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Nasdaq 100 futures: –0.53%
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Asia Equities:
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Nikkei 225: –1.0%
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KOSPI: Flat
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TAIEX: –1.0%
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CSI 300: +0.2%
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Treasury Yields: 10‑year U.S. yield up 1.7 bps to 4.344%
Fed Independence Under the Microscope
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Presidential Pressure: White House adviser Kevin Hassett confirmed the administration is exploring the removal of Fed Chair Jerome Powell, sparking fears over central bank autonomy.
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Market Impact: Any hint of political interference tends to undermine confidence in U.S. monetary policy, pressuring the dollar and equity sentiment.
Tariff Uncertainty Continues
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Global Trade Tensions: U.S. tariffs on key partners and ongoing trade battles with China keep growth prospects in doubt.
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Investor Caution: Equity markets remain fragile as investors await clarity on whether more levies will be imposed or rolled back.
Safe‑Haven Gold Hits Record
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Gold Price: +1% to $3,370.17/oz—new all‑time high
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YTD Gain: +26% as investors flock to safety amid policy and geopolitical risks.
Oil Retreats on U.S.–Iran Nuclear Progress
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Brent Crude: –1.75% to $66.77/bbl
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WTI: –1.75% to $63.55/bbl
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Driver: U.S. and Iran agreed to draft a framework for a potential nuclear deal, easing supply‑disruption fears.
Earnings Season Kicks Off
This week’s key reports from major U.S. corporates will be closely watched for signs of tariff‑cost pass‑through and consumer resilience:
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Alphabet (GOOGL)
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Intel (INTC)
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Tesla (TSLA)
Stay on top of upcoming earnings dates and past results via the
🔗 Earnings Calendar API from Financial Modeling Prep.
With markets already on edge, this confluence of monetary policy concerns, trade uncertainty, and a turning tide in safe‑haven flows suggests volatility may remain elevated in the days ahead.
