Markets Edge Higher as Trump Downplays Recession Fears, Ukraine Truce Hopes Rise
- Stocks steadied in Asia, and futures for US and European markets climbed after President Donald Trump reassured business leaders about economic growth and his plans to accelerate industrial projects.
- S&P 500 and Nasdaq 100 futures gained as Trump dismissed recession concerns, while European contracts rose 1% following Ukraine’s acceptance of a US-backed 30-day ceasefire proposal.
- However, market volatility remains elevated, with Trump’s new steel and aluminum tariffs taking effect Wednesday, fueling trade war concerns.
- The VIX index remains near its highest level since August, reflecting investor uncertainty over tariffs, Fed rate policies, and geopolitical tensions.
- Goldman Sachs cut its US stock market forecast amid slowing economic growth and weakness in the “Magnificent 7” tech stocks.
- Meanwhile, US inflation data due later Wednesday is expected to show persistent price pressures, potentially limiting the Federal Reserve’s ability to cut interest rates.
- In commodities, oil extended gains as the US reduced its global supply forecast, while gold held firm as investors sought safe-haven assets.

Forex Mobile & Desktop App
CDO TRADER
CDO TRADER, our cutting-edge trading platform, follows the technology from the forefront with new features added continuously. Moreover, CDO TRADER is now available for Android and iOS! So it allows you to trade on the go!
Rate Cut Hopes Revived as Inflation Cools in February
- US stocks bounce back following a period of losses, as February’s inflation data comes in lower than expected, easing concerns about prolonged price pressures.
- The S&P 500 and Nasdaq 100 futures rise by 1.3% and 1.7%, respectively, with a tech-led rally driven by strong gains in Tesla and Intel.
- Federal Reserve rate cut expectations remain intact, with markets still pricing in almost three rate cuts in 2025 despite ongoing trade uncertainties.
- Hedge funds reduce risk exposure, with Goldman Sachs reporting the largest hedge fund de-grossing event in four years, indicating a more cautious stance.
- Market volatility remains elevated, with the VIX futures curve showing signs of short-term panic rather than a deep systemic crisis.
- Bitcoin and gold maintain stability, reflecting investor appetite for diversification amid macroeconomic uncertainties.
- Bond markets hold steady, with US 10-year Treasury yields unchanged at 4.29%, while Germany’s 10-year yield edges closer to 3% on expectations of higher debt issuance.
- Energy prices rebound, as WTI crude oil rises 1.5% to $67.23 per barrel, signaling a recovery in risk sentiment.
- What’s Next?: While the latest inflation data provides temporary relief, the market remains highly sensitive to economic indicators and policy developments.