AUS
NZ
UK
CA
USA
IND
Highlights:
FTSE 100 set for a lower open following tariff developments
Major technology stocks in the US showed upward movement
Crude oil prices influenced by new tariff threats
The London stock market is positioned for a lower opening following recent tariff threats from the United States. The FTSE 100 is expected to experience a dip after closing slightly down in the previous session. Wall Street, in contrast, showed gains in major indices driven by renewed optimism in the technology sector.
US Market Influence The US market ended positively, with prominent technology stocks posting notable advances. Tesla led the gains with a strong performance, while Nvidia and Apple also saw improvements. This came after reports that US tariffs may be implemented selectively rather than applied across multiple industries. New tariffs are expected to focus on sectors such as automobiles, aluminium, and pharmaceuticals, with certain industries facing reduced or exempted rates.
Currency and Commodities The pound showed improvement against the dollar, while the euro maintained stability. In Asia, the in Sydney closed slightly higher, while Japan’s Nikkei index experienced modest gains. Meanwhile, Hong Kong's Hang Seng index faced a decline.
Gold prices saw an uptick, continuing the positive trend from the previous session. Crude oil prices remained near the upper range, reflecting concerns about reduced Venezuelan oil supplies following newly announced tariff measures.
Tariff Developments and Impact The US government has confirmed new tariffs targeting importers of Venezuelan oil and gas. These measures are expected to take effect soon and could influence trade relations with key buyers like China and India. The announcement contributed to elevated oil prices, which remain close to established resistance levels.
Corporate and Economic Updates Among key corporate announcements, Kingfisher and AG Barr are set to publish annual results. Meanwhile, Ocado Group is scheduled to issue a trading statement.
On the economic calendar, US housing market data and consumer confidence updates are expected, with additional insights from the Richmond Fed manufacturing index.
