WTI crude futures climbed above $66 per barrel on Friday, extending gains for a second session as optimism over US trade deals lifted market sentiment. Reports suggest the US and EU are nearing an agreement that would impose a 15% tariff on most EU goods, following a similar pact with Japan. Potential trade agreements with India, Mexico, and Brazil are also on the horizon. Expectations that easing trade tensions could bolster global economic growth helped ease concerns over future oil demand. On the supply side, tightening conditions in the global diesel market added further support. The...
Gold hovered around $3,360 per ounce on Friday, following two straight sessions of losses amid easing trade tensions and rising risk appetite. Investors continue to monitor progress in tariff negotiations, with the US and EU reportedly nearing an agreement, shortly after Washington announced a separate deal with Japan. On the economic front, US jobless claims fell for the sixth straight week—the longest stretch of declines since 2022—highlighting labor market strength and reinforcing views that the Fed will hold rates steady next week. Markets are now pricing in fewer than two rate cuts...
The Australian dollar fell to around $0.658 on Friday, extending losses from the previous session as investors remained cautious ahead of key inflation data due next week. Both monthly and quarterly inflation figures are set to be released, which could play a key role in shaping the Reserve Bank of Australia's monetary policy outlook. RBA Governor Michele Bullock recently emphasized that the central bank is reluctant to cut interest rates until there is stronger evidence that inflation is sustainably returning to its 2.5% target, as she defended the RBA's slow and steady...