An air of caution lingered across financial markets this morning after the President of the United States, Donald Trump, threatened new tariffs on European goods.

The Trump Administration is proposing new tariffs on about $11 billion in imports from the European Union in response to EU subsidies given to Airbus, which, according to the World Trade Organization, has caused “adverse effects to the United States”. With concerns already elevated over Eurozone growth decelerating, this unfavourable development is the last thing the EU needs right now. Should tensions between the United States and European Union heighten, market players are likely to maintain a safe distance from riskier assets and seek refuge in safe haven investments.

In the currency space, the dollar extended losses against a basket of currencies today despite last Friday’s U.S. jobs report soothing concerns over the health of the largest economy in the world. The dollar is positioned to weaken further amid speculation around the Federal Reserve cutting interest rates by year-end. Much attention will be directed towards the FOMC Minutes scheduled for release on Wednesday, which will be closely scrutinised for more clues on the Fed’s policy path this year. Should the minutes be presented with a dovish touch, this has the potential to weaken the dollar further.

Drama over Brexit is set to remain a major theme in the United Kingdom as the April 12 deadline for exiting the EU looms. With Theresa May set to hold last-minute talks with German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Emmanuel Macron, this will be another wild week for the pound. While the outcome of such talks remains uncertain, it will certainly have a strong impact on sterling. When dealing with Brexit, one should always expect the unexpected and this will remain the mantra until more clarity is provided.

Taking a look at the commodity markets, West Texas Intermediate oil futures hovered near a 2019 high above $64.50 this morning, as escalating tensions in Libya fuelled concerns over further supply disruptions. OPEC’S ongoing supply cuts and U.S. sanctions on Iran and Venezuela have also supported oil prices in recent months. With a depreciating dollar adding to the basket of themes pushing oil prices higher, WTI crude has the potential to challenge $65.00 in the short-to-medium term.

Gold continues to sparkle in the background amid the overall caution and dollar weakness. With concerns over slowing global growth still a major theme and the Fed expected to remain dovish, gold is protected from severe downside shocks. A solid daily close above $1,300 is likely to open a path towards $1,324.

For more information, please visit: FXTM

Disclaimer: This written/visual material is comprised of personal opinions and ideas. The content should not be construed as containing any type of investment advice and/or a solicitation for any transactions. It does not imply an obligation to purchase investment services, nor does it guarantee or predict future performance. FXTM, its affiliates, agents, directors, officers or employees do not guarantee the accuracy, validity, timeliness or completeness of any information or data made available and assume no liability for any loss arising from any investment based on the same.

Risk Warning: CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. You should consider whether you understand how CFDs work and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money.

Any opinions expressed here are the author’s own.

Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only. The content does not provide tax, legal or investment advice or opinion regarding the suitability, value or profitability of any particular security, portfolio or investment strategy. Read our full disclaimer policy here.