S&P Global’s Chris Williamson cautioned that persistent cost pressures are restraining demand and complicating the Federal Reserve’s policy response. Traders now place a 60% probability on a June rate cut, with as many as three cuts priced in for 2025.
Trade Policy Uncertainty Lingers Despite Diplomatic Engagements
Meanwhile, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent called the current 145% tariff on Chinese imports and 125% on U.S. goods “unsustainable,” signaling openness to restructuring trade terms.
Though no formal resolution has emerged, the White House confirmed 14 ongoing bilateral talks, with broader discussions involving 34 nations scheduled this week.
Economic Events Ahead
Today’s economic docket could further sway market expectations.
At 12:30 PM ET, jobless claims (forecast: 222K) and durable goods orders (forecast: +2.1%) headline the data flow. Existing home sales (2:00 PM ET), natural gas storage (2:30 PM ET), and remarks from Fed’s Kashkari (9:00 PM ET) round out the session.
While President Trump’s reassurance on Fed leadership has helped stabilize investor sentiment, markets remain sensitive to incoming data and policy clarity. The dollar, commodities, and equities are all poised for potential volatility ahead.
