Uncertainty Persists in Markets Due to Trump: US Stocks Slightly Rise, Dollar and Oil Decline

Markets continue to face uncertainty due to US President Trump’s tax statements, resulting in a slight rise in the US stock market, while a decline is observed in the dollar and oil prices.
On Monday, a mild increase was seen in the US stock market, accompanied by a decrease in the dollar and oil prices. This movement followed the decision of the White House to exempt smartphones and computers from customs tariffs, though President Donald Trump still indicated a high likelihood of tariffs being imposed. While the Dow Jones Index rose by around 0.4%, the S&P 500 increased by 0.5%, and the Nasdaq registered a 0.3% rise.
The rise, led by technology shares, was particularly influenced by a 2.3% increase in Apple shares. Last week, the S&P 500 showed a 5.7% increase, which, however, remains 5% lower compared to before the announced “mutual tariffs” in early April. UNCERTAINTY PERSISTS IN THE DOLLAR
The decision of the Trump administration to exempt 20 product groups, forming 23% of products imported from China, from tariffs was seen as a positive step for producers. However, this development was not enough to recover US bonds that experienced heavy losses last week. Due to inconsistency in trade policies, the dollar continued to follow an unstable path, with the dollar index falling by 0.2%. Analysts from Wells Fargo mentioned the accelerated withdrawal of investors from US assets, stating that the US lost its “growth dominance” and global demand for the dollar decreased. EXPORTS INCREASE IN CHINA
In March, China witnessed a 12.4% increase in exports, supported by pre-tariff order increases.
US retail sales and Chinese GDP data will be released this week. On Wednesday, Fed Chairman Jerome Powell will discuss the economic outlook and is expected to face questions about the recent stress in the bond market and potential interest rate cuts. CURRENCY POLICIES IN FOCUS IN JAPAN TALKS
In the upcoming trade talks between Japan and the US, currency policies will be a central topic. Tokyo is reportedly preparing for the possibility of Washington seeking renewed support. The weakening of the dollar’s safe-haven status has increased demand for the Japanese yen. While short-term relaxation in trade wars is positively received in markets, the inconsistent messages from the Trump administration undermine investor confidence. The focus will be on economic data to be released this week and on statements from Fed Chairman Powell. Experts predict the continuation of the uncertain environment, suggesting that sharp fluctuations may persist in the markets.