Major currency markets witnessed notable movements during the week:

• EUR/USD: The pair saw a slight rise to 1.1450, supported by European Central Bank statements emphasizing the continuation of accommodative policies amid concerns over economic slowdown in the Eurozone.

• USD/JPY: The pair dropped to 139.25, driven by increased demand for the yen as a safe haven due to geopolitical tensions arising in certain regions of Asia.

• GBP/USD: The pair climbed to 1.3450, supported by a surprising improvement in UK economic data and market expectations of a potential interest rate hike by the Bank of England.

• AUD/USD: The pair reached 0.6420, influenced by waves of optimism regarding increased Australian exports following improved trade relations with Southeast Asian markets.

Gold Prices
Gold prices fluctuated during the week, moving within a range of $3,250 to $3,400 per ounce:

• At the beginning of the week, prices rose to $3,350 per ounce, supported by growing demand for gold as a safe haven amid stock market volatility and geopolitical threats.

• As political tensions eased in some regions of the world, prices slightly declined to $3,300, while markets awaited further information regarding the monetary policies of major central banks.

• Outlook: Gold prices are expected to maintain an upward trend in the medium term, with a potential to reach higher levels in the third quarter of 2025.

Oil Prices
Oil prices rose during the week, supported by market optimism regarding progress in trade talks between the United States and China:

• Brent Crude: Rose to $64.34 per barrel, marking a 0.67% increase.

• West Texas Intermediate (WTI): Rose to $61.50 per barrel, registering a 0.79% gain.

This increase reflects improved global oil demand expectations, despite the ongoing plans by OPEC+ to raise production during May and June.

Political Tensions and Their Impact on Markets

• Middle East: Rising tensions between some countries in the region indirectly impacted currency and gold markets.

• U.S.–China Trade Relations: Talks saw progress, leading to improved investor sentiment and supporting the U.S. dollar.

• Latin America: Continued political crises in certain countries affected emerging market investments and prompted investors to reassess their portfolios.

Future Outlook

• Forex Markets: Volatility is expected to continue, with investor focus on economic data and central bank monetary policies.

• Gold Prices: Further increases may occur if geopolitical tensions and inflationary pressures persist.

• Oil Prices: Prices may continue rising if trade negotiations between the U.S. and China progress, while markets closely monitor the impact of OPEC+ production increases.