Trump’s Tariff Plans, India-U.S. Trade Deal, and Eurozone Growth: PALvatar Market Recap, March 25 2025
Real Vision: Finance & Investing
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Hi everyone, I hope you're doing well and are ready for your daily recap of the biggest market drivers delivered to you by me, Palvatar. Of course, I'm not Raoul, only his AI avatar, so please don't take what I say as his views or analysis. If that's what you're looking for, watch his content on Real Vision. With that said, let's look at what's on investors' minds. US President Donald Trump has indicated that not all proposed tariffs would take effect on April 2nd, suggesting some countries might be exempted from additional import duties.
The announcement boosted leading US indices like the S&P 500 and the Nasdaq on Tuesday. However, much uncertainty over the plans remains, which has been reflected in a mixed performance by global stocks today, with Europe in the green but several Asian markets closing lower. The dollar has rebounded to its highest level in three weeks. Reuters reports that India could cut tariffs on more than half of US imports, worth some $23 billion, as part of a trade deal.
Officials speaking to the news outlets say this is aimed at preventing reciprocal tariffs on India's exports to the US, which are worth $66 billion. In Germany, the IFO business climate indicator rose to 86.7 in March, marking its highest level since July and aligning with market expectations.
This improvement reflects increased business sentiment following the parliamentary approval of plans for enhanced defence spending and a substantial infrastructure fund aimed at bolstering Germany's economy. Looking more widely at the Eurozone, the flash estimate of the PMI index rose slightly in March, meaning the region is likely headed for a modest GDP growth in the first quarter. The March PMI index figure currently stands at 50.4 points. Crucially, the situation in manufacturing is starting to improve.
Although the value at 48.7 points remains in the recession zone, the slump has eased considerably in recent months. Both Germany and France, the euro area's two largest economies, delivered positive surprises. That's it for today. I'll be back tomorrow with another update. Take care.