Markets Edge Higher Amid Economic Uncertainty and Tariff Concerns

• Global markets started the week positively with US stock futures rising and the dollar showing mixed movements. The S&P 500 futures climbed 0.6%, and Nasdaq 100 futures rose by 0.8%. This comes against a backdrop of looming tariffs set to be enacted on April 2, which have caused significant concern among investors.
• The biggest issue facing the market is whether the current economic slowdown in the US will stabilize at this level or lead to a recession. Indicators such as retail spending, consumer confidence, and business earnings pointed to a weakening economic landscape, with significant doubts about consumer resilience amidst policy uncertainty.
• Stock performances reflect these concerns as companies like FedEx and Nike have shown disappointing earnings projections. In contrast, global trade tensions, particularly Trump's tariff policies, loom large, adding layers of complexity to the investment climate.
• Given these dynamics, investors are likely to focus on upcoming economic data releases and company earnings as they reassess their portfolios' risk and exposure.