Key Takeaways
- Implied volatility for S&P 500 options is elevated, with markets watching the upcoming Core PCE Price Index and US unemployment data for potential impacts.
- President Trump’s reciprocal tariffs, set to take effect on April 2, are expected to disrupt global trade, affecting key sectors like autos, semiconductors, and commodities.
- US stocks have rebounded from recent lows, led by tech giants such as Nvidia and Apple, though concerns remain about overheated valuations and weak corporate earnings.
- Apple is developing AI-powered smartwatches with built-in cameras, while Nvidia prepares major AI announcements at its upcoming GTC conference. Google completed its largest-ever acquisition, purchasing Wiz for $32 billion.
- Geopolitical tensions are rising, with Israel resuming fighting in Gaza, protests erupting in Turkey, and President Trump preparing for ceasefire talks with Vladimir Putin over the Ukraine conflict.
IPO’s in the week
- Baiya International Group, a cloud-based HR tech company, offers crowdsourcing recruitment and SaaS solutions through its Gongwuyuan Platform. It will debut on Nasdaq at $4.00 per share with 2.5 million shares on March 21, 2025, to support growth and innovation.
- Gesher Acquisition II (GSHRU), a blank check company based in Denver, CO, was founded on August 30, 2024, to pursue mergers, asset acquisitions, or similar business combinations. It will list on Nasdaq at $10.00 per share, offering 12.5 million shares on March 21, 2025.
- RedCloud Holdings (RCT) operates the RedCloud platform, enabling the trading of fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) across business supply chains. The company will list on Nasdaq at $4.50 per share, offering 4.4 million shares on March 21, 2025.
- Quartzsea Acquisition Corporation (QSEAU) is a blank check company focused on mergers, share exchanges, asset acquisitions, or similar business combinations. It will list on Nasdaq at $10.00 per share, offering 6 million shares on March 18, 2025.
Markets this week
- Implied volatility for S&P 500 Index options is elevated for March 31 and April 4, signaling greater demand for protection against big market swings. Investors are closely monitoring the Core PCE Price Index release and monthly US unemployment data for potential market impacts.
- US stocks rebounded from recent lows, powered by tech megacaps like Nvidia and Apple. However, concerns about a damaging US trade war and downbeat corporate earnings persist.
- The current stock market volatility has raised fears reminiscent of the dot-com bubble collapse 25 years ago, as investors grapple with overheated valuations and economic uncertainty.
- Prime Minister Mark Carney is expected to launch an election campaign focused on addressing economic challenges posed by President Trump’s trade war, with Canada facing threats of ‘economic force.’
- Downbeat earnings reports from companies like FedEx and Nike have fanned fresh concerns about inflation and tariffs, causing global stocks to stumble.
- President Trump’s reciprocal tariffs set for April 2 are expected to disrupt global trade, with implications for key sectors like autos, semiconductors, and commodities.
- Goldman Sachs’ Lotfi Karoui emphasized opportunities in emerging markets during the recent US selloff, highlighting potential growth outside the US.
- Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell reassured investors that drastic action may not be necessary despite trade war uncertainties, boosting market sentiment in Asia.
- Earnings declines from major corporations reflect broader economic struggles as inflation and tariffs weigh on profitability across industries.
- Elevated market volatility continues as investors brace for tariff impacts and key economic data releases in the coming weeks.
Politics Weekly
- Benjamin Netanyahu’s cabinet initiated steps to dismiss Israel’s attorney general, sparking nationwide protests over judicial oversight and democracy concerns.
- President Trump is set to discuss Ukraine ceasefire terms with Vladimir Putin amid rising tensions in Eastern Europe.
- Israel resumed fighting in Gaza after a two-month ceasefire with Hamas ended, raising concerns about regional stability.
- Trump’s reciprocal tariffs are set to impact global trade dynamics, with countries negotiating to minimize disruptions ahead of the April 2 deadline.
- Canadian leaders aim to address economic threats posed by Trump’s trade war during the upcoming election campaign.
- European leaders express concern that Trump may concede too much during talks with Putin, potentially leaving Ukraine vulnerable.
- Allies continue to push for increased sanctions on Russia as part of efforts to secure a ceasefire in Ukraine.
- Diplomatic efforts between the US and Russia remain strained as both sides seek solutions to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
- Turkish President Erdogan’s arrest of his political rival has sparked protests across the country, raising questions about political stability.
- Renewed fighting in Gaza has heightened tensions in the region as international calls for peace grow louder.
Technology Advancements this week
- Apple is developing smartwatches with cameras and AI features, entering the growing AI wearables market while addressing Siri-related setbacks.
- Nvidia’s upcoming GTC conference will showcase advancements in AI technologies, including new chip upgrades and partnerships.
- Google finalized its acquisition of Wiz for $32 billion, marking its largest-ever purchase despite regulatory challenges.
- FTC Chairman Andrew Ferguson outlined plans to address antitrust concerns surrounding major tech firms during Trump’s administration.
- BYD introduced a revolutionary EV battery system capable of charging vehicles within minutes, challenging Tesla’s dominance.
- Apple launched the iPhone 16e while effectively exiting the budget smartphone segment to focus on premium devices.
- Apple’s exploration into AI-powered wearable devices signals growth opportunities in the AI wearables market.
- Major tech firms are increasing investments in AI technologies as competition intensifies across sectors like robotics and cybersecurity.
- Nvidia is prioritizing AI inference technologies to enhance efficiency and maintain its leadership position in the industry.
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