The markets continue to face uncertainty due to President Trump’s tax declarations, leading to a slight rise in the US stock market, while a decline is observed in the dollar and oil prices.

On Monday, there were slight increases in the US stock markets, accompanied by decreases in the dollar and oil prices. This movement followed the White House’s decision to exempt smartphones and computers from customs duties. However, President Donald Trump noted the high probability of tariffs still being implemented. While the Dow Jones Index rose by approximately 0.4%, the S&P 500 increased by 0.5% and Nasdaq recorded a 0.3% growth.

The rise, led by technology stocks, was significantly influenced by Apple shares gaining 2.3%. Last week, the S&P 500 had shown a 5.7% increase; however, it remains 5% lower compared to before the “mutual tariffs” announced at the beginning of April.

UNCERTAINTY LINGERS IN THE DOLLAR

The Trump administration’s exemption of 20 product groups from China, constituting 23% of imported products, was viewed positively by manufacturers. However, this development was not sufficient to recover the heavy losses experienced by US bonds last week. The dollar, due to inconsistencies in trade policies, continued to have an unstable trajectory, with the dollar index dropping by 0.2%. Speculations about investors withdrawing from US assets emerged, while Wells Fargo analysts indicated that the US had lost its “growth superiority” and there was reduced global demand for the dollar.

EXPORTS INCREASE IN CHINA

China’s March exports increased by 12.4%, coupled with pre-tariff order growth.

US retail sales and Chinese GDP data will be released this week. On Wednesday, Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell will discuss the economic outlook. It is expected that he will face questions regarding the recent strain in the bond market and potential interest rate cuts.

FOREIGN EXCHANGE POLICIES IN FOCUS IN JAPAN TALKS

In the upcoming trade negotiations between Japan and the US, foreign exchange policies will also be on the agenda. Tokyo is reported to be preparing for the possibility of Washington seeking renewed support. The weakening safe-haven status of the dollar has increased demand for the Japanese yen. While markets react positively to short-term softening in trade wars, the inconsistent messages from the Trump administration are undermining investor confidence. Eyes will be on this week’s economic data releases and Federal Reserve Chairman Powell’s statements. Experts predict that the uncertain environment will persist, hence sharp fluctuations may continue in the markets.