ASX Anticipates Gains as Trump Temporarily Eases Tariff Tensions
ASX Anticipates Gains as Trump Temporarily Eases Tariff Tensions
0
The information on this website is general in nature and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Consider seeking personal advice from a licensed adviser before acting on any information.
Australian stocks are poised to follow a positive US market trend, with the S&P-ASX200 futures rising by 6.6% after US President Donald Trump's latest tariff adjustment.
The S&P 500 gained 9.5% after Trump announced a temporary reprieve from tariffs for various countries, aimed at addressing investor apprehensions regarding the global economic implications of aggressive US trade tactics.
In an unexpected move, the US President declared a 90-day suspension of certain new tariffs, with notable exceptions including a hike on Chinese imports to 125%. This was a direct retaliation against China's decision to impose an 84% levy on US goods set to begin on April 10. Although Trump's announcement provided some relief, market participants remain wary about future trade policy directions. Since the broad tariffs were announced earlier in the month, the market endured its steepest four-day decline in five years, dropping over 12%.
Despite lingering uncertainties surrounding tariff policies, investors took advantage of lower stock prices. BMO Private Wealth's chief market strategist, Carol Schleif, mentioned that markets have a natural tendency to rebound after intense periods, similar to a temperamental child calming down after a tantrum. The suspension provides a window for possible negotiations, though companies continue to face unpredictability.
Goldman Sachs withdrew its recession warning, reverting to a moderate economic growth prediction for 2025 following Trump's policy change. Kevin Gordon, a senior investment strategist at Charles Schwab, noted that the market's bounce from oversold levels was logical, yet cautioned against making definitive projections given the volatile policy environment.
In addition, the recent US Treasury's 10-year note auction was successful, indicating strong investor demand with yields close to market expectations, further aiding sentiment. The major US indexes reflected the optimism, with the Nasdaq gaining 12.16% and the Dow Jones up 7.82% by market close.
The forthcoming earnings season should provide further clarity on the effects of tariffs on economic growth, with big names like JPMorgan Chase set to release results soon. Meanwhile, the CBOE Volatility Index saw a significant decline in response to the tariff news, showing decreased market fear.
Further developments are awaited as the Federal Reserve's recent meeting minutes highlighted mixed economic forecasts, mentioning potential challenges of balancing inflation control with growth stimulation. Additionally, a comprehensive consumer price inflation report will be released shortly, potentially offering new insights into inflation trends.
While markets have reacted favorably to the temporary tariff measures, business leaders like Delta Air Lines are exercising caution. The airline reported better-than-expected profits for the first quarter but withdrew its financial guidance for 2025, projecting lower-than-anticipated current-quarter profits amid the uncertain economic landscape.
The Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA), the nation's largest lender, has recently voiced concerns regarding the escalating demand for home loans, suggesting that this surge may be contributing to unsustainable property price increases. CEO Matt Comyn highlighted that while the bank benefits from the current housing credit boom, a more moderate growth rate would better support long-term financial stability and housing affordability. - read more
As of October 1, 2025, the Australian government's expanded First Home Guarantee Scheme has come into effect, introducing significant changes designed to make homeownership more accessible for first-time buyers. Key modifications include the removal of income caps, increased property price limits, and the elimination of restrictions on the number of guarantees available. - read more
In October 2025, Australian home prices experienced their sharpest monthly increase in over two years, with national dwelling values rising by approximately 1.1%, according to data from Cotality. This surge reflects a significant rebound in the housing market, driven by a combination of factors. - read more
Australia's leading banks-Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA), Westpac, National Australia Bank (NAB), and ANZ-are adjusting their mortgage strategies to reduce dependence on mortgage brokers. This move comes as profit margins are squeezed by lower interest rates, rising operational costs, and intensified market competition. - read more
On November 3, 2025, Westpac Banking Corporation announced an agreement to sell its RAMS mortgage portfolio, valued at A$21.4 billion, to a consortium comprising Pepper Money, investment firm KKR, and asset manager PIMCO. The sale is at a slight premium to the gross loan value of the portfolio to be transferred at completion. However, Westpac anticipates incurring a loss on the sale after accounting for transaction costs and other financial adjustments. - read more
Buying a home is a significant milestone for many Australians, but it often involves securing a mortgage, which can be a complex process. An essential part of this process is understanding mortgage insurance. Mortgage insurance is a type of insurance policy that protects lenders from the risk of defaulting borrowers. - read more
When it comes to managing finances, one of the biggest stressors for homeowners is their mortgage. In Australia, many individuals and families struggle with mortgage stress, which can have a significant impact on their overall financial well-being. - read more
Welcome to our comprehensive guide on home loan refinancing. Whether you're a first-time homeowner or a seasoned property investor, understanding the ins and outs of refinancing can save you a significant amount of money and anxiety. - read more
Welcome to our comprehensive guide on navigating the complexities of investment property financing. In Australia, property investment has long been regarded as a favoured strategy for wealth creation and financial security. However, this path comes with its unique set of challenges and risks that must be carefully managed to ensure a successful investment journey. - read more
Need Help Finding a Home Loan?
Get your free home loan eligibility assessment and compare offers tailored
specifically to your circumstances.
All finance quotes are provided free (via our secure server) and without
obligation. We respect your
privacy.
"Mastering Home Loans: Navigating the Australian Mortgage Market"
Negative Amortization: A situation in which the loan payment for any period is less than the interest charged over that period, causing the loan balance to increase.
