Weekly Summary 17 April 2025: Earnings, ECB, China GDP, Tariff Tensions & Tech

As we approach the weekend, global markets have delivered a whirlwind of developments, from surging corporate earnings to escalating US-China trade tensions impacting currencies and tech stocks. Let’s dive into this week’s key stories that shaped the financial landscape.

Big Week Ahead: Earnings, ECB, and China GDP to Watch

Investors braced for a jam-packed week with major corporate earnings releases, the European Central Bank’s critical monetary policy decision, and the latest China GDP data set to reveal the health of the world's second-largest economy. The combination of corporate results and macroeconomic indicators suggested a volatile trading environment, with sectors like tech and financials under close scrutiny. Catch the full market preview in this detailed market outlook.

German Carmakers Positioned to Benefit from US-Sino Trade Rifts

While tensions between Washington and Beijing continued to flare, German carmakers appeared poised to reap unexpected benefits. Analysts suggested that punitive US tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles could open fresh market opportunities for German brands in both the US and China. This shifting trade landscape could allow European automakers to regain some competitive advantage. Learn more about the potential impacts in this insightful report on German carmakers.

EUR/USD Hits Three-Year Peak Amid Trade War Fears

Amid the thickening tariff tensions, the euro climbed to its highest level against the US dollar in three years. A flight to perceived European stability, combined with concerns about US economic prospects under intensified trade conflicts, pushed currency traders to favour the euro. This surge highlighted just how significantly geopolitical shifts can rattle forex markets. Find the full breakdown in this currency market update.

Nvidia and ASML Caught in Tech Turmoil

The tariff turmoil took a particular toll on the tech sector, with Nvidia suffering notable share price declines and ASML issuing a gloomy forecast. As new US restrictions threatened semiconductor supply chains and Chinese market access, investors grew increasingly jittery about future earnings and sector stability. See how these industry leaders were impacted in this tech sector analysis.

Global Markets Rattled by Tariff and Tech Troubles

Broader equity markets also faltered under the weight of growing tariff tensions and tech sector woes. Key indices wobbled as investors reassessed valuations and risks in an increasingly protectionist global economy. Technology stocks, particularly those reliant on international supply chains, bore the brunt of the volatility. Explore the market repercussions in this global market review.

Conclusion:

This week painted a complex picture of opportunity and risk across global markets. Earnings optimism was tempered by rising geopolitical anxieties, as trade wars influenced currencies, tech stocks, and even traditional sectors like automotive. With central banks and corporations set to deliver more key updates, market watchers will need to stay nimble heading into next week.

TL;DR FAQs

What were the main events impacting markets this week?

Earnings season, the ECB meeting, China GDP figures, and escalating US-Sino tariff tensions were the key drivers.

How did tariffs affect tech companies like Nvidia and ASML?

New trade restrictions hit semiconductor companies hard, prompting profit warnings and stock declines.

Why did the EUR/USD pair surge?

Investors shifted towards the euro amid growing US economic uncertainty fuelled by trade war concerns.