Market Relief? U.S. Stocks Rebound as Trump Weighs Tariff Rollbacks

Overview:

1. Market Reaction & Volatility – The introduction of tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China triggered a sell-off in U.S. stock indices, with the VIX spiking above 15%, signaling increased market fear and uncertainty.
2. Trump’s Tariff Relief Consideration – President Trump is evaluating potential tariff reductions, particularly for the automobile sector, with implications for stocks like GM, Ford, and Stellantis. Trade adjustments are also linked to USMCA compliance and efforts to curb fentanyl imports.
3. Technical Analysis & Market Outlook – Major indices (Dow Jones, Nasdaq, S&P 500) are at key support levels, awaiting clarity on tariff policy. If relief is confirmed, a potential bullish reversal may occur; otherwise, further downside risks remain.

Market Reaction to Tariffs

Earlier this week, on March 4, tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China sent shockwaves through the financial markets, triggering a significant sell-off.

US indices have struggled amid geopolitical uncertainty, with President Trump’s trade decisions influencing global market sentiment.

Volatility Index (VIX) Surges

Market fear spiked as the VIX soared over 15%, nearing the critical level of 20, which historically signals heightened risk-off sentiment in U.S. markets and risk-on appetite for foreign assets.

Tariff Relief Consideration

President Donald Trump is expected to announce revisions to tariffs on Canada and Mexico, potentially providing relief to key industries.

• Potential Tariff Reductions: While some sectors will remain subject to the 25% tariff hike, others, such as automobiles, may receive exemptions.
• USMCA Compliance: Relief will be granted to products that align with USMCA trade regulations.
• Stock Market Reaction: Shares of GM, Ford, and Stellantis surged in response to reports of possible tariff easing.
• Link to Fentanyl Crackdown: Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick linked the tariffs to the administration’s broader strategy to curb fentanyl imports while hinting at further trade actions in April.

Technical Analysis of Major U.S. Indices

DJI: Testing Discount Levels

The Dow Jones Industrial Average is stabilizing after a multi-day selloff, with investors hoping for trade policy relief.

• The index remains below key moving averages, indicating a resistance-heavy path upward.
• A break above the 4-hour range and confirmation from the moving averages would signal a potential bullish reversal.
• Failure to hold above the resistance could lead to a continued decline toward the 41,732.75 level.

NAS: Holding 20,514.65 Support

The Nasdaq Composite is currently testing a critical support level, with no clear signs of continuation.

• The index has paused its decline for two days, suggesting indecision among traders.
• A sustained break of the 4-hour resistance and confirmation from moving averages could trigger an upward move.
• If trade relief is confirmed, expect a bullish breakout; otherwise, further downside remains possible.

S&P: Sweeping Lows for Support

The S&P 500 tested its previous low at 5,767.04, searching for potential support.

• The index is in a critical range, awaiting confirmation of direction.
• A break below 5,731.94 could indicate further downside.
• If support holds, a potential upside move is likely.

With ongoing trade tensions and tariff uncertainties, the U.S. stock market remains at a crossroads. Investors are closely watching Trump’s decision, as it could dictate market sentiment in the coming weeks. A well-defined break of key levels in the major indices will provide clearer signals for market direction.

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