Copper - Markets are waiting for Trump's decisions!In the 4-hour timeframe, copper is above the EMA200 and EMA50 and is moving in its descending channel. Copper moved down from the supply zone of the previous analysis. The downward correction of copper will provide us with the opportunity to buy it with the appropriate risk reward. If the upward trend continues, you can sell copper in the next supply zone.
According to experts, commodity prices are expected to decline in 2025 due to a weak global economic outlook and the resurgence of the US dollar. Analysts at Deutsche Bank have identified three key political developments in their latest report that could shape the strategy of US President-elect Donald Trump. These developments include changes in tariff policies, Trump’s preference for introducing a large, comprehensive bill, and his plan to fund tax cuts through tariffs.
Deutsche Bank notes that the year will largely be influenced by the combination of policies Trump proposes. However, it seems unlikely that a comprehensive bill addressing both border and tax issues will be ready before April or May.
Experts believe that Trump is likely to use Section 232 investigations to impose sector-specific tariffs. These investigations allow the government to implement tariffs on the grounds of national security.
Deutsche Bank forecasts that Trump will employ multiple tariff approaches, including legislative and executive actions. Analysts suggest that Trump may attempt to enact broader tariffs through legislation, as this is the only way tariff revenues can be incorporated into the budget reconciliation process by the Congressional Budget Office (CBO). Two key bills in Congress related to the revocation of China’s normal trade status have been highlighted as important areas to monitor in this regard.
This multi-faceted approach and the varying timelines for imposing tariffs introduce significant complexities and risks. However, from a financial perspective, Deutsche Bank predicts that Trump’s fiscal policies may have more moderate impacts, potentially easing some of the existing tensions.
Markets are also watching for further moves by China to stimulate its economy in hopes that such measures might revive demand for commodities in the world’s second-largest economy. The People’s Bank of China (PBoC) has announced plans to cut interest rates and required bank reserves. However, the market is looking for more tangible actions to directly support consumers, rather than simply increasing public sector wages. In other words, the market seeks renewed confidence and vitality in the economy.
Nonetheless, the lack of transparency in China’s economy remains a pressing issue. Even within China and among government officials, there appears to be no clear understanding of the economic situation. Public sentiment remains highly negative and has not recovered since the COVID-19 pandemic.
Despite these challenges, China continues to excel in certain sectors. For instance, the country has achieved notable success in the automotive and artificial intelligence industries. Additionally, China is still considered the easiest place in the world to manufacture anything. However, these advantages ultimately need to translate into improved domestic consumption to create lasting positive effects.
In a note, BMI stated that potential slowdowns in the energy transition due to Trump’s policy changes could dampen the green energy sentiment that bolstered prices in 2024.
John Gross, president of John Gross Consulting, told CNBC that while copper prices peaked in May 2024 due to market pressures, they have since been in a downward trend, which is expected to continue. He added, “A complex combination of high inflation, elevated interest rates, and a strong dollar will negatively impact metal markets.”
