Tech Stocks Tumble Amid Trade and Rate Uncertainty

Over the past two days, global financial markets have been influenced by significant policy decisions and geopolitical events. The European Central Bank (ECB) implemented another interest rate cut amid economic stagnation and external threats, while the U.S. faced market volatility due to trade policy uncertainties. Germany’s announcement of substantial fiscal spending has further complicated the economic outlook in the Eurozone.​

United States

• Trade Policy Uncertainty: The U.S. markets experienced volatility as investors grappled with confusion over trade policies, particularly President Trump’s temporary suspension of 25% tariffs on Canadian and Mexican goods and the looming threat of global tariffs set for April 2. This uncertainty has led to a cautious approach among investors, affecting both equity and bond markets.​
• Federal Reserve Outlook: Despite investor concerns about a potential economic slowdown, Federal Reserve Governor Christopher Waller indicated that the central bank remains on track to continue its rate-cutting cycle, contingent upon ongoing progress in reducing inflation toward the 2% target.​
• Decline in Tech Stocks: The technology sector experienced significant declines, with the Nasdaq Composite dropping 2.6%, entering correction territory. Factors contributing to this downturn.
  • Trade Tensions: Ongoing uncertainties regarding U.S. trade policies, particularly the imposition of tariffs on major trading partners, have heightened investor anxiety, leading to sell-offs in tech stocks.​
  • Disappointing Earnings: Companies like Marvell Technology reported weaker-than-expected revenue guidance, resulting in a nearly 18% stock decline. This has raised concerns about the sustainability of growth in the semiconductor industry.​
  • AI Investment Shifts: The emergence of more efficient AI models from Chinese companies has led to reduced hardware demand expectations for U.S. firms like Nvidia, contributing to stock price declines.

Eurozone

• ECB Rate Cut: The European Central Bank reduced its key interest rate by 25 basis points to 2.5%, marking the sixth cut in seven meetings. This decision aims to counteract economic stagnation exacerbated by external threats, including potential U.S. tariffs and increased military spending needs.​
• German Fiscal Expansion: Germany announced a substantial fiscal package, including a €500 billion infrastructure fund, signaling a significant policy shift. This move has led to increased euro value, higher bond yields, and rising inflation expectations, complicating the ECB’s future monetary policy decisions.​

China

• Economic Resilience: China’s markets remained stable, with the yuan showing resilience against the dollar. The ongoing National People’s Congress session is expected to introduce additional stimulus measures to support the economy amid external trade pressures.​

Other Notable Developments

• Turkey: On March 6, 2025, the Central Bank of the Republic of Turkey (CBRT) reduced its key interest rate by 2.5 percentage points, lowering it from 45% to 42.5%. This marks the third consecutive monthly rate cut, totaling a 7.5 percentage point reduction since December.