Author: 24newz

China’s industrial output rose by 6.1% year-over-year in April, surpassing market expectations. This growth was driven by robust gains in manufacturing and high-tech industries—key pillars stabilizing the nation’s economic recovery. Production of 3D printing equipment and new energy vehicles surged, signaling a shift toward green and intelligent manufacturing as emerging growth engines. However, softer domestic demand and slowing exports underline ongoing recovery challenges, placing future policy direction under close watch.

The U.S. dollar has been gaining strength against the Swiss franc recently, driven by growing policy divergence between the Federal Reserve and the Swiss National Bank. With inflation in Switzerland dropping to zero, markets are increasingly pricing in the possibility of the SNB reintroducing negative interest rates—or even stepping in to manage the currency directly. Meanwhile, a surprise uptick in U.S. inflation is dampening expectations for Fed rate cuts. As central banks gear up for their June policy meetings, currency markets are likely to see heightened volatility. Investors should closely monitor shifts in global monetary policy and the evolving role of safe-haven assets like the Swiss franc.

Walmart has issued a warning that the latest round of U.S. tariffs on Chinese imports could drive up prices on a wide range of goods, including toys and electronics. Some products may see double-digit price increases. Even with efforts to cut costs, consumers are likely to feel the pinch. These price hikes are expected to take effect between late May and early June, adding to the financial strain on American households already grappling with high inflation and elevated interest rates.

Tensions ease as the U.S. and Iran edge closer to a nuclear deal, sending shockwaves through global markets. On May 15, 2025, international crude oil prices tumbled more than 3% in a single session, with Brent crude briefly dipping to $64 per barrel. Investors are increasingly concerned that a return of Iranian oil exports could flood the market and drive prices lower. Energy stocks declined in tandem with falling oil prices. As uncertainty lingers, market watchers are closely monitoring developments in U.S.-Iran negotiations and the upcoming OPEC+ meeting. For those with exposure to oil-linked assets, a cautious and strategic approach is recommended.

Under pressure from a stronger U.S. dollar and better-than-expected economic data, gold prices have continued to decline recently, falling below $3,213 per ounce and marking the largest weekly drop in six months. As risk-off sentiment among investors fades and technical pressures mount, the short-term outlook for gold remains bearish. Investors in Hong Kong should keep a close eye on key market signals and consider adjusting their asset allocation with caution.