Investors Anticipate Tariff Clarity Following Q1 Market Declines
US stocks entered correction territory, with the S&P 500 declining 0.2% and down approximately 4.8% since early 2025. The Nasdaq Composite is expected to finish Q1 nearly 12% lower, marking its worst performance for a first quarter since 2020.
Gold is set for its best quarter since 1986, attributed to trade war impacts. In contrast, Bitcoin is on track for its worst Q1 since 2018, failing to maintain its reputation as a safe-haven asset.
Looking ahead, tariffs will remain a key focus in Q2. President Trump is expected to announce his global tariff plans on April 2, termed "Liberation Day." This could provide market clarity but also introduce volatility, especially if announcements escalate the trade war.
Key points:
- S&P 500 down 0.2%, 4.8% since start of 2025
- Nasdaq Composite projected to close Q1 12% lower
- Gold nearing best quarter since 1986
- Bitcoin's worst Q1 since 2018
- Trump's tariff announcement on April 2 may affect market dynamics
- Possible short-term volatility from tariff clarifications