Overview

• Major U.S. indices, including the S&P 500, Dow Jones, and Nasdaq, posted strong gains on Friday, but all ended the week with significant losses, marking the fourth consecutive week of declines for the S&P 500 and Nasdaq.
• The S&P 500 officially entered correction territory this week, down over 10% from its February 19 peak, while global equity markets have lost approximately $7 trillion in value since that date.
• President Trump's escalating tariff threats, including a proposed 200% tariff on European alcohol, have created substantial market uncertainty, contributing to investor anxiety and reduced consumer confidence.
• Gold prices surpassed $3,000 per ounce for the first time, reflecting heightened demand for safe-haven assets as fears of a potential economic slowdown grow.
• The Federal Reserve is expected to hold interest rates steady at its upcoming meeting, with investors closely watching for signals of potential rate cuts later in the year to counter economic risks.