Trade Reviews

Professional and technical analysis on products and past trades

Brent climbs amid renewed geopolitical tensions in the Middle East

Brent crude reached $114.44 per barrel amidst escalating tensions in the Middle East and renewed concerns regarding the stability of the Strait of Hormuz. As the standoff between the US, Iran, and Israel intensifies, fears of supply chain disruptions have driven prices above key technical levels.

Rising energy Pushes the ECB back toward a hawkish tone

Eurozone inflation accelerated to 3.0% in April, up from 2.6% in March, with the move driven largely by energy shocks tied to the escalating conflict in the Middle East.

ECB keeps rates unchanged and turns more hawkish, citing risks; Euro rises

The ECB held rates at 2.15% but adopted a hawkish tone, warning of inflation risks from Middle East tensions. With EU inflation at 3.0% and GDP growth slowing to 0.1%, stagflation concerns have risen.

1 May 2026, 02:23

BoJ holds rates amid higher-than-expected unemployment; Yen approaches key level

The Bank of Japan maintained interest rates at 0.75% despite a surprising rise in unemployment to 2.7%. Although three members favored a hike, the yen remains pressured near ¥159.50 against the dollar. Technical indicators suggest neutral momentum with a bearish divergence, leaving the market awaiting fundamental catalysts for a decisive breakout.

DAX slides amid deteriorating consumer sentiment

The DAX index retreated as German consumer sentiment plunged to a lowest level since early 2023. GfK data highlights sharp declines in income and economic expectations driven by energy costs and Middle East instability. Despite these pressures, the DAX maintains a long-term bullish structure while testing critical moving averages.

Dollar index rises as expectations grow for a more hawkish Federal Reserve stance

The US Dollar Index has strengthened as market expectations shift towards a more hawkish Federal Reserve posture. A resilient labour market and rising energy prices suggest that interest rates are likely to remain unchanged throughout upcoming monetary policy meetings.

DAX index retreats as economic sentiment declines amid intensifying global risks

German economic sentiment underwent a precipitous contraction in April, reaching its lowest level since late 2022. This downturn is primarily attributed to escalating geopolitical friction in the Middle East and the subsequent surge in energy costs.

Brent falls sharply on Strait of Hormuz reopening but holds key technical levels

Brent crude prices fell significantly following the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime corridor. Market participants are currently focused on the pivotal $90.00 support level as potential diplomatic discussions between the United States and Iran are anticipated over the coming days.

GBP/USD falls despite stronger-than-expected UK industrial production

The GBP/USD pair has encountered downward pressure despite UK industrial production exceeding consensus. While energy-related sectors demonstrated notable resilience, the pound remains in a consolidative state below key resistance levels. Although long-term bullish structures persist, the pair’s inability to rally underscores prevailing market caution regarding broader macroeconomic and geopolitical headwinds.

IMF sees wide policy flexibility for BoJ on inflation

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) suggests that Japan maintains considerable policy flexibility despite the impact of global energy shocks, categorising current inflationary pressures as manageable. The IMF considers that the Bank of Japan (BoJ) has the necessary room for manoeuvre to pursue its long-term monetary objectives.