Euro Hits Five-Month High Amid Ukraine Ceasefire Talks; Stocks Volatile on U.S. Tariffs

The euro soared to a five-month high, reaching $1.0947 in New York before stabilizing at $1.0913 in Asia, following Ukraine’s agreement to a month-long ceasefire proposal. European equity futures climbed, with FTSE futures up 0.3%, while Russia’s rouble hit a seven-month high.

Market volatility persisted as U.S. tariff uncertainty fueled concerns over economic slowdown. Wall Street’s S&P 500 slipped 0.8%, nearing a 10% decline from February’s peak, as President Donald Trump threatened then retracted a tariff hike on Canadian steel and aluminium. Investors fear the back-and-forth on trade policies will disrupt economic growth.

Asia-Pacific shares rose 0.2%, with China and Hong Kong markets steady, while Japan’s Nikkei held firm after hitting a six-month low. Meanwhile, travel stocks tumbled after Delta Air Lines halved its profit forecast, with United and American Airlines warning of deteriorating demand. Retailers also struggled—Kohl’s Corp plunged 24%, and Dick’s Sporting Goods fell 5.7% on weak sales reports.

The Canadian dollar hit a one-week low before recovering to C$1.443, ahead of a key central bank meeting where a seventh consecutive rate cut is in focus. The U.S. dollar weakened, Treasuries rallied, and the yen dipped from a five-month high, trading around 148 per dollar. The Australian dollar remained under pressure at 63 U.S. cents, while Brent crude hovered near $70 a barrel.

Investors await U.S. inflation data for February, though its impact from tariffs may be minimal. As uncertainty lingers over global markets, traders closely watch economic indicators and policy shifts that could dictate the next market moves.