Asian Equities Slip as Fed Independence Fears and Tariff Worries Weigh

Asian stocks and U.S. futures fell on Monday amid growing concerns over President Trump's criticism of the Federal Reserve, persistent tariff uncertainty, and a surge in safe‑haven gold prices—while oil retreated on signs of progress in U.S.-Iran nuclear talks.

Market Snapshot

• U.S. Futures:

  • S&P 500 futures: -0.64%

  • Nasdaq 100 futures: -0.53%

• Asia Equities:

  • Nikkei 225: -1.0%

  • KOSPI: Flat

  • TAIEX: -1.0%

  • CSI 300: +0.2%

• Treasury Yields: 10‑year U.S. yield up 1.7 bps to 4.344%

Fed Independence Under the Microscope

• Presidential Pressure: White House adviser Kevin Hassett confirmed the administration is exploring the removal of Fed Chair Jerome Powell, sparking fears over central bank autonomy.

• Market Impact: Any hint of political interference tends to undermine confidence in U.S. monetary policy, pressuring the dollar and equity sentiment.

Tariff Uncertainty Continues

• Global Trade Tensions: U.S. tariffs on key partners and ongoing trade battles with China keep growth prospects in doubt.

• Investor Caution: Equity markets remain fragile as investors await clarity on whether more levies will be imposed or rolled back.

Safe‑Haven Gold Hits Record

• Gold Price: +1% to $3,370.17/oz—new all‑time high

• YTD Gain: +26% as investors flock to safety amid policy and geopolitical risks.

Oil Retreats on U.S.-Iran Nuclear Progress

• Brent Crude: -1.75% to $66.77/bbl

• WTI: -1.75% to $63.55/bbl

• Driver: U.S. and Iran agreed to draft a framework for a potential nuclear deal, easing supply‑disruption fears.

Earnings Season Kicks Off

This week's key reports from major U.S. corporates will be closely watched for signs of tariff‑cost pass‑through and consumer resilience:

• Alphabet (GOOGL)

• Intel (INTC)

• Tesla (TSLA)

Stay on top of upcoming earnings dates and past results via the
🔗 Earnings Calendar API from Financial Modeling Prep.

With markets already on edge, this confluence of monetary policy concerns, trade uncertainty, and a turning tide in safe‑haven flows suggests volatility may remain elevated in the days ahead.