According to reports, USD/JPY’s surge past 154 per dollar underscores the growing divide between Japan’s cautious monetary policy and the U.S. Federal Reserve’s firmer stance. The yen’s weakness reflects more than interest-rate differentials - it’s become a test of confidence in Japan’s policy credibility.

Despite Tokyo’s inflation running above target and rising government concern, traders continue to test how far the Bank of Japan (BOJ) will allow the currency to slide. The central question: does the pair push toward 155, or does a BOJ policy pivot spark a sustained yen recovery?

Key takeaways

• BOJ inaction vs. Fed firmness: The BOJ kept rates steady, while Powell signalled that a December rate cut isn’t guaranteed - widening the yield gap.
  
• 154 as a market trigger: The level has become a psychological battleground for traders testing Japan’s tolerance for yen weakness.
  
• Inflation pressure builds: Tokyo CPI accelerated to 2.8% YoY, well above target, yet Ueda remains focused on wage growth before tightening.
  
• Government warnings lose bite: Finance Minister Katayama’s verbal interventions briefly supported the yen but failed to reverse sentiment.
  
• Risk of policy credibility erosion: Unless the BOJ takes decisive action, the yen could remain vulnerable to further depreciation and speculative pressure.
  

BOJ’s hesitation leads to Japanese yen weakness

The BOJ’s decision to keep rates unchanged reinforced market perceptions that Japan will stay behind the curve of global tightening. Governor Kazuo Ueda suggested a rate hike could come as soon as December, but stressed that sustained wage growth remains essential for policy normalisation. 

In contrast, Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell’s cautious yet firm tone - hinting that another rate cut this year is not guaranteed - strengthened the dollar. This widening policy divergence continues to anchor USD/JPY above 154.

USD JPY at 154: Where psychology meets policy

The 154 level has evolved into a symbolic line between market conviction and policymaker caution, according to analysts. Traders recall previous interventions near similar levels and view 154 as the threshold of Tokyo’s tolerance.

Each government comment is now treated as a sentiment indicator rather than a credible warning. Brief yen recoveries after official remarks fade quickly without matching BOJ policy action. In this sense, the level represents a psychological battleground - one where traders, algorithms, and policymakers test each other’s resolve.

Japan inflation says “move”, policy says “wait”

Tokyo’s October CPI rose to 2.8% YoY, with core and core-core readings also above 2.8% - signalling broad-based inflation that’s been above the BOJ’s 2% target for over three years.
 

However, Ueda continues to emphasise wage-led inflation as the precondition for any tightening cycle. This cautious stance has created a credibility gap: inflation data suggest urgency, but policy rhetoric suggests patience. The result - investors perceive the BOJ as reluctant to respond decisively, reinforcing speculative yen selling.

Government warnings and the illusion of control

Finance Minister Satsuki Katayama’s recent warning that the government is monitoring FX moves with “a high sense of urgency” briefly lifted the yen to 153.65, before USD/JPY rebounded.

The move highlighted the short shelf-life of verbal interventions. Without direct market action, such warnings appear to acknowledge - rather than prevent - yen weakness. Tokyo’s “soft power” approach has lost influence, as markets now demand policy signals rather than rhetoric.

Traders weigh conviction vs caution in USD/JPY

Market participants see three potential paths ahead:

• Continuation: USD/JPY pushes through 155, forcing Tokyo’s hand on direct intervention.
  
• Correction: A surprise BOJ hike or coordinated move with U.S. authorities sparks a sharp yen rebound.
  
• Consolidation: The pair stabilises between 153–154, awaiting wage and inflation data.

Futures positioning shows speculative yen shorts at multi-month highs - meaning a sudden shift in sentiment could cause a fast, disorderly reversal.

Credibility becomes Japan’s real currency

Every move above 154 underscores a deeper issue: trust. The yen’s weakness now reflects investor scepticism about Japan’s willingness to tighten policy, not just interest-rate gaps.

 Until the BOJ backs its rhetoric with action, markets will continue to test the limits of its tolerance, according to experts. The next 100 pips - between 154 and 155 - may determine whether Japan’s credibility holds or erodes further.

USD/JPY technical insight

At the time of writing, USD/JPY is trading around 154.28, hovering near its recent highs in what appears to be a price discovery phase. The pair has maintained a strong bullish momentum, riding the upper Bollinger Band - a sign of persistent buying pressure. However, such positioning often precedes short-term pullbacks as traders take profit.

The RSI is rising sharply toward overbought territory (above 70), suggesting that bullish momentum may be overextended. If RSI crosses into that zone, a corrective move could follow as buying enthusiasm cools.

Key downside levels to watch are 150.25 and 147.05, marked as notable support zones. A sustained break below 150.25 could trigger sell liquidations and accelerate downward momentum, while a deeper move under 147.05 would signal a broader shift in market sentiment.

USD/JPY investment implications

For traders, USD/JPY above 154 signals continued short-term bullish momentum for the dollar, underpinned by policy divergence.

• Short-term strategies may favour tactical long positions near support around 153.50–153.80, while monitoring for sudden verbal or direct intervention near 155.
• Medium-term investors should stay cautious. A surprise BOJ policy move or shift in Fed guidance could quickly unwind the trade.
• For portfolio managers, the yen’s volatility presents both carry trade opportunities and macro risk exposure, making Japan’s currency landscape the most psychologically charged market of 2025.

The key is to balance exposure by using Deriv’s trading calculators and position-sizing tools to manage risk in real-time.

Traders seeking to take advantage of the volatility can analyse setups on Deriv MT5 , where comprehensive charting and technical indicators support detailed yen analysis.

Gold is holding steady near the $4,000 mark after the U.S. Federal Reserve cut interest rates by 25 basis points to the 3.75%–4% range - a widely expected move that revealed deep divisions within the central bank. 

While lower rates typically support gold by reducing the appeal of yield-bearing assets, Chair Jerome Powell’s cautious tone and the split vote have complicated the picture. 

With Powell warning that another rate cut in December is “not a foregone conclusion,” traders are now caught between two outcomes: a break above $4,100 if economic data softens, or a correction toward $3,900 if the Fed turns hawkish in December.

Key takeaways

• The Fed cut rates by 25 bps to a 3.75%–4% target range - its second cut of 2025, but not unanimously.
  
• Stephen Miran voted for a 50 bps cut, while Jeffrey Schmid preferred no change, underscoring internal division.
  
• The statement described moderate growth, slower job gains, and inflation still “somewhat elevated.”
  
• The Fed will end balance sheet reduction on 1 December, signalling a quiet pivot toward neutral liquidity policy.
  
• Gold trades between $3,990–$4,010, as Powell’s comments temper expectations for further easing.
  

The Federal Reserve interest rate divided decision

The latest policy meeting ended with a split 10-2 vote, reflecting an increasingly fractured Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC). Most members supported a 25 bps reduction to cushion a cooling labour market, but dissent came from both directions.

• Governor Stephen Miran argued for a 50 bps cut, warning that slower job growth warranted stronger action.
  
• Kansas City Fed President Jeffrey Schmid, however, voted to hold rates steady, citing inflation that “remains somewhat elevated.”
  

The official statement struck a cautious tone, noting that “economic activity has been expanding at a moderate pace” while acknowledging “job gains have slowed this year and the unemployment rate has edged up but remained low.” Inflation, the Fed said, “has moved up since earlier in the year and remains somewhat elevated.”

This rare two-way dissent marks only the third time since 1990 that Fed policymakers disagreed in opposite directions - a sign of deep uncertainty about the economic outlook.

Powell’s message: a cut, not a pivot

At the press conference, Jerome Powell stressed that this was a “solid” move to support a gradually cooling economy - not the start of an aggressive easing cycle. He cautioned that “a further reduction in the policy rate at the December meeting is not a foregone conclusion. Far from it.”

Powell also pointed to the ongoing government shutdown, which has disrupted official data collection, making it harder for policymakers to gauge economic momentum.

“When you’re driving in the fog, you slow down,” he said - a metaphor for the Fed’s new watch-and-wait posture.

Markets, which had priced in another cut for December, were quick to adjust. Fed funds futures trimmed expectations for additional easing, gold pared gains, slipping back from intraday highs near $4,010 and the U.S. dollar index (DXY) rebounded. 

The message was clear: policy is not on a preset course. This “pause disguised as a cut” has left gold traders uncertain whether to expect another round of support or a longer holding phase.

The quiet pivot: ending balance sheet reduction

Beyond the rate cut, one key line in the Fed statement went largely unnoticed: the Committee decided to conclude the reduction of its aggregate securities holdings on 1 December. This effectively ends the Fed’s multi-year quantitative tightening (QT) campaign - a significant shift in liquidity management. 

The move suggests the central bank aims to stabilise money markets after signs of funding stress and preserve flexibility ahead of a potentially volatile election year. 

In practice, ending QT means the Fed will reinvest maturing securities rather than shrinking its balance sheet, keeping liquidity conditions loose. For gold, that’s typically supportive: more liquidity tends to weaken real yields and boost demand for non-yielding assets like bullion. However, because Powell’s tone was measured and cautious, traders see this more as risk management than an outright pivot to stimulus.

Market reaction: volatility replaces certainty

Gold’s intraday performance captured the market’s confusion. The metal briefly rallied after the announcement, but quickly pulled back once Powell began speaking. As of late Wednesday, XAU/USD fluctuated between $3,990 and $4,010, holding steady but showing no conviction.

Meanwhile, the U.S. dollar strengthened as traders trimmed rate-cut bets, while Treasuries extended gains, signalling expectations of slower growth rather than renewed inflation.

Equity markets initially rose, then fell back as investors realised Powell had effectively walked back expectations for a December cut.

“Gold had a logical reaction to Powell trying to walk back expectations for a December cut. That’s dollar positive and gold negative,” said Peter Grant, senior strategist at Zaner Metals.

The muted price response shows that gold is now trading less on rate outcomes and more on policy credibility - how much conviction the Fed can maintain in its cautious easing stance.

Gold price forecast: The road to December 

Heading into the final meeting of 2025, the key question is whether the Fed’s caution was justified - or premature.

• If inflation eases and job data soften, the Fed may be able to justify another 25 bps cut, potentially propelling gold above $4,100.
  
• If growth holds steady and inflation proves sticky, the Fed may pause, sending gold back toward $3,900 as the dollar extends gains.
  

Powell also noted that internal Fed views are diverging sharply - some members see the current stance as still “modestly restrictive,” while others believe rates are now “near neutral.” This widening policy gap makes December’s meeting potentially decisive for both gold direction and market confidence.

Gold technical insights

Gold prices are currently consolidating near the $3,958 support level, with price action showing fatigue after the recent rally. The Bollinger Bands have started to narrow, signalling that volatility is easing. The price is hovering around the middle band, suggesting indecision among traders - neither a clear bullish continuation nor a confirmed bearish reversal has yet formed.

The RSI, has now flattened near the midline (50). This flattening pattern reflects a balance between buying and selling pressure, implying that momentum is neutral and traders are waiting for a decisive move below or above key levels.

On the downside, a break below the $3,958 support could trigger sell liquidations, with the next potential target around $3,630. Conversely, if bulls regain control and push the price higher, resistance is seen near $4,365 - a zone where profit-taking and renewed selling could emerge. 

Traders analysing these levels can use Deriv MT5 for advanced charting tools, technical indicators, and live gold market data. Traders on Deriv platforms can also use multipliers to optimise their exposure to gold’s short-term volatility while managing risk, allowing them to benefit from smaller price movements without committing large capital upfront.

Gold investment implications

For traders, this Fed meeting marks the start of a data-driven phase in gold pricing rather than a one-way rally.

• Short-term outlook: Expect sideways trading between $3,950–$4,100, with spikes driven by employment and inflation reports.
  
• Medium-term bias: Modestly bullish if liquidity remains abundant after QT ends.
  
• Long-term view: Gold’s structural support remains intact as global central banks pivot toward looser liquidity management.
  

Ultimately, Powell’s pause, not the cut itself, defines this moment. The Fed has slowed the pace of easing, but by quietly ending its balance sheet runoff, it has also laid the groundwork for long-term gold resilience - even if short-term rallies face resistance. 

Before entering new positions, traders can use Deriv’s trading calculator to estimate margin requirements, contract sizes, and potential profit or loss - a practical tool for planning gold trades around volatile macro events.

Based on current momentum, Nvidia is positioned to take the lead in market valuation by 2026 - potentially becoming the first company closing in on a $5 trillion market cap. Its combination of record earnings, aggressive AI infrastructure investments, and vertical expansion across hardware and software ecosystems gives it a clear edge.

However, Microsoft remains its closest rival, leveraging its AI integration across productivity tools, cloud platforms, and gaming ecosystems to sustain stable, earnings-driven growth. The outcome may hinge on how effectively each company converts AI innovation into long-term revenue resilience.

Key takeaways

• Nvidia’s market value surged by $230 billion in one day, taking it within 3% of the $5 trillion mark - a first in market history.
  
• Nvidia’s share price closed at $201.03, up 5% on the day, and is now testing the $210 resistance as investors price in stronger AI infrastructure growth.
  
• The company announced a $1 billion partnership with Nokia to build AI-powered 5G and 6G networks, expanding its influence beyond data centres.
  
• Microsoft continues to build AI leadership through Azure, OpenAI partnerships, and the Activision-Blizzard acquisition, reinforcing its diversified model.
  
• Analysts expect Nvidia to report $4.51 EPS in 2026 and $6.43 in 2027, implying a P/E ratio near 28.7 - relatively modest for its growth rate.
  
• Both companies could exceed $5 trillion before 2026, but Nvidia’s pure-play AI exposure makes it more sensitive to the next phase of the AI investment cycle.
  

Nvidia Nokia partnership: Nvidia’s $230 billion day 

Nvidia’s stock rally in late October - adding over $230 billion in market value - marks a new phase in the AI investment cycle. 

The surge followed the company’s GTC Washington conference, where it announced multiple partnerships and new AI infrastructure projects. The headline deal was with Nokia, where Nvidia committed $1 billion to integrate its AI-RAN (Radio Access Network) systems into next-generation 5G and 6G infrastructure.

This expansion moves Nvidia beyond its traditional GPU dominance into telecom infrastructure, widening its total addressable market. The firm’s strategy mirrors its approach to data centres - owning both the hardware layer and the software stack that powers AI workloads.

Investors can track Nvidia’s price action and volatility directly through CFDs on Deriv MT5.

Race to $5 Trillion market cap: Nvidia’s vs Microsoft’s stability

The competition between Nvidia and Microsoft represents two distinct approaches to AI market leadership:

• Nvidia’s momentum-driven model: Fueled by exponential demand for GPUs, accelerated computing, and partnerships with every major AI player - including OpenAI, Meta, AWS, and Oracle.
  
• Microsoft’s diversified model: Built on recurring revenues from Azure, Microsoft 365, and gaming ecosystems like Activision-Blizzard, with AI woven throughout its services.
  

At current valuations, both companies are within reach of the $5 trillion milestone. Nvidia’s faster earnings trajectory - $86.59 billion in trailing 12-month net income - gives it a near-term advantage. Yet Microsoft’s consistent cash flow and balance sheet strength make it more resilient in the event of an AI market slowdown.

AI expansion through strategic partnerships

Nvidia has positioned itself as a central node in the AI economy by investing directly in its ecosystem.

Recent moves include:

• $100 billion investment plan with OpenAI to deploy at least 10 gigawatts of Nvidia systems for next-generation model training.
  
• $5 billion equity stake in Intel, focusing on joint AI chip and data centre development.
  
• $1 billion equity investment in Nokia, supporting AI-native 5G/6G networks.
  

These investments transform Nvidia from a chip supplier into an AI infrastructure conglomerate - similar to how Microsoft evolved from a software company into a diversified tech leader in the 2010s.

Nvidia & Microsoft Earnings and valuation outlook 2026

Nvidia’s forward-looking metrics suggest its valuation may still be grounded in fundamentals:

• Fiscal 2026 earnings estimates: $4.51 per share.
  
• Fiscal 2027 projections: $6.43 per share.
  
• Forward P/E ratio around 28–30, assuming price stability near $200.
  

For Microsoft, consensus expects steady double-digit earnings growth, supported by Azure expansion and monetisation of AI tools across Office, GitHub, and LinkedIn.

If both companies meet current projections, Nvidia could exceed $5 trillion in market cap before mid-2026, while Microsoft may reach that milestone through consistent compound growth over a longer horizon.

Market drivers and risks ahead

The AI market is entering a capital-intensive phase where hyperscalers are increasing infrastructure spending, driving Nvidia’s top-line expansion.
However, potential risks include:

• A slowdown in corporate AI investment if macroeconomic conditions tighten.
  
• Competitive advances from AMD or custom silicon by hyperscalers.
  
• Regulatory pressures on AI model deployment that could affect demand.
  

For Microsoft, the key risk lies in monetisation speed - whether Copilot, Azure AI, and AI-integrated products deliver enough incremental revenue to justify its valuation expansion.

Use Deriv’s trading calculator to estimate price risk exposure to highly volatile AI tech stocks like Nvidia and Microsoft.

Nvidia technical insights

At the time of writing, Nvidia’s stock is trading around the $201 mark, breaking decisively above the upper band of the Bollinger Bands - a sign of strong bullish momentum. However, such a sharp move beyond the upper band often indicates overextension, suggesting the stock could be due for a short-term pullback or consolidation.

The Relative Strength Index (RSI) is rising sharply, currently hovering around 65, and heading towards the overbought region (above 70). This momentum implies that bullish sentiment remains strong, but traders should watch for potential profit-taking once the RSI crosses into overbought territory.

In terms of support levels, Nvidia has established key zones at $180, $174.50, and $168. A break below these levels could trigger sell liquidations and increased downside pressure. Conversely, as long as the stock holds above $180, the current trend remains bullishly intact, though volatility is expected to stay elevated.

Nvidia & Microsoft investment implications

The AI market’s next two years will likely be defined by how fast companies can convert hype into sustained profit growth. Nvidia’s $230 billion single-day gain underscores its dominance in the current cycle, but maintaining that pace requires continuous innovation and client investment.

Microsoft’s diversified model gives it a defensive edge - less volatility, more predictable cash flow - making it a potential co-leader in the long-term AI economy.

For investors, 2026 may mark the first true test of AI’s market maturity: whether hardware-driven earnings (Nvidia) or ecosystem-based monetisation (Microsoft) delivers the stronger foundation for the next decade of growth.

According to analysts, WTI crude could slide toward $55 per barrel as hedge funds pile into record short positions and oversupply fears dominate the market. Short calls on Brent surged by 40,233 contracts in the week ending 21 October, bringing total bearish positions to 197,868 - the most on record. 

This marks the third consecutive weekly increase and a doubling of short exposure in just three months. Institutional traders are signalling a clear message: supply is rising faster than demand, OPEC+ is pumping more barrels, and global demand remains too weak to absorb the excess.

Still, with fresh U.S. sanctions on Russian oil and OPEC production politics adding new variables, short-covering rallies back toward $65 per barrel remain possible. The battle between macro fundamentals and geopolitical risk continues to define oil’s volatile range.

Key takeaways

• Record hedge-fund shorts: Brent and WTI short positions have doubled since July, signalling broad institutional pessimism.
  
• Short-term volatility: U.S. sanctions on Russia lifted Brent +10% in a week, but analysts expect the effect to fade.
  
• Bearish fundamentals: Rising OPEC output, record U.S. supply, and weak demand point to continued downside pressure.
  
• Structural shift: U.S. shale costs are climbing, setting the stage for longer-term tightening once oversupply eases.
  
• Price risk: If oversupply persists, WTI could test $55, though a short-covering rally toward $65 remains possible.
  

Hedge fund oil trading takes control of the narrative

Speculative funds are now at their most bearish on record. In the week ending 21 October, short positions in Brent futures surged by over 40,000 contracts, marking the third consecutive weekly increase. This sharp rise suggests confidence that near-term fundamentals - particularly oversupply and weak demand - will push prices lower.

By comparison, short-only positions stood at just 26,000 contracts a year ago. The current build-up mirrors the mid-2018 and 2020 oil corrections, when rising inventories and a strong U.S. dollar fuelled steep sell-offs.

OPEC oil production increases are overwhelming the market

Oil prices rallied nearly 8% last week after the U.S. announced sanctions on Russia’s Rosneft and Lukoil, but quickly lost steam as OPEC signalled more output ahead. Eight member states are backing another production hike in November, roughly 137,000 bpd, as Saudi Arabia leads an effort to reclaim market share.

This deliberate oversupply strategy aims to undercut higher-cost U.S. producers while keeping a lid on global prices. With both OPEC+ and non-OPEC producers such as the U.S., Brazil, and Canada expanding supply, the market remains saturated despite geopolitical tension.

Demand weakness compounds the pressure

Analysts from Standard Chartered cut their 2026–2027 oil price forecasts by $15 per barrel, citing a shift to contango - where futures prices exceed spot prices, signalling near-term softness.

Global demand growth has slowed as trade frictions and tariff uncertainty weigh on consumption. The International Energy Agency and S&P Global both expect oil to dip below $60 early next year as oversupply persists.

Even with record refining runs, estimated above 85 million bpd, the market may not be able to absorb the extra barrels.

Geopolitical shocks can still spark short-covering rallies

The short trade is not risk-free. The Trump administration’s sanctions on Russia drove a brief 10% rally, showing how exposed shorts are to policy moves.

If tensions in Ukraine, Iran, or China–U.S. trade talks escalate, supply disruptions could trigger a short-covering surge, temporarily driving WTI back above $65.

Still, analysts expect such rallies to fade quickly as long as U.S. production remains strong and OPEC continues to loosen output controls.

The structural story: rising shale costs and long-term tightness

While the near-term trend is bearish, the cost base of U.S. shale is climbing. Enverus analysts project that marginal production costs could rise from $70 to $95 per barrel by the mid-2030s as producers exhaust their most efficient wells. 

This implies that if prices fall too far, supply could contract sharply, setting the stage for future tightness once demand stabilises.

WTI crude oil price prediction: Market impact and price scenarios

If current dynamics persist, analysts see Brent testing $60 and WTI near $55 by early 2026. However, a shift in positioning - such as hedge-fund short-covering or renewed sanctions risk - could trigger rebounds toward $65–$70. For now, the balance of risk remains skewed lower as supply continues to exceed demand. 

Commodities traders tracking these scenarios often rely on Deriv’s trading calculator to manage position sizes and evaluate exposure in volatile markets.

Oil price technical insights

Oil is hovering near the upper Bollinger Band on Deriv MT5 following a rebound from recent lows - signalling fading bearish momentum and a potential short-term continuation higher. 

The RSI is climbing slowly around the midline, suggesting improving buying pressure but no overbought conditions yet. Key resistance levels sit at 62.35 and 65.00, where profit-taking could emerge. On the downside, 56.85 remains a crucial support - a break below it may trigger renewed selling pressure.

Oil Price investment implications

The current setup suggests heightened downside risk over the medium term for traders and portfolio managers. If volatility spikes, short-term strategies may favour tactical buying near support levels around $61–$62. However, medium-term positioning should reflect the bearish demand outlook and the likelihood of prolonged oversupply. 

Energy equities with low-cost production and strong balance sheets - particularly U.S. shale and Middle Eastern producers - could outperform, while high-cost offshore and frontier projects may struggle. Refiners, meanwhile, stand to benefit from strong margins even in a lower-price environment.

Eurozone business activity surged to a 17-month high in October, led by Germany’s strongest private-sector expansion in over two years, while inflation stayed near the European Central Bank’s 2% target. With the ECB pausing rate cuts and the Federal Reserve preparing to ease, traders see scope for EUR/USD to climb toward 1.20 in the short term.

However, the rally faces limits: France’s weakness, sliding business confidence, and uneven growth across the bloc suggest the recovery may not last long enough to sustain a breakout.

Key takeaways

• The Hamburg Commercial Bank (HCOB) Flash Eurozone Composite,  Purchasing Manager’s Index (PMI) rose to 52.2 in October, its 10th straight month of expansion and the highest since mid-2024, defying expectations of a slowdown.
  
• Germany’s services-led rebound powered the region’s growth, while France contracted faster than forecast, creating a two-speed recovery.
  
• Inflation pressures remain moderate, with services prices rising slightly but staying near the ECB’s long-term average.
  
• The ECB is expected to hold rates, contrasting with the Fed’s upcoming 25 bps cut, which could weaken the dollar.
  
• Despite strong data, business confidence fell to a five-month low, hinting that firms remain cautious about future demand.
  
• EUR/USD trades near 1.1650, supported by monetary divergence but capped by fragile sentiment and uneven growth.
  

Eurozone PMI data: Economic activity hits a 17-month high

The Eurozone economy accelerated unexpectedly at the start of Q4. The HCOB Flash Eurozone Composite PMI, compiled by S&P Global, climbed to 52.2 in October from 51.2 in September, far above the consensus estimate of 51.0. Readings above 50 indicate growth, marking the tenth consecutive month of expansion.

New orders grew at their fastest pace in 2½ years, suggesting renewed business momentum. 

"October’s flash PMIs suggest the euro-zone economy may have gained momentum at the start of the quarter."

- Adrian Prettejohn, Capital Economics

Germany was the standout performer. Its private sector recorded its strongest growth since early 2023, driven by a robust rise in services activity. This boosted the euro in currency markets and revived optimism that Europe’s largest economy could anchor a broader recovery.

France, however, painted a different picture. Its PMI fell deeper into contraction as demand for goods and services weakened amid political tensions and fiscal uncertainty. 

For traders analysing these developments on Deriv MT5, the PMI figures serve as a clear indicator of economic momentum likely to influence the EUR/USD trend through Q4.

ECB interest rate decision: Holding the line as inflation steadies

Inflation in the services sector remains moderate, with price increases near the ECB’s long-term average. Cyrus de la Rubia, chief economist at Hamburg Commercial Bank, said the data “confirms the ECB’s stance not to implement further interest rate cuts.”

The central bank is widely seen as ending its easing cycle, with inflation hovering around 2%. In contrast, the U.S. Federal Reserve is expected to cut rates by 25 bps this week, following a softer-than-expected September CPI of 3.% year-on-year. Core CPI slowed to 3.1% from 2.9% in August, reinforcing bets on a dovish shift.

This policy divergence - ECB steady, Fed easing - creates favourable conditions for the euro, especially as the U.S. Dollar Index (DXY) trades near 99.00, its lowest in months.

Confidence falls despite the rebound

While headline data impressed, underlying sentiment weakened.

• Business confidence slipped to a five-month low, showing that firms remain cautious about demand.
  
• Employment rose again in October, with services hiring at the fastest pace since June 2024.
  
• Manufacturing employment, however, fell at the quickest pace in four months, underscoring uneven demand across sectors.
  

Operating costs increased at a slower pace, yet selling prices ticked higher, suggesting mild inflationary pressure but no signs of overheating. This dynamic - rising activity, but subdued confidence - suggests the current rebound could lose momentum if new-order growth cools.

U.S. factors: Fed cuts and dollar weakness

The U.S. Dollar Index (DXY) slipped below 99.00 after the soft CPI print, reflecting investor expectations for a 25-basis-point Fed rate cut. The Fed’s easing bias contrasts sharply with the ECB’s pause, reducing yield spreads in favour of the euro.

Geopolitical developments add another tailwind:

• U.S.–China trade talks in Kuala Lumpur have eased tariff concerns, with Washington dropping threats of 100% import duties.
  
• China’s delay of its rare-earth export restrictions and expected purchases of U.S. soybeans have improved global risk sentiment.
  

These factors have helped push EUR/USD higher for four consecutive sessions, now trading near 1.1630.

EUR/USD market outlook: 1.20 or fade?

Bullish case:

• Strong German services growth and 17-month-high PMIs signal a broader recovery.
  
• ECB’s rate stability supports euro yields versus a softening dollar.
  
• U.S. disinflation and dovish Fed policy narrow the transatlantic rate gap.
  
• Positive sentiment from trade diplomacy may lift risk assets, supporting the euro.
  

Bearish case:

• France’s weakness and Europe’s political instability could undermine confidence.
  
• A fragile manufacturing sector and slower new orders may limit follow-through.
  
• If U.S. data rebounds or the Fed signals caution on further cuts, dollar strength could return.
  

Most analysts see EUR/USD supported above 1.16, with 1.18–1.20 as near-term resistance. Sustained momentum above 1.20 will likely require a continuation of German outperformance and further confirmation that Eurozone growth is broad-based.

EUR/USD technical analysis

EUR/USD remains range-bound between 1.1870 resistance and 1.1566 support, with price hovering near the mid-Bollinger band and the RSI flat around 58, signalling neutral momentum. 

The narrowing Bollinger Bands indicate fading volatility and the potential for a breakout. A move above 1.1728 could invite renewed buying toward 1.1870, while a drop below 1.1566 may trigger further selling. Until then, the pair is likely to trade sideways, with traders watching for an RSI breakout or band expansion as the next directional cue.

EUR/USD investment implications

For traders and investors, the balance of risk in EUR/USD tilts upward in the short term but remains fragile.

• Short-term strategies: Buying dips near 1.1600 may offer upside toward 1.1850–1.20 if Fed dovishness persists and Eurozone data confirms sustained momentum.
  
• Medium-term positioning: Caution is warranted; if business sentiment fails to recover or German strength fades, EUR/USD could retreat toward 1.1550.
  
• Macro context: The ECB’s steady policy and Germany’s rebound contrast with the Fed’s softening stance - creating a favourable environment for euro resilience into Q4.
  
• Political watchpoints: France’s budget tensions and any disruption in U.S.–China trade progress could quickly dampen euro optimism.

Using Deriv’s trading calculator before entering positions helps estimate margin and pip values, a crucial step when managing risk around volatile currency pairs like EUR/USD.

After a week of sharp reversals that punished both bulls and bears, analysts say Bitcoin’s rebound to $111,000 could be the early stage of a breakout toward $120,000 supported by a shift in whale positioning, easing macro conditions, and renewed risk appetite. While volatility remains elevated, on-chain and institutional signals suggest the recent whipsaw action may be less about confusion - and more about quiet accumulation ahead of the next move higher.

Key takeaways

• Bitcoin rebounds to $111K after falling below $107K midweek, forming a classic whipsaw pattern.
  
• Whales are closing short positions worth hundreds of millions, signalling a potential trend reversal.
  
• Miners are decoupling from Bitcoin prices, pivoting toward AI infrastructure for more stable returns.
  
• Mid-sized holders continue to accumulate, reinforcing the long-term bullish structure.
  
• Markets expect two more Fed rate cuts in 2025, with macro conditions favouring risk assets.
  
• Reclaiming $112K could confirm a new uptrend, while CPI data remains the next major catalyst.

Bitcoin’s volatile setup: Chaos or the start of a new trend?

Bitcoin’s rollercoaster week saw it plunge below $107,000 on Wednesday before rebounding above $111,000 by Thursday. This sharp back-and-forth - known as a whipsaw pattern - typically shakes out trend-followers who buy rallies and sell dips too late.

The move coincided with a U.S. presidential pardon for Binance founder Changpeng “CZ” Zhao, a development viewed as a regulatory green light for crypto markets. Gains in U.S. equities, especially the Nasdaq’s 1% rise, further lifted sentiment ahead of Friday’s crucial Consumer Price Index (CPI) report. Despite the volatility, Bitcoin’s ability to recover above the $111,000 level indicates underlying strength. 

For traders using tools like Deriv MT5, these sharp reversals highlight the importance of flexible position sizing and timely stop-loss management during high-volatility periods.

Bitcoin whale activity: Whales flip from shorts to longs

The biggest signal comes from the whales - major Bitcoin holders who often move early.

On-chain data from Lookonchain revealed that whale “Bitcoin OG” closed a 2,100 BTC short position worth $227.8 million, netting $6.4 million in profit before flipping long.

Another high-profile trader, 0xc2a3, closed his short for an $826K profit and opened a $45 million leveraged long position, already showing $50K in unrealised gains.

These strategic reversals suggest large traders are positioning for an upward move, not further downside. Historically, such behaviour often precedes medium-term rallies, as whales absorb liquidity during market uncertainty.

Bitcoin mining profitability: Miners decouple from bitcoin’s price

According to JPMorgan, Bitcoin miners’ market capitalisations have surged since July, even as Bitcoin prices moved sideways. 

This decoupling reflects a pivot toward artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure, which offers steadier cash flows and improved profit margins compared to traditional mining.

The April 2024 halving, which reduced rewards from 6.25 BTC to 3.125 BTC, increased cost pressures. The average cost to mine one Bitcoin is now near $92,000 and projected to reach $180,000 by 2028. Larger miners have adapted by integrating AI server capacity, turning what used to be a cyclical business into a dual-revenue model.

This shift suggests that miner-driven selling pressure may ease, allowing Bitcoin’s price to stabilise even in volatile conditions.

Dolphins keep accumulating: Mid-sized holders signal confidence

Beyond the whales, on-chain data from CryptoQuant shows that “dolphins” - entities holding between 100 and 1,000 BTC - continue to accumulate even after a $19 billion liquidation earlier this month.

Their total annual holdings growth now exceeds 907,000 BTC, maintaining the structural integrity of the bull market. However, short-term data shows their 30-day balance slipping below the moving average, implying temporary caution before renewed accumulation.

This pattern - strong long-term buying with short-term dips - has historically preceded major breakouts, aligning with the broader thesis that Bitcoin’s volatility may be the market’s way of resetting before the next move up.

Macro tailwinds: Rate cuts, inflation, and the safe-haven shift

The September CPI release will be the Fed’s last major data point before its next rate decision. Markets expect a 25-basis-point cut next week, followed by another in December. 

Lower interest rates typically weaken the dollar and push liquidity toward risk assets - including crypto. Meanwhile, roughly $7.5 trillion remains parked in U.S. money market funds. As yields decline, some of that capital could migrate toward alternative stores of value like Bitcoin.

This dynamic mirrors gold’s behaviour: when inflation expectations cool and real yields fall, investors rotate toward assets that can retain purchasing power. Bitcoin, often dubbed “digital gold,” stands to benefit from this same macro cycle.

Bitcoin technical insights

Bitcoin continues to trade in a tight range, hovering around $110,300–$110,600, where short-term resistance has capped recent upside attempts. A breakout above $110,600 could attract fresh bullish momentum, opening the way toward $124,000, though some profit-taking may occur along the way.

On the downside, $107,200 remains key support - a break below it could trigger sell-side liquidations and deeper corrections. Meanwhile, the RSI is gradually rising toward the 50 midline, signalling improving momentum but not yet confirming a full bullish reversal. Overall, Bitcoin’s near-term bias is neutral to mildly bullish, with traders watching for confirmation above resistance or breakdowns below support.

Momentum indicators show fading selling pressure and increasing whale accumulation, suggesting buy-side strength is gradually building despite short-term uncertainty.

Bitcoin investment implications

For traders and portfolio managers, Bitcoin’s current structure signals a potential medium-term breakout setup.

• Short-term strategies: Tactical buying near $110K–$111K with stop losses below $105K could capture upside if CPI data confirms a softer inflation print.
  
• Medium-term positioning: Accumulation remains attractive as smart money flips bullish and macro policy turns supportive.
  
• Equity exposure: Given their diversified revenue streams, Bitcoin miners transitioning into AI infrastructure could outperform traditional crypto moves.
  

In sum, Bitcoin’s whipsaw week may be more about preparation than panic - a market-clearing event paving the way for the next directional move. If history and smart money are any guide, the path toward $120K may have just begun.

Bitcoin market scenarios and outlook

If Bitcoin consolidates above $111,000 and macro data confirms easing inflation, a $120,000 retest in November remains plausible. Conversely, any hawkish CPI surprise could trigger another short-term pullback before the broader trend resumes upward.

In both cases, whale accumulation, miner resilience, and macro liquidity support a bullish bias heading into late 2025.

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Analysts say gold’s historic crash looks less like the end of a rally and more like a mega pause before its next leg up. On Tuesday, the gold price plunged 5.7%, its biggest one-day fall since 2013, erasing $2.5 trillion in value from gold in just 24 hours. Despite the shock, experts note that the drivers behind gold’s record run remain intact - sticky inflation, central bank accumulation, and expectations of U.S. rate cuts.

Rather than marking the start of a bear market, the correction appears to be a healthy reset after a near-parabolic rise that pushed gold to record highs of $4,381 per ounce. The data suggests the market isn’t breaking down - it’s catching its breath.

Key takeaways

• Gold prices fell 5.7% in a day, marking the largest single-session decline since 2013, while silver dropped 9%, its biggest daily fall since the 2020 crash.
  
• The combined loss in gold and silver market value neared $3 trillion in 24 hours.
  
• The fall came after a record nine-week rally, during which gold hit an all-time high of $4,381 per ounce.
  
• Gold’s RSI hit 91.8 - the highest in recorded history - signalling extreme overbought conditions before the selloff.
  
• Even after the drop, gold remains up more than 55% YTD, supported by inflation, central bank demand, and expectations of rate cuts.
  

The run-up: When gold and silver hit record highs

Before the crash, gold was in uncharted territory. Prices surged to $4,381.21, fuelled by strong ETF inflows, geopolitical tension, and expectations that the U.S. Federal Reserve would soon begin cutting interest rates. Silver, meanwhile, soared to an 70% YTD gain, its best performance in more than four decades.

Both metals had become the year’s standout performers, far outpacing tech equities and AI-linked stocks. In fact, a Goldman Sachs investor survey found that 25% of institutional investors ranked “long gold” as their favourite trade - higher than “long AI stocks” (18%).

The rally was relentless. Gold had notched nine consecutive weekly gains, only the fifth time in history this had happened. Each of the previous four streaks ended with corrections averaging 13% within two months. According to analysts, the pullback was overdue, and the market finally delivered it.

The drop: When record highs met gravity

Gold’s sharp reversal was the product of multiple overlapping forces converging in a single trading session. After months of relentless gains, many traders began to take profits ahead of the long-delayed release of the U.S. Consumer Price Index (CPI). 

The rally had been so steep that speculative long positions had reached multi-year highs, leaving the market vulnerable to any trigger. When some large investors started booking profits, algorithmic models and leveraged traders quickly followed, turning what began as a mild pullback into a cascade of selling.

At the same time, the U.S. dollar staged a rebound. Because gold is priced in dollars, a stronger dollar automatically makes the metal more expensive for non-U.S. buyers, curbing demand. The timing of the dollar’s surge during the selloff only deepened the downward momentum.

Adding to the pressure, a brief shift in global sentiment reduced the appetite for safe-haven assets. Renewed optimism over trade diplomacy between Washington and Beijing, coupled with reports of upcoming meetings between President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, eased geopolitical tension. 

Trump’s remark that he expected to “work out a very fair deal with President Xi of China” sparked a modest return to risk-taking, leading investors to rotate back into equities and away from defensive assets like gold.

Meanwhile, seasonal factors added another layer of weakness. The end of India’s Diwali festival - one of the peak periods for physical gold buying - resulted in a temporary lull in demand from the world’s second-largest consumer. That decline in physical purchases coincided with the speculative unwinding in futures markets, amplifying the price pressure.

Gold technical insights

Gold remains in a firm uptrend, supported by a rising trendline connecting recent swing lows on the daily chart. After a sharp pullback from recent highs above $4,300, prices have retraced to test this key trendline support around $4,100–$4,120. The rejection wick near this level suggests buyers are stepping in to defend the uptrend.

The RSI (14) currently hovers near 58, indicating that momentum remains positive but has cooled from overbought territory - a sign of a healthy correction within a broader bullish trend. As long as the RSI stays above 50 and the trendline holds, the outlook favours a continuation toward the $4,300 region.

A daily close below the trendline, however, would signal weakening momentum and open the door for a deeper retracement toward $4,000.

Bias: Bullish above $4,100 towards $4,360 resistance level; neutral-to-bearish if price breaks below the trendline.

The rarity of the move

A 4.5-sigma event means such a large move should only happen once every 240,000 trading days - essentially once in a millennium in statistical terms. In reality, since 1971, gold has seen declines of this magnitude only 34 times out of 13,088 trading days, or roughly 0.26% of the time, according to data compiled by Burggraben Holdings.

That makes the October 2025 drop one of the rarest events in modern market history. Yet, paradoxically, it occurred at a moment of maximum optimism - right after gold’s strongest rally since the 1970s.

Why fundamentals remain strong

Despite the dramatic correction, gold’s underlying fundamentals have not deteriorated - in fact, several have improved:

Inflation remains sticky

Alternative inflation trackers show U.S. inflation rising to 2.6%, marking the fifth consecutive monthly increase despite official data delays from the government shutdown.

Rate cuts are priced in

Traders have nearly fully priced in a 25-basis-point rate cut at the next Federal Reserve meeting. Lower rates generally weaken the dollar and reduce the opportunity cost of holding non-yielding assets like gold.

Central banks keep buying

Central banks have aggressively stockpiled gold throughout 2025, diversifying away from the dollar amid geopolitical uncertainty. Their purchases have shown no sign of slowing, even as prices dipped.

Institutional demand remains robust

Large funds and ETFs continue to report inflows into gold-backed products, suggesting that long-term investors are treating this correction as a buying opportunity, not an exit signal.

The geopolitical backdrop is still fragile

Even as trade tensions ease, global uncertainty persists. Negotiations involving the U.S., China, and Russia - including a potential Trump-Putin summit - could inject volatility back into markets, supporting safe-haven flows.

Market outlook: volatility before recovery

After peaking at $4,381, gold slid to around $4,000 per ounce, testing key support levels. Traders using Deriv MT5 or Deriv cTrader can monitor these key zones directly on live charts and manage positions through advanced technical indicators.

Citigroup downgraded its stance on gold from overweight to neutral, warning that positioning had become crowded. It expects prices to consolidate around $4,000 in the coming weeks.

Saxo Bank’s Ole Hansen, however, maintains a bullish long-term outlook, saying, “This correction was much-needed - the developments that drove this rally haven’t gone away.”

ING analysts echoed this sentiment, noting that the selloff was “largely technical,” a natural cool-off in a market that had become “hugely overbought.”

Silver, meanwhile, continues to show higher volatility - falling 9% during the crash but remaining up 67% YTD. Once broader market stability returns, analysts expect silver to rebound faster due to its dual role as an industrial and monetary metal.

Gold price prediction 2025

For traders, this correction offers both risk and opportunity.

Short-term strategy

Volatility will remain high. Watch for price stabilisation near $4,000–$4,050 as a potential accumulation zone. Use Deriv’s Trading Calculator to measure potential margin and profit before entering any position.

Medium-term outlook

Fundamentals still favour gold. Rate cuts, persistent inflation, and sustained central bank demand point to renewed upside momentum once the market digests recent gains.

Silver exposure

Silver’s sharper decline may present an attractive entry for traders willing to tolerate volatility. Historically, silver tends to rebound more aggressively after major gold-led corrections.

For now, this “historic crash” appears less like the start of a bear market and more like the pause before gold’s next leg up - a consolidation phase before the world’s oldest safe-haven asset resumes its climb toward new highs.

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Analysts say Japan’s economy can sustain its current momentum under prolonged dovish policy - but not indefinitely. Growth remains steady, inflation has stayed above the Bank of Japan’s 2% target for more than three years, and exports are finally recovering. 

Yet, the BoJ’s slow path toward tightening and a new government’s focus on fiscal stimulus are testing how much patience markets can bear. With the USD/JPY pair holding near 152, traders are weighing whether Japan’s strong fundamentals can coexist with a weak currency, or if policy divergence with the U.S. will soon push the pair toward 160.

Key takeaways

• Japan’s trade deficit narrowed slightly to ¥234.6 billion in September from ¥242.8 billion in August, suggesting export momentum but missing forecasts for a surplus.
  
• Exports rose 4.2% YoY, the first increase since April, while imports surged 3.3%, their first gain in three months.
  
• A Reuters poll found 96% of economists expect BoJ rates to reach 0.75% by March 2026, with 60% predicting a 25 bps hike this quarter.
  
• Sanae Takaichi’s election as Japan’s first female Prime Minister spurred equity gains and Yen weakness as markets priced in more fiscal stimulus and delayed BoJ tightening.
  
• The USD/JPY pair hovers near 152, supported by Fed rate-cut expectations and broad uncertainty over Japan’s policy direction.
  

Japan fiscal stimulus optimism vs. fiscal constraints

The election of Sanae Takaichi marks a historic milestone - Japan’s first female Prime Minister - and a clear policy inflection point. Takaichi’s platform emphasises economic revitalisation, defence investment, and stronger U.S. relations, signalling a government ready to spend.

Her coalition, formed with the Japan Innovation Party, promised fiscal stimulus to drive growth - echoing elements of Abenomics. 

The Japan 225 has rallied nearly 13% since early October, briefly nearing the 50,000 level before profit-taking set in. 

Yet, optimism about stimulus-led growth has simultaneously pressured the Yen, with traders anticipating a delay in BoJ normalisation. Still, Takaichi’s administration faces constraints. 

The coalition’s 231 seats in the lower house fall short of the 233 needed for a majority, forcing her to rely on opposition support to pass legislation. This weak parliamentary position limits the scale of fiscal expansion and injects political uncertainty into Japan’s economic outlook.

Bank of Japan interest rates: Resilience defies policy inertia

Japan’s macro picture has turned unexpectedly robust.

• The trade deficit narrowed for a second month, driven by improved export performance and moderating import costs.
  
• Exports rose 4.2% year-on-year, marking their first increase since April, supported by demand from Asia and Europe.
  
• Imports jumped 3.3%, their strongest gain in eight months, reflecting solid domestic consumption and higher energy costs.
  

Meanwhile, Japan’s GDP has expanded for five straight quarters, confirming a durable recovery from 2023’s stagnation. 

Inflation remains above 2%, supported by rising wages and service-sector demand. These conditions would trigger tightening in any other major economy.

Yet, despite these fundamentals, the BoJ remains the only major central bank still below 1% policy rates. Deputy Governor Shinichi Uchida has reaffirmed that future hikes will depend on “sustainable inflation trends,” while Board Member Hajime Takata stated that Japan has “roughly achieved” its price target - signalling cautious optimism but not urgency.

This mismatch between strong economic data and hesitant policy is keeping the Yen under pressure, as investors look elsewhere for yield.

BoJ’s policy rate: The slow road to 0.75%

The market expects change - just not quickly. According to a Reuters survey, 64 of 67 economists (96%) forecast the BoJ’s policy rate will reach 0.75% by March 2026, with 45 of 75 respondents (60%) expecting a 25 bps rate hike this quarter.

That timeline underscores just how gradual BoJ normalisation will be. The BoJ’s strategy hinges on ensuring wage gains are durable and not merely the result of cost-push inflation. But the risk is that patience turns into policy inertia, leaving the Yen vulnerable to capital outflows if other central banks ease faster.

Across the Pacific: Fed cuts, fiscal chaos, and Dollar fatigue

The U.S. Dollar Index (DXY) trades near 98.96, sliding after a brief recovery. A looming U.S. government shutdown, now in its fourth week, has frozen key data releases and clouded Fed visibility. The Senate has failed 11 times to pass a funding bill, making it the third-longest shutdown in U.S. history.

The CME FedWatch Tool now prices in a 96.7% chance of a rate cut in October and a 96.5% chance of another in December.

Fed officials are leaning dovish:

• Christopher Waller supports another immediate cut,
  
• Stephen Miran argues for a more aggressive 2025 easing path, and
  
• Jerome Powell confirmed the Fed is “on track” for another quarter-point reduction.
  

With the U.S. economy slowing, the rate differential between Japan and the U.S. is narrowing, making the Dollar less dominant. A faster Fed pivot could therefore cap USD/JPY upside, even without BoJ intervention.

USD JPY technical insight: Between fiscal hope and policy drag

The appointment of Finance Minister Satsuki Katayama - known for favouring a stronger Yen and calling 120–130 per USD “fundamentally justified” - has introduced a more balanced tone. However, broader market positioning still leans toward Yen weakness.

Analysts at Commerzbank note that the new government’s business-friendly orientation is unlikely to support long-term depreciation, projecting sideways USD/JPY movement as Japan’s fiscal push and BoJ patience offset one another.

After three consecutive sessions of losses, the Yen strengthened slightly midweek following the trade data release. The USD/JPY pair pulled back modestly but remains near 151.84. A bullish move is likely to meet resistance at the 153.05 price level, with RSI showing strengthening buy momentum. Conversely, if sellers prevail, they are likely to find support at the 150.25 and 146.70 price levels.

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Traders can track these levels in real time using Deriv MT5 and may consider placing stop-loss orders near the 150.25 support zone to manage risk in this volatile pair. Using Deriv’s economic calendar helps anticipate BoJ or Fed announcements that typically move the Yen.

Market impact and trading implications

For traders, USD/JPY presents a rare balance of risk and reward.

• Upside case: If BoJ delays tightening while the Fed stays cautious, USD/JPY could retest 158–160, testing market tolerance for Yen weakness.
  
• Downside case: If the Fed cuts twice and BoJ delivers even a modest hike, the pair could retrace to 145–147, unwinding part of 2024’s rally.
  

The carry trade remains a major driver of Yen sentiment. As global investors continue borrowing in Yen to fund higher-yield positions in other currencies, Japan’s low interest rates sustain the JPY’s role as a global funding currency. Any shift in BoJ policy or sudden increase in market volatility could force carry-trade unwinding, triggering rapid Yen appreciation.

The near-term tone remains range-bound, but volatility risk is high as politics and policy pull in opposite directions. Equity traders may find support in Japan’s stimulus agenda, while currency traders should prepare for potential BoJ recalibration before mid-2026.

Ultimately, Japan’s strong economy is proving resilient - but its currency may not stay patient forever. The question for 2025 is no longer whether Japan can grow, but how much dovishness its strength can bear before markets force the BoJ’s hand.

Analysts say Apple stock’s record high marks the beginning of a new AI-driven growth cycle rather than the end of one. With shares up 55% since April and $1.4 trillion added in market value, Apple’s resurgence is underpinned by solid fundamentals: accelerating iPhone 17 demand, a robust multi-year upgrade cycle, and steady progress in integrating artificial intelligence into its product ecosystem. 

The evidence suggests this rally isn’t mere euphoria but part of a structural revaluation of Apple’s role in the emerging AI economy - though short-term technical indicators hint at a cooling period before the next leg higher.

Key takeaways

• $1.4 trillion rebound since April, fuelled by AI optimism and iPhone 17 sales.
  
• Loop Capital upgrade to Buy with a street-high $315 target (+25% upside).
  
• RSI nearing overbought territory, signalling potential near-term consolidation.
  
• AI-linked crypto assets such as FET, and AGIX, show correlated volume spikes with Apple’s rally.
  
• Institutional rotation into AI-focused equities and digital assets underscores a broader risk-on shift.
  

Apple’s market cap: The $1.4 trillion rally 

Apple’s 2025 surge has been exceptional. Since April, the company has added $1.4 trillion in market value, reaching a fresh all-time high and reclaiming its position as one of the world’s most influential stocks. The latest leg up followed Loop Capital’s upgrade from Hold to Buy, with analysts lifting their price target from $226 to $315 - the highest on Wall Street.

Loop cited strong iPhone 17 sales, with 56.5 million shipments in Q3 2025, exceeding expectations. The firm also projects three consecutive record iPhone shipment years from 2025 to 2027, reinforcing the idea that Apple is at the front end of a long-anticipated upgrade and adoption cycle powered by AI-enhanced design and performance.

Apple’s AI technology as a catalyst 

Apple’s rally aligns with a wider surge in AI-driven market confidence. Analysts view Apple’s ecosystem as a critical bridge between consumers and AI-powered devices - from its upcoming “AI Phone” to new on-device machine learning tools integrated into iOS.

The company’s market cap has now climbed to $3.89 trillion, overtaking Microsoft to become the second-most valuable firm globally, behind Nvidia. Institutional investors see Apple’s expansion into AI as a signal that the technology is moving from hype to mainstream adoption - especially in hardware and consumer interfaces.

Apple stock technical analysis

Technically, Apple’s RSI is approaching overbought levels, suggesting the possibility of short-term consolidation. Support remains firm near the April low, while resistance sits around the $315 price target.

At the time of writing, Apple stock is in price discovery mode with bullish momentum evident on the daily chart. The bullish narrative is also supported by RSI towering above the midline near 60. However, a wick is forming at the top of the latest candle, suggesting some sell pressure is emerging. If sellers assert themselves further, prices could find support levels near $244.15, with additional support around $225.20 and $201.80.

Traders using Deriv Trader can monitor such levels with built-in tools for technical analysis or cross-check potential profit and loss outcomes using Deriv’s trading calculators.

Trading Apple’s AI Momentum on Deriv Platforms

For traders looking to capitalise on Apple’s AI momentum, Deriv’s MT5 platform provides flexible access to both short-term and long-term strategies.

• Momentum trading: The MACD and RSI indicators on Deriv MT5 help confirm bullish continuation patterns. When RSI holds above 50 and price remains above the 20-day EMA, traders can consider long entries with stop-loss levels below key supports.
  
• Range trading: If Apple consolidates between $244 and $315, short-term traders can look for price bounces off support zones. Deriv Trader offers simplified contract types that allow traders to benefit from both rising and falling prices within defined ranges.
  
• Position management: Deriv’s trading calculators evaluate margin requirements, potential profits, and pip value before executing trades.
  

Cross-market ripple: stocks and crypto

Apple’s AI surge could influence other markets. Traders have observed rising activity in AI-related crypto pairs such as FET/USDT, which often track similar AI sentiment patterns.

This growing correlation suggests Apple’s performance is becoming a barometer for the broader AI trade. Volume spikes in AAPL and AI tokens often occur in tandem, reflecting cross-market optimism around the AI theme. For active traders, Apple’s RSI cycles may even serve as an early signal for moves in decentralised AI assets.

Institutional confidence and capital rotation

Apple’s $1.4 trillion rebound is more than a valuation story - it’s a symbol of institutional conviction in AI’s long-term profitability. Fund managers are reallocating capital from defensive sectors into high-growth AI opportunities, both in equities and digital assets.

That momentum extends to crypto ETFs and large-cap tokens like Bitcoin and Ethereum, according to analysts, where inflows often mirror shifts in tech equity sentiment. The result is a cross-asset “risk-on” trend - with Apple’s performance acting as the trigger for renewed optimism in both traditional and decentralised markets.

Investment implications

For investors, Apple’s record high reinforces its role as a cornerstone of the AI economy. Equity traders may seek entry points near consolidation zones, while crypto participants can use Apple’s price action as a sentiment indicator for AI-linked digital assets.

Whether Apple breaks through $315 or pauses for a reset, its rally symbolises the market’s growing conviction in AI as the next structural growth engine - uniting Wall Street and Web3 under one accelerating trend: the race to own the future of intelligence.