Quiet session sees FTSE 100 higher while DAX keeps on rising

Chris Beauchamp IG

European markets have made more gains this afternoon and the FTSE 100 is holding around its recent highs, though caution persists in US markets, says Chris Beauchamp, Chief Market Analyst at online trading platform IG.

FTSE 100 edges higher

The FTSE 100 continues to consolidate around one-year highs, leaving it well-placed for additional gains. Sterling weakness has played a key role in the short-term move, but in the longer-term it looks like we could see further gains as international fund flows continue to return to UK markets thanks to the better outlook for the UK economy. European markets have made further strides too, with investors still keen to pile in even after the huge gains thanks to the more attractive valuations on offer.

Dow makes gains but tech stocks struggle

The Dow charged out of the gate this afternoon but has slowed after a couple of hours, but tech stocks have continued to struggle. Quarter-end and Friday’s inflation reading are likely to keep any bullishness in check, but the fundamentals point towards further gains in April and beyond.

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Chris Beauchamp

EUR/USD hits two-day highs near 1.1820

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GBP/USD reclaims 1.3600 and above

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Gold climbs further, focus is back to 45,000

Gold regains upside traction and surpasses the $4,900 mark per troy ounce at the end of the week, shifting its attention to the critical $5,000 region. The move reflects a shift in risk sentiment, driving flows back towards traditional safe haven assets and supporting the yellow metal.

Crypto Today: Bitcoin, Ethereum, XRP rebound amid risk-off, $2.6 billion liquidation wave

Bitcoin edges up above $65,000 at the time of writing on Friday, as dust from the recent macro-triggered sell-off settles. The leading altcoin, Ethereum, hovers above $1,900, but resistance at $2,000 caps the upside. Meanwhile, Ripple has recorded the largest intraday jump among the three assets, up over 10% to $1.35.

Three scenarios for Japanese Yen ahead of snap election

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XRP rally extends as modest ETF inflows support recovery

Ripple is accelerating its recovery, trading above $1.36 at the time of writing on Friday, as investors adjust their positions following a turbulent week in the broader crypto market. The remittance token is up over 21% from its intraday low of $1.12.