Market Volatility

February 26 – Daily Market Update

26 February 2026 – Daily Market Updates Markets Daily Market Snapshot (as of 06:22 am ET; data may be delayed) S&P 500 Futures: 6954 (-0.08%) Stoxx Europe 600: 634.4 (+0.15%) Hang Seng: 26381.02 (-1.44%) Bitcoin: 68255.88 (-1.04%) Spot silver: 87.56 (-1.87%) Morning Brief Risk appetite is mixed to start the day. US equity futures are fractionally softer after a powerful multi-week run in technology faded, Europe is modestly higher on selective strength in capital-return stories, and Asia lagged with Hong Kong under pressure. Crypto assets are consolidating after a brisk rebound, while precious metals are weaker alongside steadier real yields. What’s Driving Markets Tech leadership cools: After a stretch of outsized gains, large-cap chip and software names are pausing as investors digest lofty expectations around artificial intelligence and enterprise IT spending. The latest round of earnings broadly topped past results but did not meaningfully lift forward sentiment. Policy and geopolitics: Headlines around trade policy and diplomatic talks remain a swing factor for risk assets. Markets continue to weigh the growth and inflation implications of tariff rhetoric and any negotiation breakthroughs or setbacks in key regions. Capital returns in focus: High-profile buyback plans in Europe buoyed sentiment and underscored ongoing balance sheet strength in select blue chips. Credit market evolution: Partnerships between alternative asset managers and banks in private credit continue to build, highlighting the shift toward non-bank financing channels in Europe and the US. Equities United States: Futures point to a cautious open as investors rotate within tech and communication services. Cyclical sectors tied to industrial activity and travel are holding steadier, while parts of ad-tech and enterprise software trade lower on conservative guidance and competitive concerns. AI-adjacent names remain volatile in both directions. Europe: Benchmark indices are slightly higher, supported by companies announcing shareholder returns and by defensives. Banks and insurers are mixed as rate-cut timing debates persist. Asia: Regional stocks were broadly softer, led by Hong Kong, with Chinese internet and consumer names under pressure. Japan was more resilient as corporate reforms and buybacks continue to offset currency and rate worries. Rates & Currencies Sovereign yields are little changed in early trading as markets balance sticky services inflation against slowing goods price pressures. Curves remain relatively flat by historical standards. The dollar is steady versus major peers. Traders continue to price a gradual, data-dependent path to developed-market rate cuts rather than a swift easing cycle. Commodities & Crypto Energy: Crude is rangebound as supply discipline from producers meets uneven global demand signals. Refining margins remain tight in some products, cushioning prices. Metals: Gold and silver are softer as real yields stabilize and the dollar holds firm. Industrial metals are mixed on China growth signals and inventory dynamics. Digital assets: Bitcoin trades near 68k with a mild risk-off tone. Flows into and out of listed products remain two-way, but the broader institutional framework around custody, trading, and liquidity is notably more robust than during the prior cycle. Volatility remains elevated around macro headlines and positioning shifts. Positioning & Sentiment Options markets indicate elevated demand for downside protection relative to upside calls, reflecting caution after a strong year-to-date rally. Historically, extreme readings in skew can precede a shift in market tone, but timing such turns is uncertain. Market breadth has narrowed toward mega-cap leaders in recent weeks; any improvement in participation across cyclicals and small caps would be a constructive signal for durability of the uptrend. Corporate Highlights Technology and software: Guidance dispersion is widening. Some platforms cite cautious advertiser and enterprise spending, while others highlight robust demand in infrastructure and data-related services. Expect continued stock-specific moves around earnings, AI monetization roadmaps, and competitive updates. Industrials: European aerospace and industrial champions are leaning into balance sheet strength via buybacks and efficiency programs, lending support to regional indices. Financials: Banks remain in focus with updates on credit quality, deposit costs, and fee income from markets and wealth businesses. Private credit origination pipelines continue to expand as traditional loan markets reopen. What We’re Watching Macro data: Inflation trends, labor tightness, and growth momentum indicators remain pivotal for the policy path. Any upside surprises on prices or wages could keep central banks patient; softer prints would strengthen the case for mid-year easing. Earnings: Another active slate across software, consumer tech, communications, and financials. Guidance on 2H spending intentions, AI-related capex, and inventory normalization will be key. Policy headlines: Trade and geopolitical developments may inject day-to-day volatility and influence sector rotations. Risk Management Takeaways After a strong run, markets are consolidating with elevated event risk. Maintain discipline on position sizing and consider the cost-benefit of hedges, as downside protection has grown more expensive. Leadership remains narrow; diversification across factors and styles can help mitigate single-theme drawdowns. Liquidity can thin around catalysts; use limit orders and staggered execution to reduce slippage. This material is for information purposes only and is not investment advice or a recommendation to buy or sell any security or asset class. Market levels are indicative and subject to change. Disclaimer: Trading foreign exchange and/or contracts for difference on margin carries a high level of risk, and may not be suitable for all investors as you could sustain losses in excess of deposits. The products are intended for retail, professional and eligible counterparty clients. Before deciding to trade any products offered by PhillipCapital (DIFC) Private Limited you should carefully consider your objectives, financial situation, needs and level of experience. You should be aware of all the risks associated with trading on margin. The content of the Website must not be construed as personal advice. For retail, professional and eligible counterparty clients. Before deciding to trade any products offered by PhillipCapital (DIFC) Private Limited you should carefully consider your objectives, financial situation, needs and level of experience. You should be aware of all the risks associated with trading on margin. Rolling Spot Contracts and CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 78% of our retail client accounts lose money while trading with

February 26 – Daily Market Update Read More »

February 23 – Daily Market Update

23 February 2026 – Daily Market Updates Markets Daily — Broad Market Update Market Snapshot (as of 06:37 am ET; subject to change) S&P 500 Futures: 6905.5 (-0.26%) Stoxx Europe 600: 629.03 (-0.24%) Dollar Index: +0.03% Bitcoin: 66226.69 (-2.01%) Hang Seng China Enterprises: 9197.38 (+2.65%) Opening take Risk tone is mixed to softer to start the week. US equity futures are a touch lower and Europe is modestly in the red, while Hong Kong-listed China proxies outperformed on renewed dip-buying. The dollar is slightly firmer, and crypto is under pressure with Bitcoin sliding. Traders are navigating a heavy macro and policy week, headline risk around global trade, and a slate of corporate earnings that could sway sector leadership. What’s moving the market Trade policy uncertainty: Fresh developments in US trade policy and related legal rulings have reintroduced volatility into global risk assets. European officials are seeking clarity on proposed US tariff changes, and any escalation or unexpected measures could reverberate through cyclicals, global industrials, and exporters. Europe opens softer: The Stoxx Europe 600 is marginally lower as defensives hold up better than tech-adjacent names. Investors are balancing macro headwinds with idiosyncratic stock moves across retail, chemicals, and software. China/Hong Kong rebound: Mainland-adjacent equities led gains in Asia, with buying interest in technology and consumer-facing names. Stabilization efforts and improved sentiment toward select Chinese assets helped lift benchmarks after recent underperformance. Weather-related disruption: Severe winter conditions across the US Northeast are constraining travel and logistics. While weather impacts are typically transitory, near-term effects can show up in airlines, freight, and brick-and-mortar retail footfall. Private markets under the microscope: Slower capital distributions from private equity and signs of tighter liquidity in parts of private credit are drawing investor attention. The larger backlog of unrealized assets and evolving fund terms put a premium on manager selection and transparency. Sectors and stocks to watch Consumer and retail: Sportswear and specialty retailers are active on buyback headlines and broker updates. Expect positioning to hinge on inventory discipline and demand visibility into spring/summer. Industrials and chemicals: Valuation resets around portfolio transactions and deal pricing are weighing on select European names; look for follow-through in peers with similar exposure. Software and cybersecurity: European tech is tracking recent US moves, with sentiment sensitive to AI-feature news flow and spending outlooks. Investors continue to differentiate between profit visibility and AI-adjacent optionality. Health care: Weight-management drug trial updates are driving large-cap dispersion within pharma. Pipeline durability, manufacturing capacity, and payer dynamics remain core to the thesis. Credit and rates Government bonds: A cautious risk tone and headline sensitivity have left core yields in a holding pattern early in the session. Incoming inflation prints and labor data later this week will be key for rate expectations. Credit: Private credit headlines, including fund-level redemption limits in isolated cases, are prompting debate around liquidity terms and borrower protections. Public credit markets remain orderly, but monitoring covenants and issuance quality remains front and center. Crypto check Bitcoin is lower, extending a drawdown that has challenged dip-buying behavior. With speculative momentum softer and macro liquidity mixed, crypto price action is increasingly sensitive to positioning rather than incremental adoption headlines. Volatility around key technical levels remains elevated. Today’s macro diary (high level) US: Factory orders and durable goods Europe: Central bank speakers; EU foreign ministers meeting Corporate: A handful of consumer, energy, and health names report; guidance will be closely watched for demand signals and cost trends The week ahead — key signposts Policy and geopolitics: Developments in US trade policy and major policy addresses could steer global risk appetite. Any shift in tariff frameworks would have implications for global supply chains and inflation. Inflation and activity: Euro-area inflation, Germany and France inflation/GP data, Canada GDP, and select Asia CPI releases will refine the disinflation narrative and growth differentials. Central banks: Rate decisions in select emerging markets and Asia, plus comments from European policymakers, may influence curve shape and FX crosses. Earnings: Mega-cap tech remains in focus with a leading semiconductor designer reporting midweek. Large retailers and banks in Europe and Asia also step up, with capex and AI-related demand under scrutiny. Positioning themes we’re watching Quality growth vs. cyclicals: With policy and macro uncertainty elevated, leadership could remain narrow until visibility improves. Earnings beats from tech hardware and semis could extend the premium for high free-cash-flow names. Europe vs. US: A steady dollar and uneven European growth keep cross-asset allocators selective; defensives and high dividend quality remain favored in Europe. Emerging markets rotation: Interest in Latin American equities has picked up as investors rebalance EM exposure. Country and sector selection are critical given rates paths and commodity sensitivities. Liquidity and alternatives: Headlines around private market exits and fund terms argue for diversified liquidity ladders and stress-testing of portfolio cash needs. What could change the story Clearer guidance on trade policy that reduces tail-risk premiums Upside or downside surprises in inflation that shift rate-cut timing Earnings revisions momentum, particularly within AI supply chains Weather normalization reducing near-term noise in US activity data Market risk reminder Market levels and pricing can move quickly and may differ by provider. This commentary is for information only and is not investment advice. Consider your objectives and risk tolerance before making investment decisions. Disclaimer: Trading foreign exchange and/or contracts for difference on margin carries a high level of risk, and may not be suitable for all investors as you could sustain losses in excess of deposits. The products are intended for retail, professional and eligible counterparty clients. Before deciding to trade any products offered by PhillipCapital (DIFC) Private Limited you should carefully consider your objectives, financial situation, needs and level of experience. You should be aware of all the risks associated with trading on margin. The content of the Website must not be construed as personal advice. For retail, professional and eligible counterparty clients. Before deciding to trade any products offered by PhillipCapital (DIFC) Private Limited you should carefully consider your objectives, financial situation, needs and level of experience. You

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February 2 – Daily Market Update

Leave a Comment / Market Updates, Daily Market Updates / PhillipCapital DIFC Research Team

2 February 2026 – Daily Market Updates Markets Daily: Volatility returns as crowded trades reset; central banks and jobs data in focus Market Snapshot (as of 06:52 am ET) S&P 500 Futures: 6933.5 (-0.46%) Nasdaq 100 Futures: 25466.25 (-0.79%) Bitcoin: 77851.5 (+1.86%) Gold: 4774.16 (-2.45%) Opening take Risk appetite softened to start the week as investors trimmed popular long positions across equities and commodities. US equity futures point lower for a fourth session, the dollar is little changed, and rate markets are steady ahead of a dense macro calendar that includes major central bank decisions in Europe and the US January employment report. The notable outlier is crypto, where prices stabilized after a volatile weekend. Today’s key themes Commodities swing: Precious metals and energy retreated sharply, reflecting a combination of profit-taking, position de-risking, and idiosyncratic liquidity stresses in parts of Asia. Intraday moves have been wide, a hallmark of thin conditions into regional holidays and tighter margins for leveraged positions. Dip-buying interest is emerging in physical markets, but price discovery remains unsettled. Tech-led equity pullback: After a strong run, high-beta segments—particularly AI-adjacent semiconductor names in Asia—saw outsized declines, with spillovers to Europe and US futures. The catalyst mix includes lofty positioning, shifting expectations around capex plans, and a broader “take profits first, ask questions later” mindset into the macro-heavy week. Crypto steadies: Digital assets found a footing after recent losses, trading more in line with broader risk tone rather than in isolation. Correlations with high-growth equities remain elevated, and crypto-exposed equities are seeing pressure in premarket trade despite the rebound in headline tokens. FX and rates: The dollar is marginally softer against majors, with yields largely unchanged as investors await guidance from the ECB and BoE and Friday’s US jobs report. Expect limited directional conviction until those catalysts land. Across regions Asia: Equities weakened, led by technology hardware and semiconductors. A combination of profit-taking and local market liquidity dynamics amplified the moves. Commodity-related shares lagged amid the metals pullback. Europe: Stocks opened mixed-to-lower, with miners and energy underperforming. Defensive sectors held up better as investors positioned for Thursday’s central bank decisions. Sovereign bonds were steady. US: Futures are lower, with cyclical and momentum cohorts indicated down more than the broader tape. Volatility is ticking up from subdued levels as options markets price wider ranges into Friday’s payrolls. Corporate and sector highlights Metals and mining: Gold and silver volatility weighed on producers; beta to spot prices remains high after a strong year-to-date run. Position-sensitive names are seeing outsized moves. Energy: Crude softness and headline risk around geopolitics dragged the complex. Integrateds and E&Ps are indicated lower premarket. AI and cloud: A large enterprise software provider flagged sizable funding plans to expand cloud/AI infrastructure capacity, underscoring the ongoing capex race. Markets continue to debate the durability and timing of returns on hyperscale spend. Media and consumer: A prominent media conglomerate’s leadership planning remains in focus alongside earnings. Consumer and staples bellwethers will offer read-throughs on pricing power and volumes this week. Crypto-linked equities: Miners, exchanges, and infrastructure plays are under pressure despite stabilization in major tokens, reflecting sensitivity to recent drawdowns and hash-price dynamics. The week ahead: macro diary Monday: Global manufacturing PMIs; selected central bank speakers. Earnings from large-cap consumer, entertainment, and software names. Tuesday: Australia policy decision; Eurozone bank lending survey; France/South Korea/Turkey CPI; Spain unemployment; US JOLTS and vehicle sales. US earnings heavy in payments, beverages, pharma, and semis. Wednesday: Services PMIs (selected regions); US ADP employment and ISM services; US Treasury financing outlook. Earnings include a major US search/advertising platform and a global bank. Thursday: Policy decisions from the ECB, BoE, and Mexico; Germany factory orders; France industrial production; US initial jobless claims. Private equity, energy, and ecommerce names report. Friday: US nonfarm payrolls, unemployment rate, and consumer sentiment; Canada jobs; Germany industrial production; India policy decision; Japan household spending and leading index. What we’re watching next Crowding unwind: The rotation out of year-to-date winners suggests positioning rather than macro alone is driving price action. Watch for signs of stabilization in flows before chasing reversals. Central bank tone: Any updates on balance sheet plans and inflation assessment from the ECB/BoE could steer duration and FX into the weekend. US payrolls: After resilient labor prints, any shift in wage growth or participation could influence the timing and magnitude of rate-cut expectations. Earnings breadth: Guideposts from mega-cap tech, semis, payments, and energy will shape the narrative on AI monetization, consumer health, and capex cycles. Risk management considerations Elevated intraday swings in commodities and high-beta equities argue for disciplined sizing and wider stop tolerances. Into Friday’s data, consider scenario planning around labor-market surprises and the knock-on to front-end rates, tech multiples, and USD direction. For hedgers, skew in index options has richened modestly; cross-asset hedges (gold, USD, duration) have been inconsistent—diversification across hedges may be prudent. This material is provided for information only and does not constitute investment advice or a solicitation to buy or sell any financial instrument. Markets are volatile and subject to change. Consider your objectives, risk tolerance, and local regulations before making investment decisions. Disclaimer: Trading foreign exchange and/or contracts for difference on margin carries a high level of risk, and may not be suitable for all investors as you could sustain losses in excess of deposits. The products are intended for retail, professional and eligible counterparty clients. Before deciding to trade any products offered by PhillipCapital (DIFC) Private Limited you should carefully consider your objectives, financial situation, needs and level of experience. You should be aware of all the risks associated with trading on margin. The content of the Website must not be construed as personal advice. For retail, professional and eligible counterparty clients. Before deciding to trade any products offered by PhillipCapital (DIFC) Private Limited you should carefully consider your objectives, financial situation, needs and level of experience. You should be aware of all the risks associated with trading on margin. Rolling Spot Contracts and CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high

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January 23 – Daily Market Update

Leave a Comment / Daily Market Updates, Market Updates / PhillipCapital DIFC Research Team

23 January 2026 – Daily Market Updates Markets Daily | Global Morning Brief As of 06:17 am ET S&P 500 futures: 6939.5 (-0.08%) Stoxx Europe 600: 607.46 (-0.23%) Nikkei 225: 53846.87 (+0.29%) Spot silver: 98.56 (+2.40%) Bitcoin: 89105.96 (-0.07%) Overnight and early-session tone Equities: US futures ease slightly, Europe is softer, and Asia finished mixed. The S&P 500 is tracking a second straight weekly pullback as investors digest earnings and shifting rate expectations. Currencies: The yen strengthened notably versus the dollar after a volatile week in Japanese assets, keeping FX volatility in focus and weighing on broader dollar sentiment. Rates: Yield curves have been steepening in several major markets as longer-dated bonds underperform. That reflects ongoing debate over fiscal paths and policy normalization timelines. Commodities: Precious metals remain firm, with silver extending gains and gold holding near recent highs as investors seek ballast amid policy and geopolitical uncertainty. Digital assets: Bitcoin is little changed, consolidating after recent swings. What’s moving the tape Rotation under the surface: Flows continue to show a bid for non-US risk, with emerging-market equities and hard assets attracting attention while some US-focused funds see outflows. Diversification away from concentrated exposures remains a recurring theme this month. Japan in focus: A rapid repricing in Japanese government bonds has challenged the long-held “low-for-long” narrative. Higher yields and currency strength are reverberating across global rate markets and equities tied to Japan’s growth and export dynamics. Curve trades reappear: With long-end yields leading, investors have revisited strategies that benefit from a steeper curve. The move underscores sensitivity to deficits, supply, and the path of policy rates across regions. Sector dispersion: Equipment and hardware names are seeing disparate results around earnings updates and guidance, while select health-tech and telecom-equipment reports point to resilient demand in core segments. Defense-related listings in Europe drew strong interest, highlighting ongoing support for that theme. Today’s key drivers to watch Earnings: Another heavy slate across tech, industrials, financials, and energy. Commentary on capex, AI-related spending, supply chains, and pricing power will be key for margins and guidance. Macro: US and European data drops on growth and inflation remain in focus ahead of major central bank meetings. Market-implied paths for policy continue to shift as incoming data challenge the pace and depth of any future rate moves. Policy and geopolitics: Headlines around trade, supply chains, and regional tensions are feeding into currency and commodity volatility. Stay mindful of headline risk into the weekend. Portfolio considerations Duration and curve: With long-end rates more volatile, consider how portfolio duration and curve exposure align with risk tolerance. Hedging rate sensitivity and stress-testing scenarios remains prudent. Diversification: Cross-asset moves this month have rewarded diversified exposures across regions and factors. Keep an eye on concentration risk, particularly within mega-cap tech and single-factor tilts. Liquidity: Elevated intraday swings in FX, rates, and commodities argue for maintaining ample liquidity and disciplined rebalancing protocols. Market wrap at a glance Equities: Cautious tone, modest declines in US/Europe, Asia mixed. FX: Dollar softer on the week; yen strength notable. Rates: Long-end under pressure; global curves steeper. Commodities: Precious metals bid; energy mixed. Crypto: Consolidation mode. Note: Market levels are indicative and subject to change Important disclosures This material is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice or a recommendation to buy or sell any securities. Markets involve risk, including the possible loss of principal. Consider your objectives, risk tolerance, and consult a qualified financial professional before making investment decisions. Market data may be delayed or updated without notice. Disclaimer: Trading foreign exchange and/or contracts for difference on margin carries a high level of risk, and may not be suitable for all investors as you could sustain losses in excess of deposits. The products are intended for retail, professional and eligible counterparty clients. Before deciding to trade any products offered by PhillipCapital (DIFC) Private Limited you should carefully consider your objectives, financial situation, needs and level of experience. You should be aware of all the risks associated with trading on margin. The content of the Website must not be construed as personal advice. For retail, professional and eligible counterparty clients. Before deciding to trade any products offered by PhillipCapital (DIFC) Private Limited you should carefully consider your objectives, financial situation, needs and level of experience. You should be aware of all the risks associated with trading on margin. Rolling Spot Contracts and CFDs are complex instruments and come with a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. 78% of our retail client accounts lose money while trading with us. You should consider whether you understand how Rolling Spot Contracts and CFDs work, and whether you can afford to take the high risk of losing your money. 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Bid-Ask Spreads In Forex

Leave a Comment / Educational Blogs, Forex Basics, Spot FX and CFDs / PhillipCapital DIFC Research Team

Bid-Ask Spreads In Forex Table of Contents What Exactly Is a Bid-Ask Spread in Forex? How Is the Spread Calculated in Pips? Fixed vs. Variable Spreads: Which Is Better for Your Strategy? What Factors Cause Spreads to Widen or Tighten? How Do Spreads Impact Your Overall Trading Profitability? What Strategies Can help Manage and Minimize Spread Costs? Conclusion What Exactly Is a Bid-Ask Spread in Forex? In the global foreign exchange markets, currencies are never traded at a single price point. Instead, every currency pair—whether it is a major pair like EUR/USD or an exotic pair—has two distinct prices: the Bid price and the Ask price. The Bid price represents the highest price a buyer (the broker or the market) is willing to pay for a currency pair. This is the price at which you, as a trader, can sell. Conversely, the Ask price (sometimes called the “Offer”) is the lowest price at which a seller is willing to sell. This is the price at which you can buy. The Bid-Ask Spread is simply the difference between these two figures. It represents the primary transaction cost of opening a trade. For example, if you are trading Spot FX and the EUR/USD is quoted at 1.1050/1.1052, the spread is the difference between 1.1052 and 1.1050. While this cost might seem negligible on a single trade, it is a critical component of liquidity and market structure that professional investors must monitor closely. How Is the Spread Calculated in Pips? To understand the cost of a trade, you must calculate the spread in pips (Percentage in Point). For most major currency pairs, a pip is the fourth decimal place. The formula is straightforward: Spread = Ask Price – Bid Price Let’s look at a practical calculation using the GBP/USD pair: Ask Price: 1.2505 Bid Price: 1.2502 Calculation: 1.2505 – 1.2502 = 0.0003 In this scenario, the spread is 3 pips. However, for pairs involving the Japanese Yen (JPY), the pip is the second decimal place. If the USD/JPY is quoted at 130.50/130.52, the difference is 0.02, which equals 2 pips. Understanding this calculation is vital when trading Spot FX & CFDs, as it directly affects where your trade needs to move just to break even. Start Trading with Competitive Spreads Experience institutional-grade execution on the world’s most popular trading platform Open an Account Fixed vs. Variable Spreads: Which Is Better for Your Strategy? When selecting a trading environment, you will typically encounter two types of spreads: fixed and variable (floating). Fixed Spreads remain constant regardless of market conditions. Whether the market is calm or highly volatile, the spread stays the same. This provides certainty regarding transaction costs, which can be beneficial for traders who rely on precise cost calculations for automated strategies. Variable Spreads, which are more common in the interbank market and offered by brokers like Phillip Capital DIFC, fluctuate based on supply and demand. In times of high liquidity—such as the overlap between the London and New York sessions—variable spreads on major pairs can be extremely tight, often tighter than fixed spreads. This offers a significant advantage for active traders seeking the best possible market price. However, during major economic news releases or low-liquidity periods, these spreads can widen to reflect market risk. For most professional and retail traders seeking authentic market access, variable spreads are often preferred as they reflect true market depth and liquidity What Factors Cause Spreads to Widen or Tighten? The Bid-Ask spread is not static; it “breathes” with the market. Three primary factors influence its width: Liquidity: This is the most significant factor. Major pairs like the EUR/USD or USD/JPY typically have the tightest spreads because billions of dollars are traded in them daily. There is always a buyer for every seller. In contrast, Minor and Exotic Currency Pairs, such as the USD/TRY (Turkish Lira) or USD/ZAR (South African Rand), often have wider spreads due to lower trading volumes. Volatility: During periods of economic uncertainty or immediately following critical data releases (like US Non-Farm Payrolls), market participants may pull their orders, causing liquidity to dry up and spreads to widen rapidly. Time of Day: The Forex market operates 24/5, but liquidity is not uniform. Spreads are generally tightest when major sessions overlap (e.g., afternoon in Dubai when London and New York are both open). Conversely, during the “rollover” period (typically 1:00 AM Dubai time), spreads may temporarily widen as banking institutions reset for the next trading day. Access Global Liquidity Trade EUR/USD, GBP/USD, and other majors with deep market liquidity and fast execution. Explore Forex Offerings How Do Spreads Impact Your Overall Trading Profitability? Many novice investors overlook the spread, focusing solely on profit targets. However, the spread is an upfront cost that must be overcome before a trade becomes profitable. For Scalpers and Day Traders, who open and close numerous positions throughout the day to capture small price movements, the spread is critical. If you are targeting a 10-pip profit, a 2-pip spread represents 20% of your potential gain. Over hundreds of trades, a slightly wider spread can significantly erode net returns. For Swing Traders or Position Traders who hold trades for days or weeks, the spread is less impactful relative to the total potential profit. Since these traders aim for moves of 50, 100, or more pips, a small difference in the spread is a minor percentage of the overall trade. Effective Forex Market Structure knowledge helps traders time their entries to avoid periods of widened spreads, thereby protecting their profit margins. What Strategies Can help Manage and Minimize Spread Costs? While you cannot eliminate the spread, you can manage its impact on your portfolio: Trade During Peak Hours: Align your trading schedule with the most liquid market sessions. For UAE investors, the sweet spot is typically between 11:00 AM and 8:00 PM, covering the London and early New York sessions. Focus on Major Pairs: If you are sensitive to transaction costs, prioritize highly liquid pairs like EUR/USD or GBP/USD, where spreads are

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Jan 12 – Daily Market Update

Leave a Comment / Daily Market Updates, Market Updates / PhillipCapital DIFC Research Team

12 Jan 26 – Daily Market Updates Markets Daily Your broad market briefing for the trading day Market at a glance Equities: US index futures softer; European benchmarks slightly lower after an uneven open; Asia mixed with Japan closed for a holiday. Rates: Long-dated US Treasury yields edging higher; global curves exhibiting a mild steepening bias. FX: The US dollar pulls back against major peers as investors reassess policy and growth trajectories. Commodities: Gold and silver extend gains on safe-haven demand; oil trades in a tight range amid crosscurrents in supply and demand. What’s moving markets Policy uncertainty and central bank signaling are back in focus. Markets are weighing the implications of potential shifts in the path of interest rates and the broader debate around monetary policy independence, keeping volatility elevated in rates, FX, and precious metals. Positioning and concentration risk remain key themes in equities. With leadership narrowing at times over recent months, investors are paying closer attention to earnings breadth, guidance quality, and cash flow durability rather than headline growth alone. Safe-haven flows are noticeable. A softer dollar alongside strength in bullion suggests some preference for diversification, particularly as investors hedge against inflation and policy surprises. Credit and consumer finance sentiment is cautious. Headlines and regulatory discussions around consumer lending and pricing are creating short-term pressure across select financials, while the broader credit market remains orderly. Equities US: Futures point to a weaker start as investors brace for a dense macro and earnings calendar. Dispersion within large-cap tech persists; stock selection remains critical as spending on new technologies meets more rigorous profitability scrutiny. Europe: Regional indices are modestly lower, with defensives and commodity-linked names outperforming cyclical pockets. M&A interest and corporate restructuring remain supportive for select sectors. Asia: Performance was mixed in a thin session. Mainland China and parts of North Asia are digesting fresh trade and price data later this week; liquidity conditions and policy communication remain near-term catalysts. Fixed income Treasuries: The curve is tilting steeper as markets weigh near-term easing expectations against longer-run term premium and fiscal dynamics. Duration has been choppy; many are favoring barbell or laddered approaches to manage reinvestment and volatility risk. Global rates: Core European yields are little changed to slightly higher; UK gilts underperform on supply and wage/inflation sensitivity. In credit, primary issuance remains active with mostly stable spreads, though lower-quality tiers could see more differentiation into earnings. Currencies The dollar index softens as rate differentials narrow at the margin. Pro-cyclical pairs are mixed; haven FX is steady. Investors continue to explore diversification across G10 and select EM currencies, balancing carry with liquidity and policy credibility. Commodities Precious metals: Gold and silver advance on a combination of real-yield moves, dollar softness, and hedging demand. Positioning is elevated; pullbacks may be tactical in nature given ongoing macro uncertainty. Energy: Crude trades sideways as supply risks are balanced by uneven demand indicators. Time spreads remain range-bound; refinery margins and inventory data later in the week are in focus. Industrials: Base metals are mixed, with growth-sensitive contracts awaiting clearer signals from global manufacturing and construction data. The week ahead: what to watch US: Inflation (CPI/PPI), retail sales, housing activity, and the Fed’s Beige Book. A full slate of public remarks from policymakers may shed light on the reaction function and outlook for rates. Big banks and bellwethers kick off a heavy earnings stretch; investors will watch net interest income trends, credit provisioning, trading revenues, and forward guidance. Europe/UK: Industrial production, trade balances, and central bank commentary. Bank earnings and corporate updates will help gauge demand, cost pressures, and pricing power into the first quarter. Asia: China trade data and regional labor/price prints; a key policy rate decision in North Asia. Semiconductor and technology supply-chain updates remain a driver for sentiment. Canada: Housing indicators and existing home sales; Bank commentary on growth and inflation mix. Strategy snapshots Equities: Expect higher dispersion. Emphasize quality balance sheets, consistent free cash flow, and pricing power. Within tech, differentiate between long-duration R&D stories and firms showing near-term monetization. Consider global diversification as non-US markets screen more attractively on relative valuation and earnings revision trends. Rates: Curve risk is back. Investors concerned about steepening may look at intermediate tenors and add hedges where appropriate. For income, maintain flexibility to add duration on weakness; consider credit selection over beta in tighter-spread areas. FX: With the dollar softer, selectively add to non-USD exposures where policy credibility is firm and growth is stable. Maintain liquidity and avoid crowded carry where volatility could force quick reversals. Commodities: For hedgers, staggered entries in precious metals may help manage momentum-driven swings. In energy, focus on balance sheets of producers with disciplined capex and robust cash returns. Risk management checklist Track real yields and breakevens for clues on inflation psychology. Watch credit conditions and bank earnings for early reads on the consumer and corporate funding costs. Use scenario analysis around key data releases; adjust stops and position sizes to account for event risk. Maintain diversification across regions, styles, and factors to mitigate concentration risk. Housekeeping and disclosures This material is a general market commentary prepared for informational purposes only. It does not constitute investment advice or a recommendation to buy or sell any security or strategy. Markets are volatile; past performance is not indicative of future results. Consider your objectives, risk tolerance, and consult a qualified advisor before making investment decisions. Disclaimer: Trading foreign exchange and/or contracts for difference on margin carries a high level of risk, and may not be suitable for all investors as you could sustain losses in excess of deposits. The products are intended for retail, professional and eligible counterparty clients. Before deciding to trade any products offered by PhillipCapital (DIFC) Private Limited you should carefully consider your objectives, financial situation, needs and level of experience. You should be aware of all the risks associated with trading on margin. The content of the Website must not be construed as personal advice. For retail, professional and eligible counterparty clients. Before deciding to

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Jan 08 – Daily Market Update

Leave a Comment / Market Updates, Daily Market Updates / PhillipCapital DIFC Research Team

08 Jan 26 – Daily Market Updates A broad market briefing As of 06:22 am ET Market snapshot S&P 500 futures: 6950.75 Stoxx Europe 600: 602.9 Nikkei 225: 51117.26 Bitcoin: 89977.04 Broad dollar gauge: 1207.84 Global wrap Asia: Equities retreated, led by Japan, as investors took profits in technology and cyclicals following a strong run into year-end. Semiconductor sentiment was mixed: optimism around AI-related demand persists, but positioning remains elevated and sensitive to policy headlines and supply-chain updates. Europe: Stocks are softer with defensives outperforming cyclicals. Energy is under pressure after a weaker quarter for some integrated oils, while select retailers lag on tepid holiday read‑throughs. Core rates are little changed ahead of a heavy sovereign supply slate. US pre-market: Futures are modestly lower as policy noise and valuation concerns stir a more selective tone. Recent social-media commentary around residential real estate investment and defense capital returns injected volatility across homebuilders and defense contractors, underscoring headline sensitivity at stretched multiples. Policy and macro Policy signaling remains a key swing factor. Markets are weighing potential curbs on institutional purchases of single-family homes, as well as proposed conditions on defense-sector payouts and spending. These headlines contributed to sector churn and a mild de‑risking in momentum pockets. Trade and tech: Reports that China may allow limited imports of advanced AI accelerators later this quarter supported sentiment around parts of the chip complex, though details and scope remain fluid. Rates backdrop: Robust primary issuance continues globally as issuers front‑load funding ahead of earnings blackouts and central-bank speak. Despite the deluge, credit spreads remain tight, highlighting sustained demand for high-quality paper and, increasingly, longer-dated maturities. Credit and rates Busiest start to the year for global bonds in recent memory, with US IG, euro IG, and selected sovereigns tapping markets at scale. New deals are generally meeting strong books and modest concessions, although a heavy calendar raises the risk of near-term indigestion. Treasury curve: Little net change pre‑open. Duration demand is firm from liability-driven buyers, while macro funds remain tactical into supply and data. Equities Technology: AI remains the dominant investment theme. Memory suppliers continue to benefit from data‑center demand and firmer pricing, though near-term consolidation is not surprising after outsized 2025 gains. Industrials/Defense: Policy proposals around buybacks/dividends and capex drove outsized moves. After-hours and cross‑region trading showed two-way flows as investors recalibrated for potential spending trajectories. Consumer: Select big-box and beverage names posted resilient holiday updates, contrasting with softer results from some European apparel and grocery chains. The divergence underscores a cautious consumer with a tilt toward value and staples. Financials: Card and co‑brand partnerships remain in focus with changes among large US banks and consumer-tech platforms. Funding costs and credit normalization are key watch items into earnings season. Commodities Crude: Range-bound as the market balances softening recent prices against geopolitical developments and any potential shifts in sanctioned barrels. Positioning is light into upcoming OPEC/non‑OPEC headlines. Industrial metals: Elevated activity in China’s onshore markets has fueled speculative interest in copper, nickel, and lithium. Fundamentals are improving but volatility is rising alongside leverage. Gold: Steady to slightly firmer on safe-haven interest and stable real yields. Currencies and digital assets US dollar: Fractionally stronger on haven flows and relative growth momentum. Most G10 pairs are confined to recent ranges. Crypto: Bitcoin is consolidating below the 90k mark after a strong multi-month run. Liquidity pockets around round numbers continue to drive short-term swings. Corporate highlights to watch Semiconductors/AI: Potential incremental access for advanced chips to China would be a notable demand tailwind for selected suppliers; clarity on compliance and volumes will matter. Hardware/Memory: A large Asian electronics leader reported a record quarter on AI server demand, reinforcing the memory upcycle narrative. Consumer finance: A major US bank is set to replace a rival as the issuing partner for a prominent tech company’s credit-card program, signaling continued shake-ups in co‑brand relationships. Energy majors: Trading updates flag softer Q4 oil marketing results amid declining crude prices; focus shifts to capex discipline and shareholder returns through earnings season. Key themes we’re tracking Valuation sensitivity: With broad US multiples above long-run averages, headlines that challenge “perfection” are producing outsized sector moves. Issuance wave: The combination of heavy corporate and sovereign supply with still-tight spreads is supportive near term, but leaves little cushion if growth or policy surprises materialize. AI capex cycle: Data-center buildouts and memory pricing underpin tech leadership, but the market will increasingly differentiate winners based on margins, supply response, and exposure to export regimes. Policy unpredictability: Rapid-fire proposals touching housing, defense, trade, and tariffs raise the risk premium and can compress risk appetite episodically. Market breadth: Leadership remains narrow; sustained rallies likely require broader participation from cyclicals and mid/small caps. The day ahead Focus: Central-bank speakers, primary market supply, and any incremental policy developments. Corporate pre-announcements and early earnings season guidance will set tone for margins and capex. Risk radar Policy shocks across trade/defence/housing Supply-driven hiccups in credit markets Geopolitical flare-ups affecting energy and shipping lanes Narrow market leadership and crowded positions in AI beneficiaries This material is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice, an offer, or a solicitation to buy or sell any security. Market data are subject to change. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Consider your objectives and risk tolerance before making investment decisions. Disclaimer: Trading foreign exchange and/or contracts for difference on margin carries a high level of risk, and may not be suitable for all investors as you could sustain losses in excess of deposits. The products are intended for retail, professional and eligible counterparty clients. Before deciding to trade any products offered by PhillipCapital (DIFC) Private Limited you should carefully consider your objectives, financial situation, needs and level of experience. You should be aware of all the risks associated with trading on margin. The content of the Website must not be construed as personal advice. For retail, professional and eligible counterparty clients. Before deciding to trade any products offered by PhillipCapital (DIFC) Private Limited you should

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Dec 23 – Daily Market Updates

Leave a Comment / Market Updates, Daily Market Updates, Uncategorized / PhillipCapital DIFC Research Team

Dec 23 – Daily Market Updates Markets Daily: Broad Market Update Overview US equity futures are flat to slightly higher after a strong recent stretch, with investors waiting on the next round of US growth and sentiment data. European equities are firmer in early trading, led by industrials and health care, while energy lags alongside softer crude. In Asia, performance was mixed: export- and tech-linked markets fared better, while Japan underperformed as the yen strengthened. The dollar is softer versus the yen following fresh signals from Japanese authorities about curbing disorderly currency moves. Gold remains well supported near record territory, while Bitcoin is modestly lower. Top themes shaping the session Data watch: Investors are focused on US growth revisions and consumer confidence for further clues on the timing and depth of 2025 rate cuts. Labor, housing, and spending data later this week will round out the macro picture into year-end. Cyclical rotation: Expectations for cooling inflation, potential policy easing, and relief from lower energy prices are encouraging a gradual shift toward economically sensitive areas such as financials, industrials, transport, and select consumer names. Leadership has broadened beyond mega-cap technology in recent weeks. Currency dynamics: The yen firmed after policymakers reiterated readiness to address excessive currency swings. With US yields consolidating and intervention risk top of mind, FX volatility could remain elevated into quarter-end. Policy and geopolitics: Traders continue to monitor headlines around trade, shipping routes, and regional tensions, all of which can influence energy, transport, and defense shares. Digital assets in focus: Institutional interest in crypto-related services is re-emerging as parts of the regulatory landscape take shape, even as spot prices consolidate. Equities United States: Futures suggest a cautious open as investors digest strong year-to-date gains and await macro catalysts. Breadth has improved, with cyclicals and small/mid caps catching a bid, while large-cap tech remains supported by earnings durability and AI demand. Participation may thin into the holiday period, raising the potential for outsized moves on incremental news. Europe: Broad gains led by industrials and health care. Retail and consumer discretionary are mixed, with balance sheets and holiday-season commentary in focus. Energy trails as crude eases. Asia-Pacific: Japan’s benchmarks slipped as a stronger yen weighed on exporters. Korea and Taiwan outperformed on continued demand along the AI and semiconductor supply chain. Hong Kong and mainland China were mixed, with policy support expectations offset by ongoing property and growth concerns. Rates US Treasuries are steady ahead of growth and sentiment prints. The front end continues to reflect expectations for rate reductions next year, while the long end consolidates after the autumn rally. Auction dynamics and year-end liquidity conditions are important near-term drivers. European sovereigns are little changed; traders are weighing softening inflation trends against cautious central bank guidance. Foreign exchange The dollar is broadly steady but weaker against the yen following official rhetoric about curbing excess volatility. The euro is range-bound. Emerging-market FX is mixed, tracking risk sentiment and commodity moves. Commodities Crude oil is modestly lower as supply resilience and demand worries offset geopolitical risk. Gold is firm near highs, supported by lower real yields, diversification flows, and geopolitical hedging. Industrial metals are mixed; China growth signals and global manufacturing trends remain the swing factors. Digital assets Bitcoin and major tokens are slightly lower, continuing a consolidation phase after a strong multi-month advance. Headlines around institutional participation and evolving regulation remain key to sentiment. Corporate and sector roundup Health care: Weight-management and metabolic therapies are again in focus following regulatory developments, supporting select pharma and biotech names. Renewables: Offshore wind projects remain under scrutiny amid permitting and regulatory reviews, weighing on some developers. Shipping and logistics: Deal interest and capacity discussions are buoying select carriers; transport and logistics also benefit from the cyclical rotation theme. Defence and aerospace: Contract wins and funding visibility continue to support the group against a backdrop of elevated geopolitical risk. Retail: Balance-sheet health and holiday traffic are under the microscope; credit conditions are diverging across traditional and online models. Financials: Banks and brokers are benefiting from improved risk appetite, steepening tendencies in the curve, and a potential pickup in trading activity. The day ahead: what we’re watching United States: Growth revision, consumer confidence, housing updates, energy inventories, and Treasury supply. Europe: Confidence surveys and central bank speakers. Asia: Inflation prints and policy commentary from Japan and China later in the week. Cross-asset: Year-end liquidity, rebalancing flows, and potential currency intervention headlines. Risk radar Policy path uncertainty: The pace and timing of rate cuts could shift with incoming data. Geopolitical developments: Energy supply routes and regional tensions may introduce episodic volatility. Liquidity conditions: Thinner year-end trading can amplify market moves. Currency swings: Elevated FX volatility—particularly in USD/JPY—can spill over into global risk assets. Desk view Market tone is constructive but selective. Participation is broadening beyond mega-cap leaders, with cyclicals drawing interest as disinflation progresses. We favor maintaining diversification across styles and regions, watching FX volatility and liquidity into the final trading days of the year. This material is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice or a recommendation to buy or sell any security. Markets are volatile and subject to change without notice. Disclaimer: Trading foreign exchange and/or contracts for difference on margin carries a high level of risk, and may not be suitable for all investors as you could sustain losses in excess of deposits. The products are intended for retail, professional and eligible counterparty clients. Before deciding to trade any products offered by PhillipCapital (DIFC) Private Limited you should carefully consider your objectives, financial situation, needs and level of experience. You should be aware of all the risks associated with trading on margin. The content of the Website must not be construed as personal advice. For retail, professional and eligible counterparty clients. Before deciding to trade any products offered by PhillipCapital (DIFC) Private Limited you should carefully consider your objectives, financial situation, needs and level of experience. You should be aware of all the risks associated with trading on

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