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Forexlive Americas FX news wrap 18 Jul:The USD closes higher vs major currencies this week

Posted on: Jul 19 2025

  • NASDAQ closes the day higher and closes at record levels each day this week
  • What key events the releases are scheduled for next week's trading?
  • California Gov. Newson proposes to ease permits for oil drilling in California
  • Fed's Goolsbee: Need some resolution on tariffs ot understand impact on inflation
  • Trump signs GENIUS Act (Guiding and Establishing National Innovation for Stablecoins)
  • What earnings are on the calendar for next week?
  • Baker Hughes oil rig count -2 to 422
  • FT: Trump is pushing for 15 – 20% minimum tariff on all EU goods. EURUSD moves lower.
  • Major European indices are closing mixed to end the week
  • Fed Goolsbee: A little wary as latest CPI shows tariffs pushing up goods inflation
  • IMF: Since April, economic indicators reflect a complex backdrop shaped by trade tension
  • University of Michigan sentiment (preliminary) for July 61.8 versus 61.5 estimate
  • Atlanta Fed GDPNow growth estimate for Q2 remains unchanged at 2.4%
  • If the Fed were to cut rates to 1% as Trump demands, long term rates would actually rise
  • US housing starts 1.321M vs 1.300M estimate
  • Fed's Waller: If the president asked me to do the Fed chair job, I'd say yes
  • Fed's Waller: Private sector is not doing as well as it seems
  • US Bessent on Japan: A trade deal remains in the 'realm of possibility'
  • ForexLive European FX news wrap: Dollar gets a case of the Waller hangover
  • Trump continues to lambast "too late" Powell

U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said a trade deal with Japan remains in the “realm of possibility,” but emphasized that securing a good deal is more important than rushing one. He indicated that negotiations are ongoing and that the outcome of Japan’s upcoming election could be pivotal to reaching an agreement. Hope springs eternal, but Japan was insulted by the tariff letter.

Also on tariffs, the Financial Times reported that President Trump is pushing for a 15–20% minimum tariff on all EU goods, down from the previously floated 30% in “the letter.” He also refuses to reduce the existing 25% tariff on EU cars and is considering a reciprocal tariff exceeding 10%, even if a deal is reached. Trump has rejected a zero-tariff framework, insisting that access to the U.S. market should carry a baseline tax, effectively between 10% and 20%, while keeping U.S. exports tariff-free. The EURUSD moved lower on the headlines, and the EU trade commissioner reportedly gave a downbeat readout of recent Washington talks. What we can say is the markets are becoming comfortable (the Nasdaq and S&P traded at new records), but with August 1st approaching, the rubber will meet the road soon and the impact on inflation, stocks, bonds and FX could heat up.

The USD is closing next/mostly lower. Looking at the greenback's change versus the major currencies:

  • EUR -0.26%
  • JPY +0.09%
  • GBP +0.06%
  • CHF -0.41%
  • CAD -0.16%
  • AUD -0.31%
  • NZD -0.49%

For the trading week, despite the decline versus most currencies today, the USD was higher vs all the major currencies as concerns about lower growth overseas and higher inflation supported the greenback:

  • EUR +0.52%
  • JPY +0.915
  • GBP +0.55%
  • CHF +0.66%
  • CAD +0.33%
  • AUD +1.00%
  • NZD +0.71%

The Fed will go into quiet mode over the next week and a half until the rate decision on July 30. Today, Fed's Goolsbee and Waller spoke. Waller was quite emphatic on Thursday evening sayinng he still supports a 25bps rate cut in July, citing rising downside risks and weakening labor market conditions. He stressed that the Fed should not wait for job losses to act, warning that delayed easing could require more aggressive cuts later. Waller sees GDP growth near 1% and believes policy should move closer to neutral.

He noted that private hiring is near stall speed, and the labor market is “on the edge.” While tariffs may raise inflation 0.75–1% in the short term, he views them as a temporary shock, with core inflation close to 2% absent the tariff effects. A July cut would give the Fed space to pause for a few meetings, he said.

Waller also said there's uncertainty around the neutral Fed funds rate, and 3% may still reflect loose conditions. He confirmed no contact with the Trump team about a potential Fed Chair role. On QT, he sees limited interest in selling MBS and expects the balance sheet runoff to remain slow. He also said stablecoins are not a threat but introduce useful competition in payments. Lastly, he emphasized that data should guide the pace of future cuts, and there’s “nothing wrong with an insurance cut.”

Fed's Goolsbee sounded like he might want to cut but was dissuaded by the uncertainty on inflation from tariffs. Goolsbee expressed caution ahead of the Fed's blackout period, noting that the latest CPI data shows tariffs are pushing up goods inflation. He emphasized the need for clarity on the scope and timeline of tariffs, warning that the current "drip-drip" rollout prevents treating them as a one-time price shock. Goolsbee also stated that uncertainty around inflation and trade policy could delay rate cuts, though he acknowledged that it's realistic for rates to move lower over the next year if conditions stabilize. He added that more months of consistent inflation data would make him more confident in cutting rates and voiced concern over challenges to central bank independence.

Looking at the US debt market, yields are closing mixed for the week with the threat that Chairman Powell would be fired causing volatility and a shift higher in the yield curve. The 2-year yield is closing the week down -2.2 basis points, while the 30 year bond is closing the week six basis points.

Looking at the closing levels:

  • 2-year yield 3.871%, -4.6 basis points. For the week yields are down -2.2 basis points after being up as much as 7 basis points.
  • 5-year yield 3.948, -5.8 basis points. For the week, yields are down -3.2 basis points after being up as much as 7.4 basis points.
  • 10-year yield 4.419%, -4.3 basis points. For the week, the yield is up 0.3 basis points after being up as high as 7.8 basis points.
  • 30-year yield 4.990%, -2.3 basis points. For the week, yield is up 3.6 basis points after being up as much as 12.1 basis points

Next week will be a key week for earnings with Tesla and Alphabet, leading the releases. Below is a list of the major releases before and after market close:

  • Monday 7/21 – Before Open: Verizon (VZ), Domino’s Pizza (DPZ),

  • Monday 7/21 – After Close: NXP Semiconductors (NXPI)

  • Tuesday 7/22 – Before Open: Lockheed Martin (LMT), Coca‑Cola (KO), Philip Morris (PM), General Motors (GM), D.R. Horton (DHI), Northrop Grumman

  • Tuesday 7/22 – After Close: Texas Instruments (TXN), SAP (SE), Intuitive Surgical (ISRG), Capital One (COF)

  • Wednesday 7/23 – Before Open: AT&T (T), GE Vernova (GEV), Freeport‑McMoRan (FCX), AT&T, General Dynamics

  • Wednesday 7/23 – After Close: Tesla (TSLA), Alphabet (GOOGL), ServiceNow (NOW), IBM (IBM), Chipotle (CMG)

  • Thursday 7/24 – Before Open: American Airlines (AAL), Nokia (NOK), Dow (DOW), Southwest (LUV), Honeywell (HON)

  • Thursday 7/24 – After Close: Intel (INTC)

  • Friday 7/25 – Before Open: Centene (CNC)

On the economic calendar, the ECB rate decision will be the highlight. The central bank is expected to keep rates unchanged. Other than that, regional flash PMI indices will be released.

This article was written by Greg Michalowski at www.forexlive.com.
Home Depot strengthens its position with GMS acquisition, reaffirms annual forecast, and boosts investor confidence

Posted on: Jul 11 2025

News of Home Depot’s acquisition of building materials distributor GMS lifted investor sentiment. HD shares extended the sharp rally that began on 20 June.

The Home Depot, Inc. (NYSE: HD) delivered strong results for Q1 FY2025, with revenue rising 9% to 39.9 billion USD, driven by steady demand for small DIY projects and seasonal spring products. Management emphasised that the company would absorb any additional costs related to new tariffs without passing them on to customers. Despite a slight miss on adjusted earnings per share (3.56 USD versus the expected 3.60 USD), Home Depot reaffirmed its full-year outlook.

Market reaction to the report was mixed. Trading in the stock opened with a 3% upward gap the day after the earnings release, but by the end of the session, the gains had been erased. In the following days, HD shares retreated, as investors reacted cautiously to the company’s warning of demand pressure due to elevated interest rates, as well as its decision to shoulder tariff-related expenses, which could weigh on profitability. However, over the long term, this move may support higher returns by helping the company expand its market share. In addition, in June, Home Depot announced its acquisition of building materials distributor GMS, further strengthening its position in the professional segment.

This article reviews The Home Depot, Inc., outlines the company’s main revenue sources, summarises its performance in Q1 FY2025, and presents expectations for Q2 FY2025. A technical analysis of HD is also provided, forming the basis for Home Depot’s share price forecast for the 2025 calendar year.

About The Home Depot, Inc.

The Home Depot, Inc. is the largest home improvement and construction retail chain in the US. The company was founded in 1978 by entrepreneurs Bernard Marcus, Arthur Blank, Ron Brill, and Pat Farrah in Atlanta, Georgia. Home Depot went public in 1981, listing on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker HD.

Its core business involves the sale of building materials, tools, renovation supplies, gardening products, and home improvement goods, as well as related services for both private and commercial customers.

Key competitors include Lowe’s, Walmart (NYSE: WMT), Menards, and online retailer Amazon in the home improvement and DIY categories.

Image of the company name The Home Depot, Inc.

The Home Depot, Inc.’s main financial streams

Home Depot’s business model is built around the sale of products and services related to home improvement, construction, and renovation. The company’s revenue is generated from the following key components:

  • Retail product sales: This segment is the company’s primary source of revenue, encompassing the sale of building materials, tools, plumbing supplies, lighting fixtures, flooring, furniture, appliances, and gardening equipment
  • E-commerce: Home Depot continues to expand its online presence. Revenue is generated through direct online orders as well as ‘buy online, pick up in store’ (BOPIS) and home delivery models
  • Installation and repair services: The company offers paid services, including kitchen, flooring, door and window installation, appliance setup, and home repairs
  • Professional customer (Pro Business) sales: A significant portion of revenue comes from Pro customers – building contractors, tradespeople, and organisations that regularly purchase large volumes of materials and tools
  • Financial and related services: Additional income is generated through financing solutions, gift cards, loyalty programs, equipment rentals, and value-added services designed to support home improvement and construction projects

Home Depot’s business model combines mass retail with tailored services for both DIY consumers and professionals, leveraging a broad product range, in-store services, and digital channels to drive sustainable revenue growth.

The Home Depot, Inc. Q1 FY2025 report

On 20 May, Home Depot released its financial results for Q1 FY2025, which ended on 4 May. The key figures compared with the same period last year are as follows:

  • Revenue: 39.86 billion USD (+9%)
  • Net profit: 3.43 billion USD (-32%)
  • Earnings per share: 3.56 USD (-30%)
  • Operating margin: 13.2% (-90 basis points)

Home Depot’s Q1 FY2025 report showed continued revenue growth of 9.4% year-on-year, reaching 39.9 billion USD, slightly ahead of analysts’ expectations. This performance reflects stable customer activity (nearly 395 million transactions), even as the average transaction value remained flat. Comparable sales declined by 0.3% overall due to currency fluctuations; however, a 0.2% increase in the US highlights the resilience of its core domestic market. Adjusted earnings per share came in at 3.56 USD, slightly below expectations, breaking a multi-quarter run of upside surprises – although the miss was marginal.

During the earnings call, management emphasised a measured and strategic approach. Despite the introduction of new tariffs, Home Depot chose not to pass additional costs on to consumers by raising prices across a broad range of products. This was made possible by its diversified supply chain, with approximately half of its inventory sourced domestically and no single foreign country accounting for more than 10%. As a result, the company opted to absorb the additional expenses itself, helping to preserve its competitive positioning – in contrast to competitors such as Walmart, which has signalled plans to increase prices for consumers.

The company reaffirmed its full-year guidance, forecasting revenue growth of approximately 2.8%, comparable sales growth of around 1%, and a decline in adjusted EPS of roughly 2%. The outlook for Q2 was also described as stable, although management pointed to ongoing pressure from elevated interest rates, which continue to weigh on demand for larger-scale projects.

For investors, the past quarter offered several encouraging signals: revenue growth was driven by smaller projects, pricing discipline remains intact, market share appears well-protected, and full-year targets were reaffirmed. Yes, the drop in EPS and macroeconomic risks, such as a strong US dollar and cautious consumer sentiment, suggest a more moderate near-term trajectory. Even so, the Q2 guidance supports confidence in the outlook, backed by modest sales growth expectations and steady performance in the US. Overall, for those seeking a defensive position in the consumer sector with strong margins and robust pricing discipline, Home Depot shares are an attractive option.

The Home Depot, Inc. acquires GMS

On 30 June 2025, Home Depot announced its acquisition of building materials distributor GMS for 5.5 billion USD, including net debt. The transaction provides Home Depot with several strategic advantages.

First and foremost, the company’s operational footprint will expand significantly. GMS’s more than 320 distribution centres and around 100 service locations will be added to the existing assets of SRS Distribution (a Home Depot subsidiary), creating a comprehensive logistics network comprising over 1,200 locations and 8,000 units of specialised delivery equipment for job sites. This strengthens Home Depot’s position in the professional contractor market, enabling it to offer a complete suite of solutions – from standard to specialist construction materials – including drywall, steel framing, tools, and related services.

In addition, through integration with SRS’s digital platforms and centralised logistics, the deal opens up opportunities to streamline supply chains, reduce costs, improve operating margins, and enhance service terms for Pro customers. The acquisition also neutralises competitive pressure from QXO, which had previously expressed interest in acquiring GMS, and reinforces Home Depot’s leadership in the B2B segment.

The deal is expected to be accretive to adjusted earnings per share within the first year following completion, representing a significant step towards delivering the company’s long-term growth strategy.

Expert forecasts for The Home Depot, Inc. stock

  • Barchart: 26 out of 35 analysts rated Home Depot stock as Strong Buy, one as Moderate Buy, seven as Hold, and one as Strong Sell. The highest target price is 475 USD; the lowest (sell-side) target is 320 USD.
  • MarketBeat: 22 out of 29 experts assigned a Buy rating, with seven recommending Hold. The highest target price is 470 USD.
  • TipRanks: 19 out of 24 surveyed analysts assigned a Buy rating, and five recommended Hold. The highest target price is 475 USD.
  • Stock Analysis: 10 out of 24 experts rated the stock as Strong Buy, 10 as Buy, and four as Hold. The highest target price is 470 USD.
Expert forecasts for The Home Depot, Inc. shares in 2025

The Home Depot, Inc. stock price forecast for 2025

On the weekly timeframe, Home Depot shares have been trading within an upward channel since March 2020. In December 2024, the stock reached a new all-time high of 430 USD, followed by a correction that has continued to date. The quarterly report was initially received positively by investors, with HD shares testing resistance at 380 USD. However, the stock subsequently failed to break through this level, indicating a high probability of continued corrective decline. Based on the current performance of Home Depot shares, the scenarios for HD stock price movement in 2025 are as follows:

The base-case forecast for Home Depot shares anticipates further price declines within the correction phase, down to support around 300 USD. A rebound from this level would indicate the end of the correction and the resumption of the upward trend. The target resistance level for growth is at 460 USD.

The alternative forecast for Home Depot stock suggests a breakout above the 380 USD resistance level, signalling the end of the correction and acting as a catalyst for further price growth towards the resistance line at 460 USD.

The Home Depot, Inc. stock analysis and forecast for 2025

Risks of investing in The Home Depot, Inc. stock

Investing in Home Depot stock involves a range of external and internal risk factors that could negatively impact the company’s revenue and financial performance. The key risks include:

  • Dependence on broader economic conditions and the housing market: Demand for home improvement and construction products is closely linked to macroeconomic factors, mortgage interest rates, and housing market activity. A recession, rising interest rates, or a slowdown in residential construction could result in reduced sales
  • Volatility in raw material prices and logistics costs: Increases in the cost of lumber, metals, oil, or transportation may drive up input costs, potentially squeezing margins or dampening consumer demand
  • Competitive and pricing pressures: Home Depot faces intense competition from Lowe’s, Menards, Amazon, and other retailers. Greater pricing pressure or a loss of market share could weigh on revenue and profitability
  • Exposure to the professional customer segment (Pro): The Pro segment accounts for a significant share of revenue. A slowdown in construction activity or a decline in demand from contractors could affect the company’s financial results
  • Changes in consumer behaviour: A decline in interest in DIY projects, particularly among younger demographics, or a shift towards online channels dominated by other players could challenge Home Depot’s traditional retail model
  • Regulatory and labour-related risks: Stricter labour regulations, higher minimum wages, or recruitment and retention difficulties could increase operating costs and compromise service quality

These risks should be considered when assessing the resilience of Home Depot’s business model and the long-term outlook for its shares.

Weekly market recap & what's ahead - 7 July 2025

Posted on: Jul 08 2025

Weekly Market Recap & What's Ahead

7 July 2025 (recap week of 30 June to 4 July 2025)

Headlines & Introduction

Equities hit new records despite mounting tariff risk, a controversial US fiscal bill, and Fed rate cut uncertainty. Tech rotation took center stage, while European and Asian stocks struggled under geopolitical and macro pressure. Meanwhile, volatility dipped to multi-month lows and crypto markets regained momentum. A stronger-than-expected US jobs report capped the week, briefly reviving dollar strength and pushing yields higher. A week of record highs and rising risks, as investors brace for a volatile July.

Equities

US stocks reached fresh record highs—S&P 500 closed at 6,279.35 (+0.83%) on July 3—led by Nvidia (+1.3%) and Synopsys (+4.2%) amid strong jobs data and relaxed chip export rules. A rally broadened beyond tech into energy and financials. Earlier, Tesla surged 5% (July 2) after strong deliveries but remained under pressure from Musk’s political headlines. Europe lagged amid tariff jitters. The STOXX 50 dropped 1% on July 4, and key names like Siemens and LVMH fell as EU-China tensions flared. Semiconductor relief earlier in the week faded. UK equities showed resilience, buoyed by reassurances from PM Starmer and Chancellor Reeves. AstraZeneca (+1.3%) gained on drug news, but housing stocks slumped up to -8% on political and economic uncertainty. Asia remained mixed, with Japan and Australia subdued. Vietnam rallied on new US trade terms, but China and Hong Kong dipped as macro worries lingered. Equities rallied in the US while Europe and Asia wobbled on tariffs and politics.

Volatility

The VIX drifted to 16.38 on July 3—its lowest in four months. Short-term indicators like VIX1D and VIX futures point to complacency, though traders remain alert to upcoming macro events. The SPX expected move for July 5 was ±36 points, up from 33 earlier in the week. Volatility remains subdued, but tariff and earnings surprises could quickly shift sentiment.

Digital Assets

Bitcoin hovered around $109,000, Ethereum held near $2,573, and crypto-related ETFs like IBIT and ETHA saw steady inflows. IBIT held firm at $62.19; ETHA recovered from earlier gains to $19.49. Ripple made headlines with its US bank charter application. Altcoins and mining stocks diverged, with CleanSpark surging and Riot/MARA lagging. Crypto markets remain strong, with institutional activity and policy news driving flows.

Fixed Income

Yields moved higher after the US Nonfarm Payrolls surprised to the upside (+147K on July 3), reducing chances of a July Fed cut. The 2-year yield rose to 3.88%, while the 10-year ended the week near 4.35%, despite early weakness tied to trade tensions. UK gilts spiked midweek before rebounding on fiscal clarity. Bond markets braced for more supply and less easing as macro data beat expectations.

Commodities

Gold recovered to around $3,360, gaining ~2% on the week as demand held up despite strong US jobs data. Oil softened late in the week after an OPEC+ output hike (+548k b/d) and a surprise build in US inventories. Wheat futures dropped sharply on harvest pressure and Russia’s zero export tax. Gold shined on safe-haven flows, while oil and wheat struggled on supply news.

Currencies

The USD firmed on July 4 after strong NFP data, but gave up some gains later. EURUSD hit 1.1785, retracing losses. GBP weakened midweek on political risks but rebounded as UK leadership pledged stability. The JPY dropped to 145.25 after payrolls, then strengthened on fresh tariff fears. Currencies showed volatility as rate expectations and geopolitics drove rapid shifts.

Key Takeaways

  • S&P 500 +0.83% (July 3); Nasdaq at record highs; Tesla, Nvidia led tech.
  • VIX at 16.38, suggesting market calm ahead of major events.
  • Bitcoin $109K, IBIT and ETHA inflows steady; Ripple makes headlines.
  • US 2Y yield at 3.88%, 10Y at 4.35%; July rate cut odds fall.
  • Gold near $3,360, oil soft on OPEC+ supply hike; wheat slumps.
  • USD firm, JPY volatile; GBP stabilizes on UK policy signals.

Looking Ahead (Week of 7 to 11 July 2025)

  • July 9: Tariff deadline for US trade deals—watch for market reaction
  • July 9: FOMC Minutes—investor insights into Fed policy thinking
  • July 8–11: Amazon Prime Day runs through Friday—retail stock watch
  • July 10: Key earnings—Delta Air Lines, Conagra Brands, Levi Strauss
  • July 11: US Federal Budget report (June)
  • All week: Watch USD, yields, and equity rotation as macro headlines develop

Conclusion

Markets surged into record territory, supported by solid US data and softening inflation, but face a tough test ahead. With tariffs, Fed minutes, and earnings in focus, volatility could quickly return. Investors should stay nimble and globally diversified as July unfolds. New highs, but the heat rises—July’s pivotal week starts now.

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