ATFX

ATFX Connect has released the Q1 2026 edition of Institutional Edge, its institutional insights publication, examining the forces shaping global markets as investors enter a year defined by heightened volatility, policy divergence, and shifting currency dynamics. The edition is designed to support institutional decision-making by translating complex macro developments into practical considerations for risk management, positioning, and execution.

ATFX has launched the latest edition of its Trader Magazine, offering a forward-looking market outlook for Q1 2026. Despite ongoing uncertainties and global tensions, the economy remains stable enough to inspire cautious optimism. With countries adopting different monetary policy approaches, traders should expect increased market fluctuations across bonds, currencies, and other asset classes.

U.S. equities closed mostly flat last Friday as markets traded cautiously ahead of a long weekend, though all three major indices posted weekly losses. The S&P 500 fell 0.38% for the week, the Nasdaq declined 0.66%, and the Dow Jones dropped 0.29%. The U.S. dollar strengthened after former President Donald Trump praised economic adviser Kevin Hassett and indicated he may want him to remain in his current role, fueling speculation that Hassett’s chances of being nominated as Federal Reserve Chair have diminished.

U.S. manufacturing contracted for a tenth consecutive month in December, as tariffs continued to push up costs and weigh on demand. U.S. equities closed higher on Monday, with a sharp rally in financial stocks helping the Dow Jones Industrial Average hit a fresh record high. Energy shares also jumped after the United States launched a military operation to capture Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.