Financial Market:
• Global: World markets are volatile due to trade tensions, with US tariffs (145% on Chinese goods) and retaliation from China (125% on American products). This affects Asian and American stock exchanges, with Japan activating circuit breakers. There are fears of inflation and economic slowdown.
• Europe/Portugal: The PSI-20, the Lisbon stock exchange index, is under pressure, especially in sectors like energy (EDP, Galp) and retail (Jerónimo Martins), due to global uncertainties. Inflation data in the Eurozone and ECB decisions on interest rates are crucial. The Portuguese economy, reliant on exports, may be affected by tariffs.
• Highlight: Galp, with operations in Brazil, benefits from high oil prices, but global volatility limits gains.
Crypto Market:
• Bitcoin (BTC): After historical peaks (above 100 thousand euros in January), it fell to around 67 thousand euros, reflecting panic selling. Still, it maintains some support.
• Ethereum (ETH): Dropped to 1,300 euros, the lowest level since late 2023. There are expectations of greater adoption with possible ETFs in Europe.
• Other Cryptos: Altcoins like Solana, XRP, and Cardano fell 10-20%. Memecoins remain speculative. Stablecoins (USDT, USDC) dominate transactions in Portugal, used in remittances and trading.
• Portugal: Crypto adoption is growing, with more Bitcoin ATMs (Lisbon, Porto) and companies like Utrust facilitating payments. European regulation (MiCA) brings confidence, but volatility scares local investors.
• Trend: Short-term pessimism due to global uncertainty, but long-term optimism with institutional adoption (e.g., European funds in crypto).
Note: Caution is essential, as both markets are unstable. Focus on diversified assets and avoid impulsive decisions in crypto.
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