14/07/2025

Three Stocks to Watch This Week – Investors Await Trump’s Statement amid Geopolitical Tension

As President Trump prepares a pivotal address this week, which may unveil new tariffs and trade policy adjustments, global markets enter a phase of heightened uncertainty. With geopolitical risk elevated, investors are advised to adopt a cautious tone on short-term positions and to lean on loss-limiting instruments.

1. U.S. Large-cap Tech (Apple, Microsoft, Nvidia)

The S&P 500 and Nasdaq recently retreated slightly from all-time highs – around 0.3–0.6% – after Trump announced prospective 30% tariffs on imports from the EU, Mexico, and Canada. While the so-called “Magnificent 7” stocks have shown resilience, technical indicators suggest waning momentum. In this environment, protective stop‑losses or put options may offer downside protection if policy unfurls unfavourably.

2. European Industrials & Exporters (Siemens, Airbus, Volvo)

European markets have seen a more nuanced reaction. The FTSE 100 has held steady, supported by U.K. – U.S. trade optimism, but continental exporters face cost pressure from rising tariffs and a weakening euro . Industrial and infrastructure firms may outperform if tariff escalation is temporary. Still, those with thin margins should use collars – selling covered calls while buying puts – to guard against sharp dips.

3. Emerging Market Financials (India Banks, Latin America)

Emerging markets, particularly financial institutions in India and Latin America, are sensitive to global trade dynamics and dollar moves. As global investors hedge currency risk – particularly after the dollar’s divergence from equity performance – these banks may show vulnerability. A FX-hedged ETF or short‑dated currency option structure could help stabilize returns.

Market Backdrop

• Global equities faced a mild pullback following Trump’s tariff announcements, marking the first weekly decline in U.S. indices in three weeks.
• Bitcoin surged past $120K, reflecting safe-haven inflows amid uncertainty.
• Gold and silver rallied alongside bond yields and defensive sectors like mining and agriculture.
• Analysts warn valuations on high-risk assets like tech and cryptocurrencies may be stretched, while bonds and commodities show caution.

Tactical Takeaways

• Use protective tools: Buy puts or employ stop-loss orders on overvalued positions.
• Consider collared plays on exporters and industrials – capturing gains while limiting losses.
• Diversify smartly: Blend equity exposure with hedged emerging-market financials, commodity-linked assets, or inflation-protected bonds to cushion policy-driven shocks.
• Opt for structured risk: Collar or spread strategies offer balanced risk-return in uncertain environments.

Conclusion

With Trump’s upcoming address likely to include tariff actions affecting the EU, Mexico, and other key economies, investors should prioritize risk mitigation over aggressive positioning. Emphasizing loss-limiting tools – such as put options, collars, hedged ETFs, and stop-loss orders – will help navigate possible market turbulence without forfeiting upside potential.

Sources:

1. Reuters
2. Associated Press (AP)
3. Financial Times (FT)
4. The Australian
5. Chatham Financial
6. MarketWatch
7. The Times (UK)