The first half of April has been nothing short of turbulent, with major, game-changing developments reshaping the crypto landscape on a near-daily basis. The biggest market mover so far has been the ongoing panic regarding Donald Trump’s tariffs and China’s escalating retaliations, which could lead to an all-out trade war.
Whereas last week we had key data revealed regarding the most up-to-date state of the U.S. inflation — this week (April 13–20), is promising to be less eventful, at least when it comes to pre-scheduled economic data and macroeconomic reports.
On April 13, the White House released a statement regarding the ongoing discussions with Iran. U.S. Special Presidential Envoy Steven Witkoff, alongside U.S. Ambassador to Oman Ana Escrogima, engaged in talks with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in Muscat, Oman. These discussions, hosted by Omani Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr, were described as “very positive and constructive.”
While by itself this statement doesn’t hold major immediate economic impacts — the idea that the U.S. and Iran are backing down from escalating war threats introduces a significant shift in geopolitical sentiment.
Monday – April 14
Today, the OPEC Monthly Report is set to drop, giving investors fresh insights into the global oil demand, supply trends, and market balance. Today’s report is especially significant as the reading will arrive after OPEC announced it would be cutting its 2025 demand growth forecast.
Tuesday – April 15
Tuesday brings key data that could ripple through markets. The GBP unemployment rate remains stable at 4.4%, but traders are watching for any surprises that could shift Bank of England policy. In the U.S., the Export Price Index arrives amid Trump’s escalating tariffs, raising concerns about global trade costs and inflation. Meanwhile, Europe’s Industrial Production struggles, with a projected 0.1% increase—a sluggish sign for the eurozone’s economy.
Market movements today could influence crypto sentiment, particularly with inflation and trade tensions shaping investor behavior.
Wednesday – April 16
Wednesday will provide us with key details regarding the inflation and spending data on Europe and Great Britain. Particularly, the UK’s March CPI will be closely watched, with traders looking to see if inflation continues cooling or if underlying price pressures linger.
Meanwhile, Eurozone inflation numbers will provide insights into price stability across Europe, with expectations pointing to a modest increase in headline CPI. If inflation runs hotter than forecasted, speculation about the European Central Bank’s next move could intensify.
Over in the U.S., retail sales data will reveal whether consumer spending remains resilient. With tariffs and supply chain uncertainties still in play, investors are weighing whether strong spending could fuel inflation concerns.
Thursday – April 17
The U.S. Initial Jobless Claims report drops by morning, with the previous figure at 225K and forecasts pointing to 223K. A lower-than-expected number like in the previous week would signal labor market strength, potentially fueling speculation about Federal Reserve rate decisions.
At the same time, the Philadelphia Fed Manufacturing Index is due, with a prior reading of 3.1 and forecasts expecting a sharp rise to 12.5. If manufacturing activity exceeds expectations, it could indicate industrial recovery, influencing broader risk sentiment.
Later, all eyes will turn to Europe as the Central Bank will report its interest rate decision. The previous rate was 2.25%, with a projected increase to 2.40%—reflecting ongoing inflation concerns.
With central bank policy shifts and labor market trends on deck, Thursday could shape macro sentiment—impacting risk assets like crypto.
Friday – April 18
Friday is looking pretty quiet on the economic front. The main events include FOMC Member Daly’s speech and CFTC speculative net positions for GBP, crude oil, gold, Nasdaq 100, S&P 500, and EUR. No major market-moving data is expected.
