Signs of easing geopolitical tensions failed to extend the DAX’s rally as corporate earnings disappointed. The DAX slipped 0.12% on Friday, August 8, partially reversing Thursday’s 0.33% gain to close at 24,163.
On August 8, President Trump fueled hopes of an end to the Ukraine war, stating:
“The highly anticipated meeting between myself, as President of the United States of America, and President Vladimir Putin, of Russia, will take place next Friday, August 15, 2025, in the Great State of Alaska.”
Munich Re Group tumbled 7.21% on August 8, dragging the DAX into negative territory. The insurer lowered its revenue outlook, impacting the broader sector. Hannover Re slid 3.97%.
Rheinmetall AG fell 1.25% on the news of the US and Russia working toward ending the Ukraine war.
Meanwhile, bank stocks extended their gains as upbeat earnings across the sector lifted sentiment. Commerzbank rallied 3.45%, while Deutsche Bank gained 1.59%. Auto stocks also advanced on easing concerns about tariffs impacting demand for German carmaker stocks. Volkswagen led the gains, rallying 2.27%.
Economic indicators and Fed speakers fueled speculation about a September Fed rate cut, boosting demand for risk assets. The Nasdaq Composite Index rallied 0.98%, while the Dow and the S&P 500 gained 0.47% and 0.78%, respectively.
Meanwhile, expectations of a September Fed rate cut limited the DAX’s losses. President Trump nominated Stephen Miran to the Federal Reserve Board. Markets expect Miran to support Trump’s calls for interest rate cuts.
According to the CME FedWatch Board, the chances of a September Fed rate cut jumped from 80.3% on August 1 to 88.9% on August 8.
On Monday, August 11, the Fed will remain under the spotlight as investors await the crucial US CPI Report.
Fed chatter could influence sentiment toward the Fed rate path. Rising calls for a September rate cut and further cuts in Q4 could boost risk assets such as the DAX. Conversely, hawkish cues could weigh on sentiment.
The DAX’s near-term outlook hinges on geopolitical headlines, trade developments, and central bank commentary.
At the time of writing on August 11, the DAX futures advanced 63 points, while the Nasdaq 100 climbed 40 points. Easing geopolitical risks and a more dovish Fed rate path lifted risk sentiment.
Despite Friday’s loss, the DAX remains above the 50-day and 200-day EMAs, indicating a bullish bias.
Traders should closely monitor Ukraine war headlines, trade news, and central bank rhetoric. Geopolitical updates and central bank guidance are likely to have a greater weight on the Index.
Explore our exclusive forecasts to assess whether improving trade sentiment could lift the DAX to new highs. Refer to our latest forecasts and macro insights here for further analysis, and consult our economic calendar.
With over 28 years of experience in the financial industry, Bob has worked with various global rating agencies and multinational banks. Currently he is covering currencies, commodities, alternative asset classes and global equities, focusing mostly on European and Asian markets.