Market Update: 30th June 2025 – Bulls Tighten Their Grip as June Ends on a High

As the curtain falls on a record-setting June, global equity markets are marching confidently into the second half of the year. With investor sentiment buoyed by softening trade tensions, a weakening dollar, and renewed optimism around rate cuts, risk assets are once again in vogue. But under the surface, questions linger about leadership breadth, earnings resilience, and whether we’re seeing a melt-up… or the calm before the shakeout.

U.S. Indices: The Magnificent Momentum

The S&P 500, Nasdaq, and Dow Jones have notched fresh all-time highs this month, driven largely by outsized gains in big tech particularly AI-linked mega caps, semiconductors, and cloud names. However, this raises an age-old concern: Is the rally too top-heavy?
Breadth remains narrow. Just 10–12 names account for over 60% of the S&P’s gains this quarter.

Notables:

• Nvidia (NVDA) and Broadcom (AVGO) continue to soar, with cooling inflation and lower yields amplifying their growth multiples.

The Fed, the Dollar, and the Data Dilemma

A July rate cut now looks increasingly likely, with traders pricing a 60% probability. Soft consumer sentiment, signs of cooling in job creation, and downward revisions in GDP forecasts are supporting the dovish tilt.

But the Fed walks a tightrope: too soon, and inflation could reignite; too late, and the economy risks tipping into stagnation.
Expect markets to fixate this week on:

• ISM manufacturing (Tuesday)

• ADP private payrolls (Wednesday)

• Nonfarm payrolls + unemployment (Friday)

These data points will set the tone for July. A major miss on jobs could supercharge rate cut bets, sending bond yields tumbling and tech flying. A beat could do the opposite.

Conclusion: Opportunity with Caution?

The path higher may still have legs but markets don’t climb in straight lines. Don’t confuse a strong trend with immunity from volatility. And remember risk management isn’t just for bad times it’s what lets you keep the good times.

By James Trescothick

Head of Market Research and Analysis

Risk Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. Financial markets involve risks, and past performance is not indicative of future results. Always conduct your own research and seek professional advice before making investment decisions.