The DAX index, the German stock market index, started this new week on a bullish note but is currently experiencing sluggish performance, hovering near 17,430 after initially reaching an all-time high of 17,444. However, the positive momentum in the DAX can be attributed to several factors including mixed economic data from Germany and the Eurozone.

Meanwhile, remarks from central bank officials like ECB President Lagarde also played a major role in strengthening the DAX index. Besides this, the upcoming US economic indicators, and FOMC Member Barr Speaks could impact the DAX index.

It is also worth mentioning that auto stocks performed well for the third consecutive session, with companies like BMW, Porsche, Volkswagen, and Mercedes-Benz Group seeing substantial gains.

Furthermore, bank stocks ended the session positively, buoyed by news of Standard Chartered’s strong pre-tax profits and a significant share buyback announcement. These stocks significantly influence the DAX performance.

DAX Performance Amid Economic Challenges and ECB Speculations

It’s worth noting that the DAX index closely followed economic data from Germany and Europe, especially with ECB President Christine Lagarde’s scheduled speech. On the data front, economic indicators from Germany indicated a deteriorating economic situation, with the German economy shrinking by 0.3% quarter-on-quarter in Q4.

Despite some challenges, the auto sector showed strength or resilience, with private consumption playing a positive role in supporting it. Thus, the DAX index was positively influenced by signs of resilience in the auto sector despite Germany’s economic contraction in Q4.

Investors are closely watching ECB President Lagarde’s speech because there are speculations about a potential interest rate cut by the ECB in April.

Although ECB policymakers have been cautious about this, worries about inflation and the economic outlook remain. Lagarde’s comments on these matters could have a notable impact on the stocks listed on the DAX index and on overall market sentiment.

US Economic Data and Fed Remarks Impact DAX Index

On the US front, previously released economic data and remarks from Federal Reserve officials played a major role in shaping investor sentiment and impacting the DAX index. The lack of significant US economic indicators on Monday left investors focused on Fed speakers and market trends.

Investors are paying close attention to US housing sector data and the Dallas Fed Manufacturing Index to gauge the overall health of the US economy. If these sectors showed signs of weakening, it could lead to speculation that the Federal Reserve might cut interest rates. Such speculation would affect global markets, including the DAX index.

Geopolitical Tensions in Gaza-Israel Conflict and DAX Index

Besides economic factors, the ongoing geopolitical tensions arising from the conflict between Gaza and Israel also affected the DAX index. The ongoing conflict has significant consequences for regional stability and global markets.

However, the latest updates about military actions and casualties in Gaza can influence investor sentiment, causing changes in the DAX and other stock indices.

DAX Technical Outlook

The DAX index modestly climbed to 17,412.14, marking a 0.04% increase, a reflection of the market’s current cautious optimism. Today’s trading session has the DAX navigating a tight range, with a pivot point established at 17,427.72, suggesting a critical juncture for future movements. Resistance levels are mapped out at 17,517.37, 17,599.05, and 17,696.84, presenting potential challenges for upward trends.

Conversely, support is found at 17,335.59, followed by more definitive levels at 17,277.90 and 17,183.39, which could offer stability in case of a downturn.

The Relative Strength Index (RSI) at 73 signals a market that is potentially overextended, hinting at the need for caution among investors. The 50-day Exponential Moving Average (EMA) at 17,080.98 provides a solid foundation, underlining the DAX’s overall positive trajectory. However, the presence of a doji candlestick pattern at the pivot point suggests indecision, potentially forecasting a bearish correction if the index falls below this crucial level.