February 2: The United States and India reached a trade deal under which the United States will reduce the reciprocal tariff on Indian imports from 25% to 18% and drop the additional 25% tariff imposed over India’s purchases of Russian oil. In exchange, India has agreed to stop buying oil from Russia.

Experts expect moderate growth in the U.S. economy and in job growth, while there are varying predictions on this year’s monetary policy decisions.

Strong demand and supply constraints push copper and aluminum prices higher, while steel and PVC markets face new dynamics.