Germany’s 10-year Bund yield edged up to 2.64%, while yields on longer-term bonds in Europe, including those in France and Italy, climbed more significantly by over 5 basis points. This trend mirrors the broader increase seen in US Treasury yields. This uptick in yields followed the US's implementation of reciprocal tariffs on April 9th, imposing a 104% levy on imports from China. These renewed trade tensions have heightened investor apprehension regarding slowing global growth, the potential for a recession in the US, and persistent inflationary pressures, which may limit the Federal Reserve’s capacity to reduce interest rates soon. Conversely, the European Central Bank is widely anticipated to implement a 25 basis points rate cut this month, with markets already factoring in two additional cuts before the year ends. Speculation is also growing around the likelihood of a third rate reduction if economic conditions continue to worsen.