The main events by the morning: April 21

• Gold prices have reached a record: June futures rose to $3,400,44 per ounce, and the metal has gained more than 26% since the beginning of the year. The growth is linked to geopolitical tensions due to US tariffs, fears of stagflation, and sustained demand from central banks. Experts predict a possible increase to $4,000 per ounce by mid-2026.

• The dollar fell below 79 rubles in over-the-counter trading for the first time since May 2023. The euro is trading at 93.39 rubles, while the Chinese yuan has reached 11.09 rubles. The strengthening of the Russian currency is taking place against the background of a combination of factors supporting the ruble: an increase in currency sales under the budget rule, a high key rate of the Central Bank, as well as a decrease in the risk premium in the ruble exchange rate against the background of the Easter truce over the weekend and ongoing consultations on Ukraine between Russia and the United States.

• China has declared its readiness to take retaliatory measures against countries that support US calls for China's isolation. The Ministry of Commerce of the country noted that the actions and statements of the United States threaten the interests of Beijing. «China resolutely opposes any attempts to reach agreements at the expense of its interests. In the event of such a development, China will not stand aside and will take appropriate countermeasures.»

• The Bank of Russia will keep its key interest rate at a record level of 21%, analysts predict. Only 4 out of 30 experts believe that a rate cut could be started as early as April. No one expects her to be promoted, but such an option may still be considered at the meeting. For six consecutive meetings from September 2022 to July 2023, the key rate remained unchanged.

• The total capitalization of the crypto market reached $2.849 trillion, an increase of $66 billion. At the same time, the share of BTC was 61.0%, and ETH – 6.98%. The fear and greed index remained at 39. Bitcoin fluctuated in the range of $83-86 thousand over the past week, ending with an increase of 1.69% and closing at $85179. In the morning, BTC successfully overcame the resistance of $86000-86300 and reached $87,562.