Macro Matters – Weekly review, w/c August 7

The Fitch downgrade of US credit and a spike in Treasury yields jolted markets, with longer-duration bonds experiencing heightened volatility. The Nonfarm Payrolls report offered some relief, bolstering hopes that the Fed has reached peak rates. Meanwhile, oil futures rallied on Chinese stimulus, and gold showed resilience against USD movements.

Macro Matters – Weekly review, w/c August 7

Macroeconomic / Geopolitical Developments:

• Fitch downgrades US credit rating, causing longer-duration yields to spike.

• Bond market volatility surges, impacting broader market sentiment.

US Bond Yields Spike After Fitch Downgrade

The surprise downgrade of US sovereign debt by Fitch to AA+ has raised questions about Treasury reliability. Combined with increased Treasury debt issuance, this drove 10-year yields to 4.20%, their highest since November. While a weaker-than-expected Nonfarm Payrolls report temporarily eased pressures, bond auctions this week could fuel further volatility.

Bond Market Volatility Returns

Higher bond market volatility is a challenge for traders, with safe haven flows increasing as uncertainty grows. Upcoming auctions for 10-year and 30-year bonds this week will be closely watched for potential market disruptions.

United States:

Softer Data Supports Fed Pause

Weak ISM and Nonfarm Payrolls data have eased fears of further Fed hikes. Despite steady job growth of 187,000, revisions and subdued wage increases suggest limited inflationary pressures. Markets now predict no hikes in September, with potential rate cuts as early as March 2024.

US Index Futures Find Support

US index futures rebounded following softer payrolls data and strong earnings from Amazon. The S&P 500 e-minis have found support in the 4462/4498 band, while NASDAQ 100 futures are supported at 15324/15432. These levels will be critical in determining if the rally can resume.

Europe:

Bank of England’s Dovish Hike

The BoE raised rates to 5.25% but signaled a more data-dependent approach. Markets now expect a peak rate of 5.50%, a sharp revision from earlier forecasts of over 6.00%. GBP could face mild underperformance, with EUR/GBP targeting 0.8700 and key support at $1.2590 for GBP/USD.

Eurozone Inflation Likely Peaked

The ECB suggested underlying inflation peaked in early 2023, with core inflation easing to 6.6%. While rate hikes may pause in September, the ECB plans to keep rates higher for longer, supporting the EUR.

Asia:

JPY Gains Amid Safe Haven Flows

A mix of higher JGB yields and safe haven demand amid US bond market turmoil has bolstered the JPY.

China’s Stimulus Measures

China’s gradual stimulus rollout includes increased funding for the property sector, aiming to rebuild confidence. These measures supported oil prices, countering recent risk aversion.

Commodities:

Oil Futures Hold Gains

Oil prices are supported by supply and demand fundamentals, along with Chinese stimulus. NYMEX oil futures are approaching key resistance at $83.53.

Gold Shows Resilience

Gold rebounded on weaker USD post-payrolls, with support at $1920 and the critical June low at $1892.50 holding firm. Resistance at $1983 remains a challenge.

On the Calendar:

• Key data includes US CPI and PPI, along with Michigan Sentiment.

• Chinese trade and inflation data will influence risk appetite.

• Earnings highlights include Eli Lilly and Walt Disney.

Macro Data:

Aug 8: Chinese trade balance; US Trade Balance

Aug 9: Chinese CPI and PPI

Aug 10: US CPI

Aug 11: UK GDP, Industrial Production, US PPI

Earnings Calendar:

Aug 8: Eli Lilly, United Parcel Service, Zoetis

Aug 9: Walt Disney, Illumina, The Trade Desk