Quarterly Outlook
Macro Outlook: The US rate cut cycle has begun
Peter Garnry
Chief Investment Strategist
Senior Relationship Manager
Summary: Precious Metals Volatile, EU Election rattles the Euro
Good morning,
At times, when I warn about a highly volatile day, I wonder if I am not crying wolf, then comes a day like Friday. Fx Markets and precious Metals in particular showed how much they can move if the setup is right.
The headline Nonfarm Payroll number surged and beat the highest estimate, leading to increased yields and a stronger US dollar. The first full rate cut is now anticipated only in December. The USD Index climbed to 104.92, EURUSD dropped to 1.08, GBPUSD to 1.2720, and USDJPY rose to 156.70. Gold and Silver experienced significant declines following news that China did not purchase more Gold in May, coupled with hawkish US data. Gold fell by 3.4% to below 2300, and Silver dropped by 6.8% to 29.20. Copper also experienced a 4.8% loss. Overnight, we are witnessing a slight recovery: Silver could rise to 29.60 and Gold to 2996. The key question remains whether Friday's slump indicates a trend reversal or presents a buy-the-dip opportunity.
Over the weekend, the European election revealed a stronger far-right presence than anticipated, prompting France to call for an early election. European indexes are trading approximately 0.3% lower, and the Euro has weakened by 0.5% against the USD. Equities traded relatively flat on Friday in low volumes. For the week, the S&P 500 gained 1.3%, Nasdaq rose by 2.4%, and the Dow added 0.3%. In addition to economic data releases, we are expecting major events:
Our Strats team provided an insightful summary on shipping and freight rates, a topic somewhat overlooked but not unimportant:: China/Hong Kong Market Pulse: Container Shipping Rides High the Geopolitical Waves and Geoeconomic Tides
This week, Wednesday will be the key data day, with the US CPI and the FOMC rate decision set for release. While it is almost certain that the Fed will not change rates, the press conference is likely to be the focus. Additionally, Israel managed to rescue four of the hostages held by Hamas on Saturday, redirecting attention to military action in Gaza. U.S. Secretary of State Blinken will visit Egypt and Israel to increase pressure on Hamas and Israel to reach a ceasefire in Gaza.
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