Fundamental Analysis

Equities Defy Powell’s Hawkishness, Close at All-Time Highs

Equities ended at record highs on Monday despite a hawkish speech from Powell that led to a drop in rate cut expectations. At the same time, market participants were gearingequ up for a new quarter and week packed with critical US economic data. Last week, equities had risen on Friday after US inflation data revealed Read More…

Fundamental Analysis

Currency Futures Wobble Amid Diverse Economic and Political Shifts

Currency futures were mixed on Friday and Monday amid several economic and political changes in different countries. Meanwhile, the dollar fell after inflation data revealed softer-than-expected numbers.  US core inflation (Source: Bureau of Economic Analysis) The US core PCE price index report on Friday revealed a 0.1% increase in August, smaller than the forecast of Read More…

Interest Futures
Fundamental Analysis

Interest Futures Gain as Yields Ease on Fed’s Further Rate Cut Hopes

Interest futures rose on Thursday and Friday as Treasury yields eased amid rising Fed rate cut expectations. However, the move was subdued as market participants waited for the core PCE inflation figures.  Treasury yields eased on Thursday despite upbeat US data. The outlook for Fed rate cuts remains quite dovish, with investors pricing a 50% Read More…

Fundamental Analysis

Oil Slips as Libya Conflict Resolution Calms Supply Concerns

Oil prices fell on Wednesday and Thursday as concerns about supply disruptions in Libya eased after a deal to end the conflict. At the same time, market participants were worried about a planned increase in Saudi Arabia’s oil production.  Oil chart (Source: Bloomberg, ICE) Libya, a significant oil producer, had slashed production due to conflict Read More…

Fundamental Analysis

Gold Futures Test New Highs Amid China’s Stimulus

Gold prices eased slightly on Wednesday after reaching new highs in the previous session. The rally came after the People’s Bank of China announced stimulus measures to support the economy. At the same time, the dollar dropped after economic data revealed that US consumer confidence missed forecasts. China’s stimulus package, announced on Tuesday, boosted commodities Read More…

Fundamental Analysis

Equities Climb Amid Growing Confidence in Fed’s Soft Landing

Equities edged higher on Tuesday after closing strong in the previous session amid optimism for a soft Fed landing. Furthermore, dovish comments from policymakers increased expectations for more rate cuts in 2024.  The Fed kicked off its easing cycle on Wednesday last week, triggering a rally in equities. Most policymakers voted to cut rates by Read More…