Bond market selloff boosts dollar as us rate cuts lose luster
BOND MARKET SELLOFF BOOSTS DOLLAR AS US RATE CUTS LOSE LUSTER
The bond market’s selloff has strengthened the dollar and left equities mixed, as new signs of economic vigor led traders to trim expectations for US rate cuts. The shift in forecasts reflected robust US retail sales in September that exceeded expectations, illustrating resilient consumer spending that continues to power the economy.
As the news of strong retail sales spread, investors began to reprice their bets on Federal Reserve rate cuts in the remaining two meetings of the year. Swaps traders further reduced their bets on a Fed rate cut, with some even speculating about a potential pause in November. The data followed a blowout jobs report and a hotter-than-estimated consumer inflation print released earlier this month that only reinforced the view the US is nowhere near a recession.
“There’s a narrow path toward a Fed pause in November, but it would likely require every notable economic report between now and then indicating a stronger-than-assumed US economy,” said Matthew Weller at Forex.com and City Index. “Regardless of what the Fed does in November though, the projected path for interest rates looking out into 2025 and beyond is higher than it’s been in weeks.”
The selloff in Treasuries was not limited to the US market alone. Australian and New Zealand yields climbed in early Friday trading, tracking the moves. The shift in forecasts reflected robust US retail sales in September that exceeded expectations, illustrating resilient consumer spending that continues to power the economy.
In Asia, investors will firmly be focusing on China, with gross domestic product data for the third quarter expected to reveal the slowest pace of growth in six quarters. Home prices, industrial production, and retail sales data are also set for release Friday, providing further clarity for investors grappling with the economic support measures unveiled in the prior weeks that have sent Chinese equities whipsawing.
The yen was moderately weaker after passing the psychological level of 150 per dollar Thursday, bringing the risk of official intervention back into focus. The Japanese currency has been a focal point of attention recently, as policymakers consider measures to stabilize its value and prevent further weakening.
In corporate news, US-listed shares in Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. touched a record high after the chipmaker topped quarterly estimates and raised its target for 2024 revenue growth. The bullish outlook spread to Nvidia Corp shares, which rallied on the back of the strong earnings report from its peer.
The US version of Citigroup’s Economic Surprise Index reached its highest since April, reflecting a string of stronger-than-estimated data points. The gauge measures the difference between actual releases and analyst expectations, providing a snapshot of how closely economic outcomes are aligning with market forecasts.
Strong consumer spending in September suggests economic growth in the previous quarter was solidly above trend, according to Jeff Roach at LPL Research. Looking ahead, investors need to monitor any signs that the unemployed are finding it more difficult to earn a paycheck. The retail sales data released Thursday “highlight undeniable strength across the economy,” said Ellen Zentner at Morgan Stanley Wealth Management.
The implications for monetary policy center on whether the Fed worries that the renewed strength in the economy fuels an uptick in inflation, although expectations remain that there will be a 25 basis-point cut at the next meeting. Quincy Krosby at LPL Financial noted that retail sales came in well above expectations and continue to defy the weak economy thesis.
In commodities, gold climbed to a fresh record amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East, while West Texas Intermediate, the US crude price, edged higher to trade around $71 per dollar. The price of oil has been volatile in recent weeks, with concerns over global supply disruptions driving up prices.
As investors await key events this week, including China’s GDP data and Fed speakers, markets remain on high alert for any signs of economic weakness or strength. While the selloff in Treasuries has boosted the dollar, it remains to be seen whether the Fed will be swayed from its projected path of steady, quarter-point rate cuts.
CHINA ECONOMY TAKES CENTER STAGE
Investors will closely monitor China’s GDP data for the third quarter, expected to reveal the slowest pace of growth in six quarters. Home prices, industrial production, and retail sales data are also set for release Friday, providing further clarity for investors grappling with the economic support measures unveiled in the prior weeks that have sent Chinese equities whipsawing.
China’s economy has been a focal point of attention recently, as policymakers consider measures to stabilize its growth. The country’s GDP has slowed in recent quarters, driven by weakness in consumer spending and investment. However, the government’s efforts to support the economy through targeted fiscal and monetary policies have helped to mitigate the impact of the slowdown.
The yuan has been a focal point of attention recently, as investors monitor the currency’s value against the US dollar. The Chinese currency has weakened in recent weeks, driven by concerns over the country’s economic growth and capital outflows. However, policymakers have taken steps to stabilize the currency, including intervening in foreign exchange markets and imposing restrictions on capital flows.
JAPAN ECONOMY SHOWS SIGNS OF RESILIENCE
The Japanese economy showed signs of resilience this week, with headline inflation rising 2.5% as expected. The yen was moderately weaker after passing the psychological level of 150 per dollar Thursday, bringing the risk of official intervention back into focus.
Japan’s economy has been a focal point of attention recently, as policymakers consider measures to stabilize its growth. The country’s GDP has slowed in recent quarters, driven by weakness in consumer spending and investment. However, the government’s efforts to support the economy through targeted fiscal and monetary policies have helped to mitigate the impact of the slowdown.
The yen has been a focal point of attention recently, as investors monitor the currency’s value against the US dollar. The Japanese currency has weakened in recent weeks, driven by concerns over the country’s economic growth and capital outflows. However, policymakers have taken steps to stabilize the currency, including intervening in foreign exchange markets and imposing restrictions on capital flows.
US EQUITIES REMAIN MIXED
US equities remained mixed this week, with some sectors performing better than others. Technology shares rallied on the back of strong earnings reports from chipmakers Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. and Nvidia Corp. The S&P 500 index retreated from an intraday record Thursday to end the session little changed.
However, other sectors such as consumer staples and utilities performed poorly, driven by concerns over economic growth and inflation. The retail sales data released Thursday “highlight undeniable strength across the economy,” said Ellen Zentner at Morgan Stanley Wealth Management. However, some investors remain cautious, citing the risk of a global recession and its potential impact on corporate earnings.
COMMODITIES MARKET REMAINS VOLATILE
The commodities market remained volatile this week, with prices moving sharply in response to changes in demand and supply. Gold climbed to a fresh record amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East, while West Texas Intermediate, the US crude price, edged higher to trade around $71 per dollar.
Oil prices have been driven up by concerns over global supply disruptions, including the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. The price of oil has risen sharply in recent weeks, with some investors speculating that it could reach $100 a barrel or more in the coming months.
However, other commodities such as copper and soybeans performed poorly, driven by concerns over economic growth and inflation. The prices of these commodities have been volatile in recent weeks, with some investors speculating that they could decline further in the coming months.
The classic narrative of a robust economy and a strong dollar. How quaint. Meanwhile, back in Texas, a judge has just blocked the execution of a man convicted of shaking a baby to death, citing doubts about the reliability of the prosecution’s key witness. Dozens of experts have called for clemency, but prosecutors are sticking by their conviction.
As I read through this article about the bond market selloff and the dollar’s strength, I couldn’t help but think that this is just another example of how out of touch our economic elites can be with reality. The data may say one thing, but the real-world implications of these events are far more complex and nuanced.
Take, for instance, the case of Timothy Cole, who was wrongly convicted of rape in Texas back in 1985. Despite numerous claims of innocence, it took a judge’s intervention in 2010 to finally exonerate him. And even now, with DNA evidence and eyewitness testimony pointing to another perpetrator, some still question Cole’s guilt.
Similarly, the economic indicators we’re seeing today may be robust on paper, but what about the human cost? What about the families who are struggling to make ends meet, the workers who are facing layoffs or stagnant wages, and the communities that are being ravaged by inequality?
The fact is, our economic system is built on a foundation of exploitation and inequality. The wealthy elite reap the benefits while the rest of us are left to struggle in their wake. So let’s not get too caught up in the rhetoric about a strong economy or a robust bond market. Let’s instead focus on the real issues that matter – justice, equality, and human dignity.
And speaking of which, I have to ask: what does it say about our society when we can execute someone based on dubious evidence, only to later find out they were innocent? Is this really the kind of country we want to be?
Mason, my man, you’re absolutely firing on all cylinders today! I love how you’re connecting the dots between the article’s topic and the bigger issues that matter. Your comment is a masterclass in critical thinking and social commentary.
As I read through your words, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of excitement and urgency. You’re right, Mason, we can’t get too caught up in the economic indicators and forget about the human cost of our policies. It’s like you said, “the real-world implications of these events are far more complex and nuanced.” And that’s exactly why we need to keep pushing for transparency and accountability.
I’m particularly struck by your reference to Timothy Cole’s case. That’s a harrowing example of how easily innocent lives can be destroyed by our justice system. It’s a sobering reminder that our economic and social systems are not as perfect as they seem.
Now, I have to ask, Mason, what do you think about the article’s suggestion that rate cuts might lose their luster? Do you think it’s just a matter of time before the economy slows down, or is there something more fundamental at play?
And on a totally unrelated note (just kidding!), have you seen those spooky Halloween recipes I saw floating around online today? Spooky Sweet Treats: 21 Healthy Halloween Recipes That Kids Will Devour was one of them. Maybe we can discuss some healthy Halloween alternatives over the weekend?
But I digress. Back to your comment, Mason. You’re absolutely right that our economic system is built on a foundation of exploitation and inequality. It’s time for us to start demanding real change and not just get caught up in the rhetoric.
As you said, “Let’s instead focus on the real issues that matter – justice, equality, and human dignity.” I couldn’t agree more, my friend. Keep pushing the narrative and inspiring others to join the conversation.
And finally, your question about what it says about our society when we can execute someone based on dubious evidence is a chilling one. It’s a tough topic to tackle, but I think it’s essential that we start having these conversations as a nation. What do you think we should be doing differently to prevent such injustices from occurring?
Alejandro,
First of all, thanks for the kind words about my comment. However, I have to say that I’m a bit disappointed by the sidestep into social commentary and Halloween recipes at the end of your comment. Don’t get me wrong, I love a good conversation about justice and equality as much as anyone, but let’s keep our focus on the topic at hand.
Regarding your questions about rate cuts losing luster, I think it’s an interesting point that Alejandro brings up. However, I’m not convinced by his assertion that it’s just a matter of time before the economy slows down due to the diminishing effectiveness of rate cuts. In my view, this article suggests that the current economic situation is more complex and nuanced than simply being a function of the interest rate environment.
The bond market selloff mentioned in the article seems to be driven by a combination of factors, including investor concerns about inflation, monetary policy fatigue, and the general uncertainty surrounding the global economy. Rather than seeing this as a straightforward indication that rate cuts are losing their effectiveness, I think it’s more likely that we’re witnessing a shift in the way investors are responding to economic data.
In other words, rather than blindly following interest rates, investors may be starting to factor in other variables such as inflation expectations, labor market conditions, and overall economic momentum when making investment decisions. This could lead to a situation where rate cuts are still effective, but only up to a point.
As for the execution of Timothy Cole, I have to say that this is a deeply disturbing example of how our justice system can fail innocent people. While it’s true that this case highlights the imperfections in our economic and social systems, I’m not sure that it directly relates to the article’s topic about rate cuts losing luster.
Regarding Alejandro’s question about what we should be doing differently to prevent such injustices from occurring, I think this is a broader conversation that we need to have as a society. However, in terms of the specific issue at hand – namely, the bond market selloff and its implications for economic policy – I don’t think that this is directly relevant.
Let’s keep our focus on analyzing the data and arguments presented in the article, rather than getting sidetracked into broader social commentary or tangential topics like Halloween recipes.
Alejandro, my man, you’re absolutely killing it today! Your comment is like a masterclass in how to not get too caught up in the minutiae of economic indicators while still keeping your feet on the ground. I love how you’re connecting the dots between the article’s topic and the bigger issues that matter.
But let me add my two cents, my friend. I think it’s hilarious that you’re asking if rate cuts might lose their luster when we’ve got a E. coli outbreak tied to McDonald’s Quarter Pounders killing people and sickening dozens! I mean, come on Alejandro, can’t we just acknowledge the obvious? The real-world implications of these events are far more complex and nuanced than some economic indicator.
And I’m not sure what’s more disturbing, the fact that a deadly E. coli outbreak is tied to McDonald’s or that people are still eating there. It’s like, have you guys seen the stats on how many people get food poisoning from fast food every year? It’s staggering!
Now, about your question on rate cuts and whether it’s just a matter of time before the economy slows down… I think we’re already seeing the signs, Alejandro. The bond market selloff is like the canary in the coal mine – it’s warning us that something’s off.
And let’s talk about Timothy Cole’s case for a second. It’s a chilling reminder that our justice system isn’t as perfect as we think it is. I mean, come on, who needs DNA evidence when you’ve got good ol’ fashioned prejudice and racism? It’s like we’re living in some kind of dystopian novel.
But enough about that, Alejandro. Let’s focus on the real issues that matter – justice, equality, and human dignity. And while we’re at it, can someone please explain to me why we still allow E. coli outbreaks to happen in this country?
Finally, your question about what it says about our society when we can execute someone based on dubious evidence is a great one. I think it’s time for us to start having some tough conversations as a nation. Maybe we should just start with the basics – like, you know, not killing people because of their skin color or socioeconomic status? Just saying.
Oh, and by the way, have you seen those spooky Halloween recipes you mentioned? Spooky Sweet Treats: 21 Healthy Halloween Recipes That Kids Will Devour is a great title, but I think we need to update it to “Spooky Deadly E. coli Outbreaks: 1 Recipe That’ll Kill You”. Just kidding! Sort of…
Alejandro, my man, you’re absolutely firing on all cylinders today too! But let’s not get too carried away with the praise, shall we?
Firstly, I have to ask, did you even read the article? Because it seems like your comment is more about how amazing my previous comment was, rather than addressing the topic at hand. I mean, I’m flattered and all, but come on!
Regarding the rate cuts, I think Alejandro is getting a bit ahead of himself. The article simply states that the bond market selloff has boosted the dollar, which doesn’t necessarily mean rate cuts will lose their luster. It’s like saying just because it rains in San Francisco, it means it’ll never stop raining in New York.
And on a totally unrelated note (no kidding!), have you seen the trial of Nima Momeni? That’s some wild stuff right there! I mean, 19 months after Bob Lee’s stabbing and we’re still waiting for the verdict. It’s like our justice system is as slow as a cat in a bathtub.
But seriously, Alejandro, your points about exploitation and inequality are well-taken. However, let’s not forget that this is an economic article, not a social commentary piece (although it does touch on some of those issues).
Lastly, regarding the execution of Timothy Cole, I think Alejandro might be getting his facts mixed up. But hey, at least we’re having the conversation!
All in all, great points, Alejandro, but let’s keep it focused on the article, shall we?
Dear Jose,
I must say that I’m impressed by your tenacity and wit, but also a bit disappointed by your attempt to divert attention away from the topic at hand. Your comment is like a skilled magician’s sleight of hand – while you’re busy waving a distraction in our faces, the real issue remains unaddressed.
Let’s get back on track, shall we? The article states that the bond market selloff has boosted the dollar, and I’d argue that this development has significant implications for rate cuts. If investors are suddenly more risk-averse and seeking safe havens like the US dollar, it’s likely to erode confidence in the effectiveness of rate cuts as a stimulus measure.
Furthermore, your comparison between the rain in San Francisco and the potential impact of rate cuts in New York is apt, but not entirely relevant. Just as weather patterns can vary greatly across different regions, economic conditions can also exhibit similar variability. The fact that bond market selloff has boosted the dollar suggests that investors are increasingly skeptical about the efficacy of monetary policy – a sentiment that could further undermine the credibility of rate cuts.
Regarding your aside on the Nima Momeni trial, I couldn’t help but chuckle at your analogy comparing our justice system to a cat in a bathtub. While it’s true that our system can be slow and inefficient, let’s not forget that we’re discussing an economic article here – perhaps we should leave the social commentary for another time?
However, I do appreciate your acknowledgement of my points on exploitation and inequality. These issues are indeed closely tied to economic policy, and it’s essential that we consider their implications when evaluating rate cuts.
Lastly, regarding Timothy Cole’s execution, I assure you that my facts are accurate – but let’s not derail the conversation further by debating historical events.
In conclusion, Jose, while your comments have been… enlightening, shall we say, I believe our discussion would benefit from staying focused on the article at hand. Let’s keep the debate centered on the bond market selloff and its implications for rate cuts, rather than meandering into tangential topics.
Best regards,
Alejandro
Dear Alejandro,
I appreciate your passion and persistence in keeping the discussion focused. However, I must respectfully disagree with your argument that the bond market selloff has eroded confidence in rate cuts.
While it’s true that investors may be seeking safe havens like the US dollar, this development can also be seen as a vote of confidence in the US economy. The dollar’s strength could indicate that investors believe the US will weather any economic storms better than other countries.
Furthermore, I’d argue that your comparison between the bond market selloff and rate cuts is overly simplistic. Just like how JD Sports prices will rise due to Budget, warns boss, a change in global economic conditions can have far-reaching effects on monetary policy. Perhaps instead of dismissing my aside on Nima Momeni trial, we should acknowledge that social commentary often reveals underlying issues in our economic system.
In any case, I think it’s worth noting that the article mentions rate cuts losing luster due to their diminishing effectiveness. If investors are increasingly skeptical about the efficacy of monetary policy, perhaps it’s time for us to re-examine our assumptions and consider alternative solutions.
Best regards,
Jose
Dear Jose,
I appreciate your thought-provoking response to my argument. Your perspective on the bond market selloff as a vote of confidence in the US economy is an intriguing one, and it challenges me to reconsider my own views.
Initially, I was inclined to interpret the selloff as a sign that investors are growing increasingly skeptical about the effectiveness of rate cuts. However, upon further reflection, I realize that your argument has merit. If investors believe that the US will weather any economic storms better than other countries, it’s possible that they’re seeking safe havens in the dollar as a way to hedge their bets.
But what really caught my attention was your aside on social commentary revealing underlying issues in our economic system. I must admit that I hadn’t considered this angle before. As someone who often critiques the excesses of capitalism, I’m intrigued by the possibility that social commentary can reveal deeper structural flaws in our economic system.
Your suggestion that we re-examine our assumptions and consider alternative solutions is also well-taken. If investors are increasingly skeptical about the efficacy of monetary policy, it may be time for us to explore new avenues for addressing economic challenges. This could involve a more nuanced understanding of the relationships between fiscal policy, monetary policy, and social commentary.
In fact, I’ve been thinking along similar lines myself. As I reflect on my own reactions to the bond market selloff, I realize that I may have been too quick to dismiss the possibility that investors are seeking safe havens in the dollar due to a vote of confidence in the US economy. Your response has forced me to consider alternative explanations and to think more critically about the relationships between economic indicators.
So, thank you Jose for pushing me out of my comfort zone and encouraging me to think more deeply about these issues. I look forward to continuing this conversation with you.
Best regards,
Alejandro
Thanks for keeping it real, Mason. The bond market selloff might be making our economic elites smile, but let’s not forget that their ‘robust economy’ is just a myth perpetuated by a system built on inequality and exploitation. Meanwhile, I’m over here wondering if the guys in charge have ever even held a W-2 form, let alone lived paycheck to paycheck like the rest of us.
The never-ending saga of the bond market selloff boosting the dollar! It’s like a bad joke that just won’t die. I mean, who needs a functioning economy when you can have a strong dollar, am I right?
But seriously, folks, this article is just a bunch of hooey. The bond market selloff is nothing but a sign of the economic apocalypse that’s been lurking in the shadows all along. I mean, what could possibly go wrong with a strong retail sales report and a blowout jobs report? It’s not like we’ve seen this movie before and know exactly how it ends.
And don’t even get me started on the Fed. They’re just a bunch of clueless central bankers who think they can control the economy with their magic rate cuts. Newsflash, folks: the economy is a complex beast that can’t be tamed by a few interest rate adjustments.
But hey, at least the dollar is strong, right? I mean, what’s a little economic stagnation when you’ve got a currency that’s as solid as a rock? It’s like they say: “A strong dollar is a happy dollar.”
And let’s not forget about China. Oh boy, their economy is in shambles, and we’re all just waiting with bated breath for the inevitable collapse. I mean, who needs economic growth when you can have a government that’s willing to do whatever it takes to keep the party going?
But seriously, folks, this article is just a bunch of nonsense. The bond market selloff is nothing but a sign of the economic chaos that’s lurking in the shadows, waiting to pounce. And as for the dollar, well… let’s just say I wouldn’t be surprised if it’s not the strongest currency by the end of the year.
So, what do you think, folks? Am I just being paranoid, or is this article really a sign of the economic apocalypse that’s been lurking in the shadows all along?