Global Financial Markets Under Pressure
Global financial markets came under pressure last week as investors turned their attention to a number of key issues, including China’s real estate troubles, the potential for more Fed rate hikes, and differing opinions on Europe’s rate outlook.
The US dollar index surged to a six-month high, reaching 105 levels, driven by subdued risk sentiment stemming from disappointing Services PMI reports out of China and the Eurozone. The US dollar is often seen as a safe haven asset, and its strength typically reflects investor concerns about the global economy.
Meanwhile, the US 10-year treasury note yield edged closer to 4.3 percent, supported by a surprising drop in US weekly jobless claims to their lowest point since February. The yield on the 10-year treasury note is a benchmark for global borrowing costs, and its rise reflects investor expectations for higher inflation and interest rates.
In a surprising twist, the ISM Services PMI for August 2023 unexpectedly surged to 54.5, indicating the strongest growth in the services sector in six months. The ISM Services PMI is a closely watched measure of the US services sector, and its strong reading suggests that the economy is still growing at a healthy pace. However, the Federal Reserve has signaled that it is likely to raise interest rates several more times this year in an effort to combat inflation.
The weakness in global equity markets was broad-based, with all major indices posting losses. The S&P 500 fell 1.3 percent, the Dow Jones Industrial Average fell 1.1 percent, and the Nasdaq Composite fell 1.5 percent. European markets also fell, with the Stoxx Europe 600 index down 1.2 percent.
The weakness in global equity markets is likely to continue in the near term, as investors remain focused on the key issues mentioned above. However, there could be some relief if US inflation data comes in lower than expected later this week.
Key Takeaways
- The US dollar index surged to a six-month high, driven by subdued risk sentiment and hawkish comments from the Federal Reserve.
- US treasury yields rose, as investors priced in the possibility of more Fed rate hikes.
- Global equity markets fell, as investors turned their attention to a number of key issues, including China’s real estate troubles and the potential for more Fed rate hikes.
- Oil prices rose, supported by the extension of OPEC+ output cuts.
- The upcoming week will bring a focus on US inflation figures, retail sales data, the ECB monetary policy meeting and a range of Chinese economic data releases.
Investors should monitor these factors and adjust their investment strategies accordingly.
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