The Pulse • Markets enjoyed a reprieve from the US-China trade war, although the issue is expected to remain live as we near the US presidential election in November. • Geopolitical tensions gave way to the outbreak of the coronavirus, resulting in travel restrictions and quarantine measures imposed by the Chinese authorities.
Market Update | January 2020
The Pulse Both the US and China are optimistic that a ‘phase one’ trade deal will be reached, but subsequent negotiations will likely prove more difficult. Tension between the US and Iran following the US assassination of Iranian general Soleimani has left markets on edge. The devastation from the Australian bushfires will have a significant […]
Market Update | November 2019
The Pulse In the US, trade-exposed sectors are suffering as a result of the trade conflict, but the consumer sector appears to be holding up well. Economic activity in the eurozone weakened during the September quarter as outgoing ECB president Draghi warned euro-area fiscal policies were insufficient. The UK parliament agreed to a general election […]
Market update – July 2019
The Pulse Softer US inflation and PMI figures have dimmed the growth outlook, although further labour market tightening may avert a Fed rate cut for the time being. The trade situation remains the key issue for the global economy, with uncertainty affecting investment and bolstering the case for monetary easing. European manufacturing continues to decline, […]
Market Update – June 2019
The Pulse The US-China trade dispute has raised fears of a prolonged game of one-upmanship that could result in long-term damage to the global economy. US Fed officials believe some of the recent weakness in inflation data may be temporary, but some have expressed concern about a cycle of low inflation expectations. Sentiment in Europe […]