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Markets remained choppy as weak PMI data across Europe and the UK signalled slowing growth, while US data painted a mixed but still resilient picture. Oil prices were volatile amid shifting headlines around Iran, underlining ongoing geopolitical sensitivity. Equities in both Europe and the US ended modestly higher despite intraday swings, with pockets of strength in sectors like satellites and quantum computing following fresh investment momentum. Overnight, softer inflation in Japan supported Asian markets, while US yields edged lower and the dollar held firm. Today, we were joined by Bence Boldvai from our FX & Precious Metals team, who shared insights on key themes this week, including USD/JPY dynamics and his take on metals.(00:00) - Introduction: Bernadette Anderko, Product & Investment Content (01:11) - Markets wrap-up: Lucija Caculovic, Product & Investment Content (08:25) - FX & metals update: Bence Boldvai, FX & Precious Metals markets (11:52) - Closing remarks: Bernadette Anderko, Product & Investment Content Would you like to support this show? Please leave us a review and star rating on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.
Send us Fan MailTrump says Iran talks in ‘final stages' but investors remain nervous. Oil prices pare losses amid worries about supply and depleting inventories. Dollar regains front foot after weak May PMIs in Asia and Europe. Yen breaches 159 per dollar again despite hawkish BoJ comments. Risk Warning: Our services involve a significant risk and can result in the loss of your invested capital. *T&Cs apply.Please consider our Risk Disclosure: https://www.xm.com/goto/risk/enRisk warning is correct at the time of publication and may change. Please check our Risk Disclosure for an up to date risk warningReceive your daily market and forex news analysis directly from experienced forex and market news analysts! Tune in here to stay updated on a daily basis: https://www.xm.com/weekly-forex-review-and-outlookIn-depth forex news analysis on all major currencies, such as EUR/USD, USD/JPY, GBP/USD, USD/CHF, USD/CAD, AUD/USD
Send us Fan MailNo light at the end of the Middle East talks tunnel; oil prices remain dangerously high. US equity markets are shielded by Nvidia earnings expectations, ignoring elevated yields. Disappointment from Nvidia results and FOMC minutes could trigger a broader correction. Dollar/yen rally pauses, pound retains yesterday's gains. Risk Warning: Our services involve a significant risk and can result in the loss of your invested capital. *T&Cs apply.Please consider our Risk Disclosure: https://www.xm.com/goto/risk/enRisk warning is correct at the time of publication and may change. Please check our Risk Disclosure for an up to date risk warningReceive your daily market and forex news analysis directly from experienced forex and market news analysts! Tune in here to stay updated on a daily basis: https://www.xm.com/weekly-forex-review-and-outlookIn-depth forex news analysis on all major currencies, such as EUR/USD, USD/JPY, GBP/USD, USD/CHF, USD/CAD, AUD/USD
US President Trump posted on Truth that the US military is to hold off on the Iran attack that was initially planned for Tuesday after Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Qatar requested him to do so, as serious talks are now taking place.US President Trump also instructed the US to be prepared to go forward with a full, large-scale assault of Iran on a moment's notice, in the event an acceptable deal is not reached.European bourses outpace their US peers, awaiting an update from the US and/or Iran.DXY firms; USD/JPY edges beyond 159.00, raising risk of intervention; AUD lags post-RBA minutes.Global fixed benchmarks gain; Gilts outperform amidst domestic political updates and a downbeat jobs report. Crude futures give back recent gains, metals weighed by firmer dollar. Looking ahead, highlights include US ADP Employment Change Weekly, Canadian CPI (Apr). Speakers include ECB's Lane, Villeroy, Nagel & Fed's Waller. Earnings from Home Depot.Read the full report covering Equities, Forex, Fixed Income, Commodites and more on Newsquawk
Send us Fan MailMiddle East negotiations continue to dominate market sentiment. Elevated oil prices and Treasury yields cast a shadow over equities. A strong market decline could force Trump's hand; could Nvidia earnings trigger it? Dollar/yen reached ¥159, fresh intervention is imminent; has the BoJ learnt its lesson?Dollar hits 2-month high on Middle East tensions. Higher oil prices add to inflation fears and increase Fed hike bets. Yen enters intervention zone, pound weakens ahead of key data. Wall Street pulls back, gold falls below key support zone.Risk Warning: Our services involve a significant risk and can result in the loss of your invested capital. *T&Cs apply.Please consider our Risk Disclosure: https://www.xm.com/goto/risk/enRisk warning is correct at the time of publication and may change. Please check our Risk Disclosure for an up to date risk warningReceive your daily market and forex news analysis directly from experienced forex and market news analysts! Tune in here to stay updated on a daily basis: https://www.xm.com/weekly-forex-review-and-outlookIn-depth forex news analysis on all major currencies, such as EUR/USD, USD/JPY, GBP/USD, USD/CHF, USD/CAD, AUD/USD
Daniel Lam explores the impact of the Bank of Japan's latest round of FX intervention and delves into what it means for USD/JPY in the short-to-longer term.Speaker: - Daniel Lam, Head, Cross-asset Derivative Strategy, Standard Chartered BankFor the latest market insights, visit our on-the-go Market Views or subscribe to Standard Chartered Wealth Insights on YouTube.
Send us Fan MailDollar hits 2-month high on Middle East tensions. Higher oil prices add to inflation fears and increase Fed hike bets. Yen enters intervention zone, pound weakens ahead of key data. Wall Street pulls back, gold falls below key support zone.Risk Warning: Our services involve a significant risk and can result in the loss of your invested capital. *T&Cs apply.Please consider our Risk Disclosure: https://www.xm.com/goto/risk/enRisk warning is correct at the time of publication and may change. Please check our Risk Disclosure for an up to date risk warningReceive your daily market and forex news analysis directly from experienced forex and market news analysts! Tune in here to stay updated on a daily basis: https://www.xm.com/weekly-forex-review-and-outlookIn-depth forex news analysis on all major currencies, such as EUR/USD, USD/JPY, GBP/USD, USD/CHF, USD/CAD, AUD/USD
Send us Fan MailHormuz limbo lifts oil prices, fuelling inflation worries. Bond yields jump across the board on firmer rate hike expectations. Gold and stocks tumble but dollar jumps to 2½-week high. Pound leads FX losers amid twists and turns of UK politics.Risk Warning: Our services involve a significant risk and can result in the loss of your invested capital. *T&Cs apply.Please consider our Risk Disclosure: https://www.xm.com/goto/risk/enRisk warning is correct at the time of publication and may change. Please check our Risk Disclosure for an up to date risk warningReceive your daily market and forex news analysis directly from experienced forex and market news analysts! Tune in here to stay updated on a daily basis: https://www.xm.com/weekly-forex-review-and-outlookIn-depth forex news analysis on all major currencies, such as EUR/USD, USD/JPY, GBP/USD, USD/CHF, USD/CAD, AUD/USD
Send us Fan MailA pivotal week for global markets is ahead as investors focus on Fed meetingminutes, inflation data, and Nvidia earnings. Key economic releases from the UK,Canada, Japan, the Eurozone, and the US could drive volatility across currencies,equities, and commodities. Markets will be closely watching for signs of persistentinflation, shifting interest rate expectations, and continued strength in AI-drivengrowth. Gain insight into potential market direction, trading strategy considerations, and key levels to watch in this week's market outlook.Risk Warning: Our services involve a significant risk and can result in the loss of your invested capital. *T&Cs apply.Please consider our Risk Disclosure: https://www.xm.com/goto/risk/enRisk warning is correct at the time of publication and may change. Please check our Risk Disclosure for an up to date risk warningReceive your daily market and forex news analysis directly from experienced forex and market news analysts! Tune in here to stay updated on a daily basis: https://www.xm.com/weekly-forex-review-and-outlookIn-depth forex news analysis on all major currencies, such as EUR/USD, USD/JPY, GBP/USD, USD/CHF, USD/CAD, AUD/USD
Send us Fan MailAI-fuelled stock rally shows no sign of easing as Cisco latest to smash earnings. US PPI data adds to heightened inflation risks as Treasury yields jump. Trump and Xi hold talks but lack of details keeps markets in suspense. Pound finds some love from upbeat GDP data as Starmer's woes worsen.Risk Warning: Our services involve a significant risk and can result in the loss of your invested capital. *T&Cs apply.Please consider our Risk Disclosure: https://www.xm.com/goto/risk/enRisk warning is correct at the time of publication and may change. Please check our Risk Disclosure for an up to date risk warningReceive your daily market and forex news analysis directly from experienced forex and market news analysts! Tune in here to stay updated on a daily basis: https://www.xm.com/weekly-forex-review-and-outlookIn-depth forex news analysis on all major currencies, such as EUR/USD, USD/JPY, GBP/USD, USD/CHF, USD/CAD, AUD/USD
Send us Fan MailDollar rises on strong US inflation and US-Iran stalemate. Hotter-than-expected CPI bolsters Fed rate hike bets. Markets await outcomes from the Trump-Xi meeting. Tech stocks slide, gold retreats but stays above key support.Risk Warning: Our services involve a significant risk and can result in the loss of your invested capital. *T&Cs apply.Please consider our Risk Disclosure: https://www.xm.com/goto/risk/enRisk warning is correct at the time of publication and may change. Please check our Risk Disclosure for an up to date risk warningReceive your daily market and forex news analysis directly from experienced forex and market news analysts! Tune in here to stay updated on a daily basis: https://www.xm.com/weekly-forex-review-and-outlookIn-depth forex news analysis on all major currencies, such as EUR/USD, USD/JPY, GBP/USD, USD/CHF, USD/CAD, AUD/USD
Send us Fan MailDollar rebounds on stalled US-Iran talks. Oil up, lifts inflation expectations and Fed hike bets. Yen volatile amid intervention talk, pound falls on UK politics. Wall Street hits fresh record highs, but futures pull back today.Risk Warning: Our services involve a significant risk and can result in the loss of your invested capital. *T&Cs apply.Please consider our Risk Disclosure: https://www.xm.com/goto/risk/enRisk warning is correct at the time of publication and may change. Please check our Risk Disclosure for an up to date risk warningReceive your daily market and forex news analysis directly from experienced forex and market news analysts! Tune in here to stay updated on a daily basis: https://www.xm.com/weekly-forex-review-and-outlookIn-depth forex news analysis on all major currencies, such as EUR/USD, USD/JPY, GBP/USD, USD/CHF, USD/CAD, AUD/USD
Send us Fan MailUS President rejects fresh Iran proposal, raising risk of renewed hostilities rises. Newsflow triggers muted risk-off reaction; oil bounces higher. US equities remain buoyant ahead of key US data and Warsh's Senate vote. Dollar/yen rises, fresh intervention likely; pound awaits Starmer's next move.Risk Warning: Our services involve a significant risk and can result in the loss of your invested capital. *T&Cs apply.Please consider our Risk Disclosure: https://www.xm.com/goto/risk/enRisk warning is correct at the time of publication and may change. Please check our Risk Disclosure for an up to date risk warningReceive your daily market and forex news analysis directly from experienced forex and market news analysts! Tune in here to stay updated on a daily basis: https://www.xm.com/weekly-forex-review-and-outlookIn-depth forex news analysis on all major currencies, such as EUR/USD, USD/JPY, GBP/USD, USD/CHF, USD/CAD, AUD/USD
Send us Fan MailTraders prepare for a high‑impact week as US CPI inflation, Federal Reserve developments, and escalating geopolitical risks drive market volatility. From the Fed Chair nomination vote and key US inflation data and retail sales figures to UK GDP, we break down the crucial events shaping forex, stock, commodity, gold, and crypto markets. Gain insight into potential market direction, trading strategy considerations, risk management, and key levels to watch in this week's market outlook. Risk Warning: Our services involve a significant risk and can result in the loss of your invested capital. *T&Cs apply.Please consider our Risk Disclosure: https://www.xm.com/goto/risk/enRisk warning is correct at the time of publication and may change. Please check our Risk Disclosure for an up to date risk warningReceive your daily market and forex news analysis directly from experienced forex and market news analysts! Tune in here to stay updated on a daily basis: https://www.xm.com/weekly-forex-review-and-outlookIn-depth forex news analysis on all major currencies, such as EUR/USD, USD/JPY, GBP/USD, USD/CHF, USD/CAD, AUD/USD
Send us Fan MailDollar rebounds amid renewed Hormuz uncertainty. Inflation concerns reemerge ahead of nonfarm payrolls. Japan's wage data support BoJ rate hike case. Wall Street pulls back but outlook remains bright.Risk Warning: Our services involve a significant risk and can result in the loss of your invested capital. *T&Cs apply.Please consider our Risk Disclosure: https://www.xm.com/goto/risk/enRisk warning is correct at the time of publication and may change. Please check our Risk Disclosure for an up to date risk warningReceive your daily market and forex news analysis directly from experienced forex and market news analysts! Tune in here to stay updated on a daily basis: https://www.xm.com/weekly-forex-review-and-outlookIn-depth forex news analysis on all major currencies, such as EUR/USD, USD/JPY, GBP/USD, USD/CHF, USD/CAD, AUD/USD
Send us Fan MailUS-Iran deal hopes intensify, pushing oil off the cliff. Dollar retreats as easing inflation fears reduce Fed hike pressure. Yen jumps on intervention speculation. Wall Street rallies to record highs, gold breaks key resistance.Risk Warning: Our services involve a significant risk and can result in the loss of your invested capital. *T&Cs apply.Please consider our Risk Disclosure: https://www.xm.com/goto/risk/enRisk warning is correct at the time of publication and may change. Please check our Risk Disclosure for an up to date risk warningReceive your daily market and forex news analysis directly from experienced forex and market news analysts! Tune in here to stay updated on a daily basis: https://www.xm.com/weekly-forex-review-and-outlookIn-depth forex news analysis on all major currencies, such as EUR/USD, USD/JPY, GBP/USD, USD/CHF, USD/CAD, AUD/USD
Daniel Lam talks about the history of Bank of Japan intervention, and where we expect the USD/JPY to go from here.Speaker: - Daniel Lam, Head, Cross-Asset Derivative Strategy, Standard Chartered BankFor more of our latest market insights, visit Market views on-the-go or subscribe to Standard Chartered Wealth Insights on YouTube.
Energy was pressured by Trump announcing a pause to Project Freedom, though the blockade remains.To the benefit of fixed income and G10 FX against the USD. USD/JPY slumped to a 155.03 low.APAC equities benefited from the above; US and European futures point to a constructive open. NQ leads post-AMD.Israeli security/military officials reportedly believe negotiations are a waste of time, and conveyed to the US a desire to resume attacks on Iran.Looking ahead, highlights include Swedish Inflation Prelim. (Apr), EZ PMIs Final (Apr), PPI (Mar), Canadian Ivey PMI (Apr), US ADP Employment (Apr), US Treasury Refunding Announcement, ECB Wage Tracker (May), NBP Policy Announcement, Speakers include ECB's Lane, Cipollone, Fed's Goolsbee, Musalem, BoC's Macklem & Rogers, Supply from the UK & Germany.Earnings from Arm, AppLovin, Snap, Whirlpool, Walt Disney, Kraft Heinz, Uber, CVS, Telecom Italia, Banca Generali, HelloFresh, Fresenius, Daimler Truck, Lufthansa & Continental.Click for the Newsquawk Week Ahead.Read the full report covering Equities, Forex, Fixed Income, Commodites and more on Newsquawk
Send us Fan MailTrump pauses ‘Project Freedom', reopens the door to a peace agreement. Risk appetite improves further, even though oil prices remain near $100. US equity indices post fresh all-time highs; bitcoin and gold also advance. Dollar is the weakest link today as focus shifts to the ADP report. Risk Warning: Our services involve a significant risk and can result in the loss of your invested capital. *T&Cs apply.Please consider our Risk Disclosure: https://www.xm.com/goto/risk/enRisk warning is correct at the time of publication and may change. Please check our Risk Disclosure for an up to date risk warningReceive your daily market and forex news analysis directly from experienced forex and market news analysts! Tune in here to stay updated on a daily basis: https://www.xm.com/weekly-forex-review-and-outlookIn-depth forex news analysis on all major currencies, such as EUR/USD, USD/JPY, GBP/USD, USD/CHF, USD/CAD, AUD/USD
Send us Fan MailHeightened risk of renewed US-Iran hostilities following yesterday's developments. Oil stabilizes and risk appetite remains supported; bitcoin climbed above $80k. RBA hikes but signals pause, pushing aussie lower. Dollar fails to rally on ME headlines; focus shifts to US prints and Fedspeak.Risk Warning: Our services involve a significant risk and can result in the loss of your invested capital. *T&Cs apply.Please consider our Risk Disclosure: https://www.xm.com/goto/risk/enRisk warning is correct at the time of publication and may change. Please check our Risk Disclosure for an up to date risk warningReceive your daily market and forex news analysis directly from experienced forex and market news analysts! Tune in here to stay updated on a daily basis: https://www.xm.com/weekly-forex-review-and-outlookIn-depth forex news analysis on all major currencies, such as EUR/USD, USD/JPY, GBP/USD, USD/CHF, USD/CAD, AUD/USD
US President Trump posted on Sunday that the US will guide neutral ships safely out of the Strait of Hormuz under “Project Freedom”, beginning Monday morning Middle East time.An Iranian official said any American interference in the new maritime regime of the Strait of Hormuz will be considered a violation of the ceasefire.US President Trump posted at 23:47 BST on May 2nd that he would review Iran's proposal but “can't imagine that it would be acceptable”, Trump added that Iran had “not yet paid a big enough price”.USD/JPY was volatile amid thin liquidity (Golden Week) and recent intervention speculation, with a sharp drop observed at 04:45 BST.European equity futures are indicative of a modestly firmer return from the long weekend, with the Euro Stoxx 50 future +0.2% after cash closed with gains of 1.1% last Thursday.Looking ahead, highlights include Global Manufacturing PMI Finals (Apr), US Factory Orders (Mar), and US President Trump. Speakers include Fed's Williams, BoC's Macklem and Rogers, ECB's Cipollone, de Guindos. Earnings from Palantir, ONSemi, Pinterest, Norwegian Cruise Line, Tyson Foods. Holiday: UK May Bank Holiday.Click for the Newsquawk Week Ahead.Read the full report covering Equities, Forex, Fixed Income, Commodites and more on Newsquawk
Send us Fan MailTrump says US to escort ships trapped in Hormuz but mixed signals on talks. Wall Street at record high as stellar Apple earnings underscore optimism. Palantir, AMD and ARM will be this week's highlights ahead of NFP report. Yen unable to extend gains despite persisting intervention risks.Risk Warning: Our services involve a significant risk and can result in the loss of your invested capital. *T&Cs apply.Please consider our Risk Disclosure: https://www.xm.com/goto/risk/enRisk warning is correct at the time of publication and may change. Please check our Risk Disclosure for an up to date risk warningReceive your daily market and forex news analysis directly from experienced forex and market news analysts! Tune in here to stay updated on a daily basis: https://www.xm.com/weekly-forex-review-and-outlookIn-depth forex news analysis on all major currencies, such as EUR/USD, USD/JPY, GBP/USD, USD/CHF, USD/CAD, AUD/USD
Dan Nathan speaks with David Rosenberg about a market week packed with tech earnings, GDP, PCE, the Fed, oil above $100, and a sharp USD/JPY move. Rosenberg argues the U.S. economy is K-shaped, with Q1 GDP growth heavily driven by AI-related tech capex while non-tech business investment contracts, and consumer spending exceeding flat-to-negative real disposable income mainly due to a falling savings rate, wealth effects at the high end, and credit reliance at the low end amid rising delinquencies. He says most sectors are losing jobs, productivity has driven nearly all recent growth, and an oil price shock is a supply-side tax likely to weaken demand rather than create sustained inflation. They discuss a divided Fed under new chair Kevin Warsh, high market concentration, extreme valuations with a near-zero equity risk premium, and whether yen moves or oil are bigger risks for equities. —FOLLOW USYouTube: @RiskReversalMediaInstagram: @riskreversalmediaTwitter: @RiskReversalLinkedIn: RiskReversal Media
At the end of a busy week in the markets, Derek Halpenny, Head of Research Global Markets EMEA & International Securities sits down with Simon Mayes, Head of UK, Ireland & Swiss FX Corporate Sales to discuss key developments and implications for the FX markets. Derek outlines the prospects for USD/JPY sustaining the move lower following probable intervention by the BoJ/MoF and delves into the implications following this week's central bank meetings. What do the meetings mean for BoE and ECB policy rate views and what impact will a Kevin Warch Fed have on the dollar?
Conditions in Europe thin amid Labour Day, FTSE 100 dragged by NatWest and AstraZeneca.US equity futures are modestly mixed. Apple (+2.8%) gains after strong results, driven by iPhone sales; SanDisk (-6.1%) dips despite a strong Q3 report.DXY is a touch lower; USD/JPY sank to a 155 handle, potentially on intervention.Fixed income futures are contained in limited conditions, with US data ahead.Crude futures remain elevated heading into another weekend of geopolitical risk.Looking ahead, highlights include US ISM Manufacturing (Apr), Speakers include BoE's Pill, Earnings from Chevron, Colgate, Exxon, Moderna, Estee Lauder.Holiday: Labour Day (Eurozone cash and derivatives closed).Read the full report covering Equities, Forex, Fixed Income, Commodites and more on Newsquawk
Manpreet Gill (CIO, AMEE) and Ray Heung (Senior Investment Strategist) discuss how US Q1 2026 earnings support our Overweight view on equities, especially in the tech sector. They also examine the rationale for adding gold miners to portfolios, the USD/JPY outlook amid central bank policy divergence and selective opportunities in GCC Investment-grade sovereign and bank bonds.You can read our latest Global Market Outlook today here.Speaker(s):- Manpreet Gill, CIO of Africa, Middle East & Europe (AME/E), Standard Chartered Bank - Ray Heung, Senior Investment Officer, Standard Chartered Bank For more of our latest market insights, visit Market views on-the-go or subscribe to Standard Chartered Wealth Insights on YouTube.
Send us Fan MailThree-way split at Fed livens up Powell's last meeting, puts yen in jeopardy. Oil prices jump again as Trump signals impatience with Iran. Stagflation fears overpower equities despite bumper tech earnings. But FX markets largely calm as ECB and BoE decisions awaited.Risk Warning: Our services involve a significant risk and can result in the loss of your invested capital. *T&Cs apply.Please consider our Risk Disclosure: https://www.xm.com/goto/risk/enRisk warning is correct at the time of publication and may change. Please check our Risk Disclosure for an up to date risk warningReceive your daily market and forex news analysis directly from experienced forex and market news analysts! Tune in here to stay updated on a daily basis: https://www.xm.com/weekly-forex-review-and-outlookIn-depth forex news analysis on all major currencies, such as EUR/USD, USD/JPY, GBP/USD, USD/CHF, USD/CAD, AUD/USD
Send us Fan MailSlow progress in US-Iran talks keeps oil price elevated, unaffected by UAE's OPEC exit. Fed meeting in focus, but all eyes are on key earnings announcements. Expectations for stellar results could trigger a sharp sell-off upon disappointment. BoC to remain in waiting mode; muted loonie reaction expected ahead of US events.Risk Warning: Our services involve a significant risk and can result in the loss of your invested capital. *T&Cs apply.Please consider our Risk Disclosure: https://www.xm.com/goto/risk/enRisk warning is correct at the time of publication and may change. Please check our Risk Disclosure for an up to date risk warningReceive your daily market and forex news analysis directly from experienced forex and market news analysts! Tune in here to stay updated on a daily basis: https://www.xm.com/weekly-forex-review-and-outlookIn-depth forex news analysis on all major currencies, such as EUR/USD, USD/JPY, GBP/USD, USD/CHF, USD/CAD, AUD/USD
Daniel Lam discusses the outcome of the Bank of Japan policy meeting, the dilemma central banks face in balancing inflation control with growth and the reasons we expect downside in the USD/JPY.Speaker: - Daniel Lam, Head, Cross-Asset Derivative Strategy, Standard Chartered BankFor more of our latest market insights, visit Market views on-the-go or subscribe to Standard Chartered Wealth Insights on YouTube.
Send us Fan MailInvestors grow impatient with the slow progress in US-Iran talks. Oil prices edge higher again as the Hormuz Strait remains closed, putting gold under pressure. BoJ did not surprise with a rate hike, but hawkish dissenters keep dollar/yen below 160. Focus shifts to US data calendar and 7-year US auction.Risk Warning: Our services involve a significant risk and can result in the loss of your invested capital. *T&Cs apply.Please consider our Risk Disclosure: https://www.xm.com/goto/risk/enRisk warning is correct at the time of publication and may change. Please check our Risk Disclosure for an up to date risk warningReceive your daily market and forex news analysis directly from experienced forex and market news analysts! Tune in here to stay updated on a daily basis: https://www.xm.com/weekly-forex-review-and-outlookIn-depth forex news analysis on all major currencies, such as EUR/USD, USD/JPY, GBP/USD, USD/CHF, USD/CAD, AUD/USD
Send us Fan MailMuted market movements as investors prepare for an action-packed week; oil prices hover above $95. Iran proposes a peace plan, as US-Iran talks continue, but the face-to-face meeting is still missing. Quiet calendar today ahead of several central bank meetings, data prints and earnings announcements. Warsh moves closer to taking Fed office as the judicial probe against Powell is dropped. Risk Warning: Our services involve a significant risk and can result in the loss of your invested capital. *T&Cs apply.Please consider our Risk Disclosure: https://www.xm.com/goto/risk/enRisk warning is correct at the time of publication and may change. Please check our Risk Disclosure for an up to date risk warningReceive your daily market and forex news analysis directly from experienced forex and market news analysts! Tune in here to stay updated on a daily basis: https://www.xm.com/weekly-forex-review-and-outlookIn-depth forex news analysis on all major currencies, such as EUR/USD, USD/JPY, GBP/USD, USD/CHF, USD/CAD, AUD/USD
Send us Fan MailDollar extends gains on renewed Middle East attacks. Oil prices surge, reinforcing inflation concerns. Yen weakens further, moving closer to intervention levels. Wall Street stays driven by geopolitics and earnings.Risk Warning: Our services involve a significant risk and can result in the loss of your invested capital. *T&Cs apply.Please consider our Risk Disclosure: https://www.xm.com/goto/risk/enRisk warning is correct at the time of publication and may change. Please check our Risk Disclosure for an up to date risk warningReceive your daily market and forex news analysis directly from experienced forex and market news analysts! Tune in here to stay updated on a daily basis: https://www.xm.com/weekly-forex-review-and-outlookIn-depth forex news analysis on all major currencies, such as EUR/USD, USD/JPY, GBP/USD, USD/CHF, USD/CAD, AUD/USD
Send us Fan MailAttacks near Hormuz raise geopolitical risk and ceasefire concerns. Oil spikes toward $100 on supply fears, lifting inflation expectations. Fed rate cut bets pull back, boosting the US dollar. Stocks gain, Nasdaq hits a record, gold steady but vulnerable.Risk Warning: Our services involve a significant risk and can result in the loss of your invested capital. *T&Cs apply.Please consider our Risk Disclosure: https://www.xm.com/goto/risk/enRisk warning is correct at the time of publication and may change. Please check our Risk Disclosure for an up to date risk warningReceive your daily market and forex news analysis directly from experienced forex and market news analysts! Tune in here to stay updated on a daily basis: https://www.xm.com/weekly-forex-review-and-outlookIn-depth forex news analysis on all major currencies, such as EUR/USD, USD/JPY, GBP/USD, USD/CHF, USD/CAD, AUD/USD
Send us Fan MailTrump extends ceasefire indefinitely despite Iran cancelling talks. But with Hormuz Strait remaining shut, oil prices dip only modestly. Dollar steady after Warsh hearing, gold edges higher. Pound marginally firmer on slightly hot inflation data.Risk Warning: Our services involve a significant risk and can result in the loss of your invested capital. *T&Cs apply.Please consider our Risk Disclosure: https://www.xm.com/goto/risk/enRisk warning is correct at the time of publication and may change. Please check our Risk Disclosure for an up to date risk warningReceive your daily market and forex news analysis directly from experienced forex and market news analysts! Tune in here to stay updated on a daily basis: https://www.xm.com/weekly-forex-review-and-outlookIn-depth forex news analysis on all major currencies, such as EUR/USD, USD/JPY, GBP/USD, USD/CHF, USD/CAD, AUD/USD
Send us Fan MailUS-Iran direct talks in focus, as the two-week ceasefire is seen being extended. Markets are in anticipation mode as the probability of another failed meeting is rather high. Focus shifts to US retail sales and Warsh's Senate testimony. The Q&A session could offer some clues on Warsh's current monetary policy stance.Risk Warning: Our services involve a significant risk and can result in the loss of your invested capital. *T&Cs apply.Please consider our Risk Disclosure: https://www.xm.com/goto/risk/enRisk warning is correct at the time of publication and may change. Please check our Risk Disclosure for an up to date risk warningReceive your daily market and forex news analysis directly from experienced forex and market news analysts! Tune in here to stay updated on a daily basis: https://www.xm.com/weekly-forex-review-and-outlookIn-depth forex news analysis on all major currencies, such as EUR/USD, USD/JPY, GBP/USD, USD/CHF, USD/CAD, AUD/USD
Today we look at the further strong resurgence in risk assets, noting in particular the first signs of a comeback in some of the most beaten down names in software of late. Elsewhere, Oracle, the most beaten down name in our AI basket was the strongest performer on the S&P 500 Monday. Also, a look at what looks like a fresh bear trend developing in the US dollar, thoughts on the importance of the incoming Trump-Xi summit and much more on today's pod, which is hosted by Saxo Global Head of Macro Strategy John J. Hardy. Links John's The FX Trader from today, covering the USD sell-off, latest reads on FX trends, USDJPY technicals and more. A very long form interview with the great Craig Tindale on China's "gaming the system", the rest of the world's physical supply chain challenges and much more. Shanaka Anslem Perera discusses Iran's short fuse on dealing with any disruption to its oil output flows if the US is indeed going after a blockade on Iranian exports as a pressure tactic. Also, did a US-sanctioned ship bound for China just slip through the blockade? Macrovoices interviewed Adam Rozencwajg on what comes next after the Iran war crisis. (Sustained higher oil prices, he believes.) About twice per week, you will also find links discussed on the podcast and a chart-of-the-day over at the John J. Hardy substack. Read daily in-depth market updates from the Saxo Market Call and the Saxo Strategy Team here. Please reach out to us at marketcall@saxobank.com for feedback and questions. Click here to open an account with Saxo. Intro music by AShamaluevMusic DISCLAIMER This content is marketing material. Trading financial instruments carries risks. Always ensure that you understand these risks before trading. This material does not contain investment advice or an encouragement to invest in a particular manner. Historic performance is not a guarantee of future results. The instrument(s) referenced in this content may be issued by a partner, from whom Saxo Bank A/S receives promotional fees, payment or retrocessions. While Saxo may receive compensation from these partnerships, all content is created with the aim of providing clients with valuable information and options.
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson said Iran has not had any direct negotiations with the US and that the US demands were excessive. The spokesperson added that Iran did not participate in the Pakistan meeting.Yemen's Houthis fired missiles at Israel on Saturday morning, marking the first time it has been involved in the war; Israeli PM Netanyahu ordered the military to expand its invasion of southern Lebanon.US President Trump said the US could take oil in Iran and could take Kharg Island 'very easily', according to FT. Crude prices trade above USD 100/bbl amid geopolitical weekend escalation.Global equities rebound despite a lack of US-Iran de-escalation, miners benefit from surging aluminium prices.DXY choppy, USD/JPY rose above 160.00 before slipping on hawkish BoJ SOO and jawboning.Fixed income firmer despite energy being in the green, though off best.Looking ahead, highlights include German Inflation Prelim. (Mar), US Dallas Fed Manufacturing Index (Mar), Comments from Fed's Powell, Williams and President Trump.Read the full report covering Equities, Forex, Fixed Income, Commodites and more on Newsquawk
The war in Iran has taken on new levels of concern after Israeli and Iranian attacks on gas production infrastructure in Iran and Qatar, respectively, with the dispersion of global energy prices exploding further on the news. Elsewhere, the central bank cavalcade continues with the Bank of Japan helping USDJPY steer away from new highs. The gold sell-off has suddenly accelerated and there are some compelling narratives and reasons for it to continue lower if these are important drivers. This and much more on today's pod, which is hosted by Saxo Global Head of Macro Strategy John J. Hardy. Links First the link to Michael McNair X post outlining the big structural shift in what powers gold and why it is under pressure and could remain so here. Then, the latest Goehring & Rozencwajg long-form report on commodities with great coverage of the scale of disruption from the Hormuz Strait closure, some long term historical perspectives on commodities and whether they are too cheap and lots more. Simple registry required to download. Important - following link is highly speculative and I am not endorsing the views, but it's one possible lens for how the situation is playing out. Finally, a massive tweet thread from shipping industry executive John Konrad on how the US may be leveraging this situation to further its strategy of regaining more control over global shipping routes and even ships themselves, together with other possible domestic agendas. About twice per week, you will also find links discussed on the podcast and a chart-of-the-day over at the John J. Hardy substack. Read daily in-depth market updates from the Saxo Market Call and the Saxo Strategy Team here. Please reach out to us at marketcall@saxobank.com for feedback and questions. Click here to open an account with Saxo. Intro music by AShamaluevMusic DISCLAIMER This content is marketing material. Trading financial instruments carries risks. Always ensure that you understand these risks before trading. This material does not contain investment advice or an encouragement to invest in a particular manner. Historic performance is not a guarantee of future results. The instrument(s) referenced in this content may be issued by a partner, from whom Saxo Bank A/S receives promotional fees, payment or retrocessions. While Saxo may receive compensation from these partnerships, all content is created with the aim of providing clients with valuable information and options.
APAC mostly firmer as China returned, somewhat shrugging off the weak Wall St. finish on AI disruption concerns.DXY marginally firmer, EUR/USD directionless, while USD/JPY edged higher and above 155.00.USTs pulled back from Monday's best, Bunds remained near highs, while JGBs saw choppy action after the long weekend.Crude remained tentative amid ongoing geopolitical uncertainty, XAU faded while copper rallied as China returned.Looking ahead, highlights include US ADP Weekly, House Prices (Dec), Consumer Confidence (Feb), Dallas/Richmond Fed (Feb), Atlanta Fed GDP, NBH Policy Announcement, Speakers including ECB's Lagarde, BoE's Bailey, Lombardelli, Greene, Taylor & Pill, Fed's Goolsbee, Collins, Bostic, Waller, Cook & Barkin, Supply from UK, Italy & US, Earnings from Home Depot & Keurig Dr Pepper.Click for the Newsquawk Week Ahead.Read the full report covering Equities, Forex, Fixed Income, Commodites and more on Newsquawk
European bourses slip as AI concerns hit European Banks; US equity futures rebound slightly.JPY dragged on reports PM Takaichi raised reservations about rate hikes to BoJ Governor Ueda; DXY slightly firmer.Gilts notch a fresh contract high into the TSC, USTs rangebound heading into heavy speaker docket.WTI and Brent mildly gains; Spot gold retreats from Monday's best while Copper gains as mainland China returns. Looking ahead, highlights include US ADP Weekly, House Prices (Dec), Consumer Confidence (Feb), Dallas/Richmond Fed (Feb), Atlanta Fed GDP, NBH Policy Announcement, Speakers including ECB's Lagarde, BoE's Bailey, Greene, Taylor & Pill, Fed's Goolsbee, Collins, Bostic, Waller, Cook & Barkin, Supply from the US, Earnings from Home Depot & Keurig Dr Pepper.Read the full report covering Equities, Forex, Fixed Income, Commodites and more on Newsquawk
APAC stocks followed suit to the predominantly negative mood on Wall Street, where risk appetite was subdued amid private credit fund concerns and geopolitical risks.Hang Seng retreated on return from the Lunar New Year holidays, with the big tech names leading the declines in the index, while mainland markets and the Stock Connect remained shut and won't open until next Tuesday.USD/JPY lingered near the prior day's best levels north of 155.00, with some mild support seen as the cooling of Japanese inflation essentially provides the BoJ additional policy space.US President Trump said 15 days is the maximum deadline to reach an agreement with Iran; otherwise, it will be very unfortunate for them, according to Al Jazeera; US President Trump reportedly weighs a limited strike to force Iran into a nuclear deal, WSJ reported.European equity futures indicate a positive cash market open with Euro Stoxx 50 futures up 0.5% after the cash market closed with losses of 0.7% on Thursday.Looking ahead, highlights include ECB EZ Indicator of Negotiated Wages; UK Retail Sales (Jan), PSNB (Jan), German PPI (Jan), Global Flash PMIs (Feb), Canadian Retail Sales (Jan), US PCE/GDP (Dec/Q4). Speakers include Fed's Logan & Bostic, Earnings from Anglo American.Read the full report covering Equities, Forex, Fixed Income, Commodites and more on Newsquawk
Today, a look at a modest US equity market rally as we wonder whether those pressing recent themes within AI winners vs. AI losers have overextended themselves. In any case, equity technicals look pivotal here, as does the USD and JPY outlook in key pairs, all while we wonder whether markets, outside of the crude oil market itself, are too complacent in continuing to ignore the risk of the outbreak of a war or regime change attempt in Iran. Today's pod hosted by Saxo Global Head of Macro Strategy John J. Hardy. Two or three times per week, you will also find links discussed on the podcast and a chart-of-the-day over at the John J. Hardy substack. Read daily in-depth market updates from the Saxo Market Call and the Saxo Strategy Team here. Please reach out to us at marketcall@saxobank.com for feedback and questions. Click here to open an account with Saxo. Intro and outro music by AShamaluevMusic DISCLAIMER This content is marketing material. Trading financial instruments carries risks. Always ensure that you understand these risks before trading. This material does not contain investment advice or an encouragement to invest in a particular manner. Historic performance is not a guarantee of future results. The instrument(s) referenced in this content may be issued by a partner, from whom Saxo Bank A/S receives promotional fees, payment or retrocessions. While Saxo may receive compensation from these partnerships, all content is created with the aim of providing clients with valuable information and options.
APAC stocks traded mixed amid the extremely thinned conditions due to the Lunar New Year holiday and in the absence of a lead from the US, where markets were closed for Washington's Birthday/Presidents Day.Nikkei 225 retreated shortly after the open with SoftBank and heavy industry stocks leading the declines, as the post-election euphoria petered out following the recent underwhelming GDP data. USD/JPY pulled back with pressure seen as risk sentiment in Japan deteriorated shortly after the open.US President Trump said he will be involved in the Iran talks indirectly and that Iran wants to make a deal, while he also stated that Iran "are bad negotiators" and he hopes they will be more reasonable in talks.European equity futures indicate a subdued cash market open with Euro Stoxx 50 futures down 0.3% after the cash market closed with losses of 0.1% on Monday.Looking ahead, highlights include UK Unemployment/Wages (Dec), German/EZ ZEW (Feb), US ADP Weekly, NY Fed (Feb), Canadian CPI (Jan), Japanese Balance of Trade (Jan), US-Iran talks, US-Ukraine-Russia talks (Feb. 17th-18th). Speakers include Fed's Barr & Daly, Supply from Germany. Earnings from Medtronic, Leidos, Palo Alto, Cadence Design Systems, Republic Services, Vulcan Materials, Kenvue, Antofagasta. Holiday: Chinese Spring Festival Golden Week (17-24 Feb).Read the full report covering Equities, Forex, Fixed Income, Commodites and more on Newsquawk
APAC stocks pressured with several bearish factors weighing, incl. the partial US shutdown, weak Chinese PMIs & NVIDIA's OpenAI investment stalling.DXY rangebound, EUR firmer but below 1.19. USD/JPY initially benefited from Takaichi's remarks, though subsequent clarification unwound this.Fixed benchmarks mixed, JGBs benefit from the latest election polling.Crude benchmarks hit alongside APAC stocks, OPEC+ maintained the pause as expected. Spot gold continued to falter, base peers hit by the Chinese data.Bitcoin hit a trough just below USD 75k before finding a floor.Looking ahead, highlights include Global Final Manufacturing PMIs (Jan), US ISM Manufacturing PMI (Jan), Speakers including BoE's Breeden & Fed's Bostic, Treasury Refunding Announcement, Earnings from Palantir & NXP Semiconductors.Click for the Newsquawk Week Ahead.Read the full report covering Equities, Forex, Fixed Income, Commodites and more on Newsquawk
Please join Ralf Preusser in discussion with Paul Ciana, Alex Cohen and Adarsh Sinha. The team will address the rate checks in USDJPY and its impact on not just the yen but also the dollar. We will give thoughts on the effectiveness of FX interventions and lessons from the past. We will address the US government's FX policy and longer-term USD outlook, as well as the potential implications of the election in Japan. Finally, we do so against the background of key technical levels in FX crosses, rates and commodities You may also enjoy listening to the Merrill Perspectives podcast, featuring conversations on the big stories, news and trends affecting your everyday financial life. "Bank of America" and “BofA Securities” are the marketing names for the global banking businesses and global markets businesses (which includes BofA Global Research) of Bank of America Corporation. Lending, derivatives, and other commercial banking activities are performed globally by banking affiliates of Bank of America Corporation, including Bank of America, N.A., Member FDIC. Securities, trading, research, strategic advisory, and other investment banking and markets activities are performed globally by affiliates of Bank of America Corporation, including, in the United States, BofA Securities, Inc. a registered broker-dealer and Member of FINRA and SIPC, and, in other jurisdictions, by locally registered entities. ©2026 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved.
US President Trump's announced he is to raise tariffs on South Korean autos, lumber, pharma, and all other reciprocal tariffs to 25% from 15% due to Korea not yet enacting the trade deal.USD/JPY fell sharply below 154.00 without a clear catalyst, in a move similar to Friday's post-Ueda drop, DXY is slightly lower.European and US equity futures are broadly in the green; a slew of US earnings are on the docket.Fixed benchmarks hold a bearish bias, Bunds little moved to a robust auction.Crude prices slightly firmer, whilst Nat Gas prices remain elevated; precious metals rebound following Monday's selloff.Looking ahead, US Richmond Fed (Jan), Consumer Confidence (Jan), ADP Employment Change Weekly, NBH Policy Announcement. Speakers include ECB President Lagarde & ECBʼs Nagel, US President Trump. Supply from the US. Earnings from Texas Instruments, Boeing, General Motors, RTX, American Airlines, Logitech & LVMH.Read the full report covering Equities, Forex, Fixed Income, Commodites and more on Newsquawk
Daniel Lam discusses the political events in Japan and what are the implications for USDJPY, and global assets, in the short and medium-term.Speaker: - Daniel Lam, Head of Equity Strategy, Standard Chartered BankFor more of our latest market insights, visit Market views on-the-go or subscribe to Standard Chartered Wealth Insights on YouTube.
Original Release Date: December 3, 2025Our Global Head of Fixed Income Research and Public Policy Strategy Michael Zezas and Chief Global Cross-Asset Strategist Serena Tang address themes that are key for markets next year.Read more insights from Morgan Stanley.----- Transcript -----Michael Zezas: Welcome to Thoughts on the Market. I'm Michael Zezas, Global Head of Fixed Income Research and Public Policy Strategy.Serena Tang: And I'm Serena Tang, Morgan Stanley's Chief Global Cross-Asset Strategist.Michael Zezas: Today we'll be talking about key investor debates coming out of our year ahead outlook.It's Wednesday, December 3rd at 10:30am in New York.So, Serena, it was a couple weeks ago that you led the publication of our cross-asset outlook for 2026. And so, you've been engaging with clients over the past few weeks about our views – where they differ. And it seems there's some common themes, really common questions that come up that represent some important debates within the market.Is that fair?Serena Tang: Yeah, that's very fair. And, by the way, I think those important debates, are from investors globally. So, you have investors in Europe, Asia, Australia, North America, all kind of wanting to understand our views on AI, on equity valuations, on the dollar.Michael Zezas: So, let's start with talking about equity markets a bit. And one of the common questions – and I get it too, even though I don't cover equity markets – is really about how AI is affecting valuations. One of the concerns is that the stock market might be too high, might be overvalued because people have overinvested in anything related to AI. What does the evidence say? How are you addressing that question?Serena Tang: It is interesting you say that because I think when investors talk about equities being too high, of valuations – AI related valuations being very stretched, it's very much about parallels to that 1990s valuation bubble.But the way I approach it is like there are some very important differences from that time period, from valuations back then. First of all, I think companies in major equity indices are higher quality than the past. They operate more efficiently. They deliver strong profitability, and in general pretty solid free cash flow.I think we also need to consider how technology now represents a larger share of the index, which has helped push overall net margins to about 14 percent compared to 8 percent during that 1990s valuation bubble. And you know, when margins are higher, I think paying premium for stocks is more justified.In other words, I think multiples in the U.S. right now look more reasonable after adjusting for profit margins and changes in index composition. But we also have to consider, and this is something that we stress in our outlook, the policy backdrop is unusually favorable, right? Like you have economists expecting the Fed to continue easing rates into next year. We have the One Big Beautiful Bill Act that could lower corporate taxes, and deregulation is continuing to be a priority in the U.S.And I think this combination, you know, monetary easing, fiscal stimulus, deregulation. That combination rarely occurs outside of a recession. And I think this creates an environment that supports valuation, which is by the way why we recommend an overweight position in U.S. equities, even if absolute and relative valuation look elevated.Michael Zezas: Got it. So, if I'm hearing you right, what I think you're saying is that comparisons to some bubbles of the past don't necessarily stack up because profitability is better. There aren't excesses in the system. Monetary policy might be on the path that's more accommodative. And so, when compared against all of that, the valuations actually don't look that bad.Serena Tang: Exactly.Michael Zezas: Got it. And sticking with the equity markets, then another common question is – it's related to AI, but it's sort of around this idea that a small set of companies have really been driving most of the growth in the market recently. And it would be better or healthier if the equity market were to perform across a wider set of companies and names, particularly in mid- and small cap companies. Is that something that we see on the horizon?Serena Tang: Yes. We are expecting U.S. stock earnings to sort of broaden out here and it's one of the reasons why our U.S. equity strategy team has upgraded small caps and now prefer it over large caps. And I think like all of this – it comes from the fact that we are in a new bull market. I think we have a very early cycle earnings recovery here. I mean, as discussed before, the macro environment is supportive. And Fed rate cuts over the next 12 months, growth positive tax and regulatory policies, they don't just support valuations. They also act as a tailwind to earnings.And I think like on top of that, leaner cost structures, improving earnings revisions, AI driven efficiency gains. They all support a broad-based earnings upturn. and our U.S. equity strategy team do see above consensus 2026 earnings growth at 17 percent. The only other region where we have earnings growth above consensus in 2026 is Japan; for both Europe and the EM we are below, which drive out equal weight and slight underweight position in those two indices respectively.Michael Zezas: Got it. And so, since we can't seem to get away from talking about AI and how it's influencing markets, the other common question we get here is around debt issuance related to AI.So, our colleagues put together a report from earlier this year talking about the potential for nearly $3 trillion of AI related CapEx spending over the next few years. And we think about half of that is going to have to be debt financed. That seems to be a lot of debt, a lot of potential bonds that might be issued into the market – which, are credit investors supposed to be concerned about that?Serena Tang: We really can't get away from AI as a topic. And I think this will continue because AI-related CapEx is a long-term trend, with much of the CapEx still really ahead. And I think this goes to your question. Because this really means that we expect nearly another [$]3 trillion of data center related CapEx from here to 2028. You know, while half of the spend will come from operating cash flows of hyperscalers, it still leaves a financing gap of around [$]1.5 trillion, which needs to be sourced through various credit channels.Now, part of it will be via private credit, part of it would be via Asset Backed Securities. But some of it would also be via the U.S. investment grade corporate credit bond space. So, add in financing for faster M&A cycle, we forecast around [$]1 trillion in net investment grade bond issuance, you know, up 60 percent from this year.And I think given this technical backdrop, even though credit fundamentals should stay fine, we have doubled downgraded U.S. investment grade corporate credit to underweight within our cross asset allocation.Michael Zezas: Okay, so the fundamentals are fine, but it's just a lot of debt to consume over the next year. And so somewhat strangely, you might expect high yield corporate bonds actually do better.Serena Tang: Yes, because I think a high yield doesn't really see the same headwind from the technical side of things. And on the fundamentals front, our credit team actually has default rates coming down over the next 12 months, which again, I think supports high yield much better than investment grade.Michael Zezas: So, before we wrap up, moving away from the equity markets, let's talk about foreign exchange. The U.S. dollar spent much of last year weakening, and that's a call that our team was early to – eventually became a consensus call. It was premised on the idea that the U.S. was going to experience growth weakness, that there would also be these questions among investors about the role of the dollar in the world as the U.S. was raising trade barriers. It seemed to work out pretty well.Going into 2026 though, I think there's some more questions amongst our investors about whether or not that trend could continue. Where do we land?Serena Tang: I think in the first half of next year that downward pressure on the dollar should still persist. And you know, as you said, we've had a very differentiated view for most of this year, expecting the dollar to weaken in the first half versus G10 currencies. And several things drive this. There is a potential for higher dollar negative risk premium, driven by, I think, near term worries about the U.S. labor markets in the short term. And as investors, I think, debate the likely composition of the FOMC next year. Also, you know, compression in U.S. versus rest of the world. Rate differentials should reduce FX hedging costs, which also adds incentive for hedging activity and dollar selling.All this means that we see downward pressure on the dollar persisting in the first half of next year with EUR/USD at 123 and USD/JPY at 140 by the end of first half 2026.Michael Zezas: All right. Well, that's a pretty good survey about what clients care about and what our view is. So, Serena, thanks for taking the time to talk with me today.Serena Tang: And thank you for inviting me to the show today.Michael Zezas: And to our audience, thanks for listening. If you enjoy Thoughts on the Market, please leave us a review and share the podcast. We want everyone to listen.
Today - US small caps posting all-time highs while the action in the major indices remains positive, but moribund. Elsewhere, the JPY is knocking on key support levels in USDJPY and EURJPY is faltering within its very restricted range - is something finally afoot for JPY bulls. A look at the week ahead in macro and company earnings and more also on today's pod, which is hosted by Saxo Global Head of Macro Strategy John J. Hardy. Our link of the day is to the White House's recent National Security Strategy for the USA, which spells out the US stance to the rest of the world, which in rough terms will likely outlive the Trump administration. There is no John J. Hardy substack to accompany today's podcast due to time constraints. Read daily in-depth market updates from the Saxo Market Call and the Saxo Strategy Team here. Please reach out to us at marketcall@saxobank.com for feedback and questions. Click here to open an account with Saxo. Intro and outro music by AShamaluevMusic DISCLAIMER This content is marketing material. Trading financial instruments carries risks. Always ensure that you understand these risks before trading. This material does not contain investment advice or an encouragement to invest in a particular manner. Historic performance is not a guarantee of future results. The instrument(s) referenced in this content may be issued by a partner, from whom Saxo Bank A/S receives promotional fees, payment or retrocessions. While Saxo may receive compensation from these partnerships, all content is created with the aim of providing clients with valuable information and options.
Our Global Head of Fixed Income Research and Public Policy Strategy Michael Zezas and Chief Global Cross-Asset Strategist Serena Tang address themes that are key for markets next year.Read more insights from Morgan Stanley.----- Transcript -----Michael Zezas: Welcome to Thoughts on the Market. I'm Michael Zezas, Global Head of Fixed Income Research and Public Policy Strategy.Serena Tang: And I'm Serena Tang, Morgan Stanley's Chief Global Cross-Asset Strategist.Michael Zezas: Today we'll be talking about key investor debates coming out of our year ahead outlook.It's Wednesday, December 3rd at 10:30am in New York. So, Serena, it was a couple weeks ago that you led the publication of our cross-asset outlook for 2026. And so, you've been engaging with clients over the past few weeks about our views – where they differ. And it seems there's some common themes, really common questions that come up that represent some important debates within the market. Is that fair?Serena Tang: Yeah, that's very fair. And, by the way, I think those important debates, are from investors globally. So, you have investors in Europe, Asia, Australia, North America, all kind of wanting to understand our views on AI, on equity valuations, on the dollar.Michael Zezas: So, let's start with talking about equity markets a bit. And one of the common questions – and I get it too, even though I don't cover equity markets – is really about how AI is affecting valuations. One of the concerns is that the stock market might be too high, might be overvalued because people have overinvested in anything related to AI. What does the evidence say? How are you addressing that question? Serena Tang: It is interesting you say that because I think when investors talk about equities being too high, of valuations – AI related valuations being very stretched, it's very much about parallels to that 1990s valuation bubble.But the way I approach it is like there are some very important differences from that time period, from valuations back then. First of all, I think companies in major equity indices are higher quality than the past. They operate more efficiently. They deliver strong profitability, and in general pretty solid free cash flow.I think we also need to consider how technology now represents a larger share of the index, which has helped push overall net margins to about 14 percent compared to 8 percent during that 1990s valuation bubble. And you know, when margins are higher, I think paying premium for stocks is more justified.In other words, I think multiples in the U.S. right now look more reasonable after adjusting for profit margins and changes in index composition. But we also have to consider, and this is something that we stress in our outlook, the policy backdrop is unusually favorable, right? Like you have economists expecting the Fed to continue easing rates into next year. We have the One Big Beautiful Bill Act that could lower corporate taxes, and deregulation is continuing to be a priority in the U.S. And I think this combination, you know, monetary easing, fiscal stimulus, deregulation. That combination rarely occurs outside of a recession. And I think this creates an environment that supports valuation, which is by the way why we recommend an overweight position in U.S. equities, even if absolute and relative valuation look elevated.Michael Zezas: Got it. So, if I'm hearing you right, what I think you're saying is that comparisons to some bubbles of the past don't necessarily stack up because profitability is better. There aren't excesses in the system. Monetary policy might be on the path that's more accommodative. And so, when compared against all of that, the valuations actually don't look that bad.Serena Tang: Exactly.Michael Zezas: Got it. And sticking with the equity markets, then another common question is – it's related to AI, but it's sort of around this idea that a small set of companies have really been driving most of the growth in the market recently. And it would be better or healthier if the equity market were to perform across a wider set of companies and names, particularly in mid- and small cap companies. Is that something that we see on the horizon?Serena Tang: Yes. We are expecting U.S. stock earnings to sort of broaden out here and it's one of the reasons why our U.S. equity strategy team has upgraded small caps and now prefer it over large caps. And I think like all of this – it comes from the fact that we are in a new bull market. I think we have a very early cycle earnings recovery here. I mean, as discussed before, the macro environment is supportive. And Fed rate cuts over the next 12 months, growth positive tax and regulatory policies, they don't just support valuations. They also act as a tailwind to earnings.And I think like on top of that, leaner cost structures, improving earnings revisions, AI driven efficiency gains. They all support a broad-based earnings upturn. and our U.S. equity strategy team do see above consensus 2026 earnings growth at 17 percent. The only other region where we have earnings growth above consensus in 2026 is Japan; for both Europe and the EM we are below, which drive out equal weight and slight underweight position in those two indices respectively.Michael Zezas: Got it. And so, since we can't seem to get away from talking about AI and how it's influencing markets, the other common question we get here is around debt issuance related to AI.So, our colleagues put together a report from earlier this year talking about the potential for nearly $3 trillion of AI related CapEx spending over the next few years. And we think about half of that is going to have to be debt financed. That seems to be a lot of debt, a lot of potential bonds that might be issued into the market – which, are credit investors supposed to be concerned about that?Serena Tang: We really can't get away from AI as a topic. And I think this will continue because AI-related CapEx is a long-term trend, with much of the CapEx still really ahead. And I think this goes to your question. Because this really means that we expect nearly another [$]3 trillion of data center related CapEx from here to 2028. You know, while half of the spend will come from operating cash flows of hyperscalers, it still leaves a financing gap of around [$]1.5 trillion, which needs to be sourced through various credit channels.Now, part of it will be via private credit, part of it would be via Asset Backed Securities. But some of it would also be via the U.S. investment grade corporate credit bond space. So, add in financing for faster M&A cycle, we forecast around [$]1 trillion in net investment grade bond issuance, you know, up 60 percent from this year.And I think given this technical backdrop, even though credit fundamentals should stay fine, we have doubled downgraded U.S. investment grade corporate credit to underweight within our cross asset allocation.Michael Zezas: Okay, so the fundamentals are fine, but it's just a lot of debt to consume over the next year. And so somewhat strangely, you might expect high yield corporate bonds actually do better.Serena Tang: Yes, because I think a high yield doesn't really see the same headwind from the technical side of things. And on the fundamentals front, our credit team actually has default rates coming down over the next 12 months, which again, I think supports high yield much better than investment grade.Michael Zezas: So, before we wrap up, moving away from the equity markets, let's talk about foreign exchange. The U.S. dollar spent much of last year weakening, and that's a call that our team was early to – eventually became a consensus call. It was premised on the idea that the U.S. was going to experience growth weakness, that there would also be these questions among investors about the role of the dollar in the world as the U.S. was raising trade barriers. It seemed to work out pretty well. Going into 2026 though, I think there's some more questions amongst our investors about whether or not that trend could continue. Where do we land?Serena Tang: I think in the first half of next year that downward pressure on the dollar should still persist. And you know, as you said, we've had a very differentiated view for most of this year, expecting the dollar to weaken in the first half versus G10 currencies. And several things drive this. There is a potential for higher dollar negative risk premium, driven by, I think, near term worries about the U.S. labor markets in the short term. And as investors, I think, debate the likely composition of the FOMC next year. Also, you know, compression in U.S. versus rest of the world. Rate differentials should reduce FX hedging costs, which also adds incentive for hedging activity and dollar selling. All this means that we see downward pressure on the dollar persisting in the first half of next year with EUR/USD at 123 and USD/JPY at 140 by the end of first half 2026.Michael Zezas: All right. Well, that's a pretty good survey about what clients care about and what our view is. So, Serena, thanks for taking the time to talk with me today.Serena Tang: And thank you for inviting me to the show today.Michael Zezas: And to our audience, thanks for listening. If you enjoy Thoughts on the Market, please leave us a review and share the podcast. We want everyone to listen.