Intuitively, a deal with Russia would help euro rates higher, but falling gas futures are already pushing down the curve through lower inflation expectations. Tensions with Russia are likely to stay, which means risk sentiment should remain fragile
Recent headlines from France offer cautious optimism, with markets showing unexpected resilience despite domestic turmoil and broader uncertainties like the US shutdown. In European bonds, recouping the foreign investor shares after QE is not yet complete, although it can be a source of volatility
Euro rate markets seem to react very little to downside data surprises and geopolitical headlines, which does raise concerns over complacency. Nonetheless, this trend may persist for now as attention shifts to upcoming key calendar events, particularly US data releases
It's tough to envisage a hawkish 25bp cut, else why do it in the first place. A dovish 25bp cut is far more likely. If Chair Powell wants to be hawkish, then better to deliver a 50bp cut. Long rates are in a mood to go along with the "rate-cutting ride" and test lower too. But rate cuts plus (likely) rising inflation present an issue for long dates to deal with ahead
Sentiment was given a lift in Asia by newswire reports that US President Donald Trump’s reciprocal tariffs may be of narrower scope than envisaged by investors. Trump’s National Economic Council director, Kevin Hassett, said markets are overestimating the scope of the tariffs.
