We expect a 25bp Fed cut today, in line with pricing and consensus. In September, a similar setting from a pricing perspective prompted a sharp dollar rebound. Now, with positioning more balanced and inflation looking better, it’s harder to see the same reaction. We expect some CAD weakness as the Bank of Canada should also cut by 25bp today
In a quiet start to the week for FX markets, EUR/USD is trading steady despite French debt being downgraded on Friday night by Fitch. That downgrade has already been priced into French debt markets, and instead, Wednesday's FOMC meeting is set to be the dominant event for EUR/USD this week. We also have central bank meetings in the UK, Japan, Canada and Norway
US Secretary Bessent said the Fed should cut by 50bp in September, and that rates are 150-175bp above where they should be. Markets aren’t considering a 50bp move as an option, and we doubt they will unless there are hints in that direction from Fed members or if the jobs data falls much further. Today, Norges Bank should hold rates, with some minor hawkish risk
ur US economists recently revised their growth forecasts and are now below consensus for the first time in almost three years. At the same time, our European economists responded to the unprecedented German spending plans by upgrading their Euro area growth forecasts despite the looming tariff threats.
A strong finish to last week by US equities helped buoy investor sentiment at the start of this week in Asia. Upside surprises in China’s cyclical data also helped boost investor sentiment. Holding back sentiment, however, were US Treasury Scott Bessent suggesting the recent US equity market rout was a healthy correction and weak Chinese house prices data showing the sector was still in a slump.
• Fresh tariff concerns last week gave the USD renewed support. US data, however, are dimming the near-term economic growth outlook. This combination poses headwinds for pro-growth currencies, in our view.
• A potential ceasefire in Ukraine, greater fiscal spending in Europe, and country-specific factors should continue to shape European currencies, but clarity on these drivers still remain scarce.
