BUY USD VS AUD, NZD & GBP: FOMC MEMBER KAPLAN SPEECH HIGHLIGHTSMore of the same here - my USD view remains bullish against AUD, NZD, GBP from here and at these levels. Especially on the back of the RBA i still think we should see 0.745 in AUD$ today, 0.69 in kiwi on the 10th (RBNZ), and 1.28 for GBP on the 4th (BOE)
Fed Kaplan Speech Comments:
Kaplan: Expects Continued Oil Price Volatility Until Year-End
Kaplan: 1Q, 2Q GDP Figures Were Disappointing
Kaplan Expects to See More Bankruptcies, M&A and Restructuring In Energy Sector This Year DJ News
Kaplan: Dallas Fed Still Expects Full Year GDP of 2% Due to Solid Consumer Demand
Kaplan: 1Q, 2Q GDP Figures Were Disappointing
Kaplan: Dallas Fed Still Expects Full Year GDP of 2% Due to Solid Consumer Demand
Kaplan: Dallas Fed Expects Workforce Participation Rate To Go Down to 61% by 2024
Kaplan: Has Confidence Headline Inflation Will Reach 2% In The Medium Term
Kaplan: China Future GDP Growth Rates Likely to Decline
Kaplan: Brexit Impacts Will Take Time to Unfold
Kaplan: Removal of Accomodation Should Be Done in 'Gradual and Patient Manner'
Kaplan: There Has Been Significant Decline in Neutral Rate Of Interest Last Few Years
Kaplan: Expects to see one hike this year
Kaplan: Decline in Neutral Rates Makes Using Monetary Policy More Challenging
Kaplan: Structural Reforms, Fiscal Policy Should Be Used to Help Economies
BOE
BUY USD DIPS VS GBP/ NZD: DOVISH FED W. DUDLEY SPEECH HIGHLIGHTSFed Dudley was speaking At A joint New York Fed, Indonesian Central Bank Seminar On Sunday evening when he left a mixed impression for the markets to digest - saying "it is premature to rule out an interest-rate increase this year" but then on the contrary saying "Raising Rates Prematurely Would Be Riskier Than Moving Slightly Too Late" and following up that sentiment with "Investor Expectations For Flatter Path Of U.S. Interest Rates Seems 'Broadly Appropriate'" and pointing out the medium-term risks are seen skewed to the downside - all of which somewhat contradictory expecting a 2016 rate hike.
IMO these comments are more less positive news for the greenback, given the hawkish July Minutes should take precedent (despite the market weirdly selling the september hike being officially put on the table) and after the DXY lost every day last week I think it will struggle to continue this trend into this week as the drop in rate hike expectations/ fed funds rates should flatten out - Likely seeing the bulk of the dovish expectations price last week - september 25bps hike expectations fell from 25% at the beginning of the week to 12% on Friday following the miss GDP report - will likely bottom out around here to 8%min.
That said, given the BOJ's miss we could easily see further pressure on US rates this week as imo the failed big stimulus hopes are likely to fade the risk-on environment of late, and move us back into the safe haven trend that has dominated 2016 - so dont be surprised to see some more risk-off rate expectation USD selling/ bond buying - look out for consecutive moves higher in UST or moves lower in tnx.
In the medium term this still hasnt changed my view of bullish USD and at present IMO this selling wave has opened up the opp for some good USD buying entry points e.g. kiwi above 0.72, stelring at 1.33, and eur at 1.115 - kiwi and sterling the best trades as we move into RBA, BOE and RBNZ within the next 10 days which should realise considerable downside for kiwi and cable (and for those trading aussie too, tho i prefer the kiwi proxy).
Fed Dudley Speech Highlights:
-Fed's Dudley Warns It Is Premature To Rule Out an Interest-Rate Increase This Year
-Dudley Says Fed-Funds Futures Prices Seem 'Too Complacent'
-Dudley Says There Is 'Room For Improvement' in Fed Communications, But They Are Growing More Transparent
-Dudley Says His Baseline Outlook For U.S. Growth, Inflation 'Has Not Changed Much In Recent Months'
-Dudley Expects 2% Annualized U.S. Growth Over Next 18 Months
-Fed's Dudley Says Medium-Term Risks To Economy Are 'Somewhat Skewed To The Down Side'
-Dudley Says Brexit Impact Has Been Short Lived, But Longer Term Potential Fallout 'Hard To Gauge'
-Dudley Says Fed Takes Dollar Appreciation Into Consideration, But Not Targeting Any Set Exchange Value
-Dudley Says Evidence Accumulating The Crisis-Era Headwinds 'Are Likely To Prove More Persistent'
-Fed's Dudley Warns it is Premature to Rule out an Interest-Rate Increase This Year
-Dudley: Investor Expectations For Flatter Path Of U.S. Interest Rates Seems 'Broadly Appropriate'
-Dudley Says Raising Rates Prematurely Would Be Riskier Than Moving Slightly Too Late
GJ Short awaiting reversal to the upsideI've set various s/r at daily/weekly levels which also respects .00 and 0.5 levels coincidentally maybe. I still see this pair go down a bit more before retracing to the upside heading for the upper trend line of the channel.
Why? Well we are about to hit the 0.618 at 134.229 (I would say we could reach the 134 before an actual bounce to the upside) which is a strong psychological level based on a huge number of traders who use that level as a reversal level and also because we are expecting data this week.
It is said that there are high probabilities of the Bank of England (BoE) to cut rates by 25 basis points however, the effect of Brexit was not as tremendous as expected and it seems like they've been doing pretty well even after this whole situation so it could be highly expected that they simply hold rates for the time being. If that were to be the case, we would be seeing a major bounce back in the GBP.
Also, after BoJ's decision on Friday which was a total disappointment, we could be expecting Japan to devalue their currency by most probably adding more money to their stimulus (as reported by JPMorgan Stanley that they could cut rates to -0.3% raise Japanese Government Bonds (JGB) purchases to YEN 100 Tln instead of the previous YEN 27 Tln. This would also fuel the bounce back on that lower TL.
SPX: BOJ MISS = BULL RUN END +2% + 2016 SAFE HAVEN TREND RESUMESEnd of the bull run
Global Equity Indexes:
1. SPX/ Global Equity indexes in the past 2/3wks saw a post-brexit central bank easing induced rally, as many CB released dovish statements following the vote which spurred investor confidence in fresh easing.
- IMO much of the bull run was based on BOJ easing hopes, given the size of the economy (4th largest) stimulus from the BOJ had risk sentiment increasing affects - though now in light of no new easing from the BOJ and many CBs shrugging off/ UK internalising the brexit impacts I believe this bull run is over.
2. Technically speaking we may see another week or two of sideways or +1% as the market awaits easing policy information from the BOE (6th largest economy), but past this and regardless of what the BOE does i think the upside bias will cease. BOE is only likely to inject 50bn over probably 6m+ which is a drop in the ocean relatively as the BOJ does 100bn+ in one month, so by mid august latest I expect risk-markets to turn sour and a 10% correction is likely.
Confirmation the risk-rally is over:
- During this bull run we have seen risk markets/ SPX make gains rather frigidly, one day up one day down has been the trend - rather than the usual breakout green green green rallies of the past - this to me indicated that the topside was cautious and reinforced my view that it was central bank driven (not equity market performance driven). Thus, Confirmation of the trend turning to risk-off will be consecutive days of risk markets falling (SPX/ global indexes) OR consecutive safe haven markets rising (Gold, UST, Yen) and the emergence of a strong negative correlation between the two assets will be a solid second indicator that the 2016 risk-off trend is back.
Trading Strategy - a number of ways to play this one:
1. Short FTSE100 @6700 or 7000 (wait for BOE) - this is my favourite trade but has a few conditions. We have built some resistance at the 6700-800 level so here isn't a bad place to sell however i think we will get a better selling vantage point next week, assuming the BOE cut the bank rate 25bps.
- The BOE easing should move FTSE100 up 3-4% in a few days into the 7000 ATH key level as easing boosts business conditions and a lower GBP increases FTSE company international competitiveness. The 7000 level is where I am aiming for FTSE shorts with sell-limit orders as 1) its all time high levels; 2) I like to fade central bank action since it is artifical; 3) the broader risk-run is over so FTSE will suffer with the rest of the market
2. Short US Indexes @Market - SPX is perhaps the best short ATM given it trades right at its newly set all time high levels and on the backdrop of the BOJ miss we should see some downside soon.
3. Long Yen @mrkt - in the immediate term my favourite trade I like long Yen (for 200-400pips) against USD and GBP, given the BOJ backdrop is most related to JPY markets. We have already we seen the risk-off transmission taking place in here as Nikkei sold off 2% after the result and JPY grew 3% but i still think in the immediate term e.g. 1wk we can see more JPY topside and Nikkei weakness - me prefering to trade the FX strength over the equity as the equity often follows as a function of FX strength.
4. Long Bonds or Gold @mrkt - for the medium/ longer term I like buying govt debt, particularly UK gilts (BOE QE increases demand) or Gold - Gold we saw move higher on Friday in reaction to the BOJ so it will be interesting to see if we can get risk-off confirmation run from this next week (look for 3/4 green days).
Risks to the view:
1. US Earnings have outperformed imo on average this Q, so the risk-run may be sustained for longer than the 2wk window that I expect. Nonetheless, i think even this is capped at 4wks e.g. we should be in full bear mode by the start of September - look out for the confirmation, a run of 3/4+ days of consecutive safe haven gains is often all the markets have to signal to show
GBPJPY: BOJ MISS; BOE HIT? MORE SELLING ON THE HORIZONBOJ Miss:
1. BOJ deliver one of the biggest misses in history (vs expectations/ pressure) - only increasing ETF purchases and dollar funding by apprx $60bn annual in total vs 10-20bps of Depo and LSP cuts + 5-20trn in QE increase + ETF increase.
*See attached post for in-depth detail on the BOJ situation and price action history/ Yen strength/ Safe havens*
BOJ Miss Compounded with a BOE Hit:
1. BOE are expected to ease by 25bps and possibly add 50bn to their QE programme on Thursday - a BOJ miss combined with a BOJ hit should cause compounded losses for GBPJPY as there are two drivers - Yen should continue this week to get stronger (as BOJ easing expectations surpass and Yen strength increases) whilst GBP gets weaker as the BOE on Thursday likely takes action, reducing the value of Sterling - with both providing the optimal environment for downside.
- Historically, when BOJ has delivered new policy/ missed GBPJPY has sold off aggressively between 2-8days and 700-1200pips. Now whilst I dont expect the same level of aggression in the near-term as the relative value is much lower now (135 vs 175) so moves lower should be smaller - I do expect that 400pips lower on the day is not the end of the selling rally for GBPJPY.
- Initially at the start of the week i expect GBPJPY to move lower at least another day (satisfying historical moves), perhaps into the 133.5 level which would be 550pips, lower than the smallest sell-off but fair given the relative value changes - not that i would be surprised to see more.
- Later into the week is when I expect the bulk of GBPJPY losses to come (e.g. Thurs/ Fri) - the reason for this is as 1) any Yen downside risk from the MOF releasing upside in the details of their stimulus package would have surpassed e.g. increased stimulus from 28trn-40trn (unlikely) or increased govt spending section - both of which devaluing yen moving gbpjpy potentially higher. Though I think the risks are more skewed to MOF delivering a package that strengthens JPY as it undershoots expectations as several MOF members have mentioned the package being over several years - the more years the less punch the package has (given some expected it (5% of gdp) to be spent in 1yr), equally the less direct govt spending portion of the package will also lessen the depreciative impact on yen (rumoured to be 13trn, if less then Yen could get considerably stronger). As mentioned I see the MOF release to be asymmetrically skewed to expectation downside for these reasons.
2) BOE GBP selling pressure would happen when they cut the rate and adjust their QE programme - this is a highly likely scenario as BOE MPC Minutes in July said "Most members expect to loosen policy in August" and recently the BOE's biggest hawk M. Weale switched stance in light of UK Business PMI/ Optimism prints at 10yr lows saying the BOE needs to act fast/ delaying policy further doesn't make sense.
Trading strategy: Sell GBPJPY @mrkt 133.5TP1 130.5TP2 128.5TP3 - risk averse traders could wait for the 50-60% MOF/ general Vol bounce into 136-38 level before shorting - I would reshort here anyway.
GBPUSD: STERLING STRENGTH MYTH? ARITCLE 50 ODDS - 50% NOT HAPPENMysterious sterling strength:
1. Sterling has managed to par losses and actually rise in past days despite a number of heavily weighted factors increasing GBP downside pressure e.g. MPC M. Weale switching to the doves, PMI/ Business Optimism 8yr lows, Sterling rates markets consistently pricing >25bps of cuts to the BOE base rate (details below), the median bank forecast of the Bank of England Policy change on the 4th of August is becoming ever more dovish (e.g. calls for >£50bn QE and more than 25bps of cuts by Banks).
2. Struggling to find answers I looked at the Article 50 odds/ Implied probability from the odds aggregator (oddschecker) - to my surprise, but in support of GBP top side I have seen the market shift aggressively in the last week - with odds of a 2016 signing falling to 16.5% from 35%, but more worryingly the odds of a 2018 or later or NOT AT ALL steepening aggressively to 50% from 30% .
- 2018 or later or not at all is now the most probable outcome, worrying that this is even possible given the referendum was decided by the people in a democracy - how is this even possible? IMO it should have been mandated to be signed within a given period e.g. 1wk/ 1m.
- Even more worrying is that T. May the newly elected PM, Pre-PM was a brexit Bull and vowed that exiting the EU was her top priority and she "saw it as a way to make Britain great again". However, now if you look at the news, she is somewhat of a Brexit bear, recently stating "The Article 50 will NOT be signed in 2016" - completely writing the front end of the curve off.
3. This is likely the potential driver of sterling strength as a delayed non-signing 1) increases the time until we actually leave the EU - given there is ALREADY a clause in the article 50 agreement that states there is a 2yr "cooling off/ negotiation period" where Britain's relationship with the EU will remain exactly the same for 2yrs once the article 50 is signed - so by not signing it until mid 2017 this means technically there will be 3yrs between Brexit vote and leaving which means three years of relatively unchanged economic conditions - thus this in mind why should GBP get weaker now/ in the near-term? 2) and in turn, the above reduces BOE cutting odds - if we're not leaving any time soon the economics should be relatively flat thus no easing needed which means less GBP near-term downside.
4. Also another potential sterling topside driver is the speculation that the BOE is coming underpressure NOT to cut rates by Retail Banks as by doing so it reduces their net interest margins (lower profitability) causing restructuring/ lay-offs in the industry - LLOYDS BANKING GROUP IS AXING 3,000 JOBS AND CLOSING 200 BRANCHES AS IT RACES TO CUT COSTS IN ANTICIPATION OF AN INTEREST RATE CUT - if considered a systemic risk this could seriously reduce the probability of BOE action. Though i think it is more of a isolated issue - Lloyds likely needed to restructure anyway based on already low profitability rather than as a direct function of a potential rate cut. It is almost laughable to think 3000 jobs are being cut because of a small 25bps cut alone.
Trading implications:
1. Obviously this is a downer on GBP shorts, however, this is ONLY a suggestion for GBP strength - i could be over estimating the impact but the argument is nonetheless a solid one.
2. Still below 1.36 i stay a seller of rallies - and watch closely for the 4th of August when the BOE is expected to deliver easing which should move GBP$ to 1.25-1.28 where i will TP.
- Current implied BOE bank rate cut probabilities are priced as the following:
-Three month short sterling (GBP) rate - 66% probability of a 25bps cut, up from 64% on the 26th.
-GBP Nominal OIS Spot rate - 84% probability of a 25bps cut on the 26th, up from 76% on the 25th
-GBP 1m Fwd Nominal OIS Rate - 29bps 100% priced as of 26th, up from 26bps on the 25th.
BOJ EXPECTATIONS: EXCEED/ HIT - LONG USDJPY; MISS - SHORT GBPJPYBOJ Miss - Sell GBPJPY @Market price; 129tp1 - up to 800pips.
1. A BOJ miss can be considered as delivering the median expectations e.g. 10bps cut to the depo (-0.2%), 10bps cut to the LSP (-0.1%), Yen10trn increase in monthly JGB purchases & 50% Increase in Annual ETF purchases e.g. 3.3trn-5trn. Fiscal Stimulus Yen10-15trn.
- The package above or less should be sold as the market expects this to maintain UJ at 105-6 level.
- The short GBPJPY is a great trade anyway as you benefit from the BOE easing carry which should in turn move us to 125 (BOJ miss and BOE hit) - which the BOE 1m forward OIS rates market currently prices 25bps at 100% and the average expectations are 25bps and £50bn of QE (even more certain now as the BOE M. Weale - the most hawkish MPC Member moved to the easing side as Business optimism and PMI dropped to their 10yr lows) - thus GBPJPY can expect further downside even past the BOJ as the BOE is all but guaranteed to ease "most members expect to ease at the august meeting" - July BOE Minutes Quote.
- Currently a BOJ miss is the most likely outcome - as many of you have seen in FX Yen has been brought aggressively as expectations have fallen, much a mirroring from the change in rates market where - For the 25th the 3m JPY Libor prices only a 6.65bps cut at to the key rate at 100% and on the same date the 3m euroyen August future prices only a 5.5bps cut at 100%. Though the further dated September 3m euroyen future prices a 9bps cut a 100% - likely a function of the market betting on more action being done in the september meeting (which makes sense).
BOJ HIt: Buy USDJPY @Market price; 107-111tp - up to 700pips
1. A BOJ Hit can be considered as double or more the median expectations (in my opinion) - 20bps+ to the depo, 20bps+ to the LSP, Yen20trn+ to the JGB Purchases and 100-200% extra annual ETF purcases from Yen3.3trn to 6.6/9.9trn. Yen20-30trn Fiscal stimulus.
- The package above or more IMO will allow $yen to trade to 111, and for a sustained amount of time.
- The long USDJPY is the best proxy to play the "over-delivery" imo as USD is the most stable base, and has the most pips to gain on yen weakness - given FOMC hawkishness/ Hiking expectations give USDJPY topside even more impetus.
- As above, the markets currently DON'T expect this result, as $Yen trades at the 104 level and rates markets price only 5-6bps of lowering. HOWEVER, if BOJ/ JPY Govt are to deliver a big easing package - one that smashes expectations (such as the one above) it will be now. The reason I think this is the case is below:
GBPUSD: TECHNICAL ANALYSIS - BEARISH MA, IV>HV, STANDEV & RRTechnical analysis - highly bearish:
MA:
1. Just crossed the 2wk and 4wk MA - this is a bearish indication + we have been below the 3m MA for several weeks unsurprisingly since brexit.
IV/ HV:
1. Realised Vols have also unsurprisingly come off, this would but bullish but brexit has distorted the longer dated HV and they are lagging - Implied vols are steepening higher than HV - particularly around the 2wks as BOE vol prices - so IV is greater than HV in the front end which is bearish, especially around BOE where we expect ALOT of bearish pressure going into the BOE as easing is expected.
Deviation Channels:
1. We Trade at the bottom of the 6m deviation channel but this is due to brexit so shouldnt be considered bullish. Looking at the 3m SD channel, this is more appropriate and shows us trading at the average 3m price - hence there is definitely more room for downside and we have just crossed the middle regression line implying we are entering some downside deviation now.
Risk-Reversals
1. 25 delta Risk reversals trade marginally bearish for GBP$, with current at -0.1, 1wks flat at 0.02 and 2wks at -0.5 - this is surprising given BOE is coming up - one would expect a larger skew to one direction - since this isnt the case it could be 1) the market is neutral on the decision e.g. not sure of the result or 2) given we have 2wks yet investors are yet to postion in the option market, which they will next week - ill keep you updated on the vol/ option space biases.
- Though 1m risk reversals trade with a clearer downside bias a -1 and 2m at -2 which shows the market expects GBP$ to trade lower in the 1-2m term - which makes sense given the economic uncertainty + BOE Easing potential.
*Check the attached posts for indepth fundamentals*
GBPUSD: 13.81% downside to be seenMy signals trading group entered today at 1.3192, daily confirmation has already materialized, so you can join the downtrend at market with stops over 1.32895. Risking 0.5-1% is perfectly fine here. Look to add once price moves under 1.287. Use the same stop as this first entry (second for us).
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Ivan Labrie
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Risk disclaimer: My analysis is provided as general market commentary and does not constitute investment advice. I will not accept liability for any loss or damage including, without limitation, to any loss of profit which may arise directly or indirectly from use of or reliance on such information.
GBPUSD SHORT: BOE/ FOMC POLICY EXPECTATIONS INCREASINGLY BEARISHFollowing today's Service/ Manufacturing PMI miss (worst contraction in 88 months - since 2009) the Sterling market has come under significant pressure as BOE rate cut expectations increase with OIS rates markets pricing a 94% chance of a 4th Aug cut vs 85% before the PMI's were released.
Further, the PMI misses has attracted attention from UK Politicians e.g. Chancellor Hammond - which puts further qualitative pressure on the BOE to cut, rather than just quantitative data prints - Political pressure combined with data pressure is the best us GBP sellers can ask for when looking for a BOE rate cut.
I have to say this is a breath of fresh air for GBPUSD shorts that i am holding (cable trades down to 1.30xx) - given that the start of the week was the complete opposite, with strong CPI/ Employment and Hawkish comments from MPC members Weale and Forbes; all of which reducing the pressure on the BOE to cut and thus the sterling market.
Below also, following the PMIs we see Aug 4th BOE expectations from BoAML/ JPM - which call for a 25bps cut and 50bn addition to QE (with increased near-term pressure to do so/ act post-PMI) - in which imo will send GBP$ to 1.25, if not through - these expectations are encouraging for shorts thougb it should be remembered the cut was expected in July also but didnt materialise (though the minutes from the meeting did state "most members expect to ease in August". Further we see fresh recession concerns emerge as from Barclays below - once again putting downside pressure on GBP through poor GDP and increased BOE cut likihoods.
Further, on the USD side of the trade, in this risk recovery we continue to view FOMC rate hike expectations rising - aiding dollar topside (and gbp$ downside) - as Fed Funds Futures Opt Implied probs now trade at 19.5% for Sept, 20.8% Nov and 40% for Dec, up from yesterday at 18.8, 20 an 39.8 - the risk-on bias already started today will likely see these probabilities continue to strengthen through the end of the day.
Trading Strategy:
1. So from here after holding shorts at 1.3400 average, given this fresh and extreme impetus for downside - I will continue to hold my cable lower to the 1.285 target (unload 50%) and save 25-50% (depending if i unload 25% at the 1.305 level) for the Aug meeting itself where 1.25 is likely - where before today holding cable seemed more risky as the risks looked skewed to a hawkish BOE, which now has flipped. Unlikely, but any rallies to 1.33-35 level i will be reshorting - cable downside is a function of time imo.
- I like holding short because BOJ are likely to ease, whilst the FOMC stay neutral/ Hawkish, this in turn puts more pressure on the BOE to ease/ GBP - in order to prevent GBP appreciating vs JPY (disinflationairy) BOE must ease too & hawkish FED stance puts pressure on GBPUSD lower.
- Risks to the view continue to be if 1) New/ Weale/ Forbes continue to reiterate their hawkish/ no easing stance and perhaps less impactful; 2) Next weeks UK GDP reading - will not contain much Post brexit data so any upside is unlikely to give GBP strength, though downside is welcomed and could cause further selling (Low pre-Brexit GDP gives BOE more reason to cut)
GBP OIS PRICING A 94% CHANCE OF A 25BPS CUT FROM THE BOE IN AUGUST (85% PRE PMI)
- UK CHANCELLOR HAMMOND: Must restore uncertainty after July PMI
- UK CHANCELLOR HAMMOND: BOE will use monetary policy tools at its disposal
- UK CHANCELLOR HAMMOND: BOE have tools to respond to market turbulence in the short-term
BoAML ON BOE:
- We look for the BoE to cut rates 25bp and increase QE by £50bn in August, split between Gilts and private sector assets.
- BoE inaction so far and heightened policy uncertainty leaves risk-reward unattractive in the front end in our view.
- We prefer to position for potential BoE Gilt purchases, reiterating our 5s20s Gilt flattener as attractive in a QE-scenario.
JP MORGAN ON BOE:
- Current market pricing of a 25bps rate
SHORT GBPUSD: CENTRAL BANK EXPECTATIONS - BOE/ ECB/ BOJ & FOMCReuters Analyst Expectations:
FOMC
1. IMPROVING DATA POINT TO SEPTEMBER RATE HIKE -
- The Fed is very unlikely to spring any surprises at the upcoming FOMC meeting, which concludes next Wednesday 27th July, but a September rate hike is a distinct possibility. The statement next week should acknowledge the apparent pick-up in second-quarter GDP growth, particularly the recent strength of consumption, and also the rebound in employment growth in June. The Fed won't commit itself to a September rate hike at the July meeting, however, hints will be eyed closely.
- Currently the 30 day federal funds rate option implied probability is consistant with the increasing chances of a September/ Novemeber hike view as the probability continues to increase to new post brexit highs e.g. 25bps FOMC hike probability for Sept/ Nov/ Dec increased to 24.6%, 25.7%, 41.6% from 18.8%, 20.2% and 39.5% yesterday. With Dec now pricing 2 hikes at 9.1% up from 7.1% - as risk markets continue to set new highs increasing confidence.
BOE
1. BOE SEEN CUTTING BANK RATE 25 BPS TO 0.25% IN AUGUST
- BoE Seen Restarting QE In August, Top Up With GBP80Bln adding to GBP375bn
- Median 60% Chance Of UK Recession In The Coming Year
- UK Economy Seen Growing 1.4% In 2016, 0.6% In 2017 (Prev Seen 1.9%, 2.1%)
- Short Sterling constant 3m Libor Option Implied cut probabilities remained flat on the day at 30% chance of a 25bps cut - however risk markets rally buoy hawkish expectations though this is fundamentally expected to impact the BOE decision since markets are rallying as a function of the BOE cutting (its a loop that the BOE will be aware of).
ECB/ BOJ
1. ECB not seen to cut rates but some analysts think there may be an extension to the maturity of ECB's APP e.g. further into 2017, though the purchase amounts is not expected to change at EUR80bln a month - nonetheless a 3m extension is an extra EUR240bn and a 6m is EUR480bn, so such an announcement on Thursday would certainly continue to fuel the rally in risk markets.
2. BOJ - there is less consensus on the BOJ meeting on the 28th, though the forecasts seem to sit between a 10-20bps cut to the key rate + an extension to the ETF purchases (Maturity and monthly purchase amounts) + an extension to the JGB purchases (maturity and monthly purchase amounts) - a BOJ surprise to the upside would undoubtably enable risk markets to continue to rally, though if it goes the other way (Kuroda underdelivers) this could be the impetus to stop the risk rally in its tracks.
Trading Strategy:
1. Short GBPUSD on Pullbacks to 1.33/4 (if we see any now - unlikely but possible if retail sales outperform and the market prices the strong CPI/Employment at the same time) - 1.305TP1 1.285TP2 1.25xxTP3.
- I posted this trade a few days ago when the short price was favourable - at these levels i DO NOT advise shorting. 1.33 is the minimum entry - I just posted this as a short confirmation/ central bank watch post.
2. The above supports the short GBPUSD play as 1) Easing from ECB/ BOJ puts pressure on the BOE to ease (as the GBP appreciates against the JPY/ EUR in this situation which is deflationairy) thus BOJ/ ECB easing increases the already consensus view that the BOE will ease - a BOE easing of 25bps cut and 80bn extension to the QE would certainly move us through 1.25. Infact I believe the 25bps cut alone is enough to do that. If BOE delivers £80bn in QE then that will move GBP even lower to perhaps 1.20/23.
- Further, on the FOMC stance, a more hawkish FED strengthens the long dollar leg of the short GBPUSD which compounds the momentum that GBPUSD can move lower as we move towards two drivers vs just the one with the BOE easing. We now have BOE easing potential combined with ever increasing FOMC hike expectations fuelling USD demand which in turn/ combined will send GBP$ lower faster.
EOW SUMMARY: RISK THE OVERALL WINNER - US30 & SPX @ 2% NEW HIGHSEnd of Week Summary:
1. On the week we saw risk outperform safe havens for the first time since the brexit vote and the SPX and DJ30 set new all time highs by 2% and 1.2% respectively - somewhat encouraging given this was the longest period post-crisis that equity indexes have had since new highs, with a total time of apprx 1 year.
2. Given the articles attached, this week was also the first week where risk-on/ risk-off positive correlations broke down and went back to some degree of normalcy, with Gold, Yen and bonds ending the week down some 5 - although the TRY Military Coup did cause some risk anxiety late on friday and caused safe havens to par some of their losses by 1% to close down apprx 4%.
3. Drivers of the risk-on rally i must say did come as a surprise, given the relatively subdued economic climate post brexit, with little planned risk-on drivers in sight. However, it was JPY's surprise talk from PM Abe/ BOJ Kuroda easing/ stimulus speculations at the start of the week (speculations around y10-20trn) that gave risk markets some legs - despite the reliability of the claims being denied by much of the JPY Govt though there certainly is no smoke without fire.
4. The other winner of the week was USD , much of which was safe haven demand on Friday (TRY Coup) but $ strength had built through the week on the back of hawkish FOMC speak sentiment (see attached) and risk markets rallying, causing rates to also rally (UST 10y averaging +4-5%) where all have contributed to increased market confidence which has translated into higher projected rate hike probabilities for their Sept/ Nov/ Dec meetings - currently at 12.9%/14.4%/38%, which is pretty much a 100% increase in expectations on the week.
- Once risk got going, given the severe depression, it was unsurprising that it did manage to run away higher - as safe havens needed a correction higher, if only in the short term.
Next week Projections:
1. Given last week, and most of friday, the obvious expectation would be to expect risk to continue on the offer and making new highs - however, late on friday afternoon we saw risk-on/risk-off balance tip in favour of safe havens as the TRY Coup uncertainty increased risk-off demand.
- Friday traditionally is a weak day for risk anyway as 1) end of week sellers/ weekend flat risk books cause a natural selling of risk, and a natural buying of safe havens as portfolios look to hedge weekend event risk over the two days that the markets are closed (especially as the session ended i the middle of the TRY coup).
- That in mind, i was surprised to see risk even trading better than safe havens on mid afternoon Friday at all (until TRY) - with Yen falling to 106.3 and goldd down 0.9%, i was confident that we would enter Monday with a risk-on tone.
GBPUSD SHORT: DOVISH BOE M. CARNEY SPEECH HIGHLIGHTS - AUG CUTIMO Mark Carney was very dovish on the margin, certainly reinforcing their/ my view of an August cut being 90% on the table. The most supportive statements were "MonPol Important In Cushioning Effects Of Any Relapse In Recovery In Months & Quarters Ahead", "The MPC Does Not Have The ''Luxury '' and "More Should Be Done To Cushion The Effects Of Negative Shocks" - all of which infer that an August cut is very much on the cards - especially given that the BOE has been relatively neutral as yet, whilst they have increased the offering of interbank funding by a few £100bn, apart from that the BOE is yet to make any moves in conventional policy tools, which member/ market expects the BOE to do e.g. a Bank Rate cut and/or formal QE.
I personally am short GBP$ at these levels (see attached posts), and these comments from today have certainly reinforced my position given their dovishness, even more so when combined with yesterdays minutes which said "most MPC members expect to loosen policy in August" and "detailed analysis of all available policy tools is required" - both of which go hand as 1) they want to make sure they analyse the economy properly, which takes time (July too soon) yet all members expect August to be enough time to conclude/ act upon such analysis.
Not to mention, given bank forecast a median GBP$ price of somewhere near 1.225, being short in the 1.30+ imo is certainly probabilistically favourable, especially if you are able to execute close to the Post-brexit highs of 1.35 which has held as solid resistance and imo should do for the foreseeable future given we traded to lows of 1.38 before brexit so 1.35 is very expensive post brexit. Further, the median bank forecast was for a 25bps cut in the bank rate in July (with some calling for 40-50bps), so if that was the case in July, given BOE didnt deliver, this only increases the chances of a cut in August which imo will take GBP$ to 1.25xx.
USD demand increasing - Federal Funds Rate Implied PDF prices:
Also, on the USD side, demand is increasing which compounds the GBP$ short support, as the Fed Funds Rate implied hike probabilities are continuing to steepen. For example, since yesterday, the implied probability of a September/ November hike has increased from 12%/12% to 19.5%/20.8% - with, for the first time, a 50bps hike being priced at 0.4%/0.8% respectively; Decemeber's probability also steepened to its highest level post brexit to 40% from 33.7%, 50bps at 7.5% from 3.4% and 75bps for the first time at 0.3%.
This aggressive steepening in the rate/ probability curve is likely a function of the risk-on market we are in (SPX 4 new highs in a row), with 10y rates rallying TNX, averaging +4% every day this week. Further, I think the FOMC speakers comments which have 80% been hawkish this week has also increased confidence.
Gov Mark Carney Speech Highlights
- Monetary Policy Cannot Do Everything To Counter The Impact Of The Referendum
- MonPol Important In Cushioning Effects Of Any Relapse In Recovery In Months & Quarters Ahead
- BoE July Minutes, ''Broadly Consistent With My Personal View.''
- The MPC Does Not Have The ''Luxury ''
- Far Too Early To Draw Strong Conclusions On Precise Path Of The UK Economy
- UK Economy Is Unlikely To Crash, It Is Likely To Slow
- A Sharp Fall In Currency Rate Will Provide A Shot In The Arm To The UKâs Net Exports
- More Should Be Done To Cushion The Effects Of Negative Shocks
- Past Few Weeks Have Generated Considerable Uncertainty Around UK Economy, Policy & Politics
- Monetary Policy Should Stand Ready To Move In Either Direction
- Brexit Has Increased Materially The Degree Of Uncertainty
- Some Of This Uncertainty May Dissipate, But A Good Chunk Is Likely To Linger Over Next 2-Yrs
- Uncertainty To Weigh On Domestic Spending By Both Companies & Households For Foreseeable Future
- The Amount Of Slack In The UK Economy Is Likely To Steadily Rise
GBPUSD: 4h view and updated setupThis is the 4h view of the long setup in GBPUSD. You can refer to my recent posts in related ideas for more information.
Right now, I reentered longs with tight stops after the news resulted in a sharp rally above the previous daily downtrend mode. I noticed the 4h chart had an uptrend setup, aiming for a target close to the 'Brexit key level', so I reentered longs based on this timeframe's setup.
The orange dashed line shows us support was found on the pullback, right on the 50% speed line from the advance up to the previous high, and now, if we construct a 50% speed line from the recent rally's low to the current high, we have a line that shows us the level that has to hold on any dip, if this uptrend is to continue without any major pullback before hitting our target.
My signals client have been long from the lows, and now got back in after booking profits before the BOE rates decision news came out. (We closed to protect our capital, it's always wise, in the face of potentially adverse fundamental forces, if you have a winning trade, to exit, and reenter if it's still valid and the news actually favor your original thesis).
I don't want to see price go back below the orange level on chart, we should take off and move straight up during the London session, or perhaps slowly during Asia. We'll know soon enough. If price goes back under 1.3260 I'm out. I would even consider shorting if that were to happen.
Check out my updated track record here: pastebin.com
If interested in my real time whatsapp alerts and swing trading newsletter, or in personal tuition, contact me privately. I'm offering a considerable discount on a packaged course which includes access to my private trading signals list for a year.
Cheers!
Ivan Labrie
Link to Tim West's chatroom: www.tradingview.com
We discuss setups like this often there. Feel free to stop by and subscribe to his indicator pack. If you have any questions ask.
Risk disclaimer: My analysis is provided as general market commentary and does not constitute investment advice. I will not accept liability for any loss or damage including, without limitation, to any loss of profit which may arise directly or indirectly from use of or reliance% on such information.
LONG DXY/ USD VS GBP: HAWKISH FOMC LOCKHART SPEECH HIGHLIGHTSFOMC Lockhart was the 4th Fed this week to imo be relatively Hawkish with his words, most notably reinforcing with the others brexits near-term stability saying "Doesn't Expect 'Brexit' to Have Near Term Impact on Economy" and " So Far 'Brexit' Reaction Largely Orderly".
Most interestingly though was Lockharts view on the FOMC's positioning for future rate increases, saying "Won't Rule Out Two Rate Rises This Year" - which is extremely hawkish given most expect 1 at the most.. Back up this sentiment by insisting that the Fed is "Fed Not Behind Curve, Has Time to Decide on Next Rate Move".
Nonethless Lockhart did somewhat contradict his "rate expectations" by saying "Time for 'Cautious and Patient Approach' to Rate Policy" which surely shouldn't be the case if 2 hikes are coming - that would be on the aggressive side.
All in all, Lockharts comments go hand in hand with my Bullish medium term USD/ DXY view (see previous articles) - I like the USD vs EUR, JPY, GBP, AUD, NZD in the medium term so long DXY/ USD is favoured, even more so if 2 rate hikes were to be realised this year. At current levels short GBPUSD is my favourite expression
FOMC RATE HIKE IMPLIED PROBABILITIES
- On the likelihood of rate increases, in the past 24 hours, from the Federal Funds Rate implied probability curve we have seen rates/ probabilities firm after yesterdays "risk-break" recovery, with a 25bps September/ Nov hike steepening to 17.2% from 11.7%(Wed), and Dec setting new highs at 35.9% from 29.5% (Wed) - Dec also went on to double the probability of a 50bps hike to 5.1% vs 2.8%(Wed), giving Lockharts comments some weight.
FOMC Lockhart Speech Highlights:
-Fed's Lockhart: Fed Not Behind Curve, Has Time to Decide on Next Rate Move
-Lockhart: Time for 'Cautious and Patient Approach' to Rate Policy
-Lockhart: So Far 'Brexit' Reaction Largely Orderly
-Lockhart: 'Brexit' Will Increase Long Term Uncertainty
-Lockhart: Doesn't Expect 'Brexit' to Have Near Term Impact on Economy
-Lockhart: Bond Market Yields Largely Reflect Flight-To-Quality Buying
-Lockhart: Too Soon to Say 'All Clear' for Financial Markets
-Lockhart: 'Brexit' Not a 'Leman Moment'
-Lockhart: Still Expects U.S. to Grow by 2%, Expects More Job Gains
-Lockhart: Economy is 'Performing Adequately'
-Lockhart Says Fed Has Time to Decide on Next Rate Move
-Fed's Lockhart: Presidential Election May Be Boosting Economic Uncertainty
-Fed's Lockhart: Won't Rule Out Two Rate Rises This Year
SELL NZDUSD - RECONFIRMED BY 12M HIGHS? CPI PRINT EYED CLOSELYAlso as additional technicals to support the short NZD$ view:
1. On the daily and NU currently Trades close/ at to its +2 standard deviation lines, these are highly resistive.
- Assuming NU trades mean reverting +2SD means there is a 95% chance of a price reversal/ 95% of all prices should be below the +2SD channel lines (e.g. NU highly likely lower from here).
-- And as you can see by the Yellow circle highlights NU has held this +/- 2SD discipline in the past so is highly likely to maintain these levels in the future.
2. Also NU trades significantly above its 60, 120, and 250 Moving Averages on 1h, 4h, 1D, 1wk - this also signals strong overbought prices, where selling has a higher probability of success.
3. NZD$ looks to have confirmed the 0.73 12 month high level as resistance - strong pivot point.
4. The strong 100k+ print beat from NFP last week imo didnt price much into NZD$ downside at the time, however given the reaction in the Fed Funds rates market, it may be pricing now as the market now implies a 25bps hike at 5.9% Sept/ Nov vs 0% prev, 22.5% Dec vs 18.5% prev - 50bps hike 1.1% vs 0% - also the probabilities of cuts all fell significantly across the curve.
5. Risks to the view continue to be a hawkish RBNZ - as we saw last week the short played well but was undermined at 0.70 when RBNZ speaker highlighted the HPI issue and inferred the cut may not happen in Aug as a result (Hence the recovery back to 0.73).
- The rate cut went from 80% to 50% on the back of these comments imo - now NZD CPI inflation and employment readings in the coming 30 days serve as the determinant of their Aug decision, a flat or miss CPI print will likely mean the RBNZ will cut 25bps (CPI is the no.1 target), so beyond the 0.73 level resistance we look for certain confirmation in the CPI reading, though it will be difficult to know what the market is thinking/ to get ahead of the market in the lead up, where the short was a giveaway before the RBNZ's new comments were on the table.
- Also on this point it is worth noting that given many of the worlds CBs have shifted to a dovish tone in light of the brexit vote (e.g. RBA BOE BOJ FOMC) this indirectly puts pressure on RBNZ to cut as Kiwi/ NZD will continue to appreciate causing disinflationairy pressures/ brakes to continue on the nzd economy, thus we also carry positive upside given the worlds policy positioning at the moment.
Trading Strategy
1. Sell @0.726 TP 0.702 SL 0.732 - More aggressive shorts may be added if confidence in a cut is higher - a cut will send NU down to 0.67 at least for example.
*Be sure to check the attached post "SELL NZDUSD @0.73 - TP 700PIPS: BREXIT, RBNZ, FED & USDJPY HEDGE" for NZDUSD short fundamentals*
EURGBP: We're adding to shortsDear traders, me and my signals group are short here from 0.85089, as shown on chart, and now adding to shorts here. If you're not in, you can use the tighter stop loss option to trade this pair, all the way down to our target. Risk 0.5-1% on this trade.
Check out my updated track record here: pastebin.com
If interested in my real time whatsapp alerts and swing trading newsletter, or in personal tuition, contact me privately. I'm offering a considerable discount on a packaged course which includes access to my private trading signals list for a year.
Cheers!
Ivan Labrie
Link to Tim West's chatroom: www.tradingview.com
We discuss setups like this often there. Feel free to stop by and subscribe to his indicator pack. If you have any questions ask.
Risk disclaimer: My analysis is provided as general market commentary and does not constitute investment advice. I will not accept liability for any loss or damage including, without limitation, to any loss of profit which may arise directly or indirectly from use of or reliance on such information.
SHORT GBPUSD @1.34 - BOE MINUTES HIGHLIGHTS - EXPECT AUGUST CUTAs expected BOE stood pat on their rate decision reiterating much of which was said last week by Gov M. Carney, the need for more analysis to be done is/ was key - " "Detailed Analysis" of All Policy Options Required" and "Extent Of Additional Stimulus Will Depend on August Forecasts".
IMO the notes were very bearish and almost but 100% chance of some sort of action in August - "Most MPC Members Expect To Loosen Policy In August". Given Brexit, and the Inflation conditions in the UK anyway a cut of the Bank Rate, if only for 12ms, makes sense to ensure a smooth transition - especially as the UK welcomes a new PM & the article 50/ Brexit negotiations are yet to get underway, this will undoubtably put some pressure on the UK economy, where much of which could be smoothed by a 25bps rate cut.
The minutes did point out interestingly that ""In the Short Run" Weaker GBP Will Boost Inflation" which makes sense, however they coupled this statement with "BOE Agents Report Some Businesses Delaying Investment", so the net impact of the Brexit event on inflation is yet to be seen.
Overall IMO the decision to hold Policy still in July was as expected however, given the median analyst had forecasted a 25bps cut, this "hawkish" response imo has opened up a beter oppourtunity to sell GBP, as in the medium-term/ post the Aug decsion GBP$ is likely to trade below the 1.28 lows, with many analysts forecasting GBP$ somewhere between 1.20-1.25.
Trading Strategy:
1. Short 1@1.34/335, sell 2@1.38/9 TP1 1.305; TP2 1.285 TP3 1.25XX. - I personally will not be operating SL on this trade as i believe BOE will cut in August 90%, and/or GBP$ will fall at somepoint on pure speculation, and/or as FOMC rate expectations continue to increase going into the later stages of the year.
2. Shorting any GBP rallies vs USD is also a good strategy from now on into the Aug rate cut, especially above 1.34.
*In the unlikely event GBP$ trades higher on the back of this e.g. to 1.38/9 then i still advise shorting, however, given how stable cable was trading into the event (and after the event) i dont expect much short headwinds now - you could tell the market didnt actually believe in the rate cut/ money wasnt behind the rate cut as GBP$ rose to its post brexit highs at 1.33... is that how a cross should react when money is actually backing a cut?
BOE Rate Cut/ Minutes Highlights:
Bank of England Leaves Bank Rate Unchanged At 0.5%
Bank Of England Leaves Bank Rate Unchanged At 0.5%
BOE Jul Minutes: MPC Voted 8-1 to Maintain Bank Rate at 0.5%
BOE Jul Minutes: 8 Voted to Keep Rate Unchanged
BOE Jul Minutes: 1 Members Voted to Increase Rate
BOE Vlieghe Voted to Lower Bank Rate to 0.25%
BOE: Most MPC Members Expect To Loosen Policy In August
BOE: MPC Members Had "Initial Exchange" on "Various Possible Packages"
BOE: Extent Of Additional Stimulus Will Depend on August Forecasts
BOE: "Detailed Analysis" of All Policy Options Required
BOE: "In the Short Run" Weaker GBP Will Boost Inflation
BOE: Longer-Term Outlook Depends on Inflation Expectations
BOE: Economic Activity Likely to Weaken in Wake of Brexit Vote
BOE Agents Report Some Businesses Delaying Investment, Hiring Decisions
$FTSE: Interim Bulls Eye 7296.16; Large Geo Calls For LT DeclineSYNOPSIS :
1 - Limited downside risk per Predictive/Forecasting Model
2 - Predictive/Forecasting Model eyes 7296.19
3 - large developing geometry complies with internal construction of Geo
4 - Internal ab = cd nears "Model" target
5 - Internal inverted H&S in near alignment with reciprocal ab = cd symmetry
6 - Reversal probable at WL target
7 - Invalidation confirmed if price BACA < 4442.30
Best,
David Alcindor, CMT Affiliate #227974
- Alias: 4xForecaster (Twitter)
LONG USD VS JPY, EUR, GBP: HAWISK FED BULLARD - FED FUNDS RALLYBullard is the lone Fed official forecasting just one additional rate increase, and expects modest growth over the next two and a half years. But he reiterated Tuesday he's not expecting the economy to head south. However, did go out of his way to mention a relatively dovish point "We Have Some Ammunition if We Need it During Next Recession". Nonetheless he remained hawkish net on the margin, reiterating FED Georges hawkish comments regarding the labour market "About as Good as It's Ever Been", whilst using the June NFP print to flatten any questions regarding the low May print saying "Strong June Jobs Gains Showed May Report Was 'An Anomaly'". Similarly Bullard continued with Georges sentiment of the US's post-brexit robustness stating that the "Market Reaction to Brexit Shock Was 'Satisfactory,' 'Orderly'" - and infact surprisingly pushed this hawkish brexit sentiment on to new levels of "Ultimately the Brexit Impact on U.S. Economy Will be 'Close to Zero'". This is perhaps the most hawkish/ upbeat statement i have heard form a key Fed member since the decision which is positive given Bullard's naturally dovish stance.
Bullard also stressed the need for a solid US Fiscal package to boost demand, where i have to say fiscal stimulus has almost gone forgotten about in the last 7-years post crash, given the dominance of the central banks, quoting "U.S. Badly Needs Fiscal Agenda for Boosting Economic Growth".
Once again todays "FED speaker tracker" continues to add to my long $ view in the medium term. Today already we have seen front end rates continue their aggressive recovery this week, with the fed funds rate implied 25bps hike probability now trading for Sept/ Nov at a whopping 18% vs 11.7%Mon, with Dec trading at 36.3% vs 29.2%Mon .
10y UST (TNX) rates trade up another 4% today after a 5% gain yesterday, whilst 30yrs trade 3% up on the day (TNY) - as global risk rallies. Whilst USD is trading a little weaker in the immediate term as it readjusts lower for risk-on USD selling, long USD/ DXY is my medium term view as we continue to see the US FOMC Rate curve aggressively steepen, which is likely to continue for the next week at least - steeper implied curve means hike is more likely - more likely or realised hikes = increased (in the medium-term) dollar strength. Further, we expect dovish/ easing BOJ BOE ECB over the same period, this monetary policy divergence compounds the long $ view against its 3 biggest crosses (hence the long DXY expression)
Medium term trading strategy:
1. The best expression of this medium term USD view is long DXY - as above I hold 8/10 conviction views for a number of the heavily weighted USD basket crosses based largely on likely monetary policy divergence in the medium term (FOMC Hiking whilst BOE, BOJ & ECB ease/ cut) e.g. LONG USDJPY @104 - 106.3TP1 109.5TP2; SHORT EURUSD @1.11 - 109.3TP1 107.5TP2; GBPUSD @1.34 - 131.2TP1 128.5TP2
FTSE100 - Possible bullish Cypher set up if BOE disappointsLet us consider the possible Cypher set up on the daily chart. We are considering a drop from the current level to point D stationed at 5756 levels (Point D is 78.6% of XA leg).
At the current juncture such a move appears likely if there is a sharp recovery in the GBP/USD. That in turn appears likely if the Bank of England disappoints markets.
Markets expect BOE to cut rates this week or in August. Carney has expressly stated that rates could be cut or QE could be restarted this summer if the situation warrants. But will the BOE to do so? The question has been raised by one of the experts (from ForexLive) on our show today.
The rationale is that whatever data we have have post Brexit represented pre-Brexit period. So far, BOE has not had any data that shows post Brexit deterioration in the economic activity. Hence, it makes little sense for the BOE to cut rates this week.
If doesn't we could see a sharp recovery in Pound and that could have a bearing on FTSE100. The first support would be inverse head and shoulder neckline around 6400, which if taken out would open doors for a drop to 6000 and then to point D = 5756. Note, that point D is the potential reversal zone; an area where bulls would make a come back. This goes down well with historical data, which shows area below 6000 has always seen fresh buying.
RISK-ON RISK-OFF POSITIVE CORRELATION? SPX VS GOLD, JPY & UST P1The Paradoxical Risk-on/ Risk-off Asset positive correlation:
1. Risk off assets have outperformed to date, with Gold leading the gains at 28%, JPY following at 18% and US 10y treasuries Trading 16% up in 2016 - average at 20.5%.
2. Meanwhile, SPX trades 5% up since 4.1.2016 but more importantly, since 20th January lows SPX is up 15%.
3. this is significantly paradoxical, as fundamentally, Risk-on assets shouldnt trade well when safe havens do and the reverse can be said about Risk-off bull markets - Equities shouldn't trade higher.
- the reason this positive correlation of both risk and safe haven assets rallying at the same is problematic is that in the long-run it is not sustainable - one MUST adjust to the downside as markets in the short-run trade as a zero sum game, liquidity is inelastic and non-infinite i.e. they cannot both keep gaining capital as there is a limit when all available liquidity is allocated. Consequently, at this point investors then have to forgo investing in one asset, if they want to speculate on another, as they dont have any new cash to invest - this is why we normally see safe havens and risk assets trade negatively correlated and price action is "seesaw" like most of the time as investors take money out of risk, for example, so they can allocate it to risk-off, as perceptions and market environment changes.
Cause of the paradox:
1. An Unusual even split in investor risk sentiment e.g. in the immediate term, some believe the environment is stable enough to offer risk higher (CB easing/ support driven views), whilst others believe global risks are heightened enough to offer safe havens higher (Brexit, US election, China). Hence we see both SPX and Risk-off grow. Normally, the markets trade like herds e.g. behaviours skew to risk on or off, grouping with a strong bias to one side at the same time. This more "evenly distributed" sentiment we are experiencing rarely materialises as usually there is consensus on market risk e.g. all investors rationally agree that "now" is a highly uncertain time or the other way, given the same information is available.
2. Most likely imo , however, is that there is a short-term imbalance/ artificial risk inflation, where risk assets yet again are buoyed by central bank impetus. Following the brexit result a cascade of global CB dovishness/ support was injected into the markets providing the perfect artificial rise in equities - whilst the underlying market sentiment continues to follow the 2016 risk-off trend (as is shown by the 2016 outperformance of off (+21%) vs on (+5%), CBs have provided sufficient support to mask the risk-off bias - however it is unlikely to continue for long.