Yield curve is inverted today - Its implication and attributeWe have an inverted yield curve today - When the near end yields or interest rates is higher than the far end, we have an inverted yield.
What is its implication and any attributes?
To understand the implications of an inverted yield curve, it is crucial to know what a yield curve is and how it works.
A healthy yield curve –
It shows the relationship between the interest rate and the time to maturity of the bond. A normal yield curve slopes upward, meaning that long-term bonds have a higher yield than short-term bonds. This upward sloping curve indicates that investors demand a higher yield to hold longer-term bonds, as they are taking on more risk by locking up their money for a longer time.
An unhealthy or inverted yield curve –
However, an inverted yield curve occurs when short-term yields are higher than long-term yields. This situation indicates that investors are willing to accept lower yields on longer-term bonds, which is an indication of their pessimism about the economy's future growth prospects. Essentially, investors are willing to lock up their money for an extended period, accepting a lower yield, because they expect economic conditions to deteriorate.
Its implication –
i. It is a reliable predictor of an upcoming economic recession. This phenomenon has been observed many times over the years, and every time an inverted yield curve has occurred, a recession has followed. The reason for this is that an inverted yield curve indicates that investors are losing confidence in the economy, which can lead to decreased investment and spending. This, in turn, can lead to a slowdown in economic growth, which ultimately results in a recession.
ii. Another implication of an inverted yield curve is that it can make borrowing more expensive for certain individuals or companies. Banks typically borrow at short-term rates and lend at long-term rates, earning a profit on the difference between the two. However, an inverted yield curve makes this process less profitable for banks, and they may become less willing to lend, resulting in a tightening of credit conditions.
Attribute –
Short-term fixed deposit saver. ie. Keep rolling your 3-month fixed deposit saving or traders trading into the expected volatility.
In conclusion, an inverted yield curve, where the current Fed fund rate and 3-month yield is higher than the 30-year yield, is a rare occurrence in the bond market that has significant implications for the economy. It is a reliable predictor of an upcoming recession and can result in higher borrowing costs for some individuals and companies. Investors should be aware of this phenomenon and take it into account when making investment decisions.
Some reference for traders:
Micro Treasury Yields & Its Minimum Fluctuation
Micro 2-Year Yield Futures
Ticker: 2YY
0.001 Index points (1/10th basis point per annum) = $1.00
Micro 5-Year Yield Futures
Ticker: 5YY
0.001 Index points (1/10th basis point per annum) = $1.00
Micro 10-Year Yield Futures
Ticker: 10Y
0.001 Index points (1/10th basis point per annum) = $1.00
Micro 30-Year Yield Futures
Ticker: 30Y
0.001 Index points (1/10th basis point per annum) = $1.00
Disclaimer:
• What presented here is not a recommendation, please consult your licensed broker.
• Our mission is to create lateral thinking skills for every investor and trader, knowing when to take a calculated risk with market uncertainty and a bolder risk when opportunity arises.
CME Real-time Market Data help identify trading set-ups in real-time and express my market views. If you have futures in your trading portfolio, you can check out on CME Group data plans available that suit your trading needs www.tradingview.com
