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Inflation

The Scenario for New EUR/USD 2024 Highs? Market sentiment is leaning towards three more rate cuts from the European Central Bank (ECB) this year, while economists are more cautious, expecting just two. Should the economists be correct, 2023’s high for the EUR/USD pair could be back in play. The market's confidence in ECB rate cuts outpaces that in the Federal Reserve. The Fed, facing closer scrutiny, is walking a tighter rope; its first rate cut in years will likely be the most important event of the year (possibly bigger than the US election), as it marks the beginning of a new monetary-policy phase. Adding to the intrigue is a recent uptick in Eurozone inflation, which suggests that progress on this front may have stalled. In contrast, many believe that U.S. inflation is either under control or nearing that point. This week's Jackson Hole symposium, scheduled for August 22-24, could provide further insights, particularly from European policymakers. Bank of England Governor Andrew Bailey is already confirmed as a speaker, but the full agenda of talks is released closer to the opening day.
by BlackBull_Markets
Inflation Pulls Back Again, Building Case for September Rate CutTakeaways Inflation cools again: Consumer prices in the US increased just 2.9% in July compared to the previous year, the slowest mark in three years, according to the US Department of Labor. Kamala Harris has overtaken Donald Trump in odds to win the US presidential election on Polymarket: Harris's campaign has reached out to the crypto industry, but it's unclear where she stands on regulating digital assets. Three Arrows Capital’s liquidators have filed a $1.3 billion lawsuit against Terraform Labs: The suit, stemming from losses during the 2022 Terra network collapse, alleges market manipulation by Terraform. Tether hit back at a $2.4 billion lawsuit from Celsius Network, deeming it unfounded and asserting its compliance with prior agreements: The dispute revolves around the liquidation of bitcoin assets to offset Celsius's debt. US spot ETH ETFs experienced $4.9 million in net inflows on Monday, ending a three-day streak of outflows: Grayscale’s ETHE logged zero flows, while VanEck’s ETHV was the only ETF to report negative flows. Grayscale has launched a new fund investing in MakerDAO’s governance token (MKR): The token saw a price increase following the announcement, with the fund structured as a closed-end product available to accredited investors. Inflation Pulls Back Again, Building Case for September Rate Cut The Consumer Price Index increased just 2.9% year-over-year in the US in July, giving the Federal Reserve ample reason to cut the benchmark federal funds rate at their next meeting in September. The Fed uses CPI, which excludes volatile food and fuel prices, as a key gauge to measure inflationary pressures on the economy. They have held rates at 5.3% since July 2023, the highest mark in roughly two decades. Cryptocurrency prices had a muted reaction to the positive report Wednesday, with bitcoin and ether staying relatively flat. Both are widely viewed as “risk assets” that perform better when interest rates are lower. But bitcoin has faced continued selling pressure from defunct exchange Mt. Gox distributing billions in repayments to creditors. On Wednesday, a wallet associated with the US government sent almost $600 million bitcoin previously seized from Silk Road to a Coinbase Prime wallet. Despite the recent volatility, bitcoin and ethereum have had a positive 2024 so far, rising 28.8% and 8.1% year-to-date, respectively. 🖼️ Topic of the Week: NFTs and the Art Industry: A Cryptoart Revolution ➡️ Read more here
GEMINI:BTCUSD
by Gemini
GBP/USD extends gains as retail sales bounce backThe British pound has extended its gains on Friday. GBP/USD is trading at 1.2887 in the European session, up 0.31% on the day at the time of writing. It has been a winning week for the pound, which has climbed 1%. There was more good news from the UK economy as retail sales rebounded in July by 0.5% m/m, after a revised decline of 0.9% in June and in line with the market estimate. Annually, GDP surged 1.4%, compared to -0.8% in June and matching the market estimate. The pound has moved higher in response to the positive retail sales data. The bounce in retail sales reflects summer discounts and purchases related to the Euro 2024 and the Paris Olympics, such as apparel. As well, with inflation finally under control and running close to 2%, consumers are responding by opening up their wallets and purses. The positive retail sales report follows yesterday’s solid GDP release. The UK economy recorded rose 0.6% in Q2, a second straight quarter of growth. The economy is showing some strength in the second quarter but that may not have much effect on the Bank of England’s rate path. The increase in growth may not be sustainable and BoE policy makers have said that they are more focused on inflation, particularly service inflation, which remains much higher than the BoE’s 2% target. The markets are expecting further cutting before the end of the year and have priced in a rate reduction at the November meeting. GBP/USD is testing resistance at 1.2884. Above, there is resistance at 1.2914 1.2841 and 1.2811 are the next support levels
by OANDA
GBP/USD dips after strong US retail salesThe British pound posted losses earlier but has clawed back and is in positive territory. GBP/USD is trading at 1.2846 in the North American session, up 0.20% on the day. After sustaining a technical session in the second half of 2023, the UK economy is on a rebound. GDP climbed 0.6% in the second quarter, in line with expectations and a notch lower than the Q1 gain of 0.7%. On an annualized basis, GDP rose 0.9%, up from 0.3% and in line with the market estimate. The annualized gain was the strongest growth rate since Q3 of 2022. The strong GDP data comes on the heels of yesterday’s inflation release. CPI for July rose to 2.2%, above the June gain of 2% but below the market estimate of 2.3%. The strong GDP could mean a pause at the September rate meeting. The markets are expecting the next rate cut in November, after the Bank of England delivered the first cut of the new rate-cutting cycle earlier this month. The US economy may have lost a step but don’t count the US consumer out. Retail sales jumped 1% m/m in July, up sharply from a revised -0.2% and blowing past the market estimate of 0.3%. The strong consumer spending data supports a modest rate cut of 25 basis points. Last week’s rout in the global markets raised expectations of a massive 50-basis point cut as a response to fears of a deterioration in the US economy. These fears have been allayed somewhat but if the US posts further weak numbers we could see panic return to the markets. GBP/USD pushed above resistance at 1.2838 earlier and is testing resistance at 1.2857. Above there is resistance at 1.2889 1.2706 and 1.2787 are the next support levels
by OANDA
GBP/USD shrugs as UK CPI rises less than expectedThe British pound is showing limited movement on Wednesday. GBP/USD is trading at 1.2844 in the European session, down 0.15% on the day. Headline inflation in the UK rose 2.2% y/y in July, up from 2% in June but below the market estimate of 2.3%. Perhaps most important for the Bank of England, services inflation slowed to 5.2%, the lowest since June 2022 and well below the BoE’s forecast of 5.6%. Monthly, inflation fell 0.2% in July, down from 0.1% in June and the first decline in six months. Core inflation fell from 3.5% y/y to 3.3% and monthly from 0.2% to 0.1%, also below expectations. The soft inflation report supports the case for another rate cut in September, which the money markets have priced in at 45%. The BoE joined the new phase of the central banking cycle when it cut rates on August 1 by a quarter-point to 5%. The BoE meets next on September 19. The UK released a mixed employment report on Tuesday. The unemployment rate dipped to 4.2% in the second quarter, down from 4.4% in Q1 and wage growth with bonuses slowed from a revised 5.8% y/y to 5.4%, its lowest level in two years. Still, this was much higher than the market estimate of 4.6% and is much higher than the inflation rate. Unemployment claims shot up to 135 thousand in July, blowing past the market estimate of revised 36.2 thousand and the market estimate of 4.6%.  There is resistance at 1.2833 and 1.2903  1.2792 and 1.2722 are the next support levels
by OANDA
AUD/USD Eyes Key Data After Breaking 0.6600AUD/USD Eyes Key Data After Breaking 0.6600 The AUD/USD extended its rally passed the critical 0.6600 mark to hit new three-week highs. Traders now turn their attention to the upcoming Australian Consumer Inflation Expectations and Unemployment. The pair faces immediate resistance at the 200-day moving average, followed by the 0.668 level. On the downside, initial support could be the 100-day moving average, with further backing at the 50-day moving average. In the U.S., the spotlight shifts to the July Consumer Price Index (CPI) due Wednesday. Earlier today, the Producer Price Index (PPI) data showed a 2.2% year-over-year increase for July, down from the 2.7% rise in June. PPI often acts as an early indicator for upcoming CPI inflation. Market participants are currently pricing in a roughly 54% chance of a 50-basis-point Fed rate cut in September, a probability that could increase following the PPI data.
by BlackBull_Markets
240812 Market OutlookLast two weeks adjustment was aligned with the rise in Unemployment Rate and associated worries about the possible US economic slowdown. A week ago gap was closed last Friday, but there still remain another gap on Aug-2, which slightly increase the probability of further rise in US stocks. The focus of this week is inflation data from US, including PPI on Tue, Inflation Rate on Wed and Retail Sales on Thu. Additionally, investors should pay attention to Initial Claims on Thu and Michigan Consumer Sentiment on Fri.
SP:SPXLong
by moncap2023
Why are Interest rates falling? Time to buy? We have seen an amazing fall in interest rates. Bonds have looked to put in a local bottom. Why are bonds showing signs of accumulation? Is the bond market pricing in a recession? I believe the recent decline in yields is due to commodity weakness. Yields have soften because energy & base metals have become cheaper. This drives the disinflationary narrative. I think its to early to tell whether this decline is from demand or global weakness.
TVC:US10Y
by Trading-Capital
Trading the Inflation Sandwich: What to Watch?Trading the Inflation Sandwich: What to Watch? US CPI inflation (Consumer Price Index). The CPI report is expected to confirm a continuation of the disinflationary trend observed in recent months. Analysts predict the annual inflation rate to edge down to 2.9%, while the core inflation rate is likely to decelerate to 3.2%. This ongoing cooling of inflation could bolster expectations for the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) to lower interest rates in September. Should inflation continue its downward trajectory, the FOMC may shift its focus to job numbers with greater intensity. Reserve Bank of New Zealand (RBNZ) rate decision Of the 31 economists surveyed by Reuters, 9 expect the central bank to maintain its Official Cash Rate (OCR) at 5.5% for the ninth consecutive meeting, while 12 forecast a 25-basis point rate cut. A decision to hold could lend support to the New Zealand dollar (NZD), whereas a rate cut might exert downward pressure. Traders might like to keep an eye on the AUD/NZD cross, with key resistance and support levels possibly at $1.0975 and $1.0843 UK CPI inflation Following the Bank of England’s (BoE) recent decision to cut the Bank Rate by 25 basis points to 5.0%—the first reduction in four years—a fresh inflation report is due from the UK. Headline CPI inflation for July is expected to rise to 2.3% year-on-year from June's 2.0%, with estimates ranging from 2.0% to 2.4%. Core inflation, which excludes volatile items like food and energy, is projected to hold steady at 3.5%, with a slight margin of variation between 3.3% and 3.5%.
by BlackBull_Markets
EUR/USD Daily Chart Analysis For Week of Aug 9, 2024Technical Analysis and Outlook: The Eurodollar demonstrated consistent upward momentum during this week's trading session, reaching our Mean Resistance level of 1.094 and retesting the completed Inner Currency Rally at 1.094. The substantial breakthrough of these targets resulted in establishing a new Mean Resistance at 1.099 and a complete Inner Currency Rally at 1.100. The prevailing analysis indicates a sustained downward trajectory toward a critical Mean Support level of 1.089. The breach of this significant target may prompt rapid downward movements, potentially extending to target the subsequent Mean Support level of 1.079.
by TradeSelecter
Canadian dollar rallies, jobs report loomsThe Canadian dollar has shined this week, posting gains over the past four days and rising 1%. Will the impressive rally continue? In the North American session, USD/CAD is trading at 1.3732, unchanged on the day. Canada wraps up the week with the July employment report. The June report was soft, with job growth coming in at -1.4 thousand, a rare decline. The markets are expecting strong turnaround today, with an estimate of 26.9 thousand. The flip side is that the unemployment rate is expected to nudge up to 6.5%, compared to 6.4% in June. If the employment report is a mix as expected, it will be interesting to see how investors respond. The Bank of Canada will be watching closely as it looks to the next meeting on September 4. The BoC has led the recent global trend of lowering rates, having trimmed rates by a quarter-point at each of the past two meetings. If the labour market shows further signs of cooling, it will support the case to lower rates again, perhaps as early as September. The Federal Reserve is virtually guaranteed to cut rates when its meets on September 18 and this will make it easier for the BoC to cut without putting downward pressure on the Canadian dollar. In the US, weaker economic data and the meltdown in the global stock markets has raised expectations of a half-point cut from the Fed in September. The probability of that scenario, only 3% a month ago, has soared to 54.5%, according to the CME’s FedWatch. The market slide led to calls for an emergency rate cut, but the US stock market has rebounded this week. Still, there is an uneasy calm as fears persist that the US economy is showing signs of deteriorating quickly and the sell-off could reignite if the US posts weak data. 1.3746 is a weak resistance line, followed by 1.3809. There is support at 1.3704 and 1.3679
by OANDA
Aussie jumps as RBA says rates could riseThe Australian dollar has had a busy week and is showing strong gains on Thursday. In the European session, AUD/USD is trading at 0.6550, up 0.50% at the time of writing. Two days after the Reserve Bank of Australia held the cash rate, Governor Bullock reinforced her hawkish stance on monetary policy. At the meeting, Bullock dropped a bombshell, saying she didn’t expect a rate cut for at least the next six months. Bullock said earlier today that the central bank wouldn’t hesitate to raise rates if needed, arguing that “the alternative of persistently high inflation is worse”. The RBA discussed the possibility of a rate hike at recent meetings and today Bullock said the RBA board had “explicitly considered” a rate hike at Tuesday’s meeting. The Australian dollar has responded with strong gains to Bullock’s hawkish remarks. At the Tuesday meeting, the central bank opted to maintain rates at the 12-year high of 4.35% for a seventh straight time. At a time when other major central banks have lowered rates and the mighty Federal Reserve is poised to make an initial cut in September, the RBA could well move in the opposite direction. The blame can be squarely put on inflation, which remains sticky, especially services prices. The RBA is projecting that CPI, which rose to 3.9% in the second quarter, won’t recede to 2-3% target until late 2025. The labor market continues to remain tight to the large-scale immigration, which will also make it difficult for the RBA to reduce rates. The financial markets are not marching to Bullock’s hawkish tune and widely expect a rate cut in December. The RBA has a poor track record with its forward guidance, particularly when it pledged in 2020 not to raise rates until 2023 and then hiked in May 2022. As well, the trend among central banks has been to lower rates and the RBA risks becoming an outlier if its raises rates. AUD/USD pushed above resistance at 0.6520 and tested resistance at 0.6559 earlier 0.6471 and 0.6432 are the next support levels
by fisherkj4
NZ dollar surges on strong employment dataThe New Zealand dollar has soared today. In the European session, NZD/USD is trading at 0.6018, up an impressive 1.1% at the time of writing. New Zealand’s labour market has been cooling off due to elevated interest rates and the markets were braced for a soft jobs report for the second quarter. Instead, job growth rebounded and unemployment was lower than expected, sending the New Zealand dollar sharply higher. Job growth expanded by 0.4% in the second quarter, up from -0.2% in Q1 and above the market estimate of -0.2%. The unemployment rate rose from 4.4% to 4.6%, a notch under the market estimate of 4.7%. This is the highest level since Q1 of 2021 but investors were pleased that it was lower than expected. The positive employment report has reduced market expectations of a rate cut from the Reserve Bank of New Zealand, which has driven the New Zealand dollar sharply higher today. Inflation has fallen to 3.3%, its lowest level in three years and close to the upper level of the central bank’s target range between 1% and 3%. A weak employment report could have cemented a rate cut at next week’s meeting but the job data was better than expected, which will complicate the rate decision. The final tier-1 release before the August 14 meeting is Inflation Expectations on Thursday. This indicator is closely followed by the central bank and will be a factor in the rate decision. Inflation Expectations has been on a steady downtrend and is expected to ease to 2.33% in the second quarter, compared to 2.5% in the first quarter. NZD/USD is testing resistance at 0.6009. Above, there is resistance at 0.6061 There is support at 0.5934 and 0.5882
by OANDA
The Orange Juice Crisis: A Climate-Induced Market ShiftOrange juice prices have hit record highs due to a confluence of climate-related challenges, including extreme weather events, rising temperatures, and altered rainfall patterns. These factors have decimated citrus crops, particularly in key production areas like Florida, leading to significant supply shortages and driving up prices. This crisis underscores the fragility of our food supply and highlights the urgent need for innovative solutions and international cooperation. The orange juice industry faces a severe crisis driven by climate change, leading to soaring prices and dwindling supplies. Extreme weather events, rising temperatures, and altered rainfall patterns have devastated citrus crops, particularly in Florida, the heart of U.S. orange production. This has led to a bidding war for orange juice concentrate, exacerbated by inflationary pressures on fertilizers, pesticides, and labor costs. Globally, major producers like Brazil, Mexico, and Spain also grapple with these climate-induced challenges, resulting in reduced yields and increased vulnerability. The economic toll extends beyond agriculture, affecting jobs and local economies. Addressing climate change is crucial for the industry's future. Investing in research to combat diseases like citrus greening, improving water management practices, and adopting sustainable farming methods are essential steps. Diversifying crops and exploring alternative citrus products could also offer relief. This crisis highlights the fragility of our food supply and the urgent need for global cooperation to ensure the long-term viability of the orange juice market. As climate change continues to impact agricultural production, innovative and sustainable solutions are imperative to stabilize prices and secure the future of this beloved beverage.
ICEUS:OJ1!Long
by signalmastermind
Title: Ringgit Rally Fuels Foreign Bond Inflows: A Deep DiveThe Malaysian ringgit has experienced a substantial appreciation, driven by robust foreign investment in the domestic bond market. A surge in capital inflows, totaling RM5.5 billion in July alone, has propelled the ringgit's performance. This analysis delves into the underlying economic factors driving this trend, examining key indicators and assessing the outlook for sustained growth. While the current trajectory is promising, investors must remain cognizant of potential global economic headwinds. Key Points: Strong foreign inflows into Malaysian bonds Ringgit's appreciation driven by multiple factors Deep dive into economic indicators shaping USD/MYR Assessment of Malaysia's economic fundamentals Cautious outlook amid potential global challenges Key Drivers of the Ringgit Rally: Currency Appreciation: Investors are buying bonds unhedged, betting on further ringgit gains. Strong Domestic Economy: Malaysia's economic robustness and expected interest rate stability bolster investor confidence. Global Factors: Anticipated Federal Reserve rate cuts weakening the USD benefit the ringgit. Economic Indicators Influencing USD/MYR: Interest Rate Differentials: Higher local rates attract foreign capital, strengthening the ringgit. Inflation Rates: Low inflation supports currency value. T rade Balance: Surpluses strengthen the ringgit, reflecting Malaysia's export strength. Economic Growth: Domestic consumption and government spending drive economic growth, enhancing the ringgit's appeal. Political Stability: A stable political climate attracts investment, supporting the currency. Global Economic Conditions: Global trends and geopolitical events affect investor risk appetite and currency flows. Outlook: Malaysia's diversified economy, fiscal prudence, and growing middle class underpin the ringgit's strength. Efforts to boost foreign direct investment and exports further support currency appreciation. However, global uncertainties, US monetary policy shifts, and geopolitical tensions could introduce volatility.
Long
by signalmastermind
AUD/USD slides on fears over the US economyThe Australian dollar has taken a nasty spill to start off the trading week. AUD/USD dropped as much has 2.5% in the Asian session and fell to its lowest levels since November 2023. The Aussie has pared those losses and is down 0.96% at the time of writing, trading at 0.6448. The Reserve Bank of Australia meets early Tuesday and it’s a virtual certainty that the Bank will hold the cash rate at 4.35%. The RBA has maintained rates six straight times and policy makers have discussed raising rates at recent meetings. This goes against the grain of the current trend in which central banks are lowering rates. The RBA would prefer to lower rates, which are at a 12-year high and are squeezing businesses and households. The problem remains stubborn inflation, which moved the wrong way in the second quarter, rising from 3.6% to 3.8%. This is well above the RBA’s upper band of its target range of between 1 and 3% and it won’t be a surprise if policy makers again debate raising rates at tomorrow’s meeting before keeping rates on hold. With the RBA expected to stay pat, the markets will be focusing on the rate statement and Governor Bullock’s press conference. The message from the RBA is expected to be along the lines that inflation remains too high and it’s premature to cut interest rates. The Federal Reserve is aiming for a soft landing for the US economy, but concerns are rising that the economy could tip into recession. US nonfarm payrolls for July slowed to 114 thousand on Friday, much lower than the revised 179 thousand in June and the market estimate of 175 thousand. The labour market has cooled much more quickly than expected, and there have been calls for an emergency unscheduled rate cut. The Fed would prefer not to make such a move, which could panic the markets, but the next meeting on September 18th is looking far away. Can the Fed afford to wait until then to deliver a rate cut? AUD/USD pushed through 0.6471 and is testing support at 0.6432 There is resistance at 0.6520 and 0.6559
Long
by OANDA
$USINTR - A Month of BreathThe Federal Reserve left the target for the Fed Funds Rate ECONOMICS:USINTR unchanged at 5%-5.25%, as expected, but signaled rates may go to 5.6% by Year-End if the Economy and Inflation do not Slow down more. It is the first pause in the tightening campaign following ten consecutive hikes that lifted borrowing costs by 500bps to the highest level since September 2007. Throughout Fed's announcement The Dollar Index TVC:DXY plunged to what can be said Wave C completed from A-B-C Elliot Waves Correction (attached ideas) Have the markets priced in Inflation ECONOMICS:USIRYY and Interest Rates ECONOMICS:USINTR ? TRADE SAFE *** NOTE that this is not Financial Advice ! Please do your own research and consult your Financial Advisor before partaking on any trading activity based solely on this Idea .
ECONOMICS:USINTR
by Mr_J__fx
Gold: A Strategic Asset in an Uncertain WorldGold's appeal as a safe-haven asset has been reinforced by recent geopolitical tensions. This analysis explores the factors driving gold prices, including geopolitical risks, economic conditions, and the role of gold ETFs. Gold has proven its resilience as a safe-haven asset during times of uncertainty. Geopolitical tensions, particularly in the Middle East, have fueled demand for gold. While economic factors also influence gold prices, the metal's role as a portfolio diversifier remains compelling. Consider gold ETFs for convenient exposure. Gold serves as a valuable safe-haven asset, particularly during times of geopolitical instability. Key Points: Geopolitical Risks: The article highlights the increasing geopolitical tensions globally and their impact on financial markets. The Middle East, in particular, is identified as a region of significant concern. Gold as a Hedge: Gold's unique characteristics, such as liquidity, store of value, and diversification benefits, make it an effective hedge against geopolitical risks. Economic Factors: While geopolitical factors are emphasized, the analysis acknowledges the influence of economic conditions, including interest rates and inflation, on gold prices. Investment Vehicles: Gold ETFs, like the SPDR Gold Shares ETF (GLD), are presented as convenient options for investors seeking gold exposure.
AMEX:GLDLong
by signalmastermind
240729 Weekly OutlookThe following week have major data release including, 240730 Tue CB Consumer Confidence **** 240731 Wed Fed Interest Rate Decision ***** 240801 Thu Initial Jobless Claims **** 240801 Fri Nonfarm Payrolls ***** Unemployment Rate ***** Consumer Confidence is the major leading indicator alongside Michigan Consumer index. Investors should follow the rise of two indexes to lead increase in economic data like inflation, GDP, labor market conditions, as well as economic conditions. Fed rate is expected to remain unchanged, while market discounting the first cut in the cycle to come in September. Labor market show resilience all the way that give space to maintain higher rates in this cycle for longer. Even the first rate cute is forecasted for September, I would still expect the higher rates to stay here for longer period due to resilient labor market, as shown by labor market indicators. There are no signs for S&P to weaken this time, rather shuttle up and down at high levels. Note that last adjustment in S&P followed the deviation of 12% from major trend line 200SMA. Attentive investors could observe it previously. When the market finally digest selling orders, S&P should resume the rising trend.
AMEX:VOO
by moncap2023
Inflation's Impact on Stock ReturnsInflation's Impact on Stock Returns Inflation's pervasive influence on the financial landscape cannot be understated. It affects everything from everyday spending to large-scale investing. This FXOpen article dives into the intricate relationship between inflation and stock returns, unravelling the multifaceted dynamics at play. Join us as we dissect the mechanics of the impact of inflation on the stock market, offering clarity in a world of economic ebbs and flows. Understanding Inflation Inflation represents the rising prices of goods and services over time. While a moderate level of inflation is often viewed as a sign of a growing economy, high inflation can erode purchasing power, making everyday items more expensive for consumers. Those trading and investing during high inflation face challenges as it can diminish the real returns on investments. Stock Returns Defined Stock returns denote the gains or losses an investor realises from stock investments. These returns typically manifest in two ways: dividends and capital appreciation. Dividends are regular payments made by corporations to shareholders from their profits. Capital appreciation, on the other hand, refers to the increase in a stock's price over time. It's important to note that stock returns can also be negative if a stock's price decreases. Influencing these returns are a myriad of factors, including company performance, market sentiment, and broader economic conditions. Mechanisms: How Inflation Affects Stock Prices Inflation, with its overarching grip on the economy, wields a substantial influence on stock prices. Understanding this dynamic is vital for traders looking to navigate the stock market during inflation. Below, we'll delve into the various mechanisms through which inflation affects stocks. Cost of Goods Sold and Company Profitability When there's inflation, the costs of raw materials and production generally rise. This escalation can squeeze a company's profit margins unless they pass these increased costs onto the consumers. For some industries, hiking prices might result in decreased demand, further impacting profitability. Consequently, stock prices can see downward pressure as potential investors foresee lower earnings. Consumer Purchasing Power Inflation erodes the value of money, meaning consumers can buy less with the same amount of money as before. This diminished purchasing power can lead to reduced consumer spending. Companies, especially those in the retail and consumer goods sector, may witness a dip in revenue. As revenues play a crucial role in determining stock value, a decline can lead to lower stock prices. Central Bank Responses and Interest Rates Central banks often intervene to counteract high inflation, primarily by raising interest rates. When interest rates rise, borrowing becomes more expensive for companies, which can hinder expansion plans and reduce profitability. Additionally, when inflation and interest rates rise, alternative investments like bonds become more appealing than stocks, leading to reduced demand for stocks. By grasping these mechanisms, traders can better anticipate inflation's effect on stocks and devise strategies that account for the intricate relationship between inflation and the stock market. Inflation's Dual Impact: Sectors and Market Caps The impact of inflation isn't uniform across the board; it varies significantly between sectors and company sizes. Certain sectors, like commodities or energy, might benefit from rising prices, turning inflation into an advantage. Conversely, retail or consumer goods sectors might suffer as consumers' purchasing power diminishes, leading to decreased spending. When examining company sizes, the inflation rate and stock market dynamics reveal nuanced patterns. Large-cap companies, with their diversified operations and global reach, often have better tools to hedge against inflationary pressures. In contrast, small-cap stocks, which might be more regionally focused and have fewer resources, can be more vulnerable to the negative effects of high inflation. Historical Perspective: Inflation and Stock Market Performance Historical data provides traders with valuable insights into the dynamics between inflation and stock market performance. For instance, during the 1970s, the US experienced a period of stagflation—simultaneous high inflation and stagnant economic growth. This era saw the S&P 500 struggle to provide real returns, largely due to soaring oil prices and tight monetary policy. Another example can be traced to emerging markets like Argentina in the early 2000s. Faced with skyrocketing inflation rates, the stock market initially surged as locals shifted money into assets to retain value. However, long-term sustainability was challenged by economic instability and a lack of foreign investments. Mitigation: How Traders Can Prepare for Inflation Inflation can unsettle even the savviest traders, but with proper preparation, its challenges can be mitigated. When investing during inflation, diversifying assets becomes paramount. Spreading investments across different asset classes and instruments can act as a buffer against inflation's adverse effects. For instance, you can trade forex or commodity, cryptocurrency*, and ETF CFDs on FXOpen’s TickTrader platform and further equip yourselves with the real-time data and tools necessary to make effective decisions. Additionally, stocks of companies with strong pricing power, which can pass on increased costs to consumers, might fare better than others. Moreover, bonds, especially those with interest rates adjusting to inflation, can be among the best investments during inflation, offering a degree of protection to portfolios. The Bottom Line In understanding inflation's intricate relationship with stock returns, traders arm themselves with valuable insights. To navigate these economic complexities and optimise trading strategies, consider taking the next step: open an FXOpen account, a trusted broker that provides the tools and resources to thrive in ever-evolving financial markets. *At FXOpen UK and FXOpen AU, Cryptocurrency CFDs are only available for trading by those clients categorised as Professional clients under FCA Rules and Professional clients under ASIC Rules, respectively. They are not available for trading by Retail clients. This article represents the opinion of the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand only. It is not to be construed as an offer, solicitation, or recommendation with respect to products and services provided by the Companies operating under the FXOpen brand, nor is it to be considered financial advice.
NASDAQ:MSFTEducation
by FXOpen
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