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GBP USD - FUNDAMENTAL DRIVERSGBP FUNDAMENTAL BIAS: WEAK BULLISH 1. Monetary Policy Hawkish surprise with a hint of dovish undertones sums up the Feb BoE decision. The bank announced the start of passive QT and hiked rates by 25bsp as expected, but the vote split was unanimous (9-0) but with a big hawkish surprise being 4 MPC members voting for a 50bsp hike. Inflation forecasts saw a big upward revision to a 7.25% peak by April (prev. 6.0%) & 5.21% in 1-year (prev. 3.40%). This initial hawkish statement saw immediate strength for GBP but during the press conference the BoE tried their best to get a dovish landing. Gov Bailey started his opening remarks by noting that the MPC’s decision to hike was not because the economy was strong but only because higher rates were necessary to return inflation to target, and even though he opened the door for further hikes he added that markets should not assume rates are on a long march higher. He also acknowledged the stagflation fears recently voiced by some market participants by saying that policy faces a trade-off between weakening growth and higher inflation. Despite the dovish nuances, STIR markets still price an implied cash rate of 1.0% by May which would mean a 25bsp in both March and May (1.0% is the level the BoE previously said they would being outright Gilt selling). Overall, the statement was hawkish, but the clear dovish undertones from the BoE was a bit surprising and also a bit worrisome for the future outlook. 2. Economic & Health Developments Even though growth estimates for the UK remain on solid footing, not everyone shares that optimism (Refinitiv polling data). With inflation the main reason for the BoE’s recent rate hikes, there is a concern that the UK economy faces a risk of stagflation, with inflation staying sticky while growth decelerates. That also means that current market expectations for rates looks way too aggressive and means downside risks for GBP should growth data push lower and inflation data stay high or even accelerate from here. 3. Political Developments Domestic political uncertainty usually leads to higher risk premiumsfor GBP, so the fate of PM Johnson remains a focus. Fallout from the heavily redacted Sue Gray report was limited but with growing distrust from within his party the question remains whether a vote of no-confidence will happen (if so, that could see short-term downside), and then focus will be on whether the PM can survive an actual vote of no-confidence, where a win should be GBP positive and negative for GBP if he loses. The Northern Ireland protocol is still in focus with the UK threatening to trigger Article 16 and the EU threatening to terminate the Brexit deal if they do. For now, markets have rightly ignored this as posturing, but any actual escalation can see sharp downside for GBP. 4. CFTC Analysis The confusion from last week’s COT data for Sterling has not been resolved with the recent print, showing a very sizeable increase in net-longs just as the GBP saw quite a jolt lower. With the recent ups and downs in CFTC data for Sterling it might be best not to make too much of the swings until they form a steady trend. 5. The Week Ahead In the UK we have an important batch of Jan data with jobs, CPI and retail sales. For jobs, the focus will fall predominantly on wages with the BoE voicing concerns that domestic cost pressures have been driven by a tight labour market. Thus, a big miss or beat in earnings can create short-term volatility for Sterling. For CPI, consensus expects the MM measures to contract while YY headline is expected flat and a slight increase for YY Core. It’s important to keep in mind that the BoE have projected a CPI peak of 7.25% in April and a print around 6% for Feb and March, which means it would take a number north of 6% to spark more concerns from the BoE. For Retail Sales, consensus expects a bounce in Jan of 0.6%, up from the dismal Dec print of -3.7%. Analysts point to a ‘post-Black Friday’ pullback and Omicron as the main culprits for the miss in Dec, which means a bounce in Jan should make sense if that was the case. With growing ‘stagflation’ concerns for the UK among market participants, a further miss would not bode well for the growth outlook. USD FUNDAMENTAL BIAS: BULLISH 1. Monetary Policy The Jan FOMC decision was hawkish on multiple fronts. The statement signalled a March hike as expected, but Chair Powell portrayed a very hawkish tone. Even though Powell said they can’t predict the rate path with certainty, he stressed the economy is in much better shape compared to the 2015 cycle and that will have implications for the pace of hikes (more and faster). Furthermore, he explained that there is ‘quite a bit of room’ to raise rates without damaging employment, which suggests upside risks to the rate path. A big question going into the meeting was how concerned the Fed was about recent equity market volatility. But the Chair explained that markets and financial conditions are reflecting policy changes in advance and that in aggregate the measures they look at isn’t showing red lights. Thus, any ‘Fed Put’ is much further away and inflation is the Fed’s biggest concern right now. The Chair also didn’t rule out the possibility of a 50bsp hike in March or possibly hiking at every meeting this year, which was hawkish as it means the Fed wants optionality to move more aggressive if they need to. We didn’t get new info on the balance sheet and Powell reiterated that they’re contemplating a start of QT after hiking has begun and they’ll discuss this in coming meetings. Overall, the tone and language was a lot more hawkish than the Dec meeting and more hawkish than consensus was expecting. 2. Global & Domestic Economy As the reserve currency, the USD’s global usage means it’s usually inversely correlated to the global economy and global trade. Thus, USD usually appreciates when growth & inflation slow (disinflation) and depreciates when growth & inflation accelerates (reflation). With expectations that growth and inflation will decelerate this year that should be a positive input for the USD. However, incoming data will also be important in relation to the ‘Fed Put’. There are many similarities between now and 4Q18, where the Fed were also tightening aggressively going into an economic slowdown. As long as growth data slows and the Fed stays aggressive that is a positive for the USD, but if it causes a dovish Fed pivot and lower rate repricing it would be a negative input for the USD. 3. CFTC Analysis Despite the hawkish pivot from the ECB two weeks ago and despite the strong push higher in the EUR and lower in the USD, positioning has yet to reflect any meaningful reduction in net-longs. Thus, with the number of rates priced in for the Fed already it does make the USD vulnerable to squeezes so worth keeping in mind. 4. The Week Ahead On the data front markets will keep close tabs on producer prices after the Jan CPI print, keeping in mind that PPI has a greater influence on PCE (the Fed’s preferred measure of inflation). Markets expect a slowdown in PPI, and since the Fed has tunnel vision for price pressures a bigger-than-expected miss could add pressure to the USD as a lot of Fed hikes have already been priced. On the growth side we have Retail Sales and Industrial Production, where both are expected to recover from the Dec drop, which participants said was mainly due to seasonal adjustments and purchases being brought forward. However, in light of other recent growth data there are doubts. In terms of USD reaction, as both of these are growth measures, there is the chance that the USD sees a similar inverse reaction like we’ve seen with other growth measures in recent weeks. We’ll also need to keep Fed speak on the radar after the explosive comments from Fed’s Bullard a well as the subsequent ‘sources’ pieces in Bloomberg and CNBC trying to talk back his comments. Stern push back could be enough to pressure the USD, while comments confirming a 50bsp hike should be supportive. We’ll also get the FOMC meeting minutes for Jan, but with recent developments and Fed speak after the meeting it might be old news. The other big development to watch will be Russia\Ukraine tensions with the US media sparking renewed fears of an invasion. Any risk off flows from further fears of invasion or actual escalations should be supportive for the USD as the world’s reserve currency and a safe haven, while strong de-escalation is expected to be negative.
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AUD CAD - FUNDAMENTAL DRIVERSAUD FUNDAMENTAL BIAS: NEUTRAL 1. Monetary Policy At their Feb meeting the RBA delivered on expectations by announcing an end to QE purchases, and also upgrading inflation and employment forecasts. These were seen as hawkish developments, but the bank tried as hard as possible to still keep up a dovish impression by saying the ceasing of QE does not imply near-term rate increases and stating that it’s still too early to conclude that inflation is sustainably within the target band despite recent CPI prints. The bank maintained their view that the cash rate will not increase until inflation is sustainably within the 2%-3% target band. Now, call me crazy, but on that front, the bank’s projections forecast inflation to reach close to 3.25% this year and then see it returning to 2.75% during 2023, which surely implied ‘sustainable’ inflation. Comments from Gov Lowe the following day were slightly less dovish though by acknowledging that achievement of their inflation and employment goals are within reach. He also noted that even though it remains to be seen if rates will increase this year, there are clearly scenarios where the bank would be hiking this year (which was a step away from the tone and language used in the statement) but added that it’s still plausible that a first-rate hike is a year or more away. The February decision and tone could be summed up as an incremental step away from ultra-easy policy and means we have changed our Dovish stance for the bank to neutral. 2. Idiosyncratic Drivers & Intermarket Analysis Apart from the RBA, there are 4 drivers we’re watching for the med-term outlook: Covid - so far, the RBA has been optimistic about the recovery, but incoming employment and inflation data will be crucial to see if that optimism is justified. China – Even with PBoC stepping up stimulus & fiscal support expected in 1H22, the Covid-Zero policy poses a risk to China’s expected 2022 recovery and incoming data will be important. Politically, the AUKUS defence pact could see retaliation against Australian goods and is worth keeping on the radar. Commodities – Iron Ore (24% of exports) and Coal (18% of exports) are important for terms of trade, and with both pushing higher on PBoC easing, it’s a positive for the AUD if they remain supported. Global growth – as a risk proxy, the health of the global economy is important, which means expected slowdown in growth and inflation globally needs monitoring, but if China’s recovery is solid the fall out could be limited for the AUD. 3. Global Risk Outlook As a high-beta currency, the AUD usually benefits from overall positive risk sentiment as well as environments that benefit pro-cyclical assets. Thus, both short-term (immediate) and med-term (underlying) risk sentiment will always be a key consideration for the AUD. 4. CFTC Analysis Stretched positioning are usually a contrarian indicator and warning of potential squeezes. Thus, right now the AUD might be more sensitive to positive data or developments compared to negative ones as a lot of bad news has been priced in. With the RBA out of the way risk sentiment should be a more prominent driver. 5. The Week Ahead In the week ahead our focus for the Aussie will turn to jobs data as well as risk sentiment. On the jobs side, consensus expects the Omicron scare to have negatively impacts job employment, with forecasts anticipating a contraction of -15K. According to Westpac, the expected drop should not be enough to change the Unemployment Rate as the Participation Rate is expected to contract as well, and on that front the investment bank says there is a risk that the Unemployment Rate sees a further push lower as a result of that. Another solid beat (if we get one) should further increase chances of a RBA pivot in the meetings ahead, while a miss in the data would be a good sentiment test, as we are expecting any drops in the AUD on a miss to offer buying opportunities. As far as markets are concerned, the most important data point we’ll get before the March policy meeting is the wage index coming up on the 23rd of February, which means even though employment data is important, there are bigger fish to fry on the data side. HOWEVER, after Friday’s warning from the US regarding an imminent Russia invasion of Ukraine, risk sentiment might be the bigger driver for the AUD next week, where any negative escalation should be negative for risk and add pressure on the AUD while any de-escalation should be risk positive, thus giving support. CAD FUNDAMENTAL BIAS: NEUTRAL 1. Monetary Policy Despite STIR markets pricing in close to an 80% chance of a 25bsp hike, the BoC chose to leave rates unchanged at their Jan meeting. However, the bank removed its extraordinary forward guidance and said they now think the economic slack has been absorbed (previously expected to occur somewhere in the middle quarters of 2022). The bank also explained that they expect rates will need to rise based on the progress of inflation, and Gov Macklem explained their only reason for not hiking was uncertainty surrounding Omicron. The statement gave a clear signal that a March hike is on the table. Furthermore, on the balance sheet the bank delivered on expectations by noting they will likely exit the reinvestment phase as rates begin to rise. Even though 2022 inflation projections were upgraded, the bank also downgraded growth forecasts (which in our view remains a key reason why current STIR market expectations are not realistic). Thus, the meeting had both dovish and hawkish elements to it, and thus means we are still happy to hold to a neutral bias for the CAD. 2. Intermarket Analysis Considerations Oil’s massive post-covid recovery has been impressive, driven by various factors such as supply & demand (OPEC’s production cuts), strong global demand recovery, and of course ‘higher for longer’ than expected inflation. Even though Oil has traded to new 7-year highs, we think the current Russia/Ukraine tensions and recent tight capacity concerns are the biggest contributors to the upside as our cautious view going into Q1 & Q2 remain intact. The drivers keeping us cautious are A hawkish DM central banks targeting demand, slowing growth and inflation, lower inflation expectations (due to the Fed), a consensus that is very long oil (growing callsfor $100 WTI). Friday’s geopolitical risks regarding Russia/Ukraine saw Oil prices jolting higher, and any escalation or de-escalation of those tensions will be an important driver for Oil in the week ahead. 3. Global Risk Outlook As a high-beta currency, the CAD usually benefits from overall positive risk sentiment as well as environments that benefit pro-cyclical assets. Thus, both short-term (immediate) and med-term (underlying) risk sentiment will always be a key consideration for the CAD. 4. CFTC Analysis We think the recent price action and positioning data has seen the CAD take a very similar path compared to April and Oct 2021 where markets were way too aggressive and optimistic to price in upside for the CAD, only to then see majority of it unwind. CAD could be setting up for a similar disappointment with money markets too aggressive on rate expectations for 2022, but oil prices remain a big supporting driver to keep in mind. 5. The Week Ahead Focus for the CAD is threefold this week with CPI, risk sentiment and Oil. For CPI, the BoC made it very clear in their Jan meeting that a March hike is on the way and STIR markets have priced in a 100% chance of a hike. Thus, a beat in the CPI should not change much for the BoC or STIR markets with more than 6 hikes priced in already. However, if we were to have a bigger-than-expected miss, that might not change much for the BoC who would want to look through one single data point, but it could be enough to see STIR markets price out some of the froth, which would weigh on CAD. On risk sentiment and Oil, it’s a mixed bag for the CAD. After Friday’s warning from the US regarding an imminent Russia invasion of Ukraine, risk sentiment is in focus for the CAD next week, where any negative escalation should be negative for risk and add pressure on the CAD while any de-escalation should be risk positive, thus giving support. On the oil front, the Friday invasion warnings saw Oil prices jolt higher as a Russian invasion poses serious concerns regarding energy supply for both oil and Natural Gas. Thus, risk sentiment and oil will create a messy environment for the CAD next week, as escalation should be risk negative (CAD negative) but also oil positive (CAD positive), and vice versa for any de-escalation. This makes for a very tricky environment for the CAD in the week ahead.
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Today’s Notable Sentiment ShiftsGBP – Sterling weakened on Wednesday, pressured by uncertainty surrounding the BoE’s monetary policy outlook. Reuters notes that “money markets are still pricing in a 25 bps rate increase in March and 125 bps by December 2022, but some analysts have warned about the risks of excessive expectations. They noted that Bank of England Governor Andrew Bailey said last week not to take for granted the BoE was embarking on a long series of rate hikes, while the BoE’s downward revision to inflation forecasts assumed interest rates at 1.5% by mid-2023.”
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AUD CAD - FUNDAMENTAL DRIVERSAUD FUNDAMENTAL BIAS: NEUTRAL 1. Monetary Policy At their Feb meeting the RBA delivered on expectations by announcing an end to QE purchases, and also upgrading inflation and employment forecasts. These were seen as hawkish developments, but the bank tried as hard as possible to still keep up a dovish impression by saying the ceasing of QE does not imply near-term rate increases and stating that it’s still too early to conclude that inflation is sustainably within the target band despite recent CPI prints. The bank maintained their view that the cash rate will not increase until inflation is sustainably within the 2%-3% target band. Now, call me crazy, but on that front, the bank’s projections forecast inflation to reach close to 3.25% this year and then see it returning to 2.75% during 2023, which surely implied ‘sustainable’ inflation. Comments from Gov Lowe the following day were slightly less dovish though by acknowledging that achievement of their inflation and employment goals are within reach. He also noted that even though it remains to be seen if rates will increase this year, there are clearly scenarios where the bank would be hiking this year (which was a step away from the tone and language used in the statement) but added that it’s still plausible that a first-rate hike is a year or more away. The February decision and tone could be summed up as an incremental step away from ultra-easy policy and means we have changed our Dovish stance for the bank to neutral. 2. Idiosyncratic Drivers & Intermarket Analysis Apart from the RBA, there are 4 drivers we’re watching for the med-term outlook: Covid - so far, the RBA has been optimistic about the recovery, but incoming employment and inflation data will be crucial to see if that optimism is justified. China – Even with PBoC stepping up stimulus & fiscal support expected in 1H22, the Covid-Zero policy poses a risk to China’s expected 2022 recovery and incoming data will be important. Politically, the AUKUS defence pact could see retaliation against Australian goods and is worth keeping on the radar. Commodities – Iron Ore (24% of exports) and Coal (18% of exports) are important for terms of trade, and with both pushing higher on PBoC easing, it’s a positive for the AUD if they remain supported. Global growth – as a risk proxy, the health of the global economy is important, which means expected slowdown in growth and inflation globally needs monitoring, but if China’s recovery is solid the fall out could be limited for the AUD. 3. Global Risk Outlook As a high-beta currency, the AUD usually benefits from overall positive risk sentiment as well as environments that benefit pro-cyclical assets. Thus, both short-term (immediate) and med-term (underlying) risk sentiment will always be a key consideration for the AUD. 4. CFTC Analysis Stretched positioning are usually a contrarian indicator and warning of potential squeezes. Thus, right now the AUD might be more sensitive to positive data or developments compared to negative ones as a lot of bad news has been priced in. With the RBA out of the way risk sentiment should be a more prominent driver. 5. The Week Ahead With no major economic data points due for Australia next week the main focus will fall on RBA speak as well as risk sentiment. On the former, it will be interesting to see whether Gov Lowe is willing to share more details regarding their most recent decision as he seemed to be more optimistic during his speech compared to the overall tone of the policy statement. With the RBA finally starting to move away from dovish policy, it should open up more room for net-shorts to unwind, especially if Gov Lowe can sound more hawkish this week. However, the other factor to watch in the week ahead is risk sentiment. With US CPI in the mix, as well as bond markets crashing hard, credit spreads starting to widen and real yields pushing higher across major economies, the uncertainty is starting to pile on for risk assets which means caution on that front will be important for the AUD and the other high-betas in the week ahead. CAD FUNDAMENTAL BIAS: NEUTRAL 1. Monetary Policy Despite STIR markets pricing in close to an 80% chance of a 25bsp hike, the BoC chose to leave rates unchanged at their Jan meeting. However, the bank removed its extraordinary forward guidance and said they now think the economic slack has been absorbed (previously expected to occur somewhere in the middle quarters of 2022). The bank also explained that they expect rates will need to rise based on the progress of inflation , and Gov Macklem explained their only reason for not hiking was uncertainty surrounding Omicron. The statement gave a clear signal that a March hike is on the table. Furthermore, on the balance sheet the bank delivered on expectations by noting they will likely exit the reinvestment phase as rates begin to rise. Even though 2022 inflation projections were upgraded, the bank also downgraded growth forecasts (which in our view remains a key reason why current STIR market expectations are not realistic). Thus, the meeting had both dovish and hawkish elements to it, and thus means we are still happy to hold to a neutral bias for the CAD. 2. Intermarket Analysis Considerations Oil’s massive post-covid recovery has been impressive, driven by various factors such as supply & demand (OPEC’s production cuts), strong global demand recovery, and of course ‘higher for longer’ than expected inflation . Even though Oil has traded to new 7-year highs, we think the current Russia/Ukraine tensions and recent tight capacity concerns are the biggest contributors to the upside as our cautious view going into Q1 & Q2 remain intact. The drivers keeping us cautious are A hawkish Fed targeting demand, slowing growth and inflation , lower inflation expectations (due to the Fed), a possible supply surplus in 1Q22, and a consensus that is very long oil (growing calls for $100 WTI). If our concerns do materialize into downside for oil prices it should put pressure on the CAD and other Petro-currencies like the NOK . 3. Global Risk Outlook As a high-beta currency, the CAD usually benefits from overall positive risk sentiment as well as environments that benefit pro-cyclical assets. Thus, both short-term (immediate) and med-term (underlying) risk sentiment will always be a key consideration for the CAD. 4. CFTC Analysis We think the recent price action and positioning data has seen the CAD take a very similar path compared to April and Oct 2021 where markets were way too aggressive and optimistic to price in upside for the CAD only to see majority of it unwind. We think the CAD is setting up for a similar disappointment with money markets too aggressive on rate expectations for 2022, but oil prices remain a big supporting driver to keep in mind. 5. The Week Ahead A very quiet week for the CAD from an economic data point of view. We do have a speech coming up from Gov Macklem, but he is unlikely to offer anything new that we have not already heard. Thus, the biggest focus or drivers for the BoC in the week ahead will likely be Oil prices and overall risk sentiment. In terms of risk sentiment, with US CPI in the mix, as well as bond markets crashing hard, credit spreads starting to widen and real yields pushing higher across major economies, the uncertainty is starting to pile on for risk assets which means caution on that front will be important for the CAD and the other high betas in the week ahead. In terms of oil prices, the concerns of tighter capacity for major suppliers as well as bad weather and geopolitical stress has kept oil prices well buoyed in the short-term which should be a positive input for the Petro-currencies like the CAD and NOK . However, we remain neutral on the CAD and med-term concerned about oil from here which means we maintain our upside bias for the AUDCAD for now.
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USD CAD - FUNDAMENTAL DRIVERSUSD FUNDAMENTAL BIAS: BULLISH 1. Monetary Policy The Jan FOMC decision was hawkish on multiple fronts. The statement signalled a March hike as expected, but Chair Powell portrayed a very hawkish tone. Even though Powell said they can’t predict the rate path with certainty, he stressed the economy is in much better shape compared to the 2015 cycle and that will have implications for the pace of hikes (more and faster). Furthermore, he explained that there is ‘quite a bit of room’ to raise rates without damaging employment, which suggests upside risks to the rate path. A big question going into the meeting was how concerned the Fed was about recent equity market volatility . But the Chair explained that markets and financial conditions are reflecting policy changes in advance and that in aggregate the measures they look at isn’t showing red lights. Thus, any ‘Fed Put’ is much further away and inflation is the Fed’s biggest concern right now. The Chair also didn’t rule out the possibility of a 50bsp hike in March or possibly hiking at every meeting this year, which was hawkish as it means the Fed wants optionality to move more aggressive if they need to. We didn’t get new info on the balance sheet and Powell reiterated that they’re contemplating a start of QT after hiking has begun and they’ll discuss this in coming meetings. Overall, the tone and language was lot more hawkish than the Dec meeting and more hawkish than consensus was expecting. 2. Global & Domestic Economy As the reserve currency, the USD’s global usage means it’s usually inversely correlated to the global economy and global trade. Thus, USD usually appreciates when growth & inflation slow (disinflation) and depreciates when growth & inflation accelerates (reflation). With expectations that growth and inflation will decelerate this year that should be a positive input for the USD. However, incoming data will also be important in relation to the ‘Fed Put’. There are many similarities between now and 4Q18, where the Fed were also tightening aggressively going into an economic slowdown. As long as growth data slows and the Fed stays aggressive that is a positive for the USD, but if it causes a dovish Fed pivot and lower rate repricing it would be a negative input for the USD. 3. CFTC Analysis The USD came under some pressure this week, mainly due to overdue mean reversion, recovery in risk assets and of course the surprise hawkish actions by the BoE and more specifically the ECB. Keep in mind that half of the USD’s drop this week occurred outside the CFTC reference period which would explain more limited unwinding in net-longs, and we would expect this number to be much bigger next week. With positioning still in net-long territory for leveraged funds and large specs, and with leveraged funds sitting on a sizeable net-short in the EUR the recent hawkish pivot from the ECB could see some further damage for the USD in the short-term. 4. The Week Ahead After last week’s much better than expected Average Hourly Earnings data out of the US, the main event for the USD as well as markets in general will be the January CPI print for the US scheduled for Wednesday. With another month of upside surprises for inflation data in other global economies, the markets will be watching the US CPI for Jan very closely. Right now, Fed policy has tunnel vision for inflation , and with the surprise beat in Friday’s NFP as well as the surprise punchy upward revisions, the labour market won’t deter the Fed from going all-in to fight inflation . The big dynamic to watch for is wages. Friday’s Average Hourly Earnings print of 5.7% was much higher than expected and saw an immediate jolt higher in US bond yields, with Fed Fund Futures now comfortably pricing in well over 5 hikes by the end of the year. Starting the new year, the biggest reason for expecting a deceleration in inflation was firstly due to base effects, secondly due to expectations that supply chain disruptions ease, and very importantly that commodity prices being cooling down. Out of these three, the last one has not happened yet with oil prices continuing their grind higher (which adds upside risks to headline numbers). Two important components to keep on the radar is wages and shelter prices, which for some means there is very little downside risk to this week’s CPI . How will the USD likely react? Recently the USD has reaction cyclically towards inflation data, which means a solid beat should be supportive, but at the same time a miss would be a far more attractive shorting opportunity, especially against the EUR after the ECB’s pivot . CAD FUNDAMENTAL BIAS: NEUTRAL 1. Monetary Policy Despite STIR markets pricing in close to an 80% chance of a 25bsp hike, the BoC chose to leave rates unchanged at their Jan meeting. However, the bank removed its extraordinary forward guidance and said they now think the economic slack has been absorbed (previously expected to occur somewhere in the middle quarters of 2022). The bank also explained that they expect rates will need to rise based on the progress of inflation , and Gov Macklem explained their only reason for not hiking was uncertainty surrounding Omicron. The statement gave a clear signal that a March hike is on the table. Furthermore, on the balance sheet the bank delivered on expectations by noting they will likely exit the reinvestment phase as rates begin to rise. Even though 2022 inflation projections were upgraded, the bank also downgraded growth forecasts (which in our view remains a key reason why current STIR market expectations are not realistic). Thus, the meeting had both dovish and hawkish elements to it, and thus means we are still happy to hold to a neutral bias for the CAD. 2. Intermarket Analysis Considerations Oil’s massive post-covid recovery has been impressive, driven by various factors such as supply & demand (OPEC’s production cuts), strong global demand recovery, and of course ‘higher for longer’ than expected inflation . Even though Oil has traded to new 7-year highs, we think the current Russia/Ukraine tensions and recent tight capacity concerns are the biggest contributors to the upside as our cautious view going into Q1 & Q2 remain intact. The drivers keeping us cautious are A hawkish Fed targeting demand, slowing growth and inflation , lower inflation expectations (due to the Fed), a possible supply surplus in 1Q22, and a consensus that is very long oil (growing calls for $100 WTI). If our concerns do materialize into downside for oil prices it should put pressure on the CAD and other Petro-currencies like the NOK . 3. Global Risk Outlook As a high-beta currency, the CAD usually benefits from overall positive risk sentiment as well as environments that benefit pro-cyclical assets. Thus, both short-term (immediate) and med-term (underlying) risk sentiment will always be a key consideration for the CAD. 4. CFTC Analysis We think the recent price action and positioning data has seen the CAD take a very similar path compared to April and Oct 2021 where markets were way too aggressive and optimistic to price in upside for the CAD only to see majority of it unwind. We think the CAD is setting up for a similar disappointment with money markets too aggressive on rate expectations for 2022, but oil prices remain a big supporting driver to keep in mind. 5. The Week Ahead A very quiet week for the CAD from an economic data point of view. We do have a speech coming up from Gov Macklem, but he is unlikely to offer anything new that we have not already heard. Thus, the biggest focus or drivers for the BoC in the week ahead will likely be Oil prices and overall risk sentiment. In terms of risk sentiment, with US CPI in the mix, as well as bond markets crashing hard, credit spreads starting to widen and real yields pushing higher across major economies, the uncertainty is starting to pile on for risk assets which means caution on that front will be important for the CAD and the other high betas in the week ahead. In terms of oil prices, the concerns of tighter capacity for major suppliers as well as bad weather and geopolitical stress has kept oil prices well buoyed in the short-term which should be a positive input for the Petro-currencies like the CAD and NOK . However, we remain neutral on the CAD and med-term concerned about oil from here which means we maintain our upside bias for the AUDCAD for now.
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NZD USD - FUNDAMENTAL DRIVERSNZD FUNDAMENTAL BIAS: WEAK BULLISH 1. Monetary Policy The RBNZ underwhelmed some market participants who were looking for a 50bsp hike at their last policy meeting and the bank delivered a 25bsp hike as consensus was expecting. Even though the NZD took a plunge after the meeting, we don’t think markets are really giving NZD the upside it deserves after the Nov RBNZ decision. Not referring to the knee-jerk lower after the 25bsp hike of course as that was fully priced in and always ran the risk of underwhelming the bulls, but the outlook in the MPR justifies more NZD strength. The upgrades to the economic outlook between Aug and Nov were a lot more positive than expected, with growth seen lower in 2022 but much higher in 2023, CPI seen higher throughout 2022 and 2023, Unemployment seen lower throughout the forecast horizon, and of course the big upgrade to the OCR which is now seen at 2.6% by 2024. The bank also brought forward their expectation of reaching the 2.0% neutral rate by 5 quarters. For now, incoming data will be very important and any new developments with the new Omicron variant will be closely watched. Any major deterioration can see markets pricing out some of the hikes that has been priced in and is a risk to the outlook. However, if data stays solid, the recent sell off in the NZD does seem at odds with the fundamental, policy and economic outlook. 2. Economic and health developments Even though the NZ government has abandoned a covid-zero strategy, the recent rise in Omicron cases as well as well as the PM going into self-isolation is worth keeping on the radar. Turning to the econ data, the recent macro data, including Q4 CPI data has surpassed both market and RBNZ expectations. But markets have not been too bothered with the incoming data and have not given the NZD the upside it deserves. For now, based on the economic and policy outlook the NZD still seems undervalued at current prices, but we need to keep close track of the overall risk sentiment. 3. Global Risk Outlook As a high-beta currency, the NZD usually benefits from overall positive risk sentiment as well as environments that benefit pro-cyclical assets. Thus, both short-term (immediate) and med-term (underlying) risk sentiment will always be a key consideration for the NZD. 4. CFTC Analysis Positioning changes has been very limited for the NZD in the past few weeks and with the flush out of net-longs among Leveraged Funds in Dec we can see that positioning is close to neutral for both large specs and leveraged funds. The sentiment signal from the unwind in positioning means right now we are happy to wait for incoming econ data or strong risk sentiment impulses to give better sense of where the NZD goes next. 5. The Week Ahead Inflation expectations and a speech by Gov Orr is the only major scheduled events on the radar for the NZD this week. The real question is whether either of them will be enough to provide any meaningful volatility for the NZD? Over the past couple of weeks, the price action and momentum signals has continued to deteriorate for the NZD, which has kept us very patient and also saw us tilt our bias from bullish to neutral until markets wake up from their slumber and realize that the RBNZ remains the most hawkish central bank among the majors and the economic data still means the bank is set to out-hike all of their peers . The other factor to watch for the NZD in the week ahead is risk sentiment, with US CPI in the mix, as well as bond markets crashing hard, credit spreads starting to widen and real yields pushing higher across major economies, the uncertainty is starting to pile on for risk assets which means caution on that front will be important for the NZD and the other high betas in the week ahead. USD FUNDAMENTAL BIAS: BULLISH 1. Monetary Policy The Jan FOMC decision was hawkish on multiple fronts. The statement signalled a March hike as expected, but Chair Powell portrayed a very hawkish tone. Even though Powell said they can’t predict the rate path with certainty, he stressed the economy is in much better shape compared to the 2015 cycle and that will have implications for the pace of hikes (more and faster). Furthermore, he explained that there is ‘quite a bit of room’ to raise rates without damaging employment, which suggests upside risks to the rate path. A big question going into the meeting was how concerned the Fed was about recent equity market volatility . But the Chair explained that markets and financial conditions are reflecting policy changes in advance and that in aggregate the measures they look at isn’t showing red lights. Thus, any ‘Fed Put’ is much further away and inflation is the Fed’s biggest concern right now. The Chair also didn’t rule out the possibility of a 50bsp hike in March or possibly hiking at every meeting this year, which was hawkish as it means the Fed wants optionality to move more aggressive if they need to. We didn’t get new info on the balance sheet and Powell reiterated that they’re contemplating a start of QT after hiking has begun and they’ll discuss this in coming meetings. Overall, the tone and language was lot more hawkish than the Dec meeting and more hawkish than consensus was expecting. 2. Global & Domestic Economy As the reserve currency, the USD’s global usage means it’s usually inversely correlated to the global economy and global trade. Thus, USD usually appreciates when growth & inflation slow (disinflation) and depreciates when growth & inflation accelerates (reflation). With expectations that growth and inflation will decelerate this year that should be a positive input for the USD. However, incoming data will also be important in relation to the ‘Fed Put’. There are many similarities between now and 4Q18, where the Fed were also tightening aggressively going into an economic slowdown. As long as growth data slows and the Fed stays aggressive that is a positive for the USD, but if it causes a dovish Fed pivot and lower rate repricing it would be a negative input for the USD. 3. CFTC Analysis The USD came under some pressure this week, mainly due to overdue mean reversion, recovery in risk assets and of course the surprise hawkish actions by the BoE and more specifically the ECB. Keep in mind that half of the USD’s drop this week occurred outside the CFTC reference period which would explain more limited unwinding in net-longs, and we would expect this number to be much bigger next week. With positioning still in net-long territory for leveraged funds and large specs, and with leveraged funds sitting on a sizeable net-short in the EUR the recent hawkish pivot from the ECB could see some further damage for the USD in the short-term. 4. The Week Ahead After last week’s much better than expected Average Hourly Earnings data out of the US, the main event for the USD as well as markets in general will be the January CPI print for the US scheduled for Wednesday. With another month of upside surprises for inflation data in other global economies, the markets will be watching the US CPI for Jan very closely. Right now, Fed policy has tunnel vision for inflation , and with the surprise beat in Friday’s NFP as well as the surprise punchy upward revisions, the labour market won’t deter the Fed from going all-in to fight inflation . The big dynamic to watch for is wages. Friday’s Average Hourly Earnings print of 5.7% was much higher than expected and saw an immediate jolt higher in US bond yields, with Fed Fund Futures now comfortably pricing in well over 5 hikes by the end of the year. Starting the new year, the biggest reason for expecting a deceleration in inflation was firstly due to base effects, secondly due to expectations that supply chain disruptions ease, and very importantly that commodity prices being cooling down. Out of these three, the last one has not happened yet with oil prices continuing their grind higher (which adds upside risks to headline numbers). Two important components to keep on the radar is wages and shelter prices, which for some means there is very little downside risk to this week’s CPI . How will the USD likely react? Recently the USD has reaction cyclically towards inflation data, which means a solid beat should be supportive, but at the same time a miss would be a far more attractive shorting opportunity, especially against the EUR after the ECB’s pivot .
by thunderpips
4
GBP USD - FUNDAMENTAL DRIVERSGBP FUNDAMENTAL BIAS: WEAK BULLISH 1. Monetary Policy Hawkish surprise with a hint of dovish undertones sums up the Feb BoE decision. The bank announced the start of passive QT and also hiked rates by 25bsp as expected, but the vote split was unanimous (9-0) but with a big hawkish surprise being 4 MPC members voting for a 50bsp hike. Inflation forecasts saw a big upward revision to a 7.25% peak by April ( prev . 6.0%) & 5.21% in 1-year ( prev . 3.40%). This initial hawkish statement saw immediate strength for GBP but during the press conference the BoE tried their best to get a dovish landing. Gov Bailey started his opening remarks by noting that the MPC’s decision to hike was not because the economy was strong but only because higher rates were necessary to return inflation to target, and even though he opened the door for further hikes he added that markets should not assume rates are on a long march higher. He also acknowledged the stagflation fears recently voiced by some market participants by saying that policy faces a trade off between weakening growth and higher inflation . Despite the dovish nuances, STIR markets still price an implied cash rate of 1.0% by May which would mean a 25bsp in both March and May (1.0% is the level the BoE previously said they would being outright Gilt selling). Overall, the statement was hawkish, but the clear dovish undertones from the BoE was a bit surprising and also a bit worrisome for the future outlook. 2. Economic & Health Developments There is a growing chorus of participants calling for a very tough road ahead for UK growth, and most recent Retail Sales data gave more confirmation to this expectation. Forecasts by the IMF/OECB still sees decent growth differentials, but not everyone shares that optimism (Refinitiv polling data). Even though the solid econ data going into Dec was enough to see the BoE hike, the overall rate expectations already priced in by markets are too ambitious. As long incoming data stay solid it should keep odds for additional tightening alive, but we should be mindful of repricing if the incoming data starts confirming a bleaker picture for growth. 3. Political Developments The political uncertainty surrounding PM Johnson mean a higher risk premium for GBP. The fallout from the heavily redacted Sue Gray report was limited but reports over the weekend show a growing distrust for the PM from within his own party. The question remains whether enough MPs opt for a vote of no-confidence (if so, that could see short-term downside), but after that the focus will be on whether the PM can survive an actual vote of no-confidence, where a win is expected to be GBP positive and negative for Sterling if he loses. The North Ireland protocol is still in focus in the background with the UK threatening to trigger Article 16 and the EU threatening to terminate the Brexit deal if they do. For now, markets have rightly ignored this as political posturing, but of course any actual escalation could see sharp risk premium built into the GBP 4. CFTC Analysis The CFTC data for GBP was very surprising. Recall that the downside in the GBP only started later during last week, which means that the very big increase in net-short positioning occurred while Sterling was still flying high. The question here is whether this was some political risk premiums building up or part of a bigger change in sentiment as concerns over the UK’s growth outlook continues to surface. 5. The Week Ahead Just like the EUR, the biggest focus for the week ahead for Sterling will be on BoE talk. The bank tried really hard to get a dovish landing on Thursday, and any additional info and clarity from them will be keenly watched by market participants. With STIR markets pricing in an implied rate of 1.0% by May, one would have thought more upside is warranted for Sterling, but after the dovish undertones as well as the ongoing political challenges things are looking a bit messy for the GBP right now. If we see a similar divergence between ECB and BoE language like we saw at the press conferences that should put further upside pressure on EURGBP. USD FUNDAMENTAL BIAS: BULLISH 1. Monetary Policy The Jan FOMC decision was hawkish on multiple fronts. The statement signalled a March hike as expected, but Chair Powell portrayed a very hawkish tone. Even though Powell said they can’t predict the rate path with certainty, he stressed the economy is in much better shape compared to the 2015 cycle and that will have implications for the pace of hikes (more and faster). Furthermore, he explained that there is ‘quite a bit of room’ to raise rates without damaging employment, which suggests upside risks to the rate path. A big question going into the meeting was how concerned the Fed was about recent equity market volatility . But the Chair explained that markets and financial conditions are reflecting policy changes in advance and that in aggregate the measures they look at isn’t showing red lights. Thus, any ‘Fed Put’ is much further away and inflation is the Fed’s biggest concern right now. The Chair also didn’t rule out the possibility of a 50bsp hike in March or possibly hiking at every meeting this year, which was hawkish as it means the Fed wants optionality to move more aggressive if they need to. We didn’t get new info on the balance sheet and Powell reiterated that they’re contemplating a start of QT after hiking has begun and they’ll discuss this in coming meetings. Overall, the tone and language was lot more hawkish than the Dec meeting and more hawkish than consensus was expecting. 2. Global & Domestic Economy As the reserve currency, the USD’s global usage means it’s usually inversely correlated to the global economy and global trade. Thus, USD usually appreciates when growth & inflation slow (disinflation) and depreciates when growth & inflation accelerates (reflation). With expectations that growth and inflation will decelerate this year that should be a positive input for the USD. However, incoming data will also be important in relation to the ‘Fed Put’. There are many similarities between now and 4Q18, where the Fed were also tightening aggressively going into an economic slowdown. As long as growth data slows and the Fed stays aggressive that is a positive for the USD, but if it causes a dovish Fed pivot and lower rate repricing it would be a negative input for the USD. 3. CFTC Analysis The USD came under some pressure this week, mainly due to overdue mean reversion, recovery in risk assets and of course the surprise hawkish actions by the BoE and more specifically the ECB. Keep in mind that half of the USD’s drop this week occurred outside the CFTC reference period which would explain more limited unwinding in net-longs, and we would expect this number to be much bigger next week. With positioning still in net-long territory for leveraged funds and large specs, and with leveraged funds sitting on a sizeable net-short in the EUR the recent hawkish pivot from the ECB could see some further damage for the USD in the short-term. 4. The Week Ahead After last week’s much better than expected Average Hourly Earnings data out of the US, the main event for the USD as well as markets in general will be the January CPI print for the US scheduled for Wednesday. With another month of upside surprises for inflation data in other global economies, the markets will be watching the US CPI for Jan very closely. Right now, Fed policy has tunnel vision for inflation , and with the surprise beat in Friday’s NFP as well as the surprise punchy upward revisions, the labour market won’t deter the Fed from going all-in to fight inflation . The big dynamic to watch for is wages. Friday’s Average Hourly Earnings print of 5.7% was much higher than expected and saw an immediate jolt higher in US bond yields, with Fed Fund Futures now comfortably pricing in well over 5 hikes by the end of the year. Starting the new year, the biggest reason for expecting a deceleration in inflation was firstly due to base effects, secondly due to expectations that supply chain disruptions ease, and very importantly that commodity prices being cooling down. Out of these three, the last one has not happened yet with oil prices continuing their grind higher (which adds upside risks to headline numbers). Two important components to keep on the radar is wages and shelter prices, which for some means there is very little downside risk to this week’s CPI . How will the USD likely react? Recently the USD has reaction cyclically towards inflation data, which means a solid beat should be supportive, but at the same time a miss would be a far more attractive shorting opportunity, especially against the EUR after the ECB’s pivot .
by thunderpips
1
EUR USD - FUNDAMENTAL DRIVERSEUR FUNDAMENTAL BIAS: NEUTRAL 1. Monetary Policy Hawkish! This sums up the Feb ECB policy meeting. The initial statement was in line with Dec guidance and offered very little surprises (which was initially seen as dovish). However, during the press conference President Lagarde explained that the upside surprises in CPI in Dec and Jan saw unanimous concern around the GC in the near-term and surprised markets by not repeating Dec language which said a 2022 rate hike was unlikely (which immediately saw STIR markets price in a 10bsp hike as soon as June). The president also made the March meeting live, by stating that they’ll use the March meeting to decide what the APP will look like for the rest of 2022 (which markets took as a signal that the APP could conclude somewhere in 2H22. After the meeting we had the customary sources comments which stated that the ECB is preparing for a potential policy recalibration in March (with some members wanting to change policy at today’s meeting already) and added that it is sensible not to exclude a 2022 hike as a possibility and also stated that the ECB is considering possibly ending the APP at the end of Q3 (which would put a Q4 hike in play). Furthermore, sources stated that if inflation does not ease, they’ll consider adjusting policy in March (which means incoming inflation data will be critical). The shift is stance and tone were significant for us to change the bank’s overall policy stance to neutral and to adjust the EUR’s fundamental bias from dovish to neutral as well. Incoming inflation data will be key from here. 2. Economic & Health Developments Even though the recent activity data suggests the hit to the economy from previous lockdowns weren’t as bad as feared, the additional lockdown measures across Europe has weighed on incoming data. Growth differentials still favour places like the US and UK above that of the EZ and alongside the clear monetary policy divergence means the bearish bias is firmly in place. On the fiscal front, attention is on ongoing discussions to potentially allow purchases of ‘green bonds’ NOT to count against budget deficits. If approved, this could drastically change the fiscal landscape for the EZ and would be seen as a big positive for the EUR and EU equities. 3. Funding Characteristics As a low yielder (like JPY & CHF), the EUR has been a funding choice among carry trades, especially during 2019 where it was a favourite against high yielding EM. As such, part of the EUR’s upside after the initial risk-off scare in March 2020 was attributed to a major unwind of large carry trades. As more central banks start normalizing policy and rate differentials widen, the EUR’s use as a funding currency could add additional pressure in the med-term , but keep in mind it could also spark risk off upside if some of those trades unwind. 4. CFTC Analysis Remember that the ECB meeting this past week took place on Thursday, that means that the most recent CFTC update will not include the big jolt higher in the EUR across the board. We would expect next week’s data to show a sizeable increase in large spec net-longs as well as a very big reduction in leveraged fund net-shorts. With so many negatives priced in for the EUR in recent weeks, the unwind could be punchy. 5. The Week Ahead In the week ahead we have a very light economic calendar coming up for the Eurozone, but we do have quite a few ECB speakers lined up and that will take centre stage for markets. Looking at the moves in both bund yields and the EUR, the ECB members will no doubt have quite a few questions they’ll need to answer and will want to give their own views and opinions. If the ECB thinks the markets overreacted to the message conveyed by President Lagarde, they will want to use this week to get on the wires as much as possible to correct any misplaced expectations. That means President Lagarde’s testimony before the EU Parliament Economic and Monetary Affairs Committee will be scrutinized for any additional details and info, especially with markets now pricing in over 50 basis points of tightening by year-end as well as a Q2 end to QE . Without any strong push back from the ECB in the week ahead will likely lead to a further unwind in short-positioning and should continue to be supportive for the EUR in the very short-term. USD FUNDAMENTAL BIAS: BULLISH 1. Monetary Policy The Jan FOMC decision was hawkish on multiple fronts. The statement signalled a March hike as expected, but Chair Powell portrayed a very hawkish tone. Even though Powell said they can’t predict the rate path with certainty, he stressed the economy is in much better shape compared to the 2015 cycle and that will have implications for the pace of hikes (more and faster). Furthermore, he explained that there is ‘quite a bit of room’ to raise rates without damaging employment, which suggests upside risks to the rate path. A big question going into the meeting was how concerned the Fed was about recent equity market volatility . But the Chair explained that markets and financial conditions are reflecting policy changes in advance and that in aggregate the measures they look at isn’t showing red lights. Thus, any ‘Fed Put’ is much further away and inflation is the Fed’s biggest concern right now. The Chair also didn’t rule out the possibility of a 50bsp hike in March or possibly hiking at every meeting this year, which was hawkish as it means the Fed wants optionality to move more aggressive if they need to. We didn’t get new info on the balance sheet and Powell reiterated that they’re contemplating a start of QT after hiking has begun and they’ll discuss this in coming meetings. Overall, the tone and language was lot more hawkish than the Dec meeting and more hawkish than consensus was expecting. 2. Global & Domestic Economy As the reserve currency, the USD’s global usage means it’s usually inversely correlated to the global economy and global trade. Thus, USD usually appreciates when growth & inflation slow (disinflation) and depreciates when growth & inflation accelerates (reflation). With expectations that growth and inflation will decelerate this year that should be a positive input for the USD. However, incoming data will also be important in relation to the ‘Fed Put’. There are many similarities between now and 4Q18, where the Fed were also tightening aggressively going into an economic slowdown. As long as growth data slows and the Fed stays aggressive that is a positive for the USD, but if it causes a dovish Fed pivot and lower rate repricing it would be a negative input for the USD. 3. CFTC Analysis The USD came under some pressure this week, mainly due to overdue mean reversion, recovery in risk assets and of course the surprise hawkish actions by the BoE and more specifically the ECB. Keep in mind that half of the USD’s drop this week occurred outside the CFTC reference period which would explain more limited unwinding in net-longs, and we would expect this number to be much bigger next week. With positioning still in net-long territory for leveraged funds and large specs, and with leveraged funds sitting on a sizeable net-short in the EUR the recent hawkish pivot from the ECB could see some further damage for the USD in the short-term. 4. The Week Ahead After last week’s much better than expected Average Hourly Earnings data out of the US, the main event for the USD as well as markets in general will be the January CPI print for the US scheduled for Wednesday. With another month of upside surprises for inflation data in other global economies, the markets will be watching the US CPI for Jan very closely. Right now, Fed policy has tunnel vision for inflation , and with the surprise beat in Friday’s NFP as well as the surprise punchy upward revisions, the labour market won’t deter the Fed from going all-in to fight inflation . The big dynamic to watch for is wages. Friday’s Average Hourly Earnings print of 5.7% was much higher than expected and saw an immediate jolt higher in US bond yields, with Fed Fund Futures now comfortably pricing in well over 5 hikes by the end of the year. Starting the new year, the biggest reason for expecting a deceleration in inflation was firstly due to base effects, secondly due to expectations that supply chain disruptions ease, and very importantly that commodity prices being cooling down. Out of these three, the last one has not happened yet with oil prices continuing their grind higher (which adds upside risks to headline numbers). Two important components to keep on the radar is wages and shelter prices, which for some means there is very little downside risk to this week’s CPI . How will the USD likely react? Recently the USD has reaction cyclically towards inflation data, which means a solid beat should be supportive, but at the same time a miss would be a far more attractive shorting opportunity, especially against the EUR after the ECB’s pivot .
by thunderpips
EUR GBP - FUNDAMENTAL DRIVERSEUR FUNDAMENTAL BIAS: NEUTRAL 1. Monetary Policy Hawkish! This sums up the Feb ECB policy meeting. The initial statement was in line with Dec guidance and offered very little surprises (which was initially seen as dovish). However, during the press conference President Lagarde explained that the upside surprises in CPI in Dec and Jan saw unanimous concern around the GC in the near-term and surprised markets by not repeating Dec language which said a 2022 rate hike was unlikely (which immediately saw STIR markets price in a 10bsp hike as soon as June). The president also made the March meeting live, by stating that they’ll use the March meeting to decide what the APP will look like for the rest of 2022 (which markets took as a signal that the APP could conclude somewhere in 2H22. After the meeting we had the customary sources comments which stated that the ECB is preparing for a potential policy recalibration in March (with some members wanting to change policy at today’s meeting already) and added that it is sensible not to exclude a 2022 hike as a possibility and also stated that the ECB is considering possibly ending the APP at the end of Q3 (which would put a Q4 hike in play). Furthermore, sources stated that if inflation does not ease, they’ll consider adjusting policy in March (which means incoming inflation data will be critical). The shift is stance and tone were significant for us to change the bank’s overall policy stance to neutral and to adjust the EUR’s fundamental bias from dovish to neutral as well. Incoming inflation data will be key from here. 2. Economic & Health Developments Even though the recent activity data suggests the hit to the economy from previous lockdowns weren’t as bad as feared, the additional lockdown measures across Europe has weighed on incoming data. Growth differentials still favour places like the US and UK above that of the EZ and alongside the clear monetary policy divergence means the bearish bias is firmly in place. On the fiscal front, attention is on ongoing discussions to potentially allow purchases of ‘green bonds’ NOT to count against budget deficits. If approved, this could drastically change the fiscal landscape for the EZ and would be seen as a big positive for the EUR and EU equities. 3. Funding Characteristics As a low yielder (like JPY & CHF), the EUR has been a funding choice among carry trades, especially during 2019 where it was a favourite against high yielding EM. As such, part of the EUR’s upside after the initial risk-off scare in March 2020 was attributed to a major unwind of large carry trades. As more central banks start normalizing policy and rate differentials widen, the EUR’s use as a funding currency could add additional pressure in the med-term , but keep in mind it could also spark risk off upside if some of those trades unwind. 4. CFTC Analysis Remember that the ECB meeting this past week took place on Thursday, that means that the most recent CFTC update will not include the big jolt higher in the EUR across the board. We would expect next week’s data to show a sizeable increase in large spec net-longs as well as a very big reduction in leveraged fund net-shorts. With so many negatives priced in for the EUR in recent weeks, the unwind could be punchy. 5. The Week Ahead In the week ahead we have a very light economic calendar coming up for the Eurozone, but we do have quite a few ECB speakers lined up and that will take centre stage for markets. Looking at the moves in both bund yields and the EUR, the ECB members will no doubt have quite a few questions they’ll need to answer and will want to give their own views and opinions. If the ECB thinks the markets overreacted to the message conveyed by President Lagarde, they will want to use this week to get on the wires as much as possible to correct any misplaced expectations. That means President Lagarde’s testimony before the EU Parliament Economic and Monetary Affairs Committee will be scrutinized for any additional details and info, especially with markets now pricing in over 50 basis points of tightening by year-end as well as a Q2 end to QE . Without any strong push back from the ECB in the week ahead will likely lead to a further unwind in short-positioning and should continue to be supportive for the EUR in the very short-term. GBP FUNDAMENTAL BIAS: WEAK BULLISH 1. Monetary Policy Hawkish surprise with a hint of dovish undertones sums up the Feb BoE decision. The bank announced the start of passive QT and also hiked rates by 25bsp as expected, but the vote split was unanimous (9-0) but with a big hawkish surprise being 4 MPC members voting for a 50bsp hike. Inflation forecasts saw a big upward revision to a 7.25% peak by April ( prev . 6.0%) & 5.21% in 1-year ( prev . 3.40%). This initial hawkish statement saw immediate strength for GBP but during the press conference the BoE tried their best to get a dovish landing. Gov Bailey started his opening remarks by noting that the MPC’s decision to hike was not because the economy was strong but only because higher rates were necessary to return inflation to target, and even though he opened the door for further hikes he added that markets should not assume rates are on a long march higher. He also acknowledged the stagflation fears recently voiced by some market participants by saying that policy faces a trade off between weakening growth and higher inflation . Despite the dovish nuances, STIR markets still price an implied cash rate of 1.0% by May which would mean a 25bsp in both March and May (1.0% is the level the BoE previously said they would being outright Gilt selling). Overall, the statement was hawkish, but the clear dovish undertones from the BoE was a bit surprising and also a bit worrisome for the future outlook. 2. Economic & Health Developments There is a growing chorus of participants calling for a very tough road ahead for UK growth, and most recent Retail Sales data gave more confirmation to this expectation. Forecasts by the IMF/OECB still sees decent growth differentials, but not everyone shares that optimism (Refinitiv polling data). Even though the solid econ data going into Dec was enough to see the BoE hike, the overall rate expectations already priced in by markets are too ambitious. As long incoming data stay solid it should keep odds for additional tightening alive, but we should be mindful of repricing if the incoming data starts confirming a bleaker picture for growth. 3. Political Developments The political uncertainty surrounding PM Johnson mean a higher risk premium for GBP. The fallout from the heavily redacted Sue Gray report was limited but reports over the weekend show a growing distrust for the PM from within his own party. The question remains whether enough MPs opt for a vote of no-confidence (if so, that could see short-term downside), but after that the focus will be on whether the PM can survive an actual vote of no-confidence, where a win is expected to be GBP positive and negative for Sterling if he loses. The North Ireland protocol is still in focus in the background with the UK threatening to trigger Article 16 and the EU threatening to terminate the Brexit deal if they do. For now, markets have rightly ignored this as political posturing, but of course any actual escalation could see sharp risk premium built into the GBP 4. CFTC Analysis The CFTC data for GBP was very surprising. Recall that the downside in the GBP only started later during last week, which means that the very big increase in net-short positioning occurred while Sterling was still flying high. The question here is whether this was some political risk premiums building up or part of a bigger change in sentiment as concerns over the UK’s growth outlook continues to surface. 5. The Week Ahead Just like the EUR, the biggest focus for the week ahead for Sterling will be on BoE talk. The bank tried really hard to get a dovish landing on Thursday, and any additional info and clarity from them will be keenly watched by market participants. With STIR markets pricing in an implied rate of 1.0% by May, one would have thought more upside is warranted for Sterling, but after the dovish undertones as well as the ongoing political challenges things are looking a bit messy for the GBP right now. If we see a similar divergence between ECB and BoE language like we saw at the press conferences that should put further upside pressure on EURGBP.
by thunderpips
2
USD CAD - FUNDAMENTAL DRIVERSUSD FUNDAMENTAL BIAS: BULLISH 1. Monetary Policy The Jan FOMC decision was hawkish on multiple fronts. The statement signalled a March hike as expected, but Chair Powell portrayed a very hawkish tone. Even though Powell said they can’t predict the rate path with certainty, he stressed the economy is in much better shape compared to the 2015 cycle and that will have implications for the pace of hikes (more and faster). Furthermore, he explained that there is ‘quite a bit of room’ to raise rates without damaging employment, which suggests upside risks to the rate path. A big question going into the meeting was how concerned the Fed was about recent equity market volatility . But the Chair explained that markets and financial conditions are reflecting policy changes in advance and that in aggregate the measures they look at isn’t showing red lights. Thus, any ‘Fed Put’ is much further away and inflation is the Fed’s biggest concern right now. The Chair also didn’t rule out the possibility of a 50bsp hike in March or possibly hiking at every meeting this year, which was hawkish as it means the Fed wants optionality to move more aggressive if they need to. We didn’t get new info on the balance sheet and Powell reiterated that they’re contemplating a start of QT after hiking has begun and they’ll discuss this in coming meetings. Overall, the tone and language was lot more hawkish than the Dec meeting and more hawkish than consensus was expecting. 2. Global & Domestic Economy As the reserve currency, the USD’s global usage means it’s usually inversely correlated to the global economy and global trade. Thus, USD usually appreciates when growth & inflation slow (disinflation) and depreciates when growth & inflation accelerates (reflation). With expectations that growth and inflation will decelerate this year that should be a positive input for the USD. However, incoming data will also be important in relation to the ‘Fed Put’. There are many similarities between now and 4Q18, where the Fed were also tightening aggressively going into an economic slowdown. As long as growth data slows and the Fed stays aggressive that is a positive for the USD, but if it causes a dovish Fed pivot and lower rate repricing it would be a negative input for the USD. 3. CFTC Analysis The USD came under some pressure this week, mainly due to overdue mean reversion, recovery in risk assets and of course the surprise hawkish actions by the BoE and more specifically the ECB. Keep in mind that half of the USD’s drop this week occurred outside the CFTC reference period which would explain more limited unwinding in net-longs, and we would expect this number to be much bigger next week. With positioning still in net-long territory for leveraged funds and large specs, and with leveraged funds sitting on a sizeable net-short in the EUR the recent hawkish pivot from the ECB could see some further damage for the USD in the short-term. 4. The Week Ahead After last week’s much better than expected Average Hourly Earnings data out of the US, the main event for the USD as well as markets in general will be the January CPI print for the US scheduled for Wednesday. With another month of upside surprises for inflation data in other global economies, the markets will be watching the US CPI for Jan very closely. Right now, Fed policy has tunnel vision for inflation , and with the surprise beat in Friday’s NFP as well as the surprise punchy upward revisions, the labour market won’t deter the Fed from going all-in to fight inflation . The big dynamic to watch for is wages. Friday’s Average Hourly Earnings print of 5.7% was much higher than expected and saw an immediate jolt higher in US bond yields, with Fed Fund Futures now comfortably pricing in well over 5 hikes by the end of the year. Starting the new year, the biggest reason for expecting a deceleration in inflation was firstly due to base effects, secondly due to expectations that supply chain disruptions ease, and very importantly that commodity prices being cooling down. Out of these three, the last one has not happened yet with oil prices continuing their grind higher (which adds upside risks to headline numbers). Two important components to keep on the radar is wages and shelter prices, which for some means there is very little downside risk to this week’s CPI . How will the USD likely react? Recently the USD has reaction cyclically towards inflation data, which means a solid beat should be supportive, but at the same time a miss would be a far more attractive shorting opportunity, especially against the EUR after the ECB’s pivot . CAD FUNDAMENTAL BIAS: NEUTRAL 1. Monetary Policy Despite STIR markets pricing in close to an 80% chance of a 25bsp hike, the BoC chose to leave rates unchanged at their Jan meeting. However, the bank removed its extraordinary forward guidance and said they now think the economic slack has been absorbed (previously expected to occur somewhere in the middle quarters of 2022). The bank also explained that they expect rates will need to rise based on the progress of inflation, and Gov Macklem explained their only reason for not hiking was uncertainty surrounding Omicron. The statement gave a clear signal that a March hike is on the table. Furthermore, on the balance sheet the bank delivered on expectations by noting they will likely exit the reinvestment phase as rates begin to rise. Even though 2022 inflation projections were upgraded, the bank also downgraded growth forecasts (which in our view remains a key reason why current STIR market expectations are not realistic). Thus, the meeting had both dovish and hawkish elements to it, and thus means we are still happy to hold to a neutral bias for the CAD. 2. Intermarket Analysis Considerations Oil’s massive post-covid recovery has been impressive, driven by various factors such as supply & demand (OPEC’s production cuts), strong global demand recovery, and of course ‘higher for longer’ than expected inflation. Even though Oil has traded to new 7-year highs, we think the current Russia/Ukraine tensions and recent tight capacity concerns are the biggest contributors to the upside as our cautious view going into Q1 & Q2 remain intact. The drivers keeping us cautious are A hawkish Fed targeting demand, slowing growth and inflation, lower inflation expectations (due to the Fed), a possible supply surplus in 1Q22, and a consensus that is very long oil (growing calls for $100 WTI). If our concerns do materialize into downside for oil prices it should put pressure on the CAD and other Petro-currencies like the NOK. 3. Global Risk Outlook As a high-beta currency, the CAD usually benefits from overall positive risk sentiment as well as environments that benefit pro-cyclical assets. Thus, both short-term (immediate) and med-term (underlying) risk sentiment will always be a key consideration for the CAD. 4. CFTC Analysis We think the recent price action and positioning data has seen the CAD take a very similar path compared to April and Oct 2021 where markets were way too aggressive and optimistic to price in upside for the CAD only to see majority of it unwind. We think the CAD is setting up for a similar disappointment with money markets too aggressive on rate expectations for 2022, but oil prices remain a big supporting driver to keep in mind. 5. The Week Ahead A very quiet week for the CAD from an economic data point of view. We do have a speech coming up from Gov Macklem, but he is unlikely to offer anything new that we have not already heard. Thus, the biggest focus or drivers for the BoC in the week ahead will likely be Oil prices and overall risk sentiment. In terms of risk sentiment, with US CPI in the mix, as well as bond markets crashing hard, credit spreads starting to widen and real yields pushing higher across major economies, the uncertainty is starting to pile on for risk assets which means caution on that front will be important for the CAD and the other high betas in the week ahead. In terms of oil prices, the concerns of tighter capacity for major suppliers as well as bad weather and geopolitical stress has kept oil prices well buoyed in the short-term which should be a positive input for the Petro-currencies like the CAD and NOK. However, we remain neutral on the CAD and med-term concerned about oil from here which means we maintain our upside bias for the AUDCAD for now.
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NZD USD - FUNDAMENTAL DRIVERSNZD FUNDAMENTAL BIAS: WEAK BULLISH 1. Monetary Policy The RBNZ underwhelmed some market participants who were looking for a 50bsp hike at their last policy meeting and the bank delivered a 25bsp hike as consensus was expecting. Even though the NZD took a plunge after the meeting, we don’t think markets are really giving NZD the upside it deserves after the Nov RBNZ decision. Not referring to the knee-jerk lower after the 25bsp hike of course as that was fully priced in and always ran the risk of underwhelming the bulls, but the outlook in the MPR justifies more NZD strength. The upgrades to the economic outlook between Aug and Nov were a lot more positive than expected, with growth seen lower in 2022 but much higher in 2023, CPI seen higher throughout 2022 and 2023, Unemployment seen lower throughout the forecast horizon, and of course the big upgrade to the OCR which is now seen at 2.6% by 2024. The bank also brought forward their expectation of reaching the 2.0% neutral rate by 5 quarters. For now, incoming data will be very important and any new developments with the new Omicron variant will be closely watched. Any major deterioration can see markets pricing out some of the hikes that has been priced in and is a risk to the outlook. However, if data stays solid, the recent sell off in the NZD does seem at odds with the fundamental, policy and economic outlook. 2. Economic and health developments Even though the NZ government has abandoned a covid-zero strategy, the recent rise in Omicron cases as well as well as the PM going into self-isolation is worth keeping on the radar. Turning to the econ data, the recent macro data, including Q4 CPI data has surpassed both market and RBNZ expectations. But markets have not been too bothered with the incoming data and have not given the NZD the upside it deserves. For now, based on the economic and policy outlook the NZD still seems undervalued at current prices, but we need to keep close track of the overall risk sentiment. 3. Global Risk Outlook As a high-beta currency, the NZD usually benefits from overall positive risk sentiment as well as environments that benefit pro-cyclical assets. Thus, both short-term (immediate) and med-term (underlying) risk sentiment will always be a key consideration for the NZD. 4. CFTC Analysis Positioning changes has been very limited for the NZD in the past few weeks and with the flush out of net-longs among Leveraged Funds in Dec we can see that positioning is close to neutral for both large specs and leveraged funds. The sentiment signal from the unwind in positioning means right now we are happy to wait for incoming econ data or strong risk sentiment impulses to give better sense of where the NZD goes next. 5. The Week Ahead Inflation expectations and a speech by Gov Orr is the only major scheduled events on the radar for the NZD this week. The real question is whether either of them will be enough to provide any meaningful volatility for the NZD? Over the past couple of weeks, the price action and momentum signals has continued to deteriorate for the NZD, which has kept us very patient and also saw us tilt our bias from bullish to neutral until markets wake up from their slumber and realize that the RBNZ remains the most hawkish central bank among the majors and the economic data still means the bank is set to out-hike all of their peers. The other factor to watch for the NZD in the week ahead is risk sentiment, with US CPI in the mix, as well as bond markets crashing hard, credit spreads starting to widen and real yields pushing higher across major economies, the uncertainty is starting to pile on for risk assets which means caution on that front will be important for the NZD and the other high betas in the week ahead. USD FUNDAMENTAL BIAS: BULLISH 1. Monetary Policy The Jan FOMC decision was hawkish on multiple fronts. The statement signalled a March hike as expected, but Chair Powell portrayed a very hawkish tone. Even though Powell said they can’t predict the rate path with certainty, he stressed the economy is in much better shape compared to the 2015 cycle and that will have implications for the pace of hikes (more and faster). Furthermore, he explained that there is ‘quite a bit of room’ to raise rates without damaging employment, which suggests upside risks to the rate path. A big question going into the meeting was how concerned the Fed was about recent equity market volatility . But the Chair explained that markets and financial conditions are reflecting policy changes in advance and that in aggregate the measures they look at isn’t showing red lights. Thus, any ‘Fed Put’ is much further away and inflation is the Fed’s biggest concern right now. The Chair also didn’t rule out the possibility of a 50bsp hike in March or possibly hiking at every meeting this year, which was hawkish as it means the Fed wants optionality to move more aggressive if they need to. We didn’t get new info on the balance sheet and Powell reiterated that they’re contemplating a start of QT after hiking has begun and they’ll discuss this in coming meetings. Overall, the tone and language was lot more hawkish than the Dec meeting and more hawkish than consensus was expecting. 2. Global & Domestic Economy As the reserve currency, the USD’s global usage means it’s usually inversely correlated to the global economy and global trade. Thus, USD usually appreciates when growth & inflation slow (disinflation) and depreciates when growth & inflation accelerates (reflation). With expectations that growth and inflation will decelerate this year that should be a positive input for the USD. However, incoming data will also be important in relation to the ‘Fed Put’. There are many similarities between now and 4Q18, where the Fed were also tightening aggressively going into an economic slowdown. As long as growth data slows and the Fed stays aggressive that is a positive for the USD, but if it causes a dovish Fed pivot and lower rate repricing it would be a negative input for the USD. 3. CFTC Analysis The USD came under some pressure this week, mainly due to overdue mean reversion, recovery in risk assets and of course the surprise hawkish actions by the BoE and more specifically the ECB. Keep in mind that half of the USD’s drop this week occurred outside the CFTC reference period which would explain more limited unwinding in net-longs, and we would expect this number to be much bigger next week. With positioning still in net-long territory for leveraged funds and large specs, and with leveraged funds sitting on a sizeable net-short in the EUR the recent hawkish pivot from the ECB could see some further damage for the USD in the short-term. 4. The Week Ahead After last week’s much better than expected Average Hourly Earnings data out of the US, the main event for the USD as well as markets in general will be the January CPI print for the US scheduled for Wednesday. With another month of upside surprises for inflation data in other global economies, the markets will be watching the US CPI for Jan very closely. Right now, Fed policy has tunnel vision for inflation , and with the surprise beat in Friday’s NFP as well as the surprise punchy upward revisions, the labour market won’t deter the Fed from going all-in to fight inflation . The big dynamic to watch for is wages. Friday’s Average Hourly Earnings print of 5.7% was much higher than expected and saw an immediate jolt higher in US bond yields, with Fed Fund Futures now comfortably pricing in well over 5 hikes by the end of the year. Starting the new year, the biggest reason for expecting a deceleration in inflation was firstly due to base effects, secondly due to expectations that supply chain disruptions ease, and very importantly that commodity prices being cooling down. Out of these three, the last one has not happened yet with oil prices continuing their grind higher (which adds upside risks to headline numbers). Two important components to keep on the radar is wages and shelter prices, which for some means there is very little downside risk to this week’s CPI . How will the USD likely react? Recently the USD has reaction cyclically towards inflation data, which means a solid beat should be supportive, but at the same time a miss would be a far more attractive shorting opportunity, especially against the EUR after the ECB’s pivot .
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GBP USD - FUNDAMENTAL DRIVERSGBP FUNDAMENTAL BIAS: WEAK BULLISH 1. Monetary Policy Hawkish surprise with a hint of dovish undertones sums up the Feb BoE decision. The bank announced the start of passive QT and also hiked rates by 25bsp as expected, but the vote split was unanimous (9-0) but with a big hawkish surprise being 4 MPC members voting for a 50bsp hike. Inflation forecasts saw a big upward revision to a 7.25% peak by April (prev. 6.0%) & 5.21% in 1-year (prev. 3.40%). This initial hawkish statement saw immediate strength for GBP but during the press conference the BoE tried their best to get a dovish landing. Gov Bailey started his opening remarks by noting that the MPC’s decision to hike was not because the economy was strong but only because higher rates were necessary to return inflation to target, and even though he opened the door for further hikes he added that markets should not assume rates are on a long march higher. He also acknowledged the stagflation fears recently voiced by some market participants by saying that policy faces a trade off between weakening growth and higher inflation. Despite the dovish nuances, STIR markets still price an implied cash rate of 1.0% by May which would mean a 25bsp in both March and May (1.0% is the level the BoE previously said they would being outright Gilt selling). Overall, the statement was hawkish, but the clear dovish undertones from the BoE was a bit surprising and also a bit worrisome for the future outlook. 2. Economic & Health Developments There is a growing chorus of participants calling for a very tough road ahead for UK growth, and most recent Retail Sales data gave more confirmation to this expectation. Forecasts by the IMF/OECB still sees decent growth differentials, but not everyone shares that optimism (Refinitiv polling data). Even though the solid econ data going into Dec was enough to see the BoE hike, the overall rate expectations already priced in by markets are too ambitious. As long incoming data stay solid it should keep odds for additional tightening alive, but we should be mindful of repricing if the incoming data starts confirming a bleaker picture for growth. 3. Political Developments The political uncertainty surrounding PM Johnson mean a higher risk premium for GBP. The fallout from the heavily redacted Sue Gray report was limited but reports over the weekend show a growing distrust for the PM from within his own party. The question remains whether enough MPs opt for a vote of no-confidence (if so, that could see short-term downside), but after that the focus will be on whether the PM can survive an actual vote of no-confidence, where a win is expected to be GBP positive and negative for Sterling if he loses. The North Ireland protocol is still in focus in the background with the UK threatening to trigger Article 16 and the EU threatening to terminate the Brexit deal if they do. For now, markets have rightly ignored this as political posturing, but of course any actual escalation could see sharp risk premium built into the GBP 4. CFTC Analysis The CFTC data for GBP was very surprising. Recall that the downside in the GBP only started later during last week, which means that the very big increase in net-short positioning occurred while Sterling was still flying high. The question here is whether this was some political risk premiums building up or part of a bigger change in sentiment as concerns over the UK’s growth outlook continues to surface. 5. The Week Ahead Just like the EUR, the biggest focus for the week ahead for Sterling will be on BoE talk. The bank tried really hard to get a dovish landing on Thursday, and any additional info and clarity from them will be keenly watched by market participants. With STIR markets pricing in an implied rate of 1.0% by May, one would have thought more upside is warranted for Sterling, but after the dovish undertones as well as the ongoing political challenges things are looking a bit messy for the GBP right now. If we see a similar divergence between ECB and BoE language like we saw at the press conferences that should put further upside pressure on EURGBP. USD FUNDAMENTAL BIAS: BULLISH 1. Monetary Policy The Jan FOMC decision was hawkish on multiple fronts. The statement signalled a March hike as expected, but Chair Powell portrayed a very hawkish tone. Even though Powell said they can’t predict the rate path with certainty, he stressed the economy is in much better shape compared to the 2015 cycle and that will have implications for the pace of hikes (more and faster). Furthermore, he explained that there is ‘quite a bit of room’ to raise rates without damaging employment, which suggests upside risks to the rate path. A big question going into the meeting was how concerned the Fed was about recent equity market volatility . But the Chair explained that markets and financial conditions are reflecting policy changes in advance and that in aggregate the measures they look at isn’t showing red lights. Thus, any ‘Fed Put’ is much further away and inflation is the Fed’s biggest concern right now. The Chair also didn’t rule out the possibility of a 50bsp hike in March or possibly hiking at every meeting this year, which was hawkish as it means the Fed wants optionality to move more aggressive if they need to. We didn’t get new info on the balance sheet and Powell reiterated that they’re contemplating a start of QT after hiking has begun and they’ll discuss this in coming meetings. Overall, the tone and language was lot more hawkish than the Dec meeting and more hawkish than consensus was expecting. 2. Global & Domestic Economy As the reserve currency, the USD’s global usage means it’s usually inversely correlated to the global economy and global trade. Thus, USD usually appreciates when growth & inflation slow (disinflation) and depreciates when growth & inflation accelerates (reflation). With expectations that growth and inflation will decelerate this year that should be a positive input for the USD. However, incoming data will also be important in relation to the ‘Fed Put’. There are many similarities between now and 4Q18, where the Fed were also tightening aggressively going into an economic slowdown. As long as growth data slows and the Fed stays aggressive that is a positive for the USD, but if it causes a dovish Fed pivot and lower rate repricing it would be a negative input for the USD. 3. CFTC Analysis The USD came under some pressure this week, mainly due to overdue mean reversion, recovery in risk assets and of course the surprise hawkish actions by the BoE and more specifically the ECB. Keep in mind that half of the USD’s drop this week occurred outside the CFTC reference period which would explain more limited unwinding in net-longs, and we would expect this number to be much bigger next week. With positioning still in net-long territory for leveraged funds and large specs, and with leveraged funds sitting on a sizeable net-short in the EUR the recent hawkish pivot from the ECB could see some further damage for the USD in the short-term. 4. The Week Ahead After last week’s much better than expected Average Hourly Earnings data out of the US, the main event for the USD as well as markets in general will be the January CPI print for the US scheduled for Wednesday. With another month of upside surprises for inflation data in other global economies, the markets will be watching the US CPI for Jan very closely. Right now, Fed policy has tunnel vision for inflation , and with the surprise beat in Friday’s NFP as well as the surprise punchy upward revisions, the labour market won’t deter the Fed from going all-in to fight inflation . The big dynamic to watch for is wages. Friday’s Average Hourly Earnings print of 5.7% was much higher than expected and saw an immediate jolt higher in US bond yields, with Fed Fund Futures now comfortably pricing in well over 5 hikes by the end of the year. Starting the new year, the biggest reason for expecting a deceleration in inflation was firstly due to base effects, secondly due to expectations that supply chain disruptions ease, and very importantly that commodity prices being cooling down. Out of these three, the last one has not happened yet with oil prices continuing their grind higher (which adds upside risks to headline numbers). Two important components to keep on the radar is wages and shelter prices, which for some means there is very little downside risk to this week’s CPI . How will the USD likely react? Recently the USD has reaction cyclically towards inflation data, which means a solid beat should be supportive, but at the same time a miss would be a far more attractive shorting opportunity, especially against the EUR after the ECB’s pivot .
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EUR USD - FUNDAMENTAL DRIVERSEUR FUNDAMENTAL BIAS: NEUTRAL 1. Monetary Policy Hawkish! This sums up the Feb ECB policy meeting. The initial statement was in line with Dec guidance and offered very little surprises (which was initially seen as dovish). However, during the press conference President Lagarde explained that the upside surprises in CPI in Dec and Jan saw unanimous concern around the GC in the near-term and surprised markets by not repeating Dec language which said a 2022 rate hike was unlikely (which immediately saw STIR markets price in a 10bsp hike as soon as June). The president also made the March meeting live, by stating that they’ll use the March meeting to decide what the APP will look like for the rest of 2022 (which markets took as a signal that the APP could conclude somewhere in 2H22. After the meeting we had the customary sources comments which stated that the ECB is preparing for a potential policy recalibration in March (with some members wanting to change policy at today’s meeting already) and added that it is sensible not to exclude a 2022 hike as a possibility and also stated that the ECB is considering possibly ending the APP at the end of Q3 (which would put a Q4 hike in play). Furthermore, sources stated that if inflation does not ease, they’ll consider adjusting policy in March (which means incoming inflation data will be critical). The shift is stance and tone were significant for us to change the bank’s overall policy stance to neutral and to adjust the EUR’s fundamental bias from dovish to neutral as well. Incoming inflation data will be key from here. 2. Economic & Health Developments Even though the recent activity data suggests the hit to the economy from previous lockdowns weren’t as bad as feared, the additional lockdown measures across Europe has weighed on incoming data. Growth differentials still favour places like the US and UK above that of the EZ and alongside the clear monetary policy divergence means the bearish bias is firmly in place. On the fiscal front, attention is on ongoing discussions to potentially allow purchases of ‘green bonds’ NOT to count against budget deficits. If approved, this could drastically change the fiscal landscape for the EZ and would be seen as a big positive for the EUR and EU equities. 3. Funding Characteristics As a low yielder (like JPY & CHF), the EUR has been a funding choice among carry trades, especially during 2019 where it was a favourite against high yielding EM. As such, part of the EUR’s upside after the initial risk-off scare in March 2020 was attributed to a major unwind of large carry trades. As more central banks start normalizing policy and rate differentials widen, the EUR’s use as a funding currency could add additional pressure in the med-term, but keep in mind it could also spark risk off upside if some of those trades unwind. 4. CFTC Analysis Remember that the ECB meeting this past week took place on Thursday, that means that the most recent CFTC update will not include the big jolt higher in the EUR across the board. We would expect next week’s data to show a sizeable increase in large spec net-longs as well as a very big reduction in leveraged fund net-shorts. With so many negatives priced in for the EUR in recent weeks, the unwind could be punchy. 5. The Week Ahead In the week ahead we have a very light economic calendar coming up for the Eurozone, but we do have quite a few ECB speakers lined up and that will take centre stage for markets. Looking at the moves in both bund yields and the EUR, the ECB members will no doubt have quite a few questions they’ll need to answer and will want to give their own views and opinions. If the ECB thinks the markets overreacted to the message conveyed by President Lagarde, they will want to use this week to get on the wires as much as possible to correct any misplaced expectations. That means President Lagarde’s testimony before the EU Parliament Economic and Monetary Affairs Committee will be scrutinized for any additional details and info, especially with markets now pricing in over 50 basis points of tightening by year-end as well as a Q2 end to QE. Without any strong push back from the ECB in the week ahead will likely lead to a further unwind in short-positioning and should continue to be supportive for the EUR in the very short-term. USD FUNDAMENTAL BIAS: BULLISH 1. Monetary Policy The Jan FOMC decision was hawkish on multiple fronts. The statement signalled a March hike as expected, but Chair Powell portrayed a very hawkish tone. Even though Powell said they can’t predict the rate path with certainty, he stressed the economy is in much better shape compared to the 2015 cycle and that will have implications for the pace of hikes (more and faster). Furthermore, he explained that there is ‘quite a bit of room’ to raise rates without damaging employment, which suggests upside risks to the rate path. A big question going into the meeting was how concerned the Fed was about recent equity market volatility. But the Chair explained that markets and financial conditions are reflecting policy changes in advance and that in aggregate the measures they look at isn’t showing red lights. Thus, any ‘Fed Put’ is much further away and inflation is the Fed’s biggest concern right now. The Chair also didn’t rule out the possibility of a 50bsp hike in March or possibly hiking at every meeting this year, which was hawkish as it means the Fed wants optionality to move more aggressive if they need to. We didn’t get new info on the balance sheet and Powell reiterated that they’re contemplating a start of QT after hiking has begun and they’ll discuss this in coming meetings. Overall, the tone and language was lot more hawkish than the Dec meeting and more hawkish than consensus was expecting. 2. Global & Domestic Economy As the reserve currency, the USD’s global usage means it’s usually inversely correlated to the global economy and global trade. Thus, USD usually appreciates when growth & inflation slow (disinflation) and depreciates when growth & inflation accelerates (reflation). With expectations that growth and inflation will decelerate this year that should be a positive input for the USD. However, incoming data will also be important in relation to the ‘Fed Put’. There are many similarities between now and 4Q18, where the Fed were also tightening aggressively going into an economic slowdown. As long as growth data slows and the Fed stays aggressive that is a positive for the USD, but if it causes a dovish Fed pivot and lower rate repricing it would be a negative input for the USD. 3. CFTC Analysis The USD came under some pressure this week, mainly due to overdue mean reversion, recovery in risk assets and of course the surprise hawkish actions by the BoE and more specifically the ECB. Keep in mind that half of the USD’s drop this week occurred outside the CFTC reference period which would explain more limited unwinding in net-longs, and we would expect this number to be much bigger next week. With positioning still in net-long territory for leveraged funds and large specs, and with leveraged funds sitting on a sizeable net-short in the EUR the recent hawkish pivot from the ECB could see some further damage for the USD in the short-term. 4. The Week Ahead After last week’s much better than expected Average Hourly Earnings data out of the US, the main event for the USD as well as markets in general will be the January CPI print for the US scheduled for Wednesday. With another month of upside surprises for inflation data in other global economies, the markets will be watching the US CPI for Jan very closely. Right now, Fed policy has tunnel vision for inflation, and with the surprise beat in Friday’s NFP as well as the surprise punchy upward revisions, the labour market won’t deter the Fed from going all-in to fight inflation. The big dynamic to watch for is wages. Friday’s Average Hourly Earnings print of 5.7% was much higher than expected and saw an immediate jolt higher in US bond yields, with Fed Fund Futures now comfortably pricing in well over 5 hikes by the end of the year. Starting the new year, the biggest reason for expecting a deceleration in inflation was firstly due to base effects, secondly due to expectations that supply chain disruptions ease, and very importantly that commodity prices being cooling down. Out of these three, the last one has not happened yet with oil prices continuing their grind higher (which adds upside risks to headline numbers). Two important components to keep on the radar is wages and shelter prices, which for some means there is very little downside risk to this week’s CPI. How will the USD likely react? Recently the USD has reaction cyclically towards inflation data, which means a solid beat should be supportive, but at the same time a miss would be a far more attractive shorting opportunity, especially against the EUR after the ECB’s pivot.
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Today’s Notable Sentiment ShiftsUSD – The dollar declined to a more than a one-week low on Wednesday after ADP data showed a drop in private sector employment in January due to the increase in COVID-19 infections. Commenting on the release, Reuters noted that “because ADP has been so detached from payrolls recently, the impact pf the severe drop was limited. Moreover, White House and Fed officials have been warning that Friday’s jobs report was going to be weak as a results of Omicron disruptions.” EUR – The single currency rallied on Wednesday, after data showed that Eurozone inflation for January rose to a new record high, defying expectations for a big drop and piling pressure on the ECB to finally admit that price growth is not as temporary and benign as it has long predicted. Commenting on the report, Natixis argues that the ECB “have to recognize there are upside risks and the (inflation) path they laid out in December looks to benign… Underlying price pressures remain high and put the ECB in an awkward position.”
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USD CAD - FUNDAMENTAL DRIVERSUSD FUNDAMENTAL BIAS: BULLISH 1. Monetary Policy The Jan FOMC decision was hawkish on multiple fronts. The statement signalled a March hike as expected, but the press conference from Chair Powell portrayed a very hawkish message. Even though Powell said they can’t predict the rate path with certainty, he stressed the economy is in much better shape compared to the 2015 cycle and that will have implications for the pace of hikes. Furthermore, the Chair explained that there is ‘quite a bit of room’ to raise rates without dampening employment, which suggests upside risks to the rate path, especially coming from Powell. A big question markets wanted an answer for was whether the Fed was concerned about recent equity market volatility . However, the Chair explained that markets and financial conditions are reflecting policy in advance and stressed that in aggregate their measures they look at is not showing red lights. This was a clear message to markets that any ‘Fed Put’ is much further away and that inflation is the biggest focus point for the Fed right now. The Chair also didn’t rule out the possibility of hiking 50bsp in March or possibly hiking at every meeting this year, which was seen as hawkish as it means the Fed is looking for optionality to move more aggressive if they need to. On the balance sheet , we didn’t really get new info and the Chair reiterated that they are contemplating a start of QT after the hiking cycle has begun but also reiterated that they will discuss this in coming meetings. Overall, the tone and language used by the Chair were a lot more hawkish than the Dec meeting and more hawkish than some were hoping for. 2. Global & Domestic Economy As the reserve currency, the USD’s usage around the world means it usually has an inverse correlation to the health of the global economy and global trade. The USD usually gains strength when growth & inflation both slow (disinflation) and loses ground when growth & inflation accelerates (reflation). Thus, with expectations that both growth and inflation will decelerate this year, both in the US and the globe, that should be a positive input for the USD in the med-term . However, incoming data will also be important in relation to the ‘Fed Put’. There are many similarities between now and 4Q18, where the Fed were also tightening aggressively going into an economic slowdown. So, incoming data will be crucial to watch. As long as growth data slows and the Fed stays aggressive that would be a positive environment for the USD, but if it causes the Fed to pivot more dovish and causes a rate repricing in money markets it would be seen as a negative input for the USD. 3. CFTC Analysis Latest CFTC data showed a positioning change of +427 with a net non-commercial position of +36861. The shortterm unwinding of stretched USD longs played out as expected at the start of the year but was also short-lived in the midst of the recent strong risk off sentiment in certain parts of the market and of course the continued hawkish stance from the Fed. 4. The Week Ahead In the week ahead the party starts all over again with a new month which means we’ll get new ISM PMI releases as well as the Jan NFP report. It’s important to keep the current economic climate in mind when looking at possible reaction functions for the USD. Usually, positive data should be USD positive and negative data USD negative when the Fed is busy with a hiking cycle, but right now there are growing fears that economic data has been slowing much faster than expected and means the Fed could be on its way to make the same mistake it did back in the end of 2018. As long as those fears persist, we might see the USD having two different reaction functions to growth and inflation data. Reacting inverse to growth data but acting correlated to inflation data. That makes this week’s incoming ISM data very interesting as the Dec data decelerated much faster than expected on the growth side, and a further miss might spark more fears about a faster slowdown. The tricky part for the USD in the week ahead is that both the ISM prints as well as the NFP report has inflation components with the ISM priced paid components and the Average Hourly Earnings on the NFP side. If growth data slows very fast that could be USD positive, but if inflation data starts decelerating much faster that could also be USD negative as it means less need for aggressive Fed policy. A tricky one for the week ahead. CAD FUNDAMENTAL BIAS: NEUTRAL 1. Monetary Policy Despite STIR markets pricing in close to an 80% chance of a 25bsp hike, the BoC chose to leave rates unchanged at their Jan meeting. However, the bank removed its extraordinary forward guidance and said they now think the economic slack has been absorbed (previously expected to occur somewhere in the middle quarters of 2022). The bank also explained that they expect rates will need to rise based on the progress of inflation, and Gov Macklem explained their only reason for not hiking was uncertainty surrounding Omicron. The statement gave a clear signal that a March hike is on the table. Furthermore, on the balance sheet the bank delivered on expectations by noting they will likely exit the reinvestment phase as rates begin to rise. Even though 2022 inflation projections were upgraded, the bank also downgraded growth forecasts (which in our view remains a key reason why current STIR market expectations are not realistic). Thus, the meeting had both dovish and hawkish elements to it, and thus means we are still happy to hold to a neutral bias for the CAD. 2. Intermarket Analysis Considerations Oil’s massive post-covid recovery has been impressive, driven by various factors such as supply & demand (OPEC’s production cuts), strong global demand recovery, and of course ‘higher for longer’ than expected inflation. Even though Oil has traded to new 7-year highs, we think the current Russia/Ukraine tensions are the biggest contributor to the upside as our cautious going into the first two quarters of 2022 remain intact. The drivers keeping us cautious are A hawkish Fed targeting demand, slowing growth and inflation, lower inflation expectations (due to the Fed), a possible supply surplus in 1Q22, and a consensus that is very long oil (growing call for $100 WTI). If our concerns do materialize into downside for oil prices it should put pressure on the CAD and other Petro-currencies like the NOK. 3. Global Risk Outlook As a high-beta currency, the CAD usually benefits from overall positive risk sentiment as well as environments that benefit pro-cyclical assets. Thus, both short-term (immediate) and med-term (underlying) risk sentiment will always be a key consideration for the CAD. 4. CFTC Analysis Latest CFTC data showed a positioning change of +4825 with a net non-commercial position of +12317. We think the recent price action and positioning data has seen the CAD take a very similar path compared to April and Oct 2021 where markets were way too aggressive and optimistic to price in upside for the CAD only to see majority of it unwind. We think the CAD is setting up for a similar disappointment with money markets too aggressive on rate expectations for 2022, but oil prices remain a big supporting driver to keep in mind. 5. The Week Ahead Main events for the CAD in the upcoming week will be the Jan Jobs report on Friday, OPEC+ meeting on Wednesday and of course any further Russia/Ukraine developments that affects Oil prices. On the OPEC side, the cartel is widely expected to continue with their current plans of increase supply by 400K BPD per month, with March currently expecting to be the same. It will be interesting to see whether OPEC provides any comments on the current Russia/Ukraine issues as Russia holds over 30% market share in Europe for both gas and oil. Furthermore, we also have Jobs data coming up on Friday where markets expect the recent Omicron restrictions to catch up with the labour market with consensus looking for a contraction of -125K and the Unemployment Rate inching up to 6.2% from the prior of 5.9%. A bigger-than-expected miss on the labour front could see markets stepping down from their current aggressive policy path expectations. The one big caveat to the labour print is that the forecast distribution is extremely wide for this print, ranging between - 10k and -175K, which means there are plenty of disappointment to be had in the event of a surprise, both higher and lower. On the Russia/Ukraine front we’ll be watching for any de-escalation or escalation in tensions, where de-escalation is expected to be a negative driver for oil and escalation expected to be a positive driver.
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9
AUD USD - FUNDAMENTAL DRIVERSAUD FUNDAMENTAL BIAS: NEUTRAL 1. Monetary Policy In Dec the RBA kept rates at 0.10% and weekly bond purchases at A$4bln until mid-Feb, as expected. They reiterated their commitment to maintain highly supportive monetary conditions and won’t raise rates until actual inflation is sustainably within their 2%-3% target range. They noted that the economy is recovering from the Delta slowdown and is expected to return to pre-Delta path in 1H22. The positive take from the meeting was that the RBA did not think Omicron will derail the expected recovery and sounded more optimistic than markets anticipated. They also said they will consider the future of their QE program at the Feb meeting and outlined their criteria for that which includes actions of other central banks, bond market functioning and actual and expected progress towards the goals of full employment and inflation consistent with their target. All in all, the bank still had a dovish stance but was more optimistic about the economy than expected. Furthermore, out of the 3 criteria set by the bank, it seems like all three have now been met following the past week’s CPI print. 2. Idiosyncratic Drivers & Intermarket Analysis There are 4 key drivers we’re watching for Australia’s med-term outlook: The virus situation – so far, the RBA has been positive about a post-Delta recovery, but incoming employment and inflation data will be crucial to see whether that optimism is justified. China – Even though the PBoC has finally stepped up with new stimulus & some fiscal support is expected in 1H22, the Covid-Zero policy in China does pose a risk to their expected 2022 recovery so the recent rapid rise in cases is one to watch. Politically, the AUKUS defence pact could see possible retaliation from China against Australian goods and is always something to keep on the radar. Commodities – Iron Ore, (24% of exports) and Coal prices (18% of exports) are important for terms of trade, and with both pushing higher on PBoC easing, that is a positive for the AUD as long as they maintain their recent push higher. Global growth – as a risk proxy, the global economy is an important consideration for AUD, which means the expected slowdown in growth and inflation globally is an important point to consider, but if China can put in a solid year that should limit the fall out of a faster slowdown in the global economy. 3. Global Risk Outlook As a high-beta currency, the AUD usually benefits from overall positive risk sentiment as well as environments that benefit pro-cyclical assets. Thus, both short-term (immediate) and med-term (underlying) risk sentiment will always be a key consideration for the AUD. 4. CFTC Analysis Latest CFTC data showed positioning change of +5181 with a net non-commercial position of -83273. As outsized net-shorts are usually seen as a contrarian indicator we want to be mindful of potential short squeezes, which also means the AUD can be more sensitive to positive data or developments compared to negative ones as a lot of the bad news has been priced. The recent wobble in equities have kept the AUD pressured, but it was encouraging to see that despite the equity downside the AUD managed to see some minor short unwinding. 5. The Week Ahead Biggest focus in the week ahead is on Tuesday’s RBA meeting. Consensus believes that the three criteria the bank insisted on at their Dec meeting has been met, and thus believes the bank to announce an end of their QE program. However, it’s interesting to note this view isn’t shared by all, and some investment bank research suggests that the bank could simply opt to taper current purchases down to A$4 billion to A$2 billion, which would be seen as a dovish tilt from the bank and would disappoint current expectations. With inflation printing well above the bank’s 2-3% target band on the headline and Unemployment reaching 4.2% it seems that the bank is running out of excuses to keep up the overly dovish stance. However, as wage growth is always a major focus point for the bank, there is some credence to those who take a more sober approach to this upcoming meeting as we will only see 4Q21 wage data on the 23rd of Feb, which could give the bank an ‘excuse’ to simply taper purchases by half and explain they will review again in May. A decision to taper instead of end QE could certainly add additional weakness to the AUD, but we would think such weakness to be more limited given positioning, while an end to QE could see some further unwind of stretched net-shorts. USD FUNDAMENTAL BIAS: BULLISH 1. Monetary Policy The Jan FOMC decision was hawkish on multiple fronts. The statement signalled a March hike as expected, but the press conference from Chair Powell portrayed a very hawkish message. Even though Powell said they can’t predict the rate path with certainty, he stressed the economy is in much better shape compared to the 2015 cycle and that will have implications for the pace of hikes. Furthermore, the Chair explained that there is ‘quite a bit of room’ to raise rates without dampening employment, which suggests upside risks to the rate path, especially coming from Powell. A big question markets wanted an answer for was whether the Fed was concerned about recent equity market volatility . However, the Chair explained that markets and financial conditions are reflecting policy in advance and stressed that in aggregate their measures they look at is not showing red lights. This was a clear message to markets that any ‘Fed Put’ is much further away and that inflation is the biggest focus point for the Fed right now. The Chair also didn’t rule out the possibility of hiking 50bsp in March or possibly hiking at every meeting this year, which was seen as hawkish as it means the Fed is looking for optionality to move more aggressive if they need to. On the balance sheet , we didn’t really get new info and the Chair reiterated that they are contemplating a start of QT after the hiking cycle has begun but also reiterated that they will discuss this in coming meetings. Overall, the tone and language used by the Chair were a lot more hawkish than the Dec meeting and more hawkish than some were hoping for. 2. Global & Domestic Economy As the reserve currency, the USD’s usage around the world means it usually has an inverse correlation to the health of the global economy and global trade. The USD usually gains strength when growth & inflation both slow (disinflation) and loses ground when growth & inflation accelerates (reflation). Thus, with expectations that both growth and inflation will decelerate this year, both in the US and the globe, that should be a positive input for the USD in the med-term . However, incoming data will also be important in relation to the ‘Fed Put’. There are many similarities between now and 4Q18, where the Fed were also tightening aggressively going into an economic slowdown. So, incoming data will be crucial to watch. As long as growth data slows and the Fed stays aggressive that would be a positive environment for the USD, but if it causes the Fed to pivot more dovish and causes a rate repricing in money markets it would be seen as a negative input for the USD. 3. CFTC Analysis Latest CFTC data showed a positioning change of +427 with a net non-commercial position of +36861. The shortterm unwinding of stretched USD longs played out as expected at the start of the year but was also short-lived in the midst of the recent strong risk off sentiment in certain parts of the market and of course the continued hawkish stance from the Fed. 4. The Week Ahead In the week ahead the party starts all over again with a new month which means we’ll get new ISM PMI releases as well as the Jan NFP report. It’s important to keep the current economic climate in mind when looking at possible reaction functions for the USD. Usually, positive data should be USD positive and negative data USD negative when the Fed is busy with a hiking cycle, but right now there are growing fears that economic data has been slowing much faster than expected and means the Fed could be on its way to make the same mistake it did back in the end of 2018. As long as those fears persist, we might see the USD having two different reaction functions to growth and inflation data. Reacting inverse to growth data but acting correlated to inflation data. That makes this week’s incoming ISM data very interesting as the Dec data decelerated much faster than expected on the growth side, and a further miss might spark more fears about a faster slowdown. The tricky part for the USD in the week ahead is that both the ISM prints as well as the NFP report has inflation components with the ISM priced paid components and the Average Hourly Earnings on the NFP side. If growth data slows very fast that could be USD positive, but if inflation data starts decelerating much faster that could also be USD negative as it means less need for aggressive Fed policy. A tricky one for the week ahead.
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2
NZD USD - FUNDAMENTAL DRIVERSNZD FUNDAMENTAL BIAS: WEAK BULLISH 1. Monetary Policy The RBNZ underwhelmed some market participants who were looking for a 50bsp hike at their last policy meeting and the bank delivered a 25bsp hike as consensus was expecting. Even though the NZD took a plunge after the meeting, we don’t think markets are really giving NZD the upside it deserves after the Nov RBNZ decision. Not referring to the knee-jerk lower after the 25bsp hike of course as that was fully priced in and always ran the risk of underwhelming the bulls, but the outlook in the MPR justifies more NZD strength. The upgrades to the economic outlook between Aug and Nov were a lot more positive than expected, with growth seen lower in 2022 but much higher in 2023, CPI seen higher throughout 2022 and 2023, Unemployment seen lower throughout the forecast horizon, and of course the big upgrade to the OCR which is now seen at 2.6% by 2024. The bank also brought forward their expectation of reaching the 2.0% neutral rate by 5 quarters. For now, incoming data will be very important and any new developments with the new Omicron variant will be closely watched. Any major deterioration can see markets pricing out some of the hikes that has been priced in and is a risk to the outlook. However, if data stays solid, the recent sell off in the NZD does seem at odds with the fundamental, policy and economic outlook. 2. Economic and health developments Even though the NZ government has abandoned a covid-zero strategy, the recent rise in Omicron cases as well as well as the PM going into self-isolation is worth keeping on the radar. Turning to the econ data, the recent macro data, including Q4 CPI data has surpassed both market and RBNZ expectations. But markets have not been too bothered with the incoming data and have not given the NZD the upside it deserves. For now, based on the economic and policy outlook the NZD still seems undervalued at current prices, but we need to keep close track of the overall risk sentiment. 3. Global Risk Outlook As a high-beta currency, the NZD usually benefits from overall positive risk sentiment as well as environments that benefit pro-cyclical assets. Thus, both short-term (immediate) and med-term (underlying) risk sentiment will always be a key consideration for the NZD. 4. CFTC Analysis Latest CFTC data showed a positioning change of -2442 with a net non-commercial position of -10773. Positioning changes has been very limited for the NZD in the past few weeks and with the flush out of net-longs among Leveraged Funds in Dec we can see that positioning is close to neutral for both large specs and leveraged funds. The sentiment signal from the unwind in positioning means right now we are happy to wait for incoming econ data or strong risk sentiment impulses to give better sense of where the NZD goes next. 5. The Week Ahead In the week ahead the main focus point for the NZD will be in the incoming quarterly labour print. Consensus looks for the Unemployment Rate to drop to 3.3% from the prior of 3.4% but job growth is expected to slow to 0.4% from the prior of 2.0%. Some participants like Westpac expect the jobless rate to rise to 3.5% as labour shortages remain a concern and point out that previous data was biased lower due to the Q3 lockdowns. The bank does note that employment didn’t see a huge drop but rather a slowdown and that even with a slowdown, the labour market is still beyond the RBNZ’s view of maximum sustainable employment. The other metric to watch closely according to Westpac is the Labour Cost Index, which is expected to climb 0.8% QQ and to 2.9% for the YY measure. According to the bank the final piece required in the sustained inflation puzzle is wage costs and should become a key focus for the RBNZ in the months ahead. Now, having said all of that, we need to acknowledge that despite having the most hawkish central bank among the majors, and despite a long list of better-than-expected econ data, the market has been selling the NZD for the past couple of weeks. Thus, even though better data should be positive for the NZD, we’ll be staying patient with the NZD until price action can muster some solid signs of stopping the one-sided downside. USD FUNDAMENTAL BIAS: BULLISH 1. Monetary Policy The Jan FOMC decision was hawkish on multiple fronts. The statement signalled a March hike as expected, but the press conference from Chair Powell portrayed a very hawkish message. Even though Powell said they can’t predict the rate path with certainty, he stressed the economy is in much better shape compared to the 2015 cycle and that will have implications for the pace of hikes. Furthermore, the Chair explained that there is ‘quite a bit of room’ to raise rates without dampening employment, which suggests upside risks to the rate path, especially coming from Powell. A big question markets wanted an answer for was whether the Fed was concerned about recent equity market volatility . However, the Chair explained that markets and financial conditions are reflecting policy in advance and stressed that in aggregate their measures they look at is not showing red lights. This was a clear message to markets that any ‘Fed Put’ is much further away and that inflation is the biggest focus point for the Fed right now. The Chair also didn’t rule out the possibility of hiking 50bsp in March or possibly hiking at every meeting this year, which was seen as hawkish as it means the Fed is looking for optionality to move more aggressive if they need to. On the balance sheet , we didn’t really get new info and the Chair reiterated that they are contemplating a start of QT after the hiking cycle has begun but also reiterated that they will discuss this in coming meetings. Overall, the tone and language used by the Chair were a lot more hawkish than the Dec meeting and more hawkish than some were hoping for. 2. Global & Domestic Economy As the reserve currency, the USD’s usage around the world means it usually has an inverse correlation to the health of the global economy and global trade. The USD usually gains strength when growth & inflation both slow (disinflation) and loses ground when growth & inflation accelerates (reflation). Thus, with expectations that both growth and inflation will decelerate this year, both in the US and the globe, that should be a positive input for the USD in the med-term . However, incoming data will also be important in relation to the ‘Fed Put’. There are many similarities between now and 4Q18, where the Fed were also tightening aggressively going into an economic slowdown. So, incoming data will be crucial to watch. As long as growth data slows and the Fed stays aggressive that would be a positive environment for the USD, but if it causes the Fed to pivot more dovish and causes a rate repricing in money markets it would be seen as a negative input for the USD. 3. CFTC Analysis Latest CFTC data showed a positioning change of +427 with a net non-commercial position of +36861. The shortterm unwinding of stretched USD longs played out as expected at the start of the year but was also short-lived in the midst of the recent strong risk off sentiment in certain parts of the market and of course the continued hawkish stance from the Fed. 4. The Week Ahead In the week ahead the party starts all over again with a new month which means we’ll get new ISM PMI releases as well as the Jan NFP report. It’s important to keep the current economic climate in mind when looking at possible reaction functions for the USD. Usually, positive data should be USD positive and negative data USD negative when the Fed is busy with a hiking cycle, but right now there are growing fears that economic data has been slowing much faster than expected and means the Fed could be on its way to make the same mistake it did back in the end of 2018. As long as those fears persist, we might see the USD having two different reaction functions to growth and inflation data. Reacting inverse to growth data but acting correlated to inflation data. That makes this week’s incoming ISM data very interesting as the Dec data decelerated much faster than expected on the growth side, and a further miss might spark more fears about a faster slowdown. The tricky part for the USD in the week ahead is that both the ISM prints as well as the NFP report has inflation components with the ISM priced paid components and the Average Hourly Earnings on the NFP side. If growth data slows very fast that could be USD positive, but if inflation data starts decelerating much faster that could also be USD negative as it means less need for aggressive Fed policy. A tricky one for the week ahead.
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GBP USD - FUNDAMENTAL DRIVERSGBP FUNDAMENTAL BIAS: WEAK BULLISH 1. Monetary Policy They did it again! After leading markets to believe that a Dec hike was unlikely, the BoE wrong footed markets again with their 15bsp hike. Recall that BoE’s Saunders (who voted for a Nov hike) suggested there could be benefits in waiting before moving on rates, and BoE’s Mann said it was premature to even talk about the timing of hikes let alone the magnitude, but of course both of them ended up voting for a hike with a surprising 8-1 vote split (BoE’s Tenreyro only dissenter). The BoE lost even more of the little credibility it had left, but they did the right thing (in my opinion at least) as they stayed data dependent and hiked given a flurry of much better-than-expected econ data. The consensus view among the MPC was that inflation warranted tighter policy in the near-term, but still expects CPI to peak close to 6% in April (up from prev. projections). One negative was with growth, which is expected to push lower given the Omicron wave. 2. Economic & Health Developments There is a growing chorus of participants calling for a very tough road ahead for UK growth, and most recent Retail Sales data gave more confirmation to this expectation. Forecasts by the IMF/OECB still sees decent growth differentials, but not everyone shares that optimism (Refinitiv polling data). Even though the solid econ data going into Dec was enough to see the BoE hike, the overall rate expectations already priced in by markets are too ambitious and we think the BoE risks disappointing. As long incoming data stays solid it should keep odds for additional tightening alive, but we should be mindful of a potential unwinding and repricing if the incoming data starts confirming a bleaker picture. 3. Political Developments Even though Brexit isn’t in focus as it used to be (thank goodness), there are some remaining issues such as the Northern Ireland protocol. For now, the 2 sides have not budged with punchy rhetoric from both sides with the UK threatening to trigger Article 16 and the EU threatening to terminate the Brexit deal if they do. For now, markets have ignored this as political posturing, but of course any actual escalation could see sharp risk premium built into the GBP. Political uncertainty for PM Johnson opens up further caution as GBP usually struggles with domestic political uncertainty. Thus, the Sue Gray report and fallout from it is in focus, where damaging results for the PM could prove GBP negative and vice versa if it shows the PM is not at fault. Apart from that, the question remains whether enough MP’s opt for a vote of no-confidence (if so, that could see short-term downside), but after that the focus will be on whether the PM can survive an actual vote of noconfidence, where a win is expected to be GBP positive and negative for Sterling if he loses. 4. CFTC Analysis Latest CFTC data showed a positioning change of -7516 with a net non-commercial position of -7763. Leveraged funds (net-long) and large specs (net-short) are at odds with recent positioning update. However, with both still relatively close to neutral territory it does not tell us much about overall sentiment for Sterling. 5. The Week Ahead Thursday’s BoE meeting will be the biggest focus for the GBP this week. A recent Reuters Poll showed that 29/45 (>60%) of economists surveyed expect a 25bsp hike, while STIR market odds are close to 90%. Even though recent Retail Sales data were disappointing, headline CPI YY rose to 5.4% (0.9bsp above MPR projections) and Unemployment fell to 4.1% and showed that the phase out of the furlough scheme had a very small impact on the labour market. Thus, on the data front alone a hike seems reasonable. We also had comments from Gov Bailey who noted concerns about possible second-round effects from inflation on wages and comments from BoE’s Mann that noted monetary policy needs to temper 2022 inflation and wage expectations to prevent them from becoming embedded in the decision-making for firms and consumers, both of these comments added to the odds of a hike. Apart from a hike though, expectations of slower-thanexpected growth will be in focus as well as a much bleaker outlook could see doubt of the current rate path brought into focus. The APF will also be in focus as the BoE said they will halt reinvestments under the APF once they reach a cash rate of 0.50% so comments on that will also be important to watch. USD FUNDAMENTAL BIAS: BULLISH 1. Monetary Policy The Jan FOMC decision was hawkish on multiple fronts. The statement signalled a March hike as expected, but the press conference from Chair Powell portrayed a very hawkish message. Even though Powell said they can’t predict the rate path with certainty, he stressed the economy is in much better shape compared to the 2015 cycle and that will have implications for the pace of hikes. Furthermore, the Chair explained that there is ‘quite a bit of room’ to raise rates without dampening employment, which suggests upside risks to the rate path, especially coming from Powell. A big question markets wanted an answer for was whether the Fed was concerned about recent equity market volatility . However, the Chair explained that markets and financial conditions are reflecting policy in advance and stressed that in aggregate their measures they look at is not showing red lights. This was a clear message to markets that any ‘Fed Put’ is much further away and that inflation is the biggest focus point for the Fed right now. The Chair also didn’t rule out the possibility of hiking 50bsp in March or possibly hiking at every meeting this year, which was seen as hawkish as it means the Fed is looking for optionality to move more aggressive if they need to. On the balance sheet , we didn’t really get new info and the Chair reiterated that they are contemplating a start of QT after the hiking cycle has begun but also reiterated that they will discuss this in coming meetings. Overall, the tone and language used by the Chair were a lot more hawkish than the Dec meeting and more hawkish than some were hoping for. 2. Global & Domestic Economy As the reserve currency, the USD’s usage around the world means it usually has an inverse correlation to the health of the global economy and global trade. The USD usually gains strength when growth & inflation both slow (disinflation) and loses ground when growth & inflation accelerates (reflation). Thus, with expectations that both growth and inflation will decelerate this year, both in the US and the globe, that should be a positive input for the USD in the med-term . However, incoming data will also be important in relation to the ‘Fed Put’. There are many similarities between now and 4Q18, where the Fed were also tightening aggressively going into an economic slowdown. So, incoming data will be crucial to watch. As long as growth data slows and the Fed stays aggressive that would be a positive environment for the USD, but if it causes the Fed to pivot more dovish and causes a rate repricing in money markets it would be seen as a negative input for the USD. 3. CFTC Analysis Latest CFTC data showed a positioning change of +427 with a net non-commercial position of +36861. The shortterm unwinding of stretched USD longs played out as expected at the start of the year but was also short-lived in the midst of the recent strong risk off sentiment in certain parts of the market and of course the continued hawkish stance from the Fed. 4. The Week Ahead In the week ahead the party starts all over again with a new month which means we’ll get new ISM PMI releases as well as the Jan NFP report. It’s important to keep the current economic climate in mind when looking at possible reaction functions for the USD. Usually, positive data should be USD positive and negative data USD negative when the Fed is busy with a hiking cycle, but right now there are growing fears that economic data has been slowing much faster than expected and means the Fed could be on its way to make the same mistake it did back in the end of 2018. As long as those fears persist, we might see the USD having two different reaction functions to growth and inflation data. Reacting inverse to growth data but acting correlated to inflation data. That makes this week’s incoming ISM data very interesting as the Dec data decelerated much faster than expected on the growth side, and a further miss might spark more fears about a faster slowdown. The tricky part for the USD in the week ahead is that both the ISM prints as well as the NFP report has inflation components with the ISM priced paid components and the Average Hourly Earnings on the NFP side. If growth data slows very fast that could be USD positive, but if inflation data starts decelerating much faster that could also be USD negative as it means less need for aggressive Fed policy. A tricky one for the week ahead.
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EUR USD - FUNDAMENTAL DRIVERSEUR FUNDAMENTAL BIAS: BEARISH 1. Monetary Policy Less dovish than expected can sum up the ECB Dec decision. As expected, they announced that PEPP will discontinue from March 2022, but also announced a surprise decline in monthly purchases under the APP, which will see purchases increased to EUR 40bln from the current EUR 20bln from2Q22 and then subsequently lowered to EUR 30bln in 3Q22 and down to EUR 20bln in 4Q22. Markets were not expecting any reduced purchases under the APP, so expecting the APP amount to return to EUR 20 billion by end 2022 was less dovish than expected. On inflation there was no surprises with updated staff econ projections showing 2023 HICP at 1.8% which reiterated the bank’s view that inflation will return to below target in the med-term. President Lagarde struck a familiar tone regarding rates by reaffirming that rates are unlikely to rise in 2022. As usual, ECB sources provided more colour after the meeting by noting further disagreements among the GC, with hawks unhappy with extending PEPP reinvestments to 2024 and not setting an end-date to the APP, and of course argued that inflation risks as skewed higher. Overall, the ECB was less dovish than expected but the stark policy divergence with the Fed and BoE means the bias for the EUR remains tilted lower in the med-term. 2. Economic & Health Developments Even though the recent activity data suggests the hit to the economy from previous lockdowns weren’t as bad as feared, the additional lockdown measures across Europe has weighed on incoming data. Growth differentials still favour places like the US and UK above that of the EZ and alongside the clear monetary policy divergence means the bearish bias is firmly in place. On the fiscal front, attention is on ongoing discussions to potentially allow purchases of ‘green bonds’ NOT to count against budget deficits. If approved, this could drastically change the fiscal landscape for the EZ and would be seen as a big positive for the EUR and EU equities. 3. Funding Characteristics As a low yielder (like JPY & CHF), the EUR has been a funding choice among carry trades, especially during 2019 where it was a favourite against high yielding EM. As such, part of the EUR’s upside after the initial risk-off scare in March 2020 was attributed to a major unwind of large carry trades. As more central banks start normalizing policy and rate differentials widen, the EUR’s use as a funding currency could add additional pressure in the med-term, but keep in mind it could also spark risk off upside if some of those trades unwind. 4. CFTC Analysis Latest CFTC data showed a positioning change of +6976 with a net non-commercial position of +31560. The divergence between large specs and leveraged funds continue to grow as large specs added back longs in size, while leveraged funds still hold the biggest net-short among the majors. What does that mean, well it means be careful, because being on the wrong side of any of these can be painful. Thus, looking for clear short-term drivers apart from tactical positioning considerations might be the ‘safest’ way to trade the EUR right now. It seems like large specs chose the exact wrong moment to add back to EUR longs and could see some reduction in longs in the sessions ahead if the EURUSD does not manage to claim back key support at 1.1220-1.1240 5. The Week Ahead For the week ahead the main focus for the EUR would be flash CPI data on Wed and then the ECB meeting on Thursday. The bank surprised markets at the Dec meeting with a less dovish than expected tilt on the QE side with the APP beefing up from March as the PEPP phases out but then reducing APP purchases incrementally throughout the year. After that surprise, markets are not expecting much from the Jan meeting in terms of policy adjustments or announcements, which means all focus will fall on the assessing the tone and language towards the inflation outlook. After the Dec meeting, CPI has continued to surprise higher (YY CPI at 5.0% & Core YY at 2.7%). Some participants expect the ECB to gradually move away from a ‘transitory’ expectation for inflation, but any pivot away from that could risk an aggressive repricing in rate expectations, with money markets already pricing in 10bsp of tightening in Oct followed by 10bsp more in Dec (that’s 2 hikes). Thus, focus will be on how strongly the bank sticks to their med-term inflation outlook and how much room they leave for faster asset purchase reductions if the incoming data prove them wrong. The Q&A will likely bring up current Russia/Ukraine tensions and how that could impact the inflation outlook. USD FUNDAMENTAL BIAS: BULLISH 1. Monetary Policy The Jan FOMC decision was hawkish on multiple fronts. The statement signalled a March hike as expected, but the press conference from Chair Powell portrayed a very hawkish message. Even though Powell said they can’t predict the rate path with certainty, he stressed the economy is in much better shape compared to the 2015 cycle and that will have implications for the pace of hikes. Furthermore, the Chair explained that there is ‘quite a bit of room’ to raise rates without dampening employment, which suggests upside risks to the rate path, especially coming from Powell. A big question markets wanted an answer for was whether the Fed was concerned about recent equity market volatility. However, the Chair explained that markets and financial conditions are reflecting policy in advance and stressed that in aggregate their measures they look at is not showing red lights. This was a clear message to markets that any ‘Fed Put’ is much further away and that inflation is the biggest focus point for the Fed right now. The Chair also didn’t rule out the possibility of hiking 50bsp in March or possibly hiking at every meeting this year, which was seen as hawkish as it means the Fed is looking for optionality to move more aggressive if they need to. On the balance sheet, we didn’t really get new info and the Chair reiterated that they are contemplating a start of QT after the hiking cycle has begun but also reiterated that they will discuss this in coming meetings. Overall, the tone and language used by the Chair were a lot more hawkish than the Dec meeting and more hawkish than some were hoping for. 2. Global & Domestic Economy As the reserve currency, the USD’s usage around the world means it usually has an inverse correlation to the health of the global economy and global trade. The USD usually gains strength when growth & inflation both slow (disinflation) and loses ground when growth & inflation accelerates (reflation). Thus, with expectations that both growth and inflation will decelerate this year, both in the US and the globe, that should be a positive input for the USD in the med-term. However, incoming data will also be important in relation to the ‘Fed Put’. There are many similarities between now and 4Q18, where the Fed were also tightening aggressively going into an economic slowdown. So, incoming data will be crucial to watch. As long as growth data slows and the Fed stays aggressive that would be a positive environment for the USD, but if it causes the Fed to pivot more dovish and causes a rate repricing in money markets it would be seen as a negative input for the USD. 3. CFTC Analysis Latest CFTC data showed a positioning change of +427 with a net non-commercial position of +36861. The shortterm unwinding of stretched USD longs played out as expected at the start of the year but was also short-lived in the midst of the recent strong risk off sentiment in certain parts of the market and of course the continued hawkish stance from the Fed. 4. The Week Ahead In the week ahead the party starts all over again with a new month which means we’ll get new ISM PMI releases as well as the Jan NFP report. It’s important to keep the current economic climate in mind when looking at possible reaction functions for the USD. Usually, positive data should be USD positive and negative data USD negative when the Fed is busy with a hiking cycle, but right now there are growing fears that economic data has been slowing much faster than expected and means the Fed could be on its way to make the same mistake it did back in the end of 2018. As long as those fears persist, we might see the USD having two different reaction functions to growth and inflation data. Reacting inverse to growth data but acting correlated to inflation data. That makes this week’s incoming ISM data very interesting as the Dec data decelerated much faster than expected on the growth side, and a further miss might spark more fears about a faster slowdown. The tricky part for the USD in the week ahead is that both the ISM prints as well as the NFP report has inflation components with the ISM priced paid components and the Average Hourly Earnings on the NFP side. If growth data slows very fast that could be USD positive, but if inflation data starts decelerating much faster that could also be USD negative as it means less need for aggressive Fed policy. A tricky one for the week ahead.
by thunderpips
3
EUR USD - FUNDAMENTAL DRIVERSEUR FUNDAMENTAL BIAS: BEARISH 1. Monetary Policy Less dovish than expected can sum up the ECB Dec decision. As expected, they announced that PEPP will discontinue from March 2022, but also announced a surprise decline in monthly purchases under the APP, which will see purchases increased to EUR 40bln from the current EUR 20bln from2Q22 and then subsequently lowered to EUR 30bln in 3Q22 and down to EUR 20bln in 4Q22. Markets were not expecting any reduced purchases under the PEPP, so expecting the APP amount to return to EUR 20 billion by end 2022 was less dovish than expected. On inflation there was no surprises with updated staff econ projections showing 2023 HICP at 1.8% which reiterated the bank’s view that inflation will return to below target in the med-term. President Lagarde struck a familiar tone regarding rates by reaffirming that rates are unlikely to rise in 2022. As usual, ECB sources provided more colour after the meeting by noting further disagreements among the GC , with hawks unhappy with extending PEPP reinvestments to 2024 and not setting an end-date to the APP, and of course argued that inflation risks as skewed higher. Overall, the ECB was less dovish than expected but the stark policy divergence with the Fed and BoE means the bias for the EUR remains tilted lower in the med-term. 2. Economic & Health Developments Even though the recent activity data suggests the hit to the economy from previous lockdowns weren’t as bad as feared, the massive climb in case numbers across Europe have seen more restrictive measures which will drag on growth. Further lockdown measures will probably see a further divergence in growth differentials between the EU and other major economies (and combined with ongoing central bank policy divergence) the fundamental outlook remains bearish. On the fiscal front, attention is still on ongoing discussions among EU states to potentially allow the purchase of green bonds NOT to count against budget deficits. Such a decision could drastically change the fiscal picture and we would expect it to be a big positive for the EUR and EU equities if that change should come to pass. 3. Funding Characteristics As a low yielder (like JPY & CHF), the EUR has been a funding choice among carry trades, especially during 2019 where it was a favourite against high yielding EM. As such, part of the EUR’s upside after the initial risk-off scare in March 2020 was attributed to a major unwind of large carry trades. As more central banks start normalizing policy and rate differentials widen, the EUR’s use as a funding currency could add additional pressure in the med-term, but keep in mind it could also spark risk off upside if some of those trades unwind. 4. CFTC Analysis Latest CFTC data showed a positioning change of +18579 with a net non-commercial position of +24584. The divergence between large speculators and leveraged funds continue to grow as large specs added back in size, while leveraged funds still hold the biggest net-short among the majors. What does that mean, well it means be careful, because being on the wrong side of any of these can be painful. Thus, looking for clear short-term drivers apart from tactical positioning considerations might be the ‘safest’ way to trade the EUR right now. 5. The Week Ahead In the week ahead, the majority of focus for the EUR will fall on the overall trajectory for the USD, with plenty of big events that can spark some meaningful short-term reaction in the Greenback. Thus, keeping track of the USD will be a very important driver for the EUR across the board. The currency’s low yielding characteristics does mean that further attention on the overall risk sentiment will be important in the week ahead as well. We also have a fresh round of flash PMI’s due for the Eurozone on Monday, which can often create some shortterm volatility for the single currency, and after the softer than expected forward-looking growth data out of the US in the past two weeks the EU PMI data is slightly more interesting. USD FUNDAMENTAL BIAS: BULLISH 1. Monetary Policy The Fed turned a lot more hawkish than expected in Dec. They doubled the pace of tapering to $30 billion per month which will see QE concluded by March 2022 as was widely expected. Surprisingly though the Summary of Econ Projections showed the median dot plot pencilled in 3 hikes for 2022 (up from the previous 1), confirming Fed Fund Future expectations. Fed Chair Powell explained they hadn’t decided whether to pause between the end of tapering and a first hike but reiterated that rates will likely only rise when QE has concluded. Another positive shift was Powell’s comments that they could raise rates before full employment has been met due to high inflation , and stated that with inflation above target, they cannot wait too long to get to maximum employment as current inflation levels is seen as a threat to max employment. The hawkish tilt went further to note that the bank started discussing the balance sheet but said no decisions were made on when QT might commence. Even though the dots projected 3 hikes for 2022, the updated rate trajectory only showed 1 additional hike over the forecast horizon, which combined with a lower terminal rate was less hawkish than some had feared. Nonetheless, the meeting marked a material hawkish shift from the Fed, putting it on par with the likes of the RBNZ. The meeting minutes also revealed that the QT discussion saw majority of members thinking it appropriate to start QT soon after rate lift off and another more hawkish tilt than expected from the Fed. 2. Global Risk Outlook The growth & inflation outlook for the US and the globe will be key for the USD. The USD is often inversely correlated to global growth & inflation , doing bad during reflationary environments (growth and inflation accelerating), while the USD usually does well in disinflationary environments (growth and inflation decelerating). Thus, with expectations that both growth and inflation will decelerate this year, both in the US and the globe, that should be a positive input for the USD in the med-term . However, incoming data will also be important to see how the Fed responds to it, where a worsening outlook that deteriorates much faster than expected could see a dovish pivot from the Fed which could mean downside for the USD if money markets start pricing out hikes (especially with markets now expected just over 4 hikes for 2022). 3. CFTC Analysis Latest CFTC data showed a positioning change of -1458 with a net non-commercial position of +36434. The shortterm unwinding of stretched USD longs played out exactly as expected but was also short-lived in the midst of the recent strong risk off moves in certain parts of the market. Surprisingly, the big flush lower in the USD has not showed up in the CFTC data as expected with very little change to the overall positioning. In the current context, the stretched long positioning makes the USD vulnerable in the event that the Fed does not deliver the very hawkish tone expected of them in this week’s upcoming FOMC meeting. 4. The Week Ahead For the USD the big focus this week will be overall risk sentiment and the first FOMC meeting for 2022 on Wednesday, followed by Friday’s Core PCE and Employment Cost index prints. The latter will of course be important given the inflation outlook with more emphasis recently on the odds of a possible wage spiral affect. However, the main event will be the FOMC, where the meeting is expected to serve as a signalling meeting to pave the way for a 25bsp hike in March and to provide more clarity on the bank’s balance sheet plans. With a March hike sitting close to a 90% probability, and markets already fully pricing in 4 hikes this year, the bar has been set quite high for a hawkish surprise. However, there are also some participants that think the recent econ data ( CPI YY >7% and Unemployment <4%) justifies an early end to the Fed’s QE program instead of allowing tapering to run it’s planned course until March. That would certainly give a more hawkish feel to the meeting and could see markets pricing in an even earlier and faster pace of QT if confirmed. But, if the Fed does not deliver on an early end to QE , and does not offer a strong enough signal that the 4 hikes priced by the market is justified, we could be in store for some moderation in the rise in yields and the USD and could also prove to be supportive for equities which ended last week in quite bad shape.
by thunderpips
10
AUD USD - FUNDAMENTAL DRIVERSAUD FUNDAMENTAL BIAS: NEUTRAL 1. Monetary Policy In Dec the RBA kept rates at 0.10% and weekly bond purchases at A$4bln until mid-Feb, as expected. They reiterated their commitment to maintain highly supportive monetary conditions and won’t raise rates until actual inflation is sustainably within their 2%-3% target range. They noted that the economy is recovering from the Delta slowdown and is expected to return to pre-Delta path in 1H22. The positive take from the meeting was that the RBA did not think Omicron will derail the expected recovery and sounded more optimistic than markets anticipated. They also said they will consider the future of their QE program at the Feb meeting and outlined their criteria for that which includes actions of other central banks, bond market functioning and actual and expected progress towards the goals of full employment and inflation consistent with their target. All in all, the bank still had a dovish stance but was more optimistic about the economy than expected. Furthermore, out of the 3 criteria set by the bank, the first two is arguably a green light already, which means the only thing we are waiting for after last week’s solid jobs print is this week’s incoming QQ CPI print. 2. Idiosyncratic Drivers & Intermarket Analysis There are 4 key drivers we’re watching for Australia’s med-term outlook: The virus situation – so far, the RBA has been positive about a post-Delta recovery, but incoming employment and inflation data will be crucial to see whether that optimism is justified. China – Even though the PBoC has finally stepped up with new stimulus & some fiscal support is expected in 1H22, the Covid-Zero policy in China does pose a risk to their expected 2022 recovery so the recent rapid rise in cases is one to watch. Politically, the AUKUS defence pact could see possible retaliation from China against Australian goods and is always something to keep on the radar. Commodities – Iron Ore, (24% of exports) and Coal prices (18% of exports) are important for terms of trade, and with both pushing higher on PBoC easing, that is a positive for the AUD as long as they maintain their recent push higher. Global growth – as a risk proxy, the global economy is an important consideration for AUD, which means the expected slowdown in growth and inflation globally is an important point to consider, but if China can put in a solid year that should limit the fall out of a faster slowdown in the global economy. 3. Global Risk Outlook As a high-beta currency, the AUD usually benefits from overall positive risk sentiment as well as environments that benefit pro-cyclical assets. Thus, both short-term (immediate) and med-term (underlying) risk sentiment will always be a key consideration for the AUD. 4. CFTC Analysis Latest CFTC data showed positioning change of +3032 with a net non-commercial position of -88454. As outsized net-shorts are usually seen as a contrarian indicator we want to be mindful of potential squeezes higher for the AUD, which also means that the AUD is most likely going to be more sensitive to positive data or developments compared to negative ones because a lot of the bad news has been priced in. The recent downside in equities have kept the AUD pressured, but it was encouraging to see that despite the downside that the AUD managed to see some minor unwinding of net-shorts, and as the most recent CFTC update did not include Thursday’s reaction to the good jobs report, we would expect to see more unwind with next week’s data. 5. The Week Ahead The most important data point for the AUD in the week ahead is the upcoming quarterly CPI data scheduled for Tuesday. Recall that the RBA gave us three criteria they will be watching to determine the future of their asset purchase program, and with 2 of those 3 criteria arguable already confirmed, the only thing left is the economic data. After the solid jobs data last week, CPI is the final piece to the puzzle, and if we can see a solid print, it should see consensus pricing in an end to the QE program at next week’s meeting. Consensus sees the YY measure climbing to 3.2% and QQ climbing to 1.0% (unchanged expected for Trim & Weighted). According to Westpac there is downside risks from household goods and furnishings while there are upside risks from dwelling prices. Apart from CPI, as a high beta the overall risk sentiment after last week’s equity bloodbath will also be an important focus point for the AUD in the week ahead. USD FUNDAMENTAL BIAS: BULLISH 1. Monetary Policy The Fed turned a lot more hawkish than expected in Dec. They doubled the pace of tapering to $30 billion per month which will see QE concluded by March 2022 as was widely expected. Surprisingly though the Summary of Econ Projections showed the median dot plot pencilled in 3 hikes for 2022 (up from the previous 1), confirming Fed Fund Future expectations. Fed Chair Powell explained they hadn’t decided whether to pause between the end of tapering and a first hike but reiterated that rates will likely only rise when QE has concluded. Another positive shift was Powell’s comments that they could raise rates before full employment has been met due to high inflation , and stated that with inflation above target, they cannot wait too long to get to maximum employment as current inflation levels is seen as a threat to max employment. The hawkish tilt went further to note that the bank started discussing the balance sheet but said no decisions were made on when QT might commence. Even though the dots projected 3 hikes for 2022, the updated rate trajectory only showed 1 additional hike over the forecast horizon, which combined with a lower terminal rate was less hawkish than some had feared. Nonetheless, the meeting marked a material hawkish shift from the Fed, putting it on par with the likes of the RBNZ. The meeting minutes also revealed that the QT discussion saw majority of members thinking it appropriate to start QT soon after rate lift off and another more hawkish tilt than expected from the Fed. 2. Global Risk Outlook The growth & inflation outlook for the US and the globe will be key for the USD. The USD is often inversely correlated to global growth & inflation , doing bad during reflationary environments (growth and inflation accelerating), while the USD usually does well in disinflationary environments (growth and inflation decelerating). Thus, with expectations that both growth and inflation will decelerate this year, both in the US and the globe, that should be a positive input for the USD in the med-term . However, incoming data will also be important to see how the Fed responds to it, where a worsening outlook that deteriorates much faster than expected could see a dovish pivot from the Fed which could mean downside for the USD if money markets start pricing out hikes (especially with markets now expected just over 4 hikes for 2022). 3. CFTC Analysis Latest CFTC data showed a positioning change of -1458 with a net non-commercial position of +36434. The shortterm unwinding of stretched USD longs played out exactly as expected but was also short-lived in the midst of the recent strong risk off moves in certain parts of the market. Surprisingly, the big flush lower in the USD has not showed up in the CFTC data as expected with very little change to the overall positioning. In the current context, the stretched long positioning makes the USD vulnerable in the event that the Fed does not deliver the very hawkish tone expected of them in this week’s upcoming FOMC meeting. 4. The Week Ahead For the USD the big focus this week will be overall risk sentiment and the first FOMC meeting for 2022 on Wednesday, followed by Friday’s Core PCE and Employment Cost index prints. The latter will of course be important given the inflation outlook with more emphasis recently on the odds of a possible wage spiral affect. However, the main event will be the FOMC, where the meeting is expected to serve as a signalling meeting to pave the way for a 25bsp hike in March and to provide more clarity on the bank’s balance sheet plans. With a March hike sitting close to a 90% probability, and markets already fully pricing in 4 hikes this year, the bar has been set quite high for a hawkish surprise. However, there are also some participants that think the recent econ data ( CPI YY >7% and Unemployment <4%) justifies an early end to the Fed’s QE program instead of allowing tapering to run it’s planned course until March. That would certainly give a more hawkish feel to the meeting and could see markets pricing in an even earlier and faster pace of QT if confirmed. But, if the Fed does not deliver on an early end to QE , and does not offer a strong enough signal that the 4 hikes priced by the market is justified, we could be in store for some moderation in the rise in yields and the USD and could also prove to be supportive for equities which ended last week in quite bad shape.
by thunderpips
11
NZD USD - FUNDAMENTAL DRIVERSNZD FUNDAMENTAL BIAS: WEAK BULLISH 1. Monetary Policy The RBNZ underwhelmed some market participants who were looking for a 50bsp hike at their last policy meeting and the bank delivered a 25bsp hike as consensus was expecting. Even though the NZD took a plunge after the meeting, we don’t think markets are really giving NZD the upside it deserves after the Nov RBNZ decision. Not referring to the knee-jerk lower after the 25bsp hike of course as that was fully priced in and always ran the risk of underwhelming the bulls, but the outlook in the MPR justifies more NZD strength. The upgrades to the economic outlook between Aug and Nov were a lot more positive than expected, with growth seen lower in 2022 but much higher in 2023, CPI seen higher throughout 2022 and 2023, Unemployment seen lower throughout the forecast horizon, and of course the big upgrade to the OCR which is now seen at 2.6% by 2024. The bank also brought forward their expectation of reaching the 2.0% neutral rate by 5 quarters. For now, incoming data will be very important and any new developments with the new Omicron variant will be closely watched. Any major deterioration can see markets pricing out some of the hikes that has been priced in and is a risk to the outlook. However, if data stays solid, the recent sell off in the NZD does seem at odds with the fundamental, policy and economic outlook. 2. Economic and health developments Even though the NZ government has abandoned a covid-zero strategy, a ramp in Omicron cases can of course see further restrictions being announced if things get serious so the virus is worth keeping on the radar. Turning to the economic data, the recent macro data has been much better than both the markets and the RBNZ had expected, but markets have not been too bothered with the incoming data and have not given the NZD the upside it deserves. For now, based on the economic and policy outlook the NZD still seems undervalued at current prices, but we need to keep close track of the overall risk sentiment. 3. Global Risk Outlook As a high-beta currency, the NZD usually benefits from overall positive risk sentiment as well as environments that benefit pro-cyclical assets. Thus, both short-term (immediate) and med-term (underlying) risk sentiment will always be a key consideration for the NZD. 4. CFTC Analysis Latest CFTC data showed a positioning change of +273 with a net non-commercial position of -8331. Positioning changes has been very limited for the NZD in the past few weeks and with the flush out of net-longs among Leveraged Funds in December we can see that positioning is close to neutral for both large specs and leveraged funds. The sentiment signal from the unwind in positioning means right now we are happy to wait for incoming econ data or strong risk sentiment impulses to give better sense of where the NZD goes next. 5. The Week Ahead Finally, some tier 1 data due for the NZD this week in the form of QQ CPI scheduled for Wednesday. For the past few months, the NZD has not traded in line with it’s current fundamental outlook. Despite very solid economic data and the most hawkish central bank among the majors, the currency has failed to hold onto any real upside momentum. The recent market jitters in equities have also not been kind to the high beta currency and have seen further depreciation, even against its high beta counterparts like the AUD and CAD. So, it goes without saying that the incoming CPI data will be important, because if the NZD fails to sustain any upside after another possible beat, then that will tell us a lot about the market’s willingness to buy the NZD. In the event of a bigger-than-expected miss, AUDNZD longs are looking attractive with the RBA still needing to turn hawkish it could see the AUD gain ground as massive net-short positioning continues to unwind. Apart from that, risk sentiment will as always be important for the high betas, especially after last week’s strong push lower in equities. USD FUNDAMENTAL BIAS: BULLISH 1. Monetary Policy The Fed turned a lot more hawkish than expected in Dec. They doubled the pace of tapering to $30 billion per month which will see QE concluded by March 2022 as was widely expected. Surprisingly though the Summary of Econ Projections showed the median dot plot pencilled in 3 hikes for 2022 (up from the previous 1), confirming Fed Fund Future expectations. Fed Chair Powell explained they hadn’t decided whether to pause between the end of tapering and a first hike but reiterated that rates will likely only rise when QE has concluded. Another positive shift was Powell’s comments that they could raise rates before full employment has been met due to high inflation , and stated that with inflation above target, they cannot wait too long to get to maximum employment as current inflation levels is seen as a threat to max employment. The hawkish tilt went further to note that the bank started discussing the balance sheet but said no decisions were made on when QT might commence. Even though the dots projected 3 hikes for 2022, the updated rate trajectory only showed 1 additional hike over the forecast horizon, which combined with a lower terminal rate was less hawkish than some had feared. Nonetheless, the meeting marked a material hawkish shift from the Fed, putting it on par with the likes of the RBNZ. The meeting minutes also revealed that the QT discussion saw majority of members thinking it appropriate to start QT soon after rate lift off and another more hawkish tilt than expected from the Fed. 2. Global Risk Outlook The growth & inflation outlook for the US and the globe will be key for the USD. The USD is often inversely correlated to global growth & inflation , doing bad during reflationary environments (growth and inflation accelerating), while the USD usually does well in disinflationary environments (growth and inflation decelerating). Thus, with expectations that both growth and inflation will decelerate this year, both in the US and the globe, that should be a positive input for the USD in the med-term . However, incoming data will also be important to see how the Fed responds to it, where a worsening outlook that deteriorates much faster than expected could see a dovish pivot from the Fed which could mean downside for the USD if money markets start pricing out hikes (especially with markets now expected just over 4 hikes for 2022). 3. CFTC Analysis Latest CFTC data showed a positioning change of -1458 with a net non-commercial position of +36434. The shortterm unwinding of stretched USD longs played out exactly as expected but was also short-lived in the midst of the recent strong risk off moves in certain parts of the market. Surprisingly, the big flush lower in the USD has not showed up in the CFTC data as expected with very little change to the overall positioning. In the current context, the stretched long positioning makes the USD vulnerable in the event that the Fed does not deliver the very hawkish tone expected of them in this week’s upcoming FOMC meeting. 4. The Week Ahead For the USD the big focus this week will be overall risk sentiment and the first FOMC meeting for 2022 on Wednesday, followed by Friday’s Core PCE and Employment Cost index prints. The latter will of course be important given the inflation outlook with more emphasis recently on the odds of a possible wage spiral affect. However, the main event will be the FOMC, where the meeting is expected to serve as a signalling meeting to pave the way for a 25bsp hike in March and to provide more clarity on the bank’s balance sheet plans. With a March hike sitting close to a 90% probability, and markets already fully pricing in 4 hikes this year, the bar has been set quite high for a hawkish surprise. However, there are also some participants that think the recent econ data ( CPI YY >7% and Unemployment <4%) justifies an early end to the Fed’s QE program instead of allowing tapering to run it’s planned course until March. That would certainly give a more hawkish feel to the meeting and could see markets pricing in an even earlier and faster pace of QT if confirmed. But, if the Fed does not deliver on an early end to QE , and does not offer a strong enough signal that the 4 hikes priced by the market is justified, we could be in store for some moderation in the rise in yields and the USD and could also prove to be supportive for equities which ended last week in quite bad shape.
Editors' picks
by thunderpips
19