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Spike in Credit Spreads continues...As I wrote on March 4th after February monthly closing...the RSI on credit spreads made a higher high with Feb closing which indicates a change from a down trend in credit spreads to an uptrend; which is not good for risk assets. Now that March has closed; you will see yet another spike in the RSI to close at another higher high. This spike in RSI is actually rather large even though credit spreads are still less than 4. I've seen a lot of people on X laughing at people who have mentioned that credit spreads are "spiking" because when you look at the graph of credit spreads they still below 4 and do not appear to be spiking. Here's the thing...when spreads do spike you will be late to the party! So what happens when spreads get to 4? Do they do what they did in 2005 or 2014? The answer to this question will dictate how the market will react in the short term. Eventually however spreads will blow up...it's not an if but a when once RSI changes over to an uptrend.
FRED:BAMLH0A0HYM2EYLong
by Vixtine
$EUIRYY -Europe CPI (March/2025)ECONOMICS:EUIRYY March/2025 source: EUROSTAT - Annual inflation in the Euro Area eased to 2.2% in March 2025, the lowest rate since November 2024 and slightly below market expectations of 2.3%. Services inflation slowed to a 33-month low (3.4% vs. 3.7% in February), while energy costs declined (-0.7% vs. 0.2%). However, inflation remained steady for both non-energy industrial goods (0.6%) and processed food, alcohol & tobacco (2.6%), and unprocessed food prices surged (4.1% vs. 3.0%). Meanwhile, core inflation, which excludes volatile food and energy prices, fell to 2.4%, slightly below market forecasts of 2.5% and marking its lowest level since January 2022. On a monthly basis, consumer prices rose 0.6% in March, following a 0.4% advance in February.
ECONOMICS:EUIRYY
by Mr_J__fx
$USPCEPIMC -U.S Core PCE Inflation Rises More than ExpectedECONOMICS:USPCEPIMC (February/2025) source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis - The US PCE price index rose by 0.3% month-over-month in February, maintaining the same pace as the previous two months. The core PCE index increased by 0.4%, the most since January 2024, surpassing the forecast of 0.3% and up from 0.3% in January. On a year-over-year basis, headline PCE inflation remained steady at 2.5%, while core PCE inflation edged up to 2.8%, above the expected 2.7%.
ECONOMICS:USPCEPIMC
by Mr_J__fx
$GBIRYY -U.K Inflation Rate (February/2025)ECONOMICS:GBIRYY February/2025 source: Office for National Statistics - The annual inflation rate in the UK fell to 2.8% in February 2025 from 3% in January, below market expectations of 2.9%, though in line with the Bank of England's forecast. The largest downward contribution came from prices of clothing which declined for the first time since October 2021 (-0.6% vs 1.8%), led by garments for women and children's clothing. Inflation also eased in recreation and culture (3.4% vs. 3.8%), particularly in live music admission and recording media, as well as in housing and utilities (1.9% vs. 2.1%), including actual rents for housing (7.4% vs. 7.8%). In contrast, food inflation was unchanged at 3.3% and prices rose faster for transport (1.8% vs 1.7%) and restaurants and hotels (3.4% vs 3.3%). Meanwhile, services inflation held steady at 5%. The annual core inflation rate declined to 3.5% from 3.7%. Compared to the previous month, the CPI increased 0.4%, rebounding from a 0.1% decline but falling short of the expected 0.5% increase.
ECONOMICS:GBIRYY
by Mr_J__fx
How to Track Inflation NumberHow to track inflation number? When the Fed mentions their 2% inflation target, are they referring to the commonly published CPI that we often read about, or are they referring to Core CPI or Core PCE? 10-Year Yield Futures Ticker: 10Y Minimum fluctuation: 0.001 Index points (1/10th basis point per annum) = $1.00 Disclaimer: • What presented here is not a recommendation, please consult your licensed broker. • Our mission is to create lateral thinking skills for every investor and trader, knowing when to take a calculated risk with market uncertainty and a bolder risk when opportunity arises. CME Real-time Market Data help identify trading set-ups in real-time and express my market views. If you have futures in your trading portfolio, you can check out on CME Group data plans available that suit your trading needs www.tradingview.com Trading the Micro: www.cmegroup.com
ECONOMICS:USCPCEPIACLong
by konhow
1
$GBINTR - U.K Interest Rates (March/2025)ECONOMICS:GBINTR March/2025 source: Bank of England - The Bank of England voted 8-1 to keep the Bank Rate at 4.5% during its March meeting, as policymakers adopted a wait-and-see approach amid stubbornly high inflation and global economic uncertainties. The bank highlighted that, given the medium-term inflation outlook, a gradual and cautious approach to further withdrawal of monetary policy restraint remains appropriate. CPI inflation increased to 3.0% in January, and while global energy prices fell, inflation is expected to rise to 3¾% by Q3 2025. Also, the MPC noted that global trade policy uncertainties and geopolitical risks increased, with financial market volatility rising. source: Bank of England
ECONOMICS:GBINTR
by Mr_J__fx
$JPIRYY -Japan's Inflation Rate (February/2025)ECONOMICS:JPIRYY February/2025 source: Ministry of Internal Affairs & Communications - The annual inflation rate in Japan fell to 3.7% in February 2025 from a 2-year high of 4.0% in the prior month, amid a sharp slowdown in prices of electricity (9.0% vs 18.0% in January )and gas (3.4% vs 6.8%) following the government's reinstatement of energy subsidies. Also, food prices rose slightly slower after hitting a 15-month high in January (7.6% vs 7.8%). Further, inflation eased for healthcare (1.7% vs. 1.8%), recreation (2.1% vs. 2.6%), and miscellaneous items (1.1% vs. 1.4%). At the same time, education costs continued to fall (-1.1% vs. -1.1%). In contrast, inflation remained steady for housing (at 0.8%) and clothing (at 2.8%), while accelerating for transport (2.4% vs. 2.0%) and furniture and household items (4.0% vs. 3.4%), and bouncing back for communications (0.1% vs. -0.3%). The core inflation rate dropped to 3.0% from January's 19-month top of 3.2%, above forecasts of 2.9%. Monthly, the CPI dropped 0.1%, the first fall since September, after a 0.5% gain in January.
ECONOMICS:JPIRYY
by Mr_J__fx
$JPINTR -Japan's Interest Rates (March/2025)ECONOMICS:JPINTR March/2025 source: Bank of Japan -The Bank of Japan (BoJ) kept its key short-term interest rate at around 0.5% during its March meeting, maintaining it at its highest level since 2008 and in line with market expectations. The unanimous decision followed the central bank’s third rate hike in January and came before the U.S. Federal Reserve’s rate announcement. The board took a cautious stance, focusing on assessing the impact of rising global economic risks on Japan’s fragile recovery. The BoJ pointed to ongoing uncertainties in the domestic economic outlook amid higher U.S. tariffs and headwinds from overseas conditions. While the Japanese economy had recovered moderately, some weaknesses remained. Private consumption continued to grow, helped by wage hikes, even as cost pressures persisted. However, exports and industrial output were mostly flat. Inflation ranged between 3.0% and 3.5% yearly, driven by higher service prices. Inflation expectations increased moderately, with underlying CPI projected to rise gradually.
ECONOMICS:JPINTR
by Mr_J__fx
Trump Tariffs: Strategic Impact and Investment ImplicationsIn the short to medium term, equity markets will experience significant volatility due to new tariff implementations. However, in the long term, these tariffs could lead to a stronger domestic economy, benefiting the working class and middle class while revitalizing industrial production in the U.S. Macroeconomic Impact Depreciation of the U.S. Dollar A depreciating USD acts as a natural tariff, making imports more expensive while simultaneously boosting U.S. exports. Countries with weaker currencies relative to the dollar, such as Mauritius (where our currency has depreciated by nearly 40% against the USD), already experience higher costs when purchasing from U.S. retailers like Amazon. Inflation Trends and Precious Metals Despite widespread fears of inflation—reflected in gold prices reaching all-time highs—actual inflation remains relatively stable (~2%). Factors such as import/export balances, currency devaluation, and consumer demand will likely offset inflationary pressures. Once investors recognize this, precious metals may undergo a correction. Federal Reserve Policy and Interest Rates The Federal Reserve's traditional mechanism of recession control—interest rate adjustments—is currently ineffective. With reports of declining payroll numbers, the Fed is expected to cut interest rates to prevent a mass exodus of aging investors (boomers) from the stock market. However, this time, rate cuts may not drive asset inflation as they did during COVID-19. Investment Strategy: Navigating Market Changes Short-Term: Uncertainty leading to stability Bear Market Risks: Until tariff negotiations stabilize and currency depreciation takes effect, expect equity market volatility. Investment Approach: Buy high-quality corporate bonds in consumer staples with exposure to multiple currencies. Hold cash reserves across multiple currencies to mitigate risk. Prioritizing fixed-income securities (bonds, term deposits). Consider real estate in stable emerging markets, where high-net-worth investors may shift investment focus. Mid-Term: Seeds start to reap Sector Focus: multinational companies benefiting from U.S. exports, particularly in non-tariff-heavy industries. Stock Selection: Identify firms that continued capital investment during the downturn and are now positioned for growth. Long-Term (2028+) Monitoring Indicators: Track interest rate trends and their impact on asset accumulation by wealthy investors. Observe precious metal prices as an indicator of capital reallocation to assets. Investment Approach: Consider REITs and undervalued real estate investments. Double down on assets if economic policies shift under a Democratic administration.
FRED:SP500
by shamchittesh
Credit Spreads - About to Blow?While credit spreads, which reached near-historic lows in 2024, remain tight, they have widened notably since the beginning of 2025. If this trend accelerates, it could put substantial pressure on the bond market, resulting in tighter financial conditions and corresponding headwinds for the domestic economy. The last 2-3 weeks have seen risk assets come under pressure, but the below chart suggests that the risk-off sentiment shift may still be early-stage... Whether viewed through a traditional technical lens or supply/demand, current levels could be considered supportive - risk is to the upside. A few impacted ETFs: NASDAQ:IEF , NASDAQ:TLT , AMEX:HYG , AMEX:JNK Jon JHartCharts
FRED:BAMLH0A0HYM2Long
by JHartCharts
Inflation rate vs FED FUNDS RATEThe inflation rate and the Federal Funds Rate are deeply interconnected, with the Federal Reserve using the latter as a primary tool to manage the former. When inflation rises above the Fed's target (typically around 2%), the Fed often increases the Federal Funds Rate to tighten monetary policy. Higher rates make borrowing more expensive, which can reduce consumer spending and business investment, thereby slowing economic activity and helping to curb inflationary pressures. Conversely, when inflation is too low or the economy is sluggish, the Fed may lower the Federal Funds Rate to stimulate borrowing, spending, and investment, which can help boost economic activity and push inflation toward the target. However, this relationship is influenced by external factors such as supply chain disruptions, energy prices, and global economic conditions, which can complicate the Fed's ability to control inflation solely through rate adjustments. For example, during periods of supply-driven inflation (like during a oil price shock), raising rates may have limited immediate impact on inflation but could still be used to anchor inflation expectations. Thus, the Fed's management of the Federal Funds Rate in response to inflation reflects a balancing act between stabilizing prices and supporting sustainable economic growth.
ECONOMICS:USIRYY
by juanfortuno
Real GDP vs FED FUNDS RATEReal GDP and the Federal Funds Rate are closely intertwined in the context of economic policy and performance. The Federal Funds Rate, set by the Federal Reserve, is a key tool used to influence economic activity. When the Fed raises the Federal Funds Rate, borrowing costs increase for consumers and businesses, which can slow down spending, investment, and overall economic growth, potentially leading to a moderation in Real GDP growth. Conversely, when the Fed lowers the Federal Funds Rate, it aims to stimulate the economy by making borrowing cheaper, encouraging spending and investment, which can boost Real GDP growth. However, this relationship is not always straightforward, as other factors like inflation, global economic conditions, and fiscal policy also play significant roles. For instance, during periods of economic recovery, low rates may support GDP growth, but if inflation rises too quickly, the Fed may raise rates to cool the economy, even if it risks slowing Real GDP expansion. Thus, the interplay between Real GDP and the Federal Funds Rate reflects the delicate balance the Fed seeks to maintain between fostering growth and controlling inflation.
FRED:GDPC1
by juanfortuno
Inflation Leading Indicator Data with Agricultural Commodities Inflation leading indicator data is not derived solely from CPI numbers; more importantly, we must consider what drives these CPI numbers. By understanding this, we can stay ahead of the mass market. Looking at past trends, we can observe that CPI numbers and agricultural commodities tend to move in tandem. In this discussion, we will explore why agricultural commodities are an effective tool for projecting inflation direction and examine where these commodities may be heading. Micro Agriculture Futures: . Corn: MZC . Wheat: MZW . Soybean: MZS . Soybean Oil: MZL . Soybean Meal: MZM Disclaimer: • What presented here is not a recommendation, please consult your licensed broker. • Our mission is to create lateral thinking skills for every investor and trader, knowing when to take a calculated risk with market uncertainty and a bolder risk when opportunity arises. CME Real-time Market Data help identify trading set-ups in real-time and express my market views. If you have futures in your trading portfolio, you can check out on CME Group data plans available that suit your trading needs www.tradingview.com Trading the Micro: www.cmegroup.com
ECONOMICS:USIRYYLong
by konhow
4