Dollar Slips and Gold Soars as T-note Yields Fall

Core Points - The dollar index (DXY00) fell by -0.08% as T-note yields decreased following dovish comments from Fed Governor Michelle Bowman, indicating a need for decisive action to lower interest rates due to a weakening labor market [1] - The US Q2 current account deficit was reported at -$251.3 billion, which was smaller than the expected deficit of -$256.6 billion, providing initial support for the dollar [2][3] - Concerns over Fed independence and potential political interference are leading to fears that foreign investors may sell dollar assets [3] Economic Indicators - The US September S&P manufacturing PMI fell by -1.0 to 52.0, which was weaker than the expected 52.2 [4] - The Richmond Fed manufacturing sentiment survey unexpectedly dropped by -10 to -17, contrasting with expectations of an increase to -5 [4] - Fed Chair Powell noted that near-term inflation risks are tilted to the upside while employment risks are to the downside, indicating a challenging economic environment [4] Federal Reserve Commentary - Chicago Fed President Austan Goolsbee stated that the Fed is currently mildly restrictive, with the neutral policy rate estimated to be 100-125 basis points below the current rate [5] - Fed Governor Michelle Bowman emphasized the need for the FOMC to act decisively in response to deteriorating labor market conditions [5] - Markets are pricing in a 91% chance of a -25 basis point rate cut at the upcoming FOMC meeting on October 28-29 [5]