Goldman Sachs' Jonny Fine: We see 'bursts of activity' in capital markets franchises

Capital Markets Activity & Outlook - Capital markets franchises are experiencing bursts of activity, with investment grade markets running at or near record highs in both the US and Euro markets [2] - The Euro market has an increased share of global financing, attracting US corporates seeking lower yielding markets [3] - The outlook for capital markets remains robust, with leverage finance and US IPOs showing significant activity [3] - The path of least resistance points towards continued robust activity overall, despite some policy uncertainties [4] Interest Rates & Fed Policy - Issuers are not necessarily counting on Fed cuts this year, aligning with market pricing expectations of a couple of cuts through the end of the year and more into 2026 [5] - Elevated term yields in the US Treasury market, with a term premium of around 80 to 85 basis points, act as a tax on mortgage rates and corporate borrowing rates [5][6] - Noise around the potential change in Fed chair contributes to a term premium of approximately 20 to 25 basis points [9] - Markets are pricing in a higher probability of less consensus among FOMC voting members, potentially leading to increased uncertainty and volatility [11][13] Treasury Market - The path of least resistance in treasuries is towards a steeper curve [10] - Treasury financing is expected to remain concentrated in short duration markets [11] Market Sentiment & Risk - The market reacted strongly to news regarding the Fed chair, indicating sensitivity to changes in leadership [8] - Volatility and risk premium may rise as a new Fed era approaches, suggesting a potentially attractive environment for continued financing [18] - Credit spreads are in the bottom 1% over the last two decades, indicating a favorable financing environment [18]