Core Viewpoint - The September FOMC meeting highlighted the risks of employment slowdown and raised the expectation for interest rate cuts in 2025, indicating a cautious but dovish stance from the Federal Reserve [1][2][3]. Economic Predictions - The FOMC's statement emphasized the risks of employment decline, removing the phrase "labor market remains robust" and adding concerns about "slowing job growth" and "increased risks to employment" [2]. - Economic forecasts were improved, with GDP projections for 2025, 2026, and 2027 raised, while the unemployment rate for 2026 and 2027 was slightly lowered. The core PCE forecast for 2026 was also increased [2]. Interest Rate Projections - The dot plot indicated an increase in the expected number of rate cuts in 2025 from 2 to 3, with further divergence in future expectations among FOMC members [2]. - The FOMC members anticipate 2 more cuts this year, 1 cut in 2026, and 2 cuts in 2027, reflecting increasing internal disagreement [2]. Powell's Statements - Chairman Powell described the rate cut as a "risk management cut," indicating no need for a significant reduction at this time and emphasizing that future decisions will depend on data [3]. - Powell noted that while the unemployment rate remains low, it has begun to rise, attributing the slowdown in job growth to factors such as reduced immigration and declining labor force participation, as well as potential impacts from AI [3]. Market Reactions - Following the FOMC announcement, U.S. Treasury yields rose, and stock markets showed mixed results, with gold prices declining. The market reacted to Powell's cautious tone regarding future rate cuts and the balance between employment and inflation targets [4]. - CME data indicated increased market confidence in two more rate cuts this year, although expectations for cuts in 2026 were pushed back [4]. Future Rate Cut Scenarios - Three potential scenarios for future rate cuts were outlined: 1. **Soft Landing Scenario**: The U.S. economy achieves a soft landing without major recession or stagflation, with two more cuts this year and three in 2025, influenced by political pressures [5][6]. 2. **Recession Scenario**: A significant economic downturn occurs, leading to a sharp rise in unemployment or a stock market crash, prompting the Fed to implement substantial cuts [5]. 3. **High Inflation Scenario**: A historic high inflation or stagflation situation forces the Fed to prioritize inflation control, maintaining high rates for an extended period [6]. - The soft landing scenario is considered the base case with the highest probability, while the recession and high inflation scenarios are viewed as less likely at this time [6].

Group 1 - The Federal Reserve's September FOMC meeting resulted in a 25 basis point cut to the federal funds target rate, marking the first rate cut of the year, with expectations for two more cuts in 2025 [1][8] - The FOMC statement highlighted the risks of slowing employment growth, removing previous language indicating a solid labor market, and introducing concerns about downside risks to employment [1][8] - Economic projections were adjusted, with GDP forecasts for 2025, 2026, and 2027 being raised, while unemployment rates for 2026 and 2027 were slightly lowered [9][10] Group 2 - Chairman Powell described the rate cut as a "risk management cut," indicating that there was no need for a significant reduction in rates and that future rate paths remain uncertain [2][13] - Powell noted that while the unemployment rate is still low, it has begun to rise, and employment growth is slowing due to factors such as reduced immigration and declining labor force participation [2][13] - Inflation expectations were adjusted, with Powell suggesting that the impact of tariffs on inflation is likely to be temporary, although there are still concerns about persistent inflation risks [2][13] Group 3 - Market reactions included a rise in U.S. Treasury yields and mixed performance in the stock market, reflecting the cautious tone of Powell regarding future rate cuts [3][14] - Following the FOMC announcement, market confidence in two additional rate cuts this year increased, with the probability of the federal funds rate reaching a range of 3.5%-3.75% by year-end rising to 79.9% [15][16] Group 4 - Three potential scenarios for future rate cuts were outlined: 1. Soft landing scenario, predicting two more cuts this year and three in 2026, with a stable economic outlook [4][19] 2. Recession scenario, where significant economic deterioration could lead to a larger cut of 50 basis points [4][19] 3. High inflation scenario, where persistent high inflation would necessitate maintaining higher rates for a longer period [4][19] - The soft landing scenario is considered the most likely, while the probabilities for recession and high inflation scenarios are viewed as lower [20]

Core Viewpoint - Gold is positioned favorably between "stagflation" and "recession," with high CPI confirming persistent inflation and rising initial jobless claims reinforcing expectations for interest rate cuts [1] Group 1: Market Conditions - The combination of weak growth, loose policy, and sticky inflation is historically beneficial for gold [1] - Global central banks are continuing to de-dollarize, and frequent geopolitical conflicts are contributing to a favorable outlook for gold prices [1] Group 2: Price Movements - Gold has maintained a strong position above the 5-day moving average, with expectations for a potential breakout to new historical highs if it remains above this level [1] - Recent trading saw gold rebound from 3626, with a target range of 3620-3660, indicating a bullish sentiment [3] Group 3: Technical Analysis - Technical indicators show a bullish trend, with a golden cross on the 2-hour moving average and gold prices breaking through the upper Bollinger band [4] - Key support levels are identified at 3625-33, with a strong bullish stance maintained as long as prices stay above 3600 [4]

Market Overview - The market has experienced significant gains, with the S&P up nearly 10% and the NASDAQ up almost 12% following a V-shaped recovery [1] - Small-cap stocks have outperformed larger tech stocks, indicating a shift in market dynamics [3] Inflation and Economic Indicators - Recent jobless claims data has been surprising, with a noted increase in claims, marking the worst figures in four years [8] - Current inflation readings suggest that inflation remains a concern, particularly for consumers facing rising prices in essential goods and services [5][6] - The CPI data indicates persistent inflation, especially in services, which is described as "sticky" [3] Federal Reserve and Monetary Policy - The market appears to be pricing in more aggressive actions from the Federal Reserve than what may actually occur, raising concerns about potential overvaluation [4][5] - There is speculation that a rate-cutting cycle could provide a tailwind for the stock market, particularly if it leads to lower mortgage rates and subsequently lower CPI [7][9] - The Fed's current stance may inadvertently contribute to higher prices, as maintaining rates could be enforcing inflationary pressures [10] Consumer Impact - The cumulative effect of inflation is impacting consumers, particularly in essential areas such as groceries, gasoline, and utilities [5][6] - A weakening job market combined with rising inflation presents a challenging environment for consumers, potentially leading to recessionary conditions if trends continue [8]

Group 1 - Growth stocks in the US have experienced a sell-off, indicating market tension ahead of Federal Reserve Chairman Powell's speech at Jackson Hole [1] - Analysts from Bank of America suggest that small-cap stocks may see significant volatility following Powell's comments on monetary policy, with the Russell 2000 index being a key focus [1] - A dovish speech from Powell could trigger a rebound in small-cap stocks, while a more hawkish stance may lead to short-term declines as the market adjusts its rate cut pricing [1] Group 2 - There is uncertainty regarding whether the US economy is heading towards a recession, with differing opinions from economic experts [2] - Small-cap stocks are particularly sensitive to interest rates and refinancing risks, and their performance may be positively impacted by rate cuts if macroeconomic data remains stable [2] - The fate of small-cap companies largely depends on Powell's upcoming speech, highlighting the importance of his comments for market sentiment [2]

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Report Investment Rating - Gold: ★★★, indicating a more distinct long trend with relatively appropriate investment opportunities currently [1] - Silver: ★★★, indicating a more distinct long trend with relatively appropriate investment opportunities currently [1] Core View - The precious metals are in a volatile trend. With the geopolitical situation cooling down and tariff policies gradually implemented, the market focus has shifted to the US economy and the prospects of interest rate cuts. Amid continuous verification, market sentiment will face fluctuations. If the scenarios of stagflation or even recession become clearer, the upside potential for gold may be reopened. Maintain the idea of buying on dips during the precious metals' volatile trend [1] Other Key Points Economic Data and Market Reaction - Last week, the US released multiple economic data. The annualized quarterly GDP growth rate in Q2 rebounded by 3% more than expected, and the weekly initial jobless claims remained low. However, the key non - farm payrolls data changed unexpectedly. The non - farm payrolls in July increased by 73,000, far lower than the expected 110,000, and the previous two months' data was revised down by 258,000 jobs. Trump claimed that the non - farm employment data was manipulated and instructed his team to fire the Bureau of Labor Statistics director immediately. The market's concerns about the authenticity of economic data and the US economic outlook have intensified [1] Fed Policy and Market Expectations - The Fed kept interest rates unchanged as expected at its July FOMC meeting. Powell reiterated that future policies will be determined based on economic data. With the significant decline in non - farm payrolls, traders fully priced in two Fed rate cuts by the end of the year, and the probability of a rate cut in September rose to 90%. Fed's Daly said that the time for rate cuts is approaching, and it is more likely to cut rates more than twice this year [1][2] Tariff - related News - The EU will suspend trade counter - measures against the US for 6 months and is waiting for Trump to take action on auto tariffs and exemptions this week. Trump said he will significantly increase tariff rates on India because the country buys Russian oil, and India responded that the accusation is baseless. The Swiss government plans to continue talks with the US after August 7 and is determined to make a more attractive proposal to the US [2]

Group 1 - Global financial markets are facing a complex test due to intertwined monetary policy decisions and geopolitical risks, particularly highlighted by the upcoming "Super Central Bank Week" led by the Federal Reserve and the Bank of Japan [1][4] - The Federal Reserve's decision is the focal point, with expectations to maintain interest rates unchanged, but the communication following the meeting will be closely analyzed for insights on future rate paths [2][3] - The Bank of Japan is in a delicate transition phase after ending negative interest rates, with market expectations leaning towards maintaining current rates due to cautious statements from its governor amid external uncertainties [4][6] Group 2 - The geopolitical situation in the Middle East, particularly the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran, is causing heightened risk aversion in the markets, evidenced by declines in U.S. stocks and a surge in the VIX index [7] - There are concerns about the potential spillover of the conflict, especially regarding the threat to the Strait of Hormuz, which could lead to catastrophic impacts on the global economy if oil prices were to spike to $120-130 per barrel [8][9] - The International Energy Agency (IEA) is preparing to release strategic reserves to stabilize the market, reflecting the severity of the situation, while OPEC's criticisms highlight the differing perspectives between oil-producing and consuming nations [10]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the current state of the market, highlighting a lack of confidence in macroeconomic recovery and the ongoing challenges posed by external shocks, particularly in the context of U.S.-China trade relations and geopolitical tensions [3][4][5]. Group 1: Macroeconomic Environment - The macroeconomic changes are minimal, with no systemic confidence being rebuilt. The average tariff between the U.S. and China is expected to remain high, around 30%-40% [4]. - U.S. debt pressure and fiscal constraints are weakening the strength of the U.S. economy, leading to a decline in the "American exceptionalism" narrative [5]. - The market is experiencing a price stagnation where prices remain the same but purchasing power is diminishing, creating a poor trading experience [3]. Group 2: Commodity Prices and Market Dynamics - Commodity prices are low enough that the market does not anticipate immediate negative shocks comparable to the lows seen in early April [5]. - Certain commodities, such as glass and rubber, have fallen below their early April lows, indicating a return to previous pricing levels [5]. - Oil and coal are seen as leading indicators for commodity prices, with geopolitical issues potentially driving oil prices higher despite recent market corrections [5][7]. Group 3: Geopolitical Tensions - Recent attacks on Russian airports by Ukraine indicate a shift in military dynamics, suggesting that Ukraine may have opportunities to challenge Russian dominance [6]. - The ongoing geopolitical conflicts are likely to create long-term threats to energy exports, particularly oil [6]. Group 4: Supply and Demand Dynamics - Current U.S. retail inventory levels are increasing, suggesting that demand may be overstretched, with inventory growth at 5% while sales growth is only at 4% [6]. - The supply growth rate is currently double that of demand growth, indicating a trend towards oversupply, which will pressure PPI recovery [8]. Group 5: Investment Considerations - The article raises questions about the potential for market recovery in a long-term weak economic environment, emphasizing the need for systematic thinking regarding investment strategies [9]. - There are structural contradictions in trading, with some sectors appearing overvalued while others, like the photovoltaic and black industrial chains, may offer valuation recovery opportunities [9].

英国财政大臣：英国面临两个选择——投资还是衰退。 ...