Market Overview - US markets are facing a futures trading outage due to a cooling issue at CME Group, impacting equities, treasuries, and commodities trading [2][4] - November has been a volatile month for equities, with significant moves in European tech, healthcare, and defense sectors, as fears of an AI bubble have emerged [5][6] - The European stock market managed to achieve gains in November, marking the fifth consecutive positive month for the stock 600 index [6] Sector Performance - The healthcare sector performed best in November, with notable gains from companies like Roche and Bayer, driven by strong trial data [6][7] - Roche's stock rose nearly 20% after a successful breast cancer drug trial, while Bayer had its best day since 2009 due to an anticoagulant drug study [7] - Conversely, tech stocks faced declines, with ASML down over 15% amid a broader selloff in AI-related stocks [8] AI and Investment Outlook - AI is expected to remain a structural growth theme through 2026, although concerns about overinvestment and electricity shortages could temper expectations [10][15] - Investment in data centers and the entire AI value chain is crucial, with approximately 35% of S&P 500 earnings being allocated to this area [14] - The market is anticipated to experience volatility in AI trends, but setbacks may present buying opportunities [15] Economic and Fiscal Policy - The US economy is projected to benefit from fiscal policies and central bank rate cuts, which are generally positive for market conditions [18][22] - Germany's growth forecast for 2026 is estimated at 1.3% to 1.5%, with expectations of improved market sentiment if fiscal policies are effectively implemented [27][30] Emerging Markets - The Indian stock market is showing strong growth potential, while China's growth is cooling but remains above 4% [43] - Asia is expected to attract substantial investment, with potential for better performance than Europe and the US in the coming year [45] Gold Market - Gold prices are forecasted to rise to $4,500, driven by demand from central banks and retail investors, as well as concerns over currency diversification [40][41]

Summary of Global FX Outlook 2026 Company and Industry - **Company**: J.P. Morgan - **Industry**: Foreign Exchange (FX) Market Key Points and Arguments 1. FX Outlook for 2026 - The outlook is bearish on the dollar in the first half of 2026 due to Fed asymmetries, twin deficits, and global recovery, but weakness is constrained by US resiliency [6][37][38] - Expected currency levels include EUR/USD at 1.20, USD/JPY at 164, and USD/CNY at 7.05 [6] 2. Drivers of FX Returns in 2025 - DM FX returns were influenced by external and fiscal balances, while global FX/EM returns were primarily driven by carry [5][8] - Liberation Day marked a significant weakening of the dollar, leading to a pro-risk environment characterized by strong performance in global/EM carry trades [5][10] 3. Lessons from 2025 - The dollar's strength was short-lived, with key risks materializing earlier than expected, leading to a shift from bullish to bearish sentiment [4][10] - Fiscal differentiation played a crucial role, with the Euro's rise linked to positive German fiscal developments [14] 4. Macro Landscape for 2026 - The macro environment is characterized by synchronized central bank inactivity, ongoing fiscal policy focus, and the impact of AI adoption [6][12] - The US policy mix remains a source of FX risk, with a focus on fiscal policy rather than tariffs [6][12] 5. AI and Market Dynamics - AI is expected to influence markets through financial and macro channels, potentially supporting US growth but also reviving de-dollarization discussions [29] - The macro effects of AI are still developing, with job displacement not yet materializing significantly in labor market data [29] 6. Fiscal Policy and Tariff Volatility - Fiscal policy surprises are anticipated, particularly in the US, with potential for stimulus surprises due to mid-term elections [28] - Tariff volatility is expected to decrease in 2026, although some tactical volatility may arise from IEEPA rulings [60][67] 7. Dollar's Carry Appeal - The dollar's nominal carry appeal remains high despite Fed easing, influencing asset owners' FX hedging decisions [50] - The dollar's performance is expected to be influenced by various macro scenarios, including potential Fed hikes in 2027 [49][50] 8. Risks and Scenarios for the Dollar - The dollar could weaken if US growth moderates sharply or if the Fed's reaction function turns dovish amid political pressures [48][39] - Conversely, a stronger US growth scenario could lead to a bullish outlook for the dollar [48][58] 9. Conclusion on FX Trends - The FX landscape heading into 2026 is marked by lower dispersion across style factors, indicating less conviction on differentiating currency returns [30] - High-yielding currencies are expected to perform better in a procyclical growth environment, while low-yielders may lag [6][37] Other Important Content - The relationship between equities and FX is complex, with significant implications for the AI equity-USD link in the upcoming year [15] - The evolving dollar smile indicates that US-RoW relative cyclical dynamics are becoming more influential on the dollar's performance [15]

Core Viewpoint - The current economic environment is characterized by a midcycle slowdown, which is seen as an opportunity for the Federal Reserve to lower interest rates, potentially benefiting risk assets [2][3][5]. Economic Indicators - Inflation expectations remain stable at 2.5%, while real yields are approximately 1.5% with a 4% Treasury rate, indicating weaker growth [2]. - Global leading indicators have been stable but below trend, suggesting a mega cap growth environment, with expectations for lower rates and fiscal support to boost global activity [5]. Market Dynamics - There is a shift in focus towards neglected market sectors, particularly value sectors compared to technology, which may require a catalyst such as policy easing and increased activity [6][7]. - The market is experiencing volatility, often linked to policy uncertainty, but a better risk environment with less volatility is anticipated as rate cuts and fiscal policies are expected to improve economic outcomes [9]. Future Outlook - The expectation is for a reacceleration towards trend-like growth rather than a new higher growth level, which should be conducive for risk assets [3]. - The potential for rate cuts and fiscal policy support globally is seen as a positive signal for the market, particularly towards the end of the year and into the next [8][10].

Federal Reserve Policy Outlook - The New York Fed President's comments significantly influenced market expectations, with Fed futures nearly doubling after his strong support for a 25 basis point cut in December [2][3] - There is speculation that dissenting votes may arise, with some presidents likely opposing any cuts, while others may support a pause in policy changes until more data is available [4][8] Labor Market Concerns - The labor market has shown signs of weakness, with the unemployment rate at 4.4% and payroll employment growth at 119,000, raising concerns about potential further deterioration [6][7] - Inflation remains a critical issue, currently at 3%, which affects affordability and complicates the Fed's decision-making process regarding interest rates [7][9] Economic Indicators and Risks - The Fed's current stance is influenced by a combination of weak labor data and elevated inflation, leading to discussions about the need for potential policy adjustments [8][14] - There are concerns about the impact of labor supply shocks and the slow growth of the labor force due to immigration policies, which could affect payroll employment growth [11][12]

19 November 2025 China Macro Tracker Economics Not yet at the finishing line Policy support: Slowing activity should prompt further policy support China's economic activity slowed in October, with investment, consumption, and industrial production softening due to subdued external demand and weaker domestic momentum (see China activity, 14 November). This should prompt a strong policy response on both the fiscal and monetary fronts to meet this year's growth targets and ensure a strong start for the 15th Fi ...

Summary of Key Points from the Conference Call Industry Overview - The conference call focuses on the **Japanese economy** and its outlook from 2026 to 2028, highlighting the transition from "nominal stagnation" to "moderate but steady nominal growth" [2][10]. Core Economic Insights - **Economic Paths**: Japan faces two potential scenarios: a "virtuous cycle" of income and spending or a "stalling" scenario due to weak external demand and demographic challenges [2][10]. - **Inflation Trends**: Headline inflation is expected to slow to 2.1% in 2026 from 3.1% in 2025, while core-core CPI is projected to align with this trend [3][11]. - **Monetary Policy**: The Bank of Japan (BoJ) is expected to continue normalizing its policy, with rate hikes anticipated to reach 1.5% by mid-2027 [4][11]. Fiscal Policy and Government Actions - **Fiscal Expansion**: The Takaichi administration is expected to implement a responsible fiscal policy aimed at boosting household purchasing power and corporate investment, potentially increasing GDP by 0.2 percentage points in 2026 [5][38][40]. - **Budget Expectations**: The supplementary budget for FY2025 and the initial budget for FY2026 are anticipated to be larger than previous estimates, with demands for ¥25 trillion (approximately 4% of GDP) [12][39]. Risks and Challenges - **External Risks**: Potential risks include a sharp drop in external demand due to an AI bubble burst and geopolitical tensions, particularly between China and Japan [7][13]. - **Political Stability**: The minority status of the Takaichi administration raises concerns about policy execution and the potential for a "Japan sell-off" if fiscal expansion is perceived as excessive [7][39]. Economic Growth Projections - **GDP Growth**: Real GDP is projected to grow by 0.8% in 2026, with a gradual recovery expected as external demand picks up from mid-2026 [9][11]. - **Comparison with Global Growth**: Japan's per capita GDP growth is projected at 1.6%, comparable to the US at 1.5% and the Euro area at 1.2% [37][41]. Corporate Sector Dynamics - **Corporate Performance**: The corporate sector has shown resilience, with high operating profits and continued capital expenditure driven by labor-saving needs and decarbonization efforts [87][88]. - **Labor Share Concerns**: The downward trend in the labor share ratio raises concerns about the distribution of corporate earnings to workers, which is crucial for sustaining economic growth [89][90]. Consumer Behavior and Household Sector - **Consumption Growth**: Private consumption is expected to grow by 0.8% in 2026, supported by rising disposable income, although caution remains due to historical low consumer confidence [61][79]. - **Wage Growth**: Nominal wage growth is projected to remain high, with real wages expected to increase as inflation stabilizes [55][58]. Trade and Export Outlook - **Export Projections**: Japanese goods exports are expected to decline temporarily due to US tariffs but are projected to recover by mid-2026 as US domestic demand improves [42][46]. - **Trade Surplus**: Japan's trade surplus with the US was historically high in 2024 but is expected to decline gradually due to falling nominal export prices [44][46]. Conclusion - The Japanese economy is at a critical juncture, with the potential for sustained growth contingent on effective fiscal policies, external demand recovery, and addressing demographic challenges [14][39].

Market Overview - The market is rallying on three key pillars: an easing Fed cycle, earnings growth, and strong economic conditions [2][4] - The Fed's easing cycle is perceived as somewhat shaky due to concerns about inflation and unemployment [4][19] Economic Conditions - The current economic environment is characterized by a K-shaped recovery, where different sectors are recovering at different rates [4][15] - There are concerns regarding the credit market and potential fiscal implications due to increased activity in the repo market [7][8] Earnings Growth - Strong earnings growth is crucial for market performance, with companies showing broadening earnings potential [6][22] - The impact of artificial intelligence on productivity is noted, with companies able to do more with fewer employees, raising concerns about consumer demand [10][13][15] Federal Reserve Outlook - There is uncertainty regarding the Fed's path forward, particularly for a potential rate cut in December, as economic data remains unclear [19][20] - Corporate earnings are expected to provide insights into consumer behavior, especially concerning lower-income consumers [22][23]

So for more, let's bring in Barry Napp. He's director of research at Iron Science Macroeconomics. Uh Barry, love to get your read on the CPI number.Of course, one of the few data prints that we've been able to get, albeit, you know, delayed and guess sounds like the government had to pull some extra strings to get it to us, but uh 3% initially earlier on the show, we had Krishna Guha saying that's pretty benign, at least from a market perspective. the two um issues that I haven't heard discussed um over all ...

Currency Market Overview - The dollar index rose by +0.34% to a four-session high, supported by weakness in the yen and easing US-China trade tensions [1] - The yen fell to a one-week low against the dollar due to expectations of expansionary fiscal policy under new Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi [1][5] - The euro declined by -0.31% as a result of dollar strength and negative sentiment from a credit rating downgrade of France [3] Economic Indicators - The October Philadelphia Fed non-manufacturing business activity survey dropped -9.9 to a four-month low of -22.2, indicating a slowdown in business activity [2] - Markets are anticipating a 97% chance of a -25 basis point rate cut at the upcoming FOMC meeting on October 28-29 [2] Central Bank Policies - The Federal Reserve is expected to continue cutting interest rates, while the European Central Bank (ECB) is nearing the end of its rate-cutting cycle, leading to central bank divergence [3][4] - Swaps indicate a 2% chance of a -25 basis point rate cut by the ECB at the October 30 policy meeting [4] Japan's Economic Data - Japan's September machine tool orders were revised upward to +11.0% year-on-year, marking the largest increase in six months [6]

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - AGNC reported comprehensive income of $0.78 per common share for Q3 2025, with an economic return on tangible common equity of 10.6%, consisting of $0.36 in dividends and a $0.47 increase in tangible net book value per share [13] - The company ended the quarter with leverage of 7.6 times tangible equity, unchanged from the prior quarter, and maintained a strong liquidity position with $7.2 billion in cash and unencumbered agency MBS, representing 66% of tangible equity [14] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net spread and dollar roll income declined to $0.35 per common share, driven by lower swap income due to the maturity of $4 billion of legacy swaps and a timing mismatch in capital deployment [14] - The average projected life CPR of the portfolio increased to 8.6% from 7.8% in the prior quarter, while actual CPRs averaged 8.3% compared to 8.7% previously [15] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The demand for agency mortgage-backed securities (MBS) increased significantly, with bond fund inflows reaching $180 billion in Q3, slightly ahead of last year's pace [9] - The supply of agency MBS is expected to be about $200 billion this year, at the lower end of initial expectations, while demand outlook has improved, particularly from the money manager community [8] Company Strategy and Development Direction - AGNC is positioned to generate attractive risk-adjusted returns as the largest pure play levered agency investment vehicle, focusing on optimizing asset composition and maintaining a favorable hedge ratio [12] - The company is actively rotating into pools with favorable prepayment characteristics and has added $7 billion of receiver swaptions for down rate protection [19] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed a constructive outlook for agency MBS, citing improved spread environments, balanced supply and demand dynamics, and favorable financing markets [6][10] - The company anticipates that lower funding costs from recent rate cuts and a shift in hedge mix will provide a moderate tailwind to net spread and dollar roll income [15] Other Important Information - The Treasury Department is focusing on mortgage spreads to improve housing affordability, which is seen as beneficial for agency MBS and AGNC's business [7] - The company issued $345 million of fixed-rate preferred equity, the largest mortgage REIT preferred stock offering since 2021, and $39 million of common equity at a significant premium to tangible net book value [15] Q&A Session Summary Question: Discussion on expected ROEs and dividend sustainability - Management indicated that current coupon mortgages are expected to yield ROEs between 16-18%, aligning with total cost of capital, and that dividend sustainability remains strong despite recent spread tightening [21][23] Question: Insights on hedge ratio changes - The hedge ratio decreased due to a higher proportion of short-term debt, but management expects benefits from anticipated Fed rate cuts, which will lower funding costs over time [26][29] Question: Demand for MBS from money managers - Management noted robust bond fund inflows and anticipated continued strong demand for agency MBS, particularly as banks may increase their mortgage holdings following regulatory reforms [38][39] Question: Impact of Fed easing on net spread - Management expects a near-term tailwind to net spread income due to the deployment of capital and the anticipated easing of short-term rates [42][45] Question: Risks to the constructive view on spreads - The primary risks identified include macroeconomic factors that could lead to inflationary pressures, which may affect the Fed's monetary policy and, consequently, the agency MBS market [85][86]