Economic Outlook - The recent employment report indicates that the U.S. economy is heading towards a recession, with various economic indicators signaling a downturn [1] - Consumer spending is stagnating, construction and manufacturing sectors are contracting, and employment is expected to decline [1][2] - The Federal Reserve faces challenges in responding to rising inflation, which complicates potential interventions [1] Employment Data - Non-farm payrolls increased by only 73,000 last month, significantly below the expected 110,000, with previous months' data also revised downwards [2] - The average monthly job growth over the past three months is only 35,000, indicating a slowdown in employment growth [2] - Despite a stable unemployment rate around 4% to 4.2%, the labor force participation rate is declining due to reduced foreign-born labor [3] Labor Market Dynamics - The reduction in foreign-born labor by 1.2 million over the past six months is attributed to restrictive immigration policies, leading to a stagnation in labor supply [3] - There is a hiring freeze across the economy, particularly affecting new graduates, which suggests a significant drop in the "neutral job growth" needed to maintain stable unemployment [3] - Morgan Stanley economists have raised alarms about potential recession, noting that private sector job growth has averaged only 52,000 per month over the past three months [3][4] Economic Indicators - The second quarter GDP showed unexpected growth, but domestic final demand indicators suggest a slowdown [2] - Core inflation accelerated to 2.8%, exceeding the Federal Reserve's target of 2%, while consumer spending growth in June fell short of expectations [2] - The Atlanta Fed's GDP tracking model predicts a slowdown in economic growth from 3% in the second quarter to 2.1% in the third quarter [2]

Group 1 - The average tariff rate in the US increased to 18.3% after August 1, down approximately 4 percentage points from 22.5% on April 2 [62][63] - The new tariff rates for countries with trade agreements range from 10% to 20%, while those for countries with trade deficits range from 25% to 41% [62][63] - Ongoing negotiations between the US and other countries, including India, aim to finalize a phase one agreement by fall 2025, focusing on agricultural products, medical devices, and digital trade tariffs [62] Group 2 - Developed market indices experienced declines, with the S&P 500 down 2.4% and the French CAC40 down 3.7% [2][3] - Emerging market indices also saw declines, with the South Korean Composite Index down 2.4% and the Ho Chi Minh Index down 2.3% [3] - The majority of sectors within the S&P 500 fell, particularly materials, consumer discretionary, healthcare, and financials, which dropped 5.4%, 4.5%, 3.9%, and 3.8% respectively [6] Group 3 - The yield on the 10-year US Treasury bond decreased by 17.0 basis points to 4.2% [16] - Other developed countries also saw declines in their 10-year bond yields, with Germany at 2.8% and Japan at 1.6% [16] - Emerging market 10-year bond yields mostly fell, with Turkey down 21.0 basis points to 29.3% and South Africa down 24.0 basis points to 9.6% [22] Group 4 - The US dollar index rose by 1.0% to 98.69, while most other currencies depreciated against the dollar [27][39] - The offshore Chinese yuan depreciated to 7.1929 against the dollar [39] - Major emerging market currencies also saw depreciation, with the Mexican peso down 1.6% and the Philippine peso down 1.0% [27] Group 5 - Commodity prices showed mixed results, with WTI crude oil rising 3.3% to $67.3 per barrel, while coking coal prices fell 13.2% to 1093 yuan per ton [45][46] - Precious metals experienced varied performance, with COMEX gold up 0.9% to $3360.1 per ounce, while COMEX silver fell 3.4% to $36.8 per ounce [52][58] Group 6 - The US economy's Q2 GDP grew at an annualized rate of 3%, surpassing market expectations of 2.6%, but internal demand showed signs of weakness [73] - Consumer spending in Q2 grew at an annualized rate of 1.4%, below the expected 1.5% [73] - The overall GDP growth was primarily driven by net exports, indicating a potential end to the trend of "importing" [73] Group 7 - The US added 73,000 jobs in July, falling short of the expected 104,000, with previous months' job additions revised down significantly [76] - The unemployment rate rose to 4.2%, aligning with expectations, while job openings in June decreased to 7.437 million, below the anticipated 7.5 million [76]

Employment Data - In July, the U.S. added 73,000 non-farm jobs, below the market expectation of 104,000[5] - The non-farm employment figures for May and June were revised down by 258,000 to 19,000 and 14,000 respectively, resulting in a 3-month moving average of 35,000, the lowest since the pandemic[5] - Private sector job growth increased from 3,000 to 83,000 in July, while goods-producing jobs decreased by 13,000, with manufacturing jobs experiencing three consecutive months of negative growth[5] Unemployment and Labor Participation - The unemployment rate rose from 4.1% to 4.2%, marking a new high since 2021 but still at historical lows[5] - The labor participation rate fell to 62.2%, the lowest since 2022, indicating a contraction in labor supply[5] - The household survey showed a decrease of 260,000 in employment and an increase of 220,000 in unemployment in July[5] Federal Reserve's Dilemma - Fed Chair Powell indicated that even if job growth drops to zero, a stable unemployment rate would suggest a robust labor market due to simultaneous declines in supply and demand[5] - The Fed faces a dilemma as tariffs may drive inflation up, complicating the balance between expanding employment and reducing inflation[5] - It is anticipated that the Fed will likely keep interest rates unchanged in September, followed by rate cuts in October and December[5]

Core Viewpoint - The financial markets faced a sudden storm in August, primarily driven by disappointing economic data, particularly the U.S. non-farm payroll report for July and significant revisions to previous months' data, raising concerns about the U.S. economic recovery and the Federal Reserve's monetary policy direction [1][2]. Economic Indicators - The final value of the S&P Manufacturing PMI was reported at 49.8%, while the ISM Manufacturing PMI was even lower at 48, indicating a contraction in the manufacturing sector for the first time since December of the previous year [2]. - The University of Michigan Consumer Sentiment Index also fell short of expectations, ending at 61.7, further painting a bleak picture of the economy [2]. Market Reactions - Major U.S. stock indices, including the Dow Jones Industrial Average, Nasdaq Composite, and S&P 500, experienced significant declines, with the Dow down 1.38%, Nasdaq down 1.92%, and S&P 500 down 1.51% [6]. - The technology sector was particularly hard hit, with notable declines in stocks of major companies such as Amazon, which fell by 6.38% due to disappointing earnings expectations [1][6]. Inflation and Interest Rate Expectations - One-year inflation expectations surged to 4.5%, exceeding market forecasts, while five-year expectations decreased, indicating persistent short-term inflationary pressures [3]. - The anticipation of a potential interest rate cut by the Federal Reserve gained traction, leading to a significant drop in the U.S. dollar index, which fell by 1.12% to 98.8510 [5]. Global Market Impact - The risk-averse sentiment spread globally, affecting European markets, with major indices like the FTSE 100, DAX, and CAC 40 all experiencing declines, some exceeding 2.7% [5]. - The weakening dollar contributed to increased volatility in global markets, with non-U.S. currencies appreciating against the dollar [5]. Future Outlook - The upcoming non-farm payroll data for August is expected to be a critical focus for the market, as it will influence perceptions of the U.S. economic recovery and potential capital outflows [7]. - The current market turmoil highlights underlying structural issues within the U.S. economy, with a fragile market sentiment that may lead to further volatility in the future [7].

Core Viewpoint - Chinese equity assets are expected to outperform overseas markets in the second half of the year due to strong policy expectations and favorable liquidity conditions in the Asia-Pacific emerging markets [22]. Group 1: Global Economic Impact - The average import tariff level in the U.S. has reached 15.6% this year, significantly higher than the 2.4% expected in 2024, which may elevate U.S. inflation and weaken corporate profitability [11]. - The U.S. tariff policy is likely to slow global trade flows, reduce investment and consumption growth, and reshape global supply chains, potentially leading to a "de-Americanization" and "multilateralization" of trade among non-U.S. economies [11]. Group 2: U.S. Monetary Policy Outlook - The Federal Reserve is expected to maintain interest rates unchanged as long as the U.S. economy and labor market remain robust, with market expectations for rate cuts cooling down [14]. - It is anticipated that the Federal Reserve will cut rates four times by June next year, totaling 100 basis points [16]. Group 3: Investment Strategies - Investors are advised to increase their allocation to non-U.S. assets, particularly European investment-grade bonds and stocks, which are expected to benefit from Germany's fiscal stimulus plan [20]. - A focus on Chinese A-shares and H-shares is recommended, as they are likely to attract international capital inflows due to policy support and improving fundamentals [20]. Group 4: Sector Focus in China - The market is expected to show a "high-low cut" characteristic, with significant interest in cyclical stocks driven by infrastructure policies and technology events [23]. - The technology sector, particularly AI-related stocks, is projected to remain a core focus, with recommendations to monitor semiconductor, optical module, and high-end PCB stocks [23].

Group 1: Market Overview - The global capital market continues to exhibit a complex and volatile trend as of July, with macroeconomic data, geopolitical situations, and monetary policies influencing the market outlook for August [1] - The average import tariff level in the U.S. has reached 15.6% this year, significantly higher than the 2.4% expected in 2024, which may elevate U.S. inflation and weaken corporate profitability [8][12] - The impact of U.S. tariff policies includes potential slowdowns in global trade flows, reduced investment and consumption growth, and a reshaping of global supply chains [8] Group 2: Trade Policies and Economic Impact - The trade agreements reached have prevented the implementation of higher tariffs, which is generally favorable for the market; however, the tariffs already in effect since April have led to a notable decline in U.S. imports and affected consumer confidence [8][11] - The tariffs have a more pronounced effect on industries such as automotive, steel, and aluminum, with significant declines in revenue and profitability for companies heavily exposed to the U.S. market [8][11] - The legal standing of Trump's tariff policies remains uncertain, pending a final ruling from the Supreme Court [9] Group 3: Monetary Policy and Interest Rates - The Federal Reserve decided to maintain interest rates in July, with expectations of potential rate cuts in September or October, and a total of four cuts anticipated by June next year, amounting to 100 basis points [11][13] - High tariffs may constrain the Fed's ability to lower rates, as they could lead to increased inflation and weakened consumer and investment activity in the U.S. [12] Group 4: Investment Strategies - The outlook for gold prices is positive, with a forecast of $3,700 per ounce by June 2026, driven by ongoing geopolitical risks and central banks increasing gold reserves [14] - Investors are advised to increase allocations to non-U.S. assets, particularly European investment-grade bonds and stocks, which are expected to benefit from Germany's fiscal stimulus [18] - Chinese equity assets are projected to outperform overseas markets in the second half of the year due to strong policy expectations and improved fundamentals [20] Group 5: Sector Focus - The market is expected to show a "high-low cut" characteristic, with significant interest in cyclical stocks driven by infrastructure policies and technological advancements [21] - The AI sector is anticipated to remain a core focus, with recommendations to pay attention to semiconductor, optical module, and high-end PCB stocks [21] - For low-risk investors, there are opportunities in undervalued stocks with cash value and liquidation reassessment potential, particularly in sectors that have lagged since last year [22]

Core Viewpoint - The July non-farm payroll data in the U.S. fell short of expectations, with significant downward revisions to the previous two months' data, while the unemployment rate only saw a slight increase. The impact of Trump's immigration policies on the labor market is becoming more pronounced, leading to a divergence between non-farm payroll growth and unemployment rates. Future observations will focus on the Jackson Hole central bank meeting, as concerns about the independence of the Federal Reserve may resurface [1][2]. Non-Farm Data - The downward revision of non-farm payroll data exceeded market expectations, raising concerns about data quality. Historical comparisons indicate that the extent of this revision is unusual, suggesting a weakening in the private sector job market [2]. - Despite the significant drop in non-farm payrolls, the unemployment rate only experienced a minor increase. This divergence is attributed to the effects of immigration policies, which have led to a noticeable decline in the proportion of foreign-born individuals in the workforce and a decrease in the share of people holding multiple jobs [2]. Federal Reserve - The Federal Reserve faces a dilemma regarding monetary policy, balancing between employment conditions and inflation risks influenced by immigration and tariff policies. The July non-farm data is unlikely to alter Powell's hawkish stance, with the upcoming Jackson Hole meeting being a critical point for observing policy statements [2].

Core Viewpoint - The macro data and events this week were dense, culminating in the non-farm payroll data released on Friday, which dominated market trading. The disappointing and significantly revised non-farm employment data reignited recession concerns, leading to a sharp decline in U.S. stocks and a drop in U.S. Treasury yields. Under baseline expectations, the U.S. economy is still in a soft landing phase, with short-term asset price volatility reflecting market concerns about the "slope" of the U.S. economic downturn [1]. Major Asset Classes - The non-farm payroll data dominated market trading, with recession concerns leading to renewed expectations for interest rate cuts, resulting in declines in both U.S. stocks and Treasury yields. The disappointing new non-farm jobs and significant downward revisions to previous data caused a drop in U.S. stocks, while expectations for rate cuts increased, leading to a decline in U.S. Treasury yields. For the week (July 28 to August 1), the 10-year Treasury yield fell by 17.2 basis points to 4.216%, and the 2-year yield dropped by 24.2 basis points to 3.682%. The U.S. dollar index rose by 1.53% to 99.14, while the S&P 500 and Nasdaq indices fell by 2.36% and 2.17%, respectively [2]. Overseas Economy - Short-term data amplified recession concerns, but the U.S. economy remains in a soft landing phase. Key U.S. economic data this week, excluding ADP private employment, showed weakness in GDP (core GDP excluding net exports and inventory changes), non-farm payrolls, and manufacturing PMI, raising recession fears. The ISM manufacturing PMI for July recorded 48, significantly below the consensus expectation of 49.5. Notably, the decline in PMI was primarily due to a substantial shortening of supplier delivery times, indicating improvements in the supply chain amid declining demand. The U.S. GDP for Q2 2025 grew at an annualized rate of +3.0%, better than the consensus expectation of +2.6% [3]. Monetary Policy - The July FOMC meeting was hawkish, but there are internal divisions within the Federal Reserve. The FOMC decided to maintain the policy rate at 4.25-4.5% with a 9-2 vote. Fed Chair Powell indicated that while the labor market is balanced, inflation remains high, necessitating a restrictive policy rate. Two dissenting votes were cast by Waller and Bowman, who argued for a rate cut in July, citing the one-time impact of tariffs on inflation and the downward risks in the labor market [4]. Overseas Politics - Trump officially signed an executive order announcing the "Reciprocal Tariff 2.0" rates for various trade partners, which may accelerate negotiations. The new tariff rates, effective August 7, show a significant reduction compared to the previous version. The announcement includes a 15% tariff for the EU and Japan, and a 10% tariff for other partners. The legal challenges surrounding Trump's authority to impose these tariffs may lead to further adjustments in tariff rates to expedite trade agreements, indicating ongoing uncertainty in trade relations [5].

你有没有发现，美联储这次死扛着不降息，哪怕非农数据一而再、再而三被质疑造假，也还是硬撑到了七月？明明市场一再预期转向，可他们就像踩了刹车 死死不动，生怕一个松劲，中国这边就顺了口气。 非农数据本来就是就业市场的风向标，关乎货币政策、股市走向、大宗商品走势。结果它自己现在都成了假把式。这下好了，黄金应声上涨，原油直接跳 水。纳斯达克、标普500当天收盘全线下跌，跌幅都超过1%。欧洲三大股指也没能独善其身，法股CAC40和德股DAX指数分别下跌1.6%和1.2%。 这一连串的反馈太整齐了，市场不是傻子。大家终于意识到，这不是经济真的韧性十足，是数据被涂了粉。问题是，美联储明知道数据有水分，为什么还要 假装看不见？我问了三个朋友，他们的共识是：为了拖住中国。 你看人民币汇率、港股和大A的这半年走势，几乎可以画出一个反比曲线。每当美联储释放降息预期，大A就要鼓一口气。但一旦非农一强，降息一悬，大 A立刻又蔫了。这种动态博弈的意味太明显了。 我也纳闷，非农数据已经连续几个月出现公布值强劲、修正值崩塌的尴尬局面了，6月公布的5月新增就业27.2万人，结果背后修正4月和3月数据一共少了11 万人。这不是一次两次的小误差了， ...

Market Overview - The cryptocurrency market is experiencing a significant downturn, with Bitcoin briefly falling below $112,000 [2][4] - As of the latest report, Bitcoin is priced at $112,526.3 [2] - Other cryptocurrencies, including Ethereum, Dogecoin, and BNB, have also seen declines of over 3%, with Dogecoin experiencing a 19% drop over the past week [4] Market Data - Bitcoin's market capitalization is approximately $2.24 trillion, with a 24-hour trading volume of $57.35 billion [5] - Ethereum is priced at $3,404.20, with a market cap of $409.07 billion and a 24-hour trading volume of $29.76 billion [5] - The total liquidation amount in the cryptocurrency market over the past 24 hours exceeded $369 million, with long positions accounting for $310 million and short positions for $58.17 million [6] Economic Context - Recent U.S. non-farm payroll data for July fell significantly short of expectations, indicating a deteriorating labor market, which has led traders to increase bets on a potential interest rate cut by the Federal Reserve in September [6] - The growing concerns about a U.S. economic recession have heightened market risk aversion [6]