Global Macro Overview - The report discusses the recent appreciation of Asian currencies against the backdrop of a weakening US dollar, highlighting significant increases in currencies such as the Korean won, Singapore dollar, Malaysian ringgit, and Thai baht during the "May Day" holiday period [2][3]. Currency Movements in Asia - The reversal of carry trade positions has contributed to the recent currency movements, as the pressure from Trump's "reciprocal tariff" policy has eased, leading to a rebound in Asian currencies and triggering short-covering by market participants [3][4]. - Increased demand for risk hedging has emerged, as major Asian economies have accumulated substantial US dollar reserves, primarily invested in US Treasury securities. The recent rise in credit risk associated with dollar assets has prompted institutions to enhance their hedging operations, accelerating the appreciation of local currencies [4][5]. Implications of Currency Appreciation - The rapid appreciation of Asian currencies poses dual challenges for export-oriented economies. While it mitigates the risk of capital outflows, it may exacerbate trade challenges due to increased export costs. Additionally, the appreciation impacts the net value of dollar-denominated overseas assets, particularly for financial institutions with a "local currency liability, dollar asset" structure, potentially affecting their capital adequacy ratios [5][6]. Hong Kong Dollar Liquidity - The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) has intervened to stabilize the currency by purchasing USD 6 billion on May 2, 2025, in response to the strengthening of the Hong Kong dollar. The overall liquidity remains relatively robust, with expectations of manageable liquidity pressures in the short term [8][9]. Future Outlook - The report anticipates a gradual improvement in the liquidity situation for the Hong Kong dollar, driven by a potential slowdown in the inflow of southbound capital and the possibility of the Federal Reserve implementing interest rate cuts in the near term, which could alleviate global dollar liquidity pressures [9].

Core Viewpoint - The main theme of global asset allocation in the post-pandemic era is the "American exceptionalism," characterized by a lack of significant financial tightening despite the highest interest rate hike cycle since the 1970s, leading to questions about the real impact of these rate hikes on the economy and corporate operations [1][2]. Summary by Sections Resident Sector - The ratio of mortgage payments to disposable income is currently at 11.3%, lower than the 11.7% level at the end of 2019, indicating strong consumer spending from 2022 to 2024 [2]. Corporate Sector - The credit spread of corporate bonds has been declining since the second half of 2022, remaining at historical lows, which facilitates easy corporate financing. Profit growth has accelerated compared to pre-pandemic levels, and debt repayment metrics have improved [2][3]. Liquidity Environment - The liquidity premium in the U.S. has not reached extreme levels, indicating a generally loose liquidity environment. A significant risk event occurred in March 2023 with the Silicon Valley Bank (SVB) incident, but it was quickly addressed by the FDIC [2][3]. Debt Maturity Challenges - A significant issue arises as corporate bonds issued in 2020 will mature in large volumes by 2025, forcing companies to either refinance at higher costs or use cash reserves, which may lead to reduced capital expenditures [4][5]. Upcoming Liquidity Tightening - The second quarter of 2025 will see a historical peak in corporate debt maturities, with over $600 billion due, representing a 70% increase compared to the average for the second half of 2024. The average financing cost for these debts is estimated at 3.6%, while refinancing could increase costs by 190 basis points [5][6]. Potential Credit Spread Increase - The current liquidity environment is relatively fragile, and if it coincides with the debt maturity peak, there is a risk of a rapid increase in credit spreads. Historical data suggests that peaks in corporate bond spreads typically lag the last rate hike by about 24 months [6][7]. Federal Reserve's Balance Sheet Reduction - The liquidity buffer provided by the Federal Reserve's overnight reverse repurchase agreements (ONRRP) has significantly decreased, and the ongoing balance sheet reduction (QT) has led to a noticeable reduction in excess reserves within the banking system [7][8]. Debt Ceiling and Liquidity Risks - The approval of a new debt ceiling bill around mid-year could lead to a temporary tightening of liquidity. The U.S. Treasury has already utilized 70% of its "extraordinary measures" to maintain government operations, with a potential liquidity crunch expected around the "X-date" in June [8][9]. Market Expectations on QT - There are differing expectations in the market regarding the timing of the end of QT, with some Federal Reserve officials suggesting a pause until the debt ceiling issue is resolved. Delays in ending QT could further pressure liquidity [9]. Overall Market Outlook - The risk of tightening liquidity in the second quarter cannot be ignored, and U.S. equities may face another round of adjustments. Recent liquidity crises, such as the SVB incident, have shown that market reactions can be swift and significant [9].