Core Viewpoint - The Federal Reserve's upcoming meeting on September 16-17 is highly anticipated, with expectations of a 25 basis point rate cut, indicating a potential shift towards a more accommodative monetary policy [1][3][6]. Group 1: Monetary Policy Expectations - The market widely anticipates a 25 basis point rate cut during the meeting, reflecting investor sentiment that the Fed is prioritizing labor market performance over inflation concerns [3][6]. - There is a nearly 70% probability of two additional rate cuts by the end of the year, suggesting an acceleration of the easing cycle and a potential rebound in risk sentiment [3][6]. Group 2: Key Focus Areas of the Meeting - The meeting will focus on whether the Fed's monetary policy is at a turning point, with a rate cut potentially signaling the start of a new easing cycle amid slowing job growth and persistent inflation above target [6]. - The independence of the Fed's policy is under scrutiny, particularly in light of ongoing political pressures and controversies surrounding board nominations, raising questions about Powell's ability to make independent decisions [6]. - The newly released economic projections (SEP) and the dot plot will be closely watched, especially regarding expectations for terminal interest rates before 2026, which could influence global asset allocation and market confidence [6]. - Powell's press conference will be crucial, as his comments on inflation, employment, and policy direction, along with responses to political pressures, may significantly impact market expectations [6].

Core Viewpoint - The Bank of Japan is expected to maintain its interest rate at 0.5% during the upcoming monetary policy meeting, with a potential upward revision of inflation forecasts for the current fiscal year due to improved US-Japan trade uncertainties [1][14]. Group 1: Interest Rate Expectations - Market pricing indicates an approximately 80% chance of an interest rate hike by the end of the year, with October emerging as a favored time for the next increase [2][9]. - Following the US-Japan trade agreement, expectations for a rate hike have significantly rebounded, with a 65% probability for the October meeting and 80% for December [5][10]. - Despite the increased expectations, some analysts, including Goldman Sachs, caution that the Bank of Japan may adopt a wait-and-see approach due to ongoing negotiations and the absence of urgent inflationary pressures [8][9]. Group 2: US-Japan Trade Agreement - The US-Japan trade agreement has notably reduced uncertainties, with the US agreeing to impose a 15% tariff on Japanese goods, including automobiles, down from a previous 25% [3][4]. - Japan has committed to establishing a fund of up to $550 billion for direct investment in the US as part of the trade deal [3]. Group 3: Inflation Outlook - The Bank of Japan is likely to revise its short-term inflation forecast upward, anticipating a core CPI increase from 2.2% to approximately 2.5% for the fiscal year 2025 due to rising food prices [15][16]. - Despite the short-term adjustments, the medium-term inflation trajectory is expected to remain stable, with projections indicating a return to below 2% by the fiscal year 2026 [16]. Group 4: Bond Market Dynamics - Political uncertainties in Japan are currently pushing up long-term yields, but these premiums are expected to gradually ease as political clarity improves [17][18]. - The 10-year Japanese government bonds remain attractive, with expected holding and rolling yields surpassing capital losses, even with anticipated interest rate hikes [18].

Core Viewpoint - Goldman Sachs anticipates that the Federal Reserve will lower interest rates in September, three months earlier than previously predicted, due to signs of milder inflation related to tariffs and counter-inflationary forces such as slowing wage growth and weakened demand [1] Summary by Relevant Categories Interest Rate Predictions - Goldman Sachs estimates that the probability of a rate cut in September is "slightly above" 50% [1] - The firm expects rate cuts of 25 basis points in September, October, and December, with two additional cuts anticipated in early 2026 [1] Terminal Rate Expectations - Goldman Sachs has revised its terminal rate forecast down from 3.5%-3.75% to 3%-3.25% [1]