Core Viewpoint - The era of 10-year U.S. Treasury yields above 4% is nearing its end due to multiple macroeconomic uncertainties and challenges to previously optimistic market sentiments [1][3]. Group 1: Economic and Political Challenges - The recent escalation of domestic and foreign policy tensions in the U.S. has significantly impacted investor confidence, particularly with the ongoing government shutdown leading to potential layoffs of federal employees [1][5]. - Trade policy uncertainties are rising again, prompting investors to shift towards safe-haven assets, which is putting downward pressure on Treasury yields [2]. Group 2: Investor Sentiment and Economic Outlook - Investor optimism in the U.S. economic outlook was previously supported by five key pillars, including concerns over prolonged recession, eased financial conditions, anticipated Fed rate cuts, belief that trade policy uncertainties peaked in April, and expectations for future fiscal stimulus [4]. - However, these pillars are showing significant cracks due to the dual shocks of government shutdown and trade tensions, which have shifted the perception of economic policy uncertainty [5]. Group 3: Interest Rate Projections - Morgan Stanley believes that these external shocks are occurring near the bottom of the economic cycle, reducing the likelihood of economic rebound rather than promoting recovery [6]. - The negative impacts of tariffs are expected to manifest more in the labor market rather than in rising inflation, leading to a bearish outlook on inflation, especially at the front end of the yield curve [6]. Group 4: Investment Strategy Recommendations - Based on the macroeconomic outlook, Morgan Stanley advises investors to adjust their fixed-income strategies, noting that only 8-year, 9-year, and 10-year Treasury yields remain above 4% on the yield curve [9]. - As the risk of economic slowdown increases, these 4% yields are likely unsustainable, prompting a recommendation to increase duration in U.S. Treasuries, particularly focusing on 5-year securities [12].