Summary of US Rates Outlook 2026 Fixed Income Industry Overview - The report focuses on the US rates market and the economic backdrop as it enters 2026, characterized by stalled inflation progress, uneven growth, and signs of labor market weakness [2][7][8]. Key Points and Arguments Economic Conditions - Economic growth in the US is more resilient than expected, potentially boosted by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) and AI-driven capital expenditures [7]. - Consumer spending is mixed; higher-income consumers are driving spending while lower-income households face affordability challenges [7]. - Labor market indicators show a modest increase in unemployment and slowing nonfarm payroll growth, but the labor market has not collapsed [7][22]. Inflation and Interest Rates - Disinflation towards the Federal Open Market Committee's (FOMC) 2% inflation target has stalled, with both headline and core inflation measures remaining around 3% [7][29]. - The report forecasts 10-year Treasury yields at 4.30% by the end of 2026, higher than the Bloomberg consensus of 4.06% [2][8]. - The Fed is expected to maintain a neutral duration conviction, with potential for yields to rise due to dual-sided risks to policy [6][8]. Federal Reserve Dynamics - The conclusion of Jerome Powell's term as Fed Chair is a focal point, with potential personnel changes at the FOMC that could influence policy views [4][51]. - The Fed is likely to commence net asset purchases, particularly in T-bills, starting in Q1 2026 to mitigate funding pressures [4][65]. Treasury Supply and Demand - The Treasury's strategy of holding coupon issuance sizes steady is expected to continue through H1 2026, with maturity extension anticipated due to persistent deficit pressures [5][71]. - The report highlights that long-dated Treasuries may underperform swaps in the coming months due to supply and demand dynamics [5][89]. Yield Curve Scenarios - Four policy paths are outlined to frame potential rates outcomes: resilient growth with sticky inflation, inflation resurgence, moderate slowdown, and severe slowdown [3][35]. - The baseline scenario anticipates bear steepening of the yield curve, while an inflation resurgence could push 10-year yields to test 5% [10][39]. Risks and Market Positioning - The balance of risks skews towards further curve steepening, with optimal positioning suggested in the belly of the curve where structural risks are lower [3][46]. - The report cautions against long positions in the front-end due to negative carry and labor market concerns limiting hawkish repricing [9][46]. Additional Important Content - The report discusses the potential impact of the IEEPA tariff decision on fiscal deficits and the Treasury's reliance on T-bills for funding [81][84]. - It notes that the relative value of T-bills may decline as policy rates decrease, potentially shifting demand towards higher-returning risk assets [80][81]. - The report emphasizes the importance of monitoring repo market pressures and their implications for Treasury supply absorption [100]. This comprehensive analysis provides insights into the US rates outlook for 2026, highlighting key economic indicators, Federal Reserve dynamics, and potential investment strategies within the Treasury market.