Week in Review: Middle East Crisis Introduces Fresh Risks

In the past year, concerns about inflation, rising interest rates, and political instability have persisted, even as markets have shown improvement. However, recent tragic events in the Middle East have introduced new worries for investors, as they evaluate how military conflicts might impact financial markets. While acknowledging the human tragedy, the market’s primary focus has shifted to potential effects on oil prices, interest rates, and the strength of the dollar, as these factors have a more direct influence on market performance.

Major indexes concluded the week with mixed results as investors weighed up inflation data against dovish signals from Federal Reserve officials. Leading banks such as Citigroup, Wells Fargo, and JPMorgan Chase initiated the unofficial start of the third-quarter earnings reporting season on a positive note, benefiting from higher interest rates.

The release of minutes from the Fed’s September policy meeting on Wednesday suggested that policymakers agree that they need to maintain restrictive interest rates for some time, while being mindful of balancing the risk of overtightening with the goal of curbing inflation towards the 2% target. In September, CPI rose by 0.4% month-on-month, surpassing market expectations, signalling ongoing inflationary pressures. The Fed’s core CPI, which excludes food and energy costs, also increased by 0.3% in September.

In Europe, the ECB’s minutes revealed that the majority of policymakers voted to raise the key deposit rate to a record high of 4.0%. Meanwhile, the German government lowered its 2023 economic growth outlook from 0.4% growth to a 0.4% contraction due to higher energy costs and reduced demand from major markets like China.

UK retail sales growth slowed to 2.7% year-on-year in September, marking the second weakest month of the year, while GDP rose by 0.2% month-on-month in August, after contracting 0.6% in July.

In China, inflation remained subdued with CPI for September remaining unchanged from a year earlier. Meanwhile, producer prices fell by a higher-than-expected 2.5% compared to the previous year. At the same time, Chinese developer Country Garden Holdings faces its first-ever potential default and restructuring due to difficulties in meeting offshore payment obligations on U.S. dollar bonds, highlighting China’s property debt crisis.

Global equity markets concluded the week with mixed results. In the U.S., the Dow Jones (+0.79%) and S&P 500 (+0.45%) were positive whilst the Nasdaq (-0.18%) was mildly negative. Similarly, European and Asian markets, including the Euro Stoxx 50 (-0.20%), FTSE 100 (+1.40%), Nikkei 225 (+4.26%), Hang Seng (+1.65%) and Shanghai Composite Index (-0.70%) were mixed.

Market Moves of the Week:

South Africa’s latest census data reveals a substantial population growth, with the country’s population reaching 62 million in 2022, up from 51.8 million in 2011. The census also highlights the presence of over 2.4 million migrants, primarily from neighbouring countries like Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Lesotho. Notably, this census is only the fourth since 1994 and the first in over a decade.

On the economic front, South Africa is expected to experience a slight growth upturn in the coming year, primarily due to improved energy supply – this according to a Reuters poll. GDP is anticipated to expand by 1.2% in 2024, exceeding previous estimates and surpassing 2023 projections. Additionally, a decline in inflation is expected to offer some relief to consumers, with inflation projected to decrease to 4.8% in 2024, down from the estimated 5.8% in 2023.

The JSE All-Share Index (+1.76%) was positive this week, driven higher by the resource (+8.42%) sector. Weaker performances came from industrial (-1.38%), and financial (-0.35%) sectors. By Friday close, the rand was trading at R18.98 to the U.S. Dollar.

Chart of the Week:

China’s consumer inflation rate unexpectedly flatlined in September while factory-gate deflation persisted, suggesting the economy’s path to growth is still fragile and in need of additional support. According to the National Bureau of Statistics, the consumer price index for the past month remained unchanged from the previous year, falling short of expectations for a slight increase, and approaching the deflationary level observed in July.

Source: Bloomberg

Week in Review: U.S. Jobs Data Surprises

In September, the U.S. economy saw the creation of 360,000 new jobs, and an extra 119,000 positions were included in the count through revisions. The print surged passed expectations of only 170,000 new jobs, re-igniting the bonds sell-off that has swept global markets over the past two weeks. The U.S. 10-year Treasury yields climbed by approximately 14 basis points, reaching 4.88%, marking their highest point since 2007, coinciding with a roughly 50% increase in the likelihood of a rate hike before the end of the year. The unemployment rate remained unchanged at 3.8%. Wage growth remained stagnant, rising 0.2% m/m and 4.2% y/y, while the workforce participation rate stayed steady at 62.8%. However, digging deeper, the data suggests that the labour market is driven more by increased worker supply than excessive demand, creating a more favourable inflation outlook.

In U.S. political news, after failing to secure Republican caucus support in the U.S. House of Representatives for a government funding bill that included spending cuts and increased border security, Speaker Kevin McCarthy allowed a bipartisan bill to proceed. It passed with a 335 to 91 vote, but 90 Republicans opposed it. On Monday, a motion to remove McCarthy as Speaker was filed and succeeded with a 216 to 210 vote on Tuesday. Eight Republican renegades joined with a united Democratic caucus to remove a speaker for the first time in history. The House is in recess until next week when a new Speaker will be elected.

Throughout most of 2023, the U.S. services sector remained strong, while manufacturing experienced a contraction. However, in September, this trend flipped, with the manufacturing index improving to 49 from 47.6, while the nonmanufacturing measure dropped to 53.6 from the previous month’s 54.5. Notably, the nonmanufacturing new orders index hit a low point, declining to 51.8, marking its lowest level in a year, down from 57.5.

Both official and private-sector data indicated a potential slowdown in the eurozone economy during the third quarter. The September reading of the final Composite Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) from S&P Global stood at 47.2, marking the fourth consecutive month of contraction. (A PMI reading below 50 signifies a decrease in business output.)

China’s manufacturing sector showed signs of recovery, marking its first expansion since March and suggesting a potential economic turnaround. The official manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) exceeded expectations, rising to 50.2 in September from August’s 49.7. Additionally, the nonmanufacturing PMI surpassed forecasts, expanding to 51.7 compared to August’s 51.0.

During another week of trading dominated by large-cap growth stocks, especially in the mega-cap information technology and internet sectors, the major U.S. indexes closed with a mix of performances. The Nasdaq (+1.60%) and the S&P 500 (+0.48%) ended the week higher while the Dow Jones dipped -0.30%. Shares in Europe (Euro Stoxx 50) declined by -0.72%, while the FTSE 100 dropped by -1.49%. Financial markets in China were closed last week for the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holiday and will reopen on Monday, October 9. The Hong Kong Stock Exchange resumed trading on Tuesday, and the benchmark Hang Seng Index slipped by -1.80% for the shortened holiday week. Japan’s Nikkei 225 fell by -1.68%. Brent oil prices declined by -8.36% as demand fears outweighed supply cuts, while gold dropped by -0.84%.

Early Saturday morning, Palestinian group Hamas launched one of the biggest attacks on Israel in years with many killed, hostages taken, and fighting raging after a surprise assault that included gunmen entering Israeli towns after a barrage of rockets were fired from the Gaza Strip. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has declared a state of war.

Market Moves of the Week:

In South Africa (SA), Absa’s Purchasing Managers Index (PMI) declined to 45.4 in September from 49.7 in August, missing the consensus estimate of 49.5. The weak reading of the headline PMI was a result of exceptionally low demand and constrained production. Both external and domestic demand for South African manufactured goods came under pressure in the month. Factory production also suffered due to heightened and more severe power disruptions in September, leading to a sharp decline of 8.1 points in the business activity index, which fell to 41.9.

SA Reserve Bank Governor, Lesetja Kganyago, told a webinar on Thursday that inflation has eased, but stressed it was premature to declare victory in the battle to contain price pressures. Kganyago also mentioned that the bank would not step in to protect the local currency despite its current weakness. He stated that the bank was only concerned about the currency to the extent that it fed into inflation. On a related note, Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana is anticipated to caution SA about a widening budget shortfall and diminishing revenues when he delivers an assessment of SA’s fiscal status on November 1st this year.

Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan said new Eskom and Transnet CEOs will be named shortly. Eskom has not had a permanent leader for over seven months and is being overseen by Interim Chief Executive Officer, Calib Cassim. Last week Friday, Transnet lost two senior leaders within the organisation. CEO Portia Derby resigned amid rail infrastructure challenges while Nonkululeko Dlamini, the CFO of Transnet, also handed in her resignation. “Finding the right people is a difficult challenge in the southern African context,” Gordhan said.

The JSE (-1.00%) dipped over the week with resource companies (-3.55%) continuing to struggle in the current market environment. The rand slumped against the dollar over the week as risk-off sentiment took hold. The local currency ended at R19.30/$ from last week’s 18.92/$ level.

Chart of the Week:

An index of the dollar’s strength is pushing toward its highest level since November. Risk aversion and rising U.S. yields meant the U.S. dollar was stronger against most currencies in recent weeks.

Source: Bloomberg

Carrick Wins Advisory Award For 3rd Consecutive Year

In the past year, concerns about inflation, rising interest rates, and political instability have persisted, even as markets have shown improvement. However, recent tragic events in the Middle East have introduced new worries for investors, as they evaluate how military conflicts might impact financial markets. While acknowledging the human tragedy, the market’s primary focus has shifted to potential effects on oil prices, interest rates, and the strength of the dollar, as these factors have a more direct influence on market performance.

Major indexes concluded the week with mixed results as investors weighed up inflation data against dovish signals from Federal Reserve officials. Leading banks such as Citigroup, Wells Fargo, and JPMorgan Chase initiated the unofficial start of the third-quarter earnings reporting season on a positive note, benefiting from higher interest rates.

The release of minutes from the Fed’s September policy meeting on Wednesday suggested that policymakers agree that they need to maintain restrictive interest rates for some time, while being mindful of balancing the risk of overtightening with the goal of curbing inflation towards the 2% target. In September, CPI rose by 0.4% month-on-month, surpassing market expectations, signalling ongoing inflationary pressures. The Fed’s core CPI, which excludes food and energy costs, also increased by 0.3% in September.

In Europe, the ECB’s minutes revealed that the majority of policymakers voted to raise the key deposit rate to a record high of 4.0%. Meanwhile, the German government lowered its 2023 economic growth outlook from 0.4% growth to a 0.4% contraction due to higher energy costs and reduced demand from major markets like China.

UK retail sales growth slowed to 2.7% year-on-year in September, marking the second weakest month of the year, while GDP rose by 0.2% month-on-month in August, after contracting 0.6% in July.

In China, inflation remained subdued with CPI for September remaining unchanged from a year earlier. Meanwhile, producer prices fell by a higher-than-expected 2.5% compared to the previous year. At the same time, Chinese developer Country Garden Holdings faces its first-ever potential default and restructuring due to difficulties in meeting offshore payment obligations on U.S. dollar bonds, highlighting China’s property debt crisis.

Global equity markets concluded the week with mixed results. In the U.S., the Dow Jones (+0.79%) and S&P 500 (+0.45%) were positive whilst the Nasdaq (-0.18%) was mildly negative. Similarly, European and Asian markets, including the Euro Stoxx 50 (-0.20%), FTSE 100 (+1.40%), Nikkei 225 (+4.26%), Hang Seng (+1.65%) and Shanghai Composite Index (-0.70%) were mixed.

Market Moves of the Week:

South Africa’s latest census data reveals a substantial population growth, with the country’s population reaching 62 million in 2022, up from 51.8 million in 2011. The census also highlights the presence of over 2.4 million migrants, primarily from neighbouring countries like Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Lesotho. Notably, this census is only the fourth since 1994 and the first in over a decade.

On the economic front, South Africa is expected to experience a slight growth upturn in the coming year, primarily due to improved energy supply – this according to a Reuters poll. GDP is anticipated to expand by 1.2% in 2024, exceeding previous estimates and surpassing 2023 projections. Additionally, a decline in inflation is expected to offer some relief to consumers, with inflation projected to decrease to 4.8% in 2024, down from the estimated 5.8% in 2023.

The JSE All-Share Index (+1.76%) was positive this week, driven higher by the resource (+8.42%) sector. Weaker performances came from industrial (-1.38%), and financial (-0.35%) sectors. By Friday close, the rand was trading at R18.98 to the U.S. Dollar.

Chart of the Week:

China’s consumer inflation rate unexpectedly flatlined in September while factory-gate deflation persisted, suggesting the economy’s path to growth is still fragile and in need of additional support. According to the National Bureau of Statistics, the consumer price index for the past month remained unchanged from the previous year, falling short of expectations for a slight increase, and approaching the deflationary level observed in July.

Source: Bloomberg

Week in Review: Inflation Outlook Improves

In August, the core Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) price index, excluding food and energy, saw a modest 0.1% increase, marking the smallest monthly rise since November 2020. Over 12 months, the annual increase for core PCE was 3.9%, down from an upwardly revised 4.3% in July. This PCE index is a favoured economic indicator by the Federal Reserve for assessing inflation. This smaller-than-anticipated rise in August indicates that the central bank’s efforts to combat rising prices are showing progress.

Revised figures for the first quarter of the year show that the UK economy experienced a more rapid expansion than initially projected, as per the latest gross domestic product (GDP) data. The Office of National Statistics has revised the first-quarter growth rate to 0.3%, an increase from the prior estimate of 0.1%. Meanwhile, their assessment of second-quarter GDP growth remains unaltered at 0.2%.

Despite the surge in oil prices, inflation decreased across most European countries in September, resulting in the overall rate hitting its lowest point since before the onset of the war in Ukraine. According to the European Commission’s statistical branch, consumer prices in the 20 eurozone countries increased at an annual rate of 4.3 percent in September, a drop from August’s 5.2 percent. Over the past year, inflation in the eurozone has shown a consistent decline, following its peak at an annual rate of 10.6 percent the previous year. Core inflation, which excludes volatile categories such as food and energy and is considered a more reliable indicator of underlying price pressures, also experienced a recent easing, dropping to 4.5 percent in September from 5.3 percent in August.

In September, China’s factory activity saw its first expansion in six months. According to the National Bureau of Statistics, the Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI), which is based on a survey of major manufacturers, increased from 49.7 to 50.2, surpassing the critical 50-point threshold that distinguishes between contraction and expansion. This reading exceeded the forecasted 50.0. The PMI data reinforces the signs of economic stabilization, following a preceding period of decline after the initial surge earlier in the year when China relaxed its stringent COVID-19 policies.

Global equity markets concluded the week on a downtrend. The S&P 500 Index sustained its fourth consecutive weekly pullback, driven by upward pressure on interest rates, which appeared to dampen investor sentiment. The S&P 500 Index posted a decline of -0.74%. Similarly, the Dow Jones Industrial Average experienced a downturn of -1.34% for the week. In contrast, the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite posted a modest +0.06% gain. In Europe, both the Euro Stoxx 50 and the UK’s FTSE 100 recorded losses, sliding by -0.77% and -0.99%, respectively. The Asian markets mirrored this trend, with the Nikkei 225 (-1.68%), Hang Seng (-1.42%), and Shanghai Composite Index (-0.70%) all showing weakness.

Market Moves of the Week:

In the second quarter of 2023, South Africa witnessed a substantial increase in foreign direct investment inflows, reaching R53.8 billion ($2.8 billion), as revealed in data from the central bank. This surge marked a significant rise from the 0.5 billion rand recorded in the preceding quarter. The Quarterly Bulletin from the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) attributed this growth to a non-resident firm’s acquisition of a domestic beverage company.

Moreover, the Quarterly Bulletin disclosed that during the first quarter of fiscal year 2023/24, the national government reported a cash book deficit of R47.1 billion. This represented a notable contrast to the R11.5 billion cash book surplus reported during the same period in the previous fiscal year. The central bank indicated that this deficit was primarily covered by the issuance of long-term government bonds in the domestic financial markets.

Additionally, the Quarterly Bulletin noted a decrease in portfolio investment outflows in the second quarter, which dropped to R4.6 billion from R32.0 billion in the preceding quarter.

During the week, the JSE All-Share Index recorded a decline of -1.38%, led by losses in the financial sector at -1.75%, followed closely by industrials at -1.60%, and property at -1.50%. The resource sector also contributed to the week’s losses, ending with a decline of -1.05%. Additionally, the South African rand depreciated during the week, closing at R18.84 against the US dollar.

Chart of the Week:

In August, US consumers’ inflation expectations remained largely stable. The decrease in underlying price pressures has increased optimism that the US central bank may not implement an interest rate hike in November.

Week in Review: Mixed Signals

The annual Jackson Hole symposium hosted by the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City commenced on Thursday. During the event, several Federal Reserve officials indicated that although there might not be…

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Week in Review: Mixed Data as S&P500 Regains Bull Market Status

On Thursday, the S&P500 index experienced a significant development as it entered a bull market. The broad equities benchmark demonstrated a 0.6% increase, concluding the day at 4,292.93 points. This surge represents a notable 20% leap from its lowest point on October 12, 2022, when it stood at 3,577.03 points. Investors reacted favourably to indications from the Central Bank, which suggested that it is nearing the conclusion of its interest rate hiking cycle. Last week, the Federal Reserve hinted that it is likely to abstain from implementing a rate hike during its June 13-14 meeting. This anticipated pause has acted as a catalyst, propelling stock prices to higher levels.

On Thursday, the US Labour Department reported that weekly jobless claims had unexpectedly increased this week to 261,000, well above expectations and the highest level since October 2021.

Economists at the World Bank have revised their global GDP forecast for 2023, increasing it from the earlier projection of 1.7% to 2.1%. This upward adjustment indicates an improvement; however, it also suggests a significant deceleration compared to the 3.1% growth rate observed in 2022. In addition, the World Bank has reduced its growth outlook for 2024 from 2.7% to 2.4%.

While major economies have exhibited more resilience than anticipated in 2023, the economists caution that the impact of higher interest rates and tighter credit conditions will likely dampen growth in 2024. These factors are expected to take a toll on economic expansion going forward.During a meeting at the White House, US President Joe Biden and UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak reached an agreement to initiate negotiations on a trade pact between their countries. This trade agreement holds the potential to benefit British automakers by allowing them to qualify for electric car subsidies. Furthermore, it could facilitate the joint development of advanced weaponry. The focus of the trade discussions would revolve around critical materials that play a vital role in the production of batteries used in electric vehicles. The proposed trade package aims to foster collaboration and strengthen economic ties between the US and UK.

According to revised GDP data, the Eurozone’s economy experienced a technical recession during the winter period, albeit by a small margin. The data reveals that the economy contracted by 0.1% in both the fourth quarter of 2022 and the first quarter of this year. This weak growth performance is not unexpected, considering the significant impact of the war in Ukraine on European energy markets.

In Japan, revised figures released this week by the Cabinet Office indicates that the economy experienced stronger growth than initially estimated during the first quarter of 2023. Gross domestic product (GDP) expanded at an annualized rate of 2.7% quarter on quarter, surpassing the initial reading of 1.6% and exceeding economists’ forecasts. The upward revision of first-quarter GDP can be largely attributed to robust corporate investment. Despite apprehensions surrounding a slowdown in global growth, particularly in China, businesses in Japan demonstrated increased spending as sentiment remained resilient.

Saudi Arabia has announced its intention to implement an additional reduction of 1 million barrels per day in oil supply during July. This decision has been prompted by a decline in crude prices and will bring the country’s production to its lowest level in several years. Despite the potential consequences, this bold step has been taken by Saudi Arabia, which holds significant importance as a member of the OPEC+ coalition, with the aim of stabilizing the market.

However, it is important to note that this move does involve some concessions to key allies. Russia, a prominent member of the coalition, has not committed to further output cuts. Additionally, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has negotiated a higher production quota for the year 2024. Despite these compromises, Saudi Arabia’s Energy Minister, Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman, has expressed a strong commitment to taking whatever measures are necessary to restore stability to the market. Brent Crude Oil closed the week lower, down 1.65% to $74,94 bbl.

Chinese equities ended the week on a mixed note, following the release of the latest inflation data, which has increased concerns surrounding the post-pandemic recovery, China’s CPI rose 0.2% in May.  The recent release of weak export and import data has fuelled expectations for increased economic stimulus in China. The data indicates that both domestic and international demand remain subdued. In May, exports experienced a significant decline of 7.5% compared to the previous year, surpassing initial forecasts for a weaker performance. Additionally, imports fell by 4.5% compared to the same period last year. Notably, China’s share of US goods imports in April reached its lowest level since 2006, as reported by The Wall Street Journal. Analysts are concerned that exports may further decline, despite their current elevation compared to pre-COVID levels.

The Shanghai Composite index posted a modest gain of 0.04% for the week, while Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Index extended the previous week’s gains, posting a strong 2.32% week-on-week return.

US stocks ended the week slightly higher, with the S&P 500 up 0.39%, the Dow Jones Industrial Average up 0.34%, and the tech heavy Nasdaq Composite rising slightly 0.14%. The Euro Stoxx 50 ended the weak lower (-0.78%), while the FTSE 100 (0.96%) closed the week in positive territory. Japan’s Nikkei 225 index gained 2.35% this week, continuing its positive trend for the year (23.65% YTD).

Market Moves of the Week:

On the domestic front, recent economic data indicates a notable resilience, as the South African economy narrowly averted a recession during the first quarter. According to the latest data released on Tuesday, the economy expanded by 0.4%, effectively returning to pre-COVID levels. Out of the ten industries monitored by Stats SA, eight experienced growth in Q1, with manufacturing and finance, real estate, and business services making the most significant positive contributions.

Furthermore, South Africa’s current account deficit exhibited a substantial narrowing, declining from 2.3% of GDP in Q4 2022 to 1.0% of GDP in Q1 2023, contrary to the consensus forecast of a widening deficit. The primary catalyst for this improvement was the balance of trade in goods and services, which shifted from a deficit of 0.8% of GDP in Q4 to a surplus of 0.6% of GDP in Q1.

Adding to the positive developments, there has been some relief from Stage 6 national loadshedding, and a constructive meeting between government officials and business leaders on Wednesday, which has reignited optimism that a potential solution could be identified to mitigate the persistent power outages.

Although there were some positive developments on the news and economic front, the JSE ALSI posted a modest decline for the week (-0.25%), the only positive sector contributor was Financials up 7.25%. Both Industrials (-1.95%) and Resources (-2.71%) were down for the week. The Rand made a strong recovery, receding below the R19/$ mark. The currency was trading at R18.72/$ by Friday close, appreciating 3.99% against the Dollar. The SA listed property sector continues to face headwinds, the sector closed the week marginally lower -0.15%.

Chart of the Week:

In May 2023, the European Union’s transition to clean energy reached a remarkable milestone. Solar panel generation exceeded the bloc’s coal power plants for the first time, production should be further boosted over the summer months. Power prices turned negative during some of May’s sunniest days as grid operators struggled to handle the surge. Source: Ember & Bloomberg.

Week in Review: Fed Rate Hike Pause on the Cards

This week marked the end of May, with the S&P 500 reaching its highest level since mid-August 2022 and the Nasdaq Composite hitting its best level since mid-April 2022. The agreement reached between the White House and Republican congressional leaders to raise the federal debt limit and avoid a default did not significantly impact investor sentiment, as indications of a deal had already emerged. Economic data took centre stage, with U.S. employment data in the spotlight.

The Senate passed legislation to suspend the U.S. debt ceiling and impose restraints on government spending through the 2024 election. President Joe Biden is set to formally end the month-long debt-limit crisis this weekend.

Employment data released during the week was mixed. A report on Wednesday showed that job openings rebounded much more than expected in April and hit their highest level (10.1 million) since January. However, Friday’s release showed that U.S. unemployment unexpectedly rose from 3.4% to 3.7%. The Labor Department also highlighted an increase in the number of people losing jobs or completing temporary positions, reaching the highest level since February 2022. Overall, these findings suggest a more challenging job market for workers. The Federal Reserve is signalling that they plan to keep interest rates steady in June while retaining the option to hike further in coming months. Friday’s unemployment data reinforces this possibility.

Another encouraging sign regarding interest rates was the release of U.S. manufacturing data for May. Data showed a seventh straight monthly contraction in factory activity, as expected. Encouragingly, prices paid for supplies and other inputs by manufacturers contracted at the fastest pace since December, defying expectations for a modest increase.

Eurozone inflation decreased more than expected in May, increasing by 6.1%, also down from a 7.0% increase in the previous month. The unemployment rate decreased to 6.5% in April, in line with market expectations, following a revised rate of 6.6% in March. Manufacturing PMI in the eurozone declined to 44.80 in May, down from 45.80 in the previous month.

UK house prices experienced a marginal decrease of 0.1% on a monthly basis in May, following a revised increase of 0.4% in the previous month. Market expectations had anticipated a 0.5% decline. This decline in house prices reflects wider concerns in the UK property market. Moody’s recently downgraded the debt of Canary Wharf, a prominent symbol of the global real estate downturn. The east London financial district, saw its debt rating lowered from Ba1 to Ba3.

In China, the official manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) dropped unexpectedly to 48.80 in May, indicating a contraction for the second consecutive month. This suggests that the post-Covid recovery in China’s economy is facing challenges. However, the services PMI rose to 54.5, albeit below expectations, but still indicating expansion.

On the other hand, the private Caixin manufacturing PMI index surprisingly increased to 50.90 in May, contradicting the official data and showing a slight expansion in manufacturing activity. The Caixin index mainly covers smaller and export-oriented businesses.

U.S. and Asian markets were stronger this week, whilst European markets ended in negative territory. In the U.S., the Dow Jones (+2.02%), S&P 500 (+1.83%) and Nasdaq (+2.04%) all ended the week higher. Similarly, the Nikkei 225 (+1.97%), Hang Seng (+1.05%) and Shanghai Composite Index (+0.55%) also ended the week higher, whilst the Euro Stoxx 50 (-0.32%) and FTSE 100 (-1.80%) were negative.

Market Moves of the Week:

Earlier this week, the foreign ministers of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa met in Cape Town. The BRICS nations have requested guidance from their dedicated bank regarding the potential implementation of a shared currency, aiming to shield member countries from the impact of sanctions like those imposed on Russia.

Despite a 9.61% tariff increase and a bailout of R21.9 billion from the Treasury, Eskom reported a loss before tax of R21.2 billion for the 2024 financial year, surpassing the projected loss of R13.6 billion. The company’s revenue fell short of expectations, while its expenses, particularly on diesel, amounted to R21.36 billion, more than double the previous year. Additionally, the Treasury informed legislators that the total invoiced municipal arrear debt rose to R58.5 billion.

South Africa’s trade surplus contracted to R3.54bn, lower than expectations, while the Absa Purchasing Managers Index (PMI) declined in May, indicating a contraction in manufacturing output for the second quarter following a modest rebound in the first quarter.

The JSE All-Share Index (+0.70%) ended the week in positive territory, driven higher by the resource (+4.24%) and financial (+1.01%) sectors, whilst industrial shares (-1.24%) were negative. By Friday close, the rand was trading at R19.50 to the U.S. Dollar, appreciating by +0.75% for the week.

Chart of the Week:

The U.S. unemployment rate rose in May to 3.7% from 3.4%, one of the fastest increases since early in the pandemic, according to Bureau of Labor Statistics data released Friday. About 440,000 more workers reported that they are unemployed; and most of those were from temporary jobs ending or layoffs, according to the data.

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics via FRED, Washington Post.

Week in Review: Agreement in Principle

President Joe Biden, House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and their negotiators reached a tentative agreement to raise the debt ceiling on Saturday evening, ending a months-long stalemate. President Joe Biden described the agreement as a “compromise”, while House Speaker Kevin McCarthy said it “has historic reductions in spending”. Republicans have been seeking spending cuts in areas such as education and other social programs in exchange for raising the $31.4tn (£25tn) debt limit, a law that caps how much debt the US government can accrue. Recent U.S. market performance has been closely linked to the development of the talks, with signs of renewed momentum in the talks spurring a market rally on Friday.

The core personal consumption expenditures price index, the U.S. Federal Reserve’s (the Fed) preferred inflation measure, rose 4.7% y/y in April, up from March’s 4.6% y/y reading. The print signals that inflation remains sticky and that insufficient progress has been made in bringing down core inflation. Personal income experienced a strong increase of 0.8%, while personal spending surpassed expectations with a rise of 0.5%. These figures indicate that the U.S. economy still remains resilient. Markets are currently pricing in one more interest rate hike from the Fed over the next two meetings and less than one rate cut by year end.

The Fed’s May meeting’s minutes were released during the week, revealing that Federal Reserve officials were divided over whether further rate hikes would be necessary to lower inflation, given the high uncertainty surrounding the impact of banking-sector stresses on the economy. Some participants commented that “based on their expectations that progress in returning inflation to 2% could continue to be unacceptably slow, additional policy firming would likely be warranted at future meetings.”

April’s inflation figure in the United Kingdom came in above expectations, with a year-over-year rate of 8.7% compared to the previous month’s 10.1% y/y rise. Consensus had anticipated a decrease to 8.2% in the Consumer Price Index (CPI). Meanwhile, core inflation rose to 6.8% y/y, reaching a new peak within the current cycle. Following the release of this data, investors adjusted their expectations and priced in an additional half-point increase in rates by the Bank of England.

According to a survey conducted by S&P Global, business output in the eurozone continued to grow for the fifth consecutive month in May. However, the rate of growth moderated slightly due to manufacturing weakness, which offset another robust month of activity in the services sector.

On the market front, global indices ended the week mixed. The S&P 500 Index climbed +0.32%, while the Dow Jones slipped -1.00%. The technology-heavy Nasdaq Composite outperformed and ended the week up +2.51% as a rush for artificial intelligence–focused stocks sparked a U.S. rally late in the week. Notably, shares of chipmaker NVIDIA surged +24% on Thursday after the company beat consensus first-quarter earnings expectations by a wide margin and raised its profit outlook. Shares in Europe fell -1.32% (Euro Stoxx 50) over the week while the FTSE 100 declined -1.67%.

Chinese equities fell over the week following a series of discouraging indicators in recent weeks that indicated a slowdown in their economic recovery. The Shanghai index ended the week down -2.16% as a result. In Japan, the Nikkei 225 gained +0.35%. Gold dipped -1.58% while Brent Oil rose +1.74% over the week.

Market Moves of the Week:

Inflation in South Africa cooled in April, with headline inflation easing to 6.8% y/y (expectations: 7% y/y) from 7.1% y/y in March. This was the lowest headline inflation print since May last year. Core inflation edged higher (from 5.2% y/y to 5.3%) in April. Despite a slight decrease in food prices, which slowed to 13.9% in April, the food and non-alcoholic beverages category continued to be the primary contributor to inflation for the month. Transport experienced its ninth consecutive month of disinflation (7.6% y/y), with fuel prices easing to 5% – the lowest reading since March 2021. Although consensus is for inflation growth to start declining going forward, the weakening rand as well as load shedding may keep inflation risks elevated.

Following Wednesday’s inflation print, the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) rose rates to the highest level since 2009 on Thursday, saying the restrictive policy is necessary to curb inflation. The repo rate rose to 8.25% after a 50 basis point hike was declared by governor Lesetja Kganyago. The decision will further burden an economy already facing unprecedented electricity shortages, with growth projected to be a mere 0.3% this year. Markets are suggesting that the SARB’s hiking cycle is now complete, however, risks continue to be tilted toward further tightening on account of continued rand depreciation.

The rand sank to a record low against the U.S. dollar ($/R 19.51) on Thursday after the hawkish statement by the SARB’s Monetary Policy Committee and subsequent comments by the Governor painted a gloomy outlook for the currency. The rand fell sharply by over 2% in response to the decision. The local currency is significantly oversold at these levels, but negative sentiment might keep it that way for some time.

President Cyril Ramaphosa insisted this week that South Africa (SA) will remain non-aligned towards Russia or Ukraine. The country has faced pressures from some of its main trading partners to change course, however, the president remains persistent that SA won’t be taking sides in the conflict. 

The JSE (-2.03%) fell over the week as negative sentiment took hold. All sectors ended in the red, with Resources (-2.79%) and Industrials (-1.96%) taking the biggest hits. The rand depreciated against the U.S. dollar over the week, rising to R19.64/$ from last week’s R19.42/$ level.

Chart of the Week:

Google parent Alphabet Inc. on May 10 unveiled a slew of AI-related projects and touched on $122 billion in a few trading hours. The AI phenomenon, which executives around the world have variously likened to the emergence of the internet and the iPhone, has administered what now looks like a historic shock to markets that even rivals the scenes when the pandemic hit three years ago.

Source: Bloomberg

Week in Review: Debt Ceiling Talks Stall

Market concern eased late in the week, with investors less worried that the U.S. Department of the Treasury will default on its debt in early June. On Thursday, investors were buoyed by comments from Speaker of the House of Representatives Kevin McCarthy, who said he hopes to have legislation raising the debt cap on the House floor in the week ahead. Then on Friday morning the high stakes talks over raising the debt limit appeared to stall before resuming in the Capitol on Friday evening. One of the toughest sticking points in the talks has been the question of spending caps, a key Republican demand but a red line for a significant bloc of Democrats.

US retail sales rose 0.4% in April, after falling by 0.7% the prior month and below consensus expectations at its slowest year-over-year pace (1.6%) since early in the pandemic. Core sales, which strip out sales of autos, gasoline, building supplies and food services, rose 0.7%, beating expectations for a 0.3% rise while industrial production rose 0.5% in April, well above expectations, driven in part by increased auto manufacturing.

Shares in Europe advanced amid optimism that interest rates could be close to peaking and that the U.S. would avoid a debt default. In local currency terms, the pan-European STOXX Europe 50 Index ended the week 1.79% higher while the UK’s FTSE 100 Index was flat on the week.

The European Commission raised its forecasts for eurozone economic growth this year and next, while predicting that inflation would remain stubbornly high. The latest projection calls for gross domestic product (GDP) to expand 1.1% this year and 1.6% in 2024, up from the previous forecast for growth of 0.9% and 1.5%, respectively.

The UK’s unemployment rate crept up to 3.9% in the three months through March, from 3.8% in the three months through February, the national statistics office said. However, wage growth showed little signs of easing over the period. Average weekly pay excluding bonuses rose to 6.7% compared with a year earlier, from 6.6%.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy arrived Saturday in Japan for diplomatic talks with leaders of the world’s most powerful democracies participating in the Group of Seven (G-7). The G-7 have so far decided against imposing a near-outright ban on exports to Russia and will instead look to widen existing sanctions and restrictions on key Russian sectors, such as manufacturing, construction, transportation and business services.

According to the final presidential election results announced by the Supreme Election Court, the incumbent President Recep Tayyip Erdogan received 49.5% of the vote in the first round of voting in Turkey’s presidential election last Sunday versus 44.9% for his main opponent, Kemal Kilicdaroglu. The voter participation rate was high, as expected, with about 88%, or over 56 million voters, casting ballots. Erdogan is expected to defeat opposition leader Kemal Kilicdaroglu in the runoff between the two on Sunday, 28 May.

U.S. equities were higher this week, with the S&P 500 Index gaining 1.65%, and the Nasdaq Composite gaining 3.04%. It was the best weekly performance since March for both indexes, while the Dow added 0.38%.

Japanese equities reached their highest levels this week since its equity market burst in 1989. Improved corporate governance, solid domestic earnings and renewed interest on the part of foreign investors have bolstered share prices so far in 2023 while Q1 GDP growth of 1.6% doubled economists’ forecasts. The benchmark Nikkei 225 Index gained 4.8% for the week.

In China, official data showed industrial output, retail sales, and fixed asset investment grew at a weaker-than-expected pace in April from a year earlier. Nevertheless, the Shanghai Stock Exchange Index managed a gain of 0.34% for the week while in Hong Kong, the benchmark Hang Seng Index declined 0.90%.

Market Moves of the Week:

In South Africa (SA), Eskom’s warning on Thursday to brace for the grim prospect of having to slash as much as 8,000 megawatts from the grid to prevent a complete blackout will put further pressure on SA’s already fragile economic growth prospects this year. Loadshedding (rotational power cuts) has been estimated by the South African Reserve Bank to slash as much as two percentage points from economic growth.

South Africa’s unemployment rate in the first quarter of 2023 was recorded at 32,9 %, among the highest in the world. According to the Quarterly Labour Force Survey (QLFS), this is an increase of 0,2 of a percentage point compared to the fourth quarter of 2022. The youth remained vulnerable in the labour market, with the first quarter of 2023 results showing that the total number of unemployed youth (15-34 years) increased by 241 000 to 4.9 million, while there was an increase of 28 000 in the number of employed youth to 5.6 million during the same period.

S&P Global Ratings has given SA the benefit of the doubt by keeping the outlook on the country’s rating at stable, after a surprise drop in early March when it moved it from positive. S&P did not issue a report with the announcement, which came late on Friday.

The announcement of Eskom’s winter plan, which showed that rotational power cuts could be ramped up to Stage 8 as well as last weeks accusations of SA selling weapons and ammunition to Russia, continued to weigh on sentiment towards the rand with the currency touching a fresh low on Friday, before closing at R19.42 against the US dollar.

The JSE all-share index was marginally down on the week (-0.2%), with all the major sectors softer, apart from rand hedge counters that are benefiting from the weaker rand.

In the week ahead, the SA Reserve Bank (SARB) is also expected to announce yet another interest rate hike of between 25 and 50 basis points. A 50-basis point hike has become more likely given the recent sell-off in the rand as well as consumer inflation that remains stubbornly above the SARB’s target range of 3%-6%.

Chart of the Week:

The debt ceiling, set by Congress, caps how much the U.S. can borrow to pay for its remaining bills. As per the chart above the national debt has grown significantly since the early 1980s under both Republican and Democratic administrations. The largest percentage increases to the debt occurred under Presidents Ronald Reagan and George W. Bush, both of whom enacted tax cuts that led to large deficits. Flashpoints that greatly contributed to the debt over the past 50 years include the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, the 2008 financial crisis and the more recent 2020 COVID-19 pandemic.