Divergence watch: ECB decision and central banks’ policy paths
Jul 19, 2024
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Gurpreet Garewal from Goldman Sachs Asset Management discusses ECB decision's impact on central banks worldwide and currency & fixed income markets. Topics include potential second rate cut in September, inflation risks, market reactions post-meeting, Euro weakness, and upcoming events affecting credit investments.
ECB may align with a second rate cut in September based on evolving data.
Divergence in global monetary policy paths presents cross-market interest rate opportunities.
Deep dives
ECB's Policy Path and Potential Second Rate Cut in September
The ECB kept its policy unchanged following a rate cut in June, with President Lagarde indicating that data will determine September's decision. Market insights suggest alignment with a potential second ECB rate cut next month. Factors such as evolving data, downplayed inflation and wage growth, and favorable inflation expectations can influence this decision. Risks of persistent services inflation from tourism and live events like concerts are being monitored, potentially delaying future rate cuts.
Monetary Policy Divergence Across DMs and Market Opportunities
Global monetary policy paths vary across developed markets, with potential rate cuts in Europe, the US, and the UK. However, Australia's strong economic indicators suggest no immediate rate cuts. This divergence presents cross-market interest rate opportunities. Additionally, easing actions create a positive backdrop for bonds and bond investors, offering potential benefits amidst changing market conditions.
In the wake of the ECB decision, what should we expect to see from central banks around the world – and what does that mean for currency and fixed income markets? Gurpreet Garewal, macro strategist on the Fixed Income team in Goldman Sachs Asset Management, joins Natasha Tiwana of Goldman Sachs Research to discuss.