Anton Schutz and Sonali Basak analyze earnings results of US banks. Emilio Tenuta discusses water access and sustainability. Enda Curran analyzes potential risks to the global economy. Silvina Moschini explores SEC approval of Bitcoin ETFs. Kathy Jones discusses fixed income strategies.
US banks reported mixed earnings results, with concerns over credit quality in the banking sector.
Delta Air Lines' withdrawal of its profit target dampened investor sentiment towards airlines.
The approval of Bitcoin ETFs by the SEC could expand crypto access for more investors.
Deep dives
Yields Decline as PPI Softens and CPI Impact Fades
US Treasury yields fell as the producer price index (PPI) unexpectedly declined, reinforcing expectations of rate cuts by the Federal Reserve. The two-year yield hit the lowest since May, while the 10-year yield dropped below 4%. The market is anticipating rate cuts by the Fed, although the expectations may be aggressive. The decline in inflation and the trend of inflation going down are supporting the expectations of rate cuts. The yield curve is expected to remain volatile as the market prices in rate cuts by the Fed.
Airlines Dive as Delta Withdraws Profit Target
Airline stocks took a hit after Delta Air Lines announced it is backing away from its 2024 profit target. This news dampened investor sentiment towards airlines. The withdrawal of the profit target raises concerns about the future profitability of the industry. While airlines face challenges due to uncertainties in the global economy, Delta's decision further adds to the negative sentiment.
Mixed Trading for US Banks Reporting Earnings
US banks reported mixed results with their earnings, leading to a flat S&P 500. City's profit beat estimates, while Wells Fargo's costs came in higher than expected. JP Morgan Chase, on the other hand, had a profitable year in US banking. However, there were concerns about credit quality in the banking sector, as delinquencies and charge-offs started to rise. The outcome of the banks' earnings and concerns on credit quality added to the indecisiveness in the market.
Unicorn Launches Cryptocurrency Backed by Real Assets
Unicorn is a cryptocurrency that aims to address the volatility and lack of transparency in traditional crypto by backing it with equity stakes in companies, real estate, and art. The asset-backed public reporting cryptocurrency has raised over $500 million in a pre-sale and will soon be listed for trading. Unicorn offers diversification by investing in various asset classes and geographical locations. The aim is to democratize access to investment opportunities and provide more control and visibility in the market.
US Treasury Yields Expected to Remain Stable
US Treasury yields are expected to remain stable, with the 10-year yield near fair value at 3.80 to 4%. The market anticipates rate cuts by the Federal Reserve, but the timing and aggressiveness of the cuts may differ from market expectations. The Fed may wait for inflation to show a tendency to pick up or for the economy to roll over before making rate cuts. The current expectation is for three to four rate cuts starting in May, but if inflation starts to turn around or wages tick up, the Fed may hold out longer.
Anton Schutz, President at Mendon Capital Advisors and Bloomberg News Wall Street Reporter Sonali Basak break down earnings results from many of the big US banks. Ecolab Chief Sustainability Officer Emilio Tenuta discusses providing affordable, secure and inclusive access to water ahead of the World Economic Forum. Bloomberg News Global Economy Reporter Enda Curran shares the details of his Businessweek Magazine story These Are the Five Potential Trouble Spots That Could Knock the Global Economy Off Course. Silvina Moschini, Founder, President & Chairwoman at Unicoin, explains how SEC approval of Bitcoin ETFs could open the door to crypto for more investors. And we Drive to the Close with Kathy Jones, Chief Fixed Income Strategist at Schwab Center for Financial Research. Hosts: Carol Massar and Tim Stenovec. Producer: Paul Brennan.