Rodrigo Catril, NAB’s market economist and strategist, shares insights on the U.S. non-farm payrolls report and its implications for the Fed's monetary policy. He discusses how upcoming CPI data could shift rate cut expectations. The political landscape in France is also unraveling, with tensions rising post-confidence votes and Macron's strategic hesitations. Additionally, OPEC+ maintains a cautious approach to oil production, reflecting the uncertain global demand. Catril’s analysis ties together these economic threads with implications for international markets.
U.S. non-farm payrolls data is crucial for assessing the Federal Reserve's interest rate strategy, particularly regarding potential cuts amid inflation concerns.
The political instability in France, exacerbated by Macron's delayed decision on a new prime minister, casts doubt on the region's economic recovery prospects.
Deep dives
Impact of Non-Farm Payrolls on Fed Rate Decisions
Non-farm payrolls are crucial in determining the Federal Reserve's approach to interest rate cuts, particularly in light of the anticipated job growth figures. The market expects a healthy increase of around 218,000 jobs, which would indicate a strong labor market, potentially discouraging the Fed from making rapid cuts. In addition, average hourly earnings are projected to slightly decline from 4% to 3.9%, which suggests ongoing inflationary pressures. The general consensus remains that while a December rate cut is on the table, it is contingent upon strengthening economic indicators, especially concerning employment and inflation.
Challenges in European Politics and Economy
The political landscape in France remains tumultuous as President Macron's decision to postpone naming a new prime minister could lead to further instability. After a vote of no confidence in former prime minister Michel Barnier, Macron seems to be deferring responsibility while Le Pen criticizes him for the current chaos. Economic indicators from Europe are also disappointing, with significant declines in Germany's factory orders and a mixed outlook for other countries, raising questions about the region's growth prospects. The ongoing struggle for cohesive economic strategy amid increasing tariffs and political division underscores the challenges facing major European economies.
Oil Market Reactions to Supply Adjustments
The oil market has reacted to the decision by OPEC Plus to delay production increases, signaling caution in light of a sluggish global economic recovery. Recent confirmation from OPEC indicates that they will extend their supply adjustments for an additional 18 months, reflecting concerns over demand, particularly from China. This aligns with the uncertainties surrounding President Trump's potential trade tariffs, which could further dampen market expectations. Analysts predict that with the projected slowdown in demand, even delayed supply increases may struggle to positively influence oil prices in the short term.
The US releases non-farm payrolls data later today, but NAB’s Rodrigo Catril says if anything is going to shift expectations for a cut by the Fed this month it will be the upcoming CPI data. Meanwhile words from Jerome Powell, that the economy was doing better than expected, can be added to the list of reasons for a pause in the new year. A new PM for France hasn’t been decided yet but will be in the next few days. The turmoil just adds to the European woes, with more lacklustre data over the last 24 hour. And OPEC+, as expected, has pushed back the increase in production and the length of the ramp in those increases.