US Rates: Putting the “Fun” in Funding and the Quarterly Refunding
Jul 26, 2024
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US Rates strategists Jay Barry, Teresa Ho, and Phoebe White discuss funding markets, QT impact, August refunding, and FOMC meeting. Topics include market inefficiencies, Treasury guidance on borrowing needs, US Treasury issuances, and outlook for rate cuts.
Market volatility priced for September ease, influenced by QT dynamics and liquidity constraints.
Forecasts suggest manageable Treasury financing needs with expected adjustments in issuance composition.
Deep dives
Overview of Market Themes and Trends
Despite notable market volatility across rates, currencies, and risk assets, markets are largely priced for a September ease, with some speculation earlier in July. Various monetary market rates have shown stability, while SOFR rates have been elevated. Factors like QT, liquidity dynamics, and market inefficiencies contribute to SOFR's behavior, showing high but not indicative of reserve scarcity.
Analysis of Funding Markets Dynamics
The discussion delves into the intricate dynamics of funding markets, emphasizing how the Fed's actions, increasing Treasury issuance, and changes in buyer behavior have influenced market conditions. Elevated SOFR levels and liquidity constraints in repo markets highlight systemic inefficiencies requiring market adaptation. The conversation anticipates resolving these issues as liquidity supply increases and market players balance implications of policy actions.
Outlook on Treasury Financing and Market Response
Forecasts indicate manageable financing needs for the Treasury, buoyed by increased borrowing capacity and adjustments in issuance composition. Expectations for the upcoming refunding announcement lean towards maintaining nominal coupon auction sizes and modest adjustments to tips auction sizes. Market participants anticipate a dovish tone from the Fed, closely monitoring key economic data and global events to assess their impact on rates and inflation expectations.
Rates strategists Jay Barry, Teresa Ho, and Phoebe White discuss recent developments in funding markets and how that may influence the path for QT. They also preview the August refunding and discuss next week’s FOMC meeting.