Aditya Chordia, Analyst at J.P. Morgan Global Research, joins Francis Diamond to unravel the complexities of the European rates market. They discuss the surge in bond yields and a bearish outlook for 2025, driven by economic divergence in the euro area. The conversation also delves into market volatility, intra-EMU spreads, and the influence of ECB policies. They analyze the expected decline in euro area government bond supply and explore the interconnectedness of the UK and US markets, shedding light on future yield predictions.
The recent rise in European 10-year bond yields is significantly influenced by improving US economic data and changing macroeconomic fundamentals.
Despite volatility in intra-EMU spreads following the ECB's meeting, there remains optimism for future carry opportunities amid a hawkish monetary stance.
Deep dives
Rising European Bond Yields
Recent trends show that 10-year bond yields in Europe have increased by over 15 basis points, reaching the highest levels since the previous October. Specifically, the escalation of 10-year gilt yields to multi-year highs indicates a significant shift in market dynamics. This movement is partly attributed to a pronounced correlation with US rates, as improved economic data in the US influences European yields. Analysts suggest that this sell-off reflects not only technical factors but also changing macroeconomic fundamentals, particularly following the ECB's December meeting, where terminal pricing expectations rose significantly.
Intra-EMU Spreads and Market Expectations
Intra-EMU spreads have experienced notable fluctuations since the ECB's last meeting, showing a widening in volatility especially towards year-end. Despite this, there has been a slight stabilization and tightening of spreads at the start of the new year, aligning with expected seasonal patterns. The pressure on spreads has been driven by a hawkish ECB stance and political uncertainties, particularly in France, but analysts remain optimistic about future carry opportunities as they believe the market can effectively digest this heavy January supply. There is a consensus that gradual ECB easing and stable foreign demand will support intra-EMU spreads moving forward.
UK Gilt Yield Trends and Market Implications
UK 10-year gilt yields have surged to multi-year highs, reflecting a notable sell-off, particularly influenced by dynamics in US markets. Market expectations around Bank of England easing have shifted, with the pricing reflecting increased doubt about further easing measures amid lagging GDP growth and hiring intentions. Despite this uncertainty, analysts believe that intermediate and long-end gilt yields may appear attractive, although they emphasize the importance of understanding fiscal policies and their potential risk premiums. The overall outlook for UK yields remains cautious yet optimistic, with expectations for a decline to approximately 420 basis points by mid-year, contingent on future macroeconomic data.
In this podcast, Francis Diamond and Aditya Chordia discuss their latest thoughts on European rate markets given the increase in yields seen since the start of this year.
This podcast was recorded on 08 January 2025.
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