US Rates: Trick or treat: recapping the November refunding announcement
Oct 31, 2024
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Afonso Borges, a seasoned U.S. rate strategist at J.P. Morgan, joins to dissect the latest Treasury refunding announcement. The discussion highlights the stability of coupon sizes and the growing significance of TIPS auctions. They delve into the introduction of a shorter-term TIPS benchmark and explore how the Treasury is navigating fiscal projections and strategic management. Additionally, the conversation touches on near-term risks in the rates market, evaluating impacts from employment reports and unforeseen events.
U.S. Treasury yields are at their highest since last summer, influenced by strong economic data and market sentiment shifts.
The November refunding announcement reflects stable Treasury borrowing practices and potential future discussions on a three-year TIPS.
Deep dives
Current U.S. Treasury Yield Dynamics
U.S. Treasury yields are currently near their highest levels since last summer, driven by stronger-than-expected domestic economic data that highlights the resilience of the U.S. economy. This situation suggests that the Federal Reserve may not need to implement as deep of an easing as previously thought. The Treasury curve has seen bearish flattening, indicating a shift in market sentiment. Additionally, rising yields have been observed across developed markets, with notable movements in the euro area and the U.K.
The latest Treasury quarterly refunding announcement was largely consistent with expectations and involved maintaining nominal coupon sizes while also increasing TIPS auction sizes incrementally. Treasury's guidance indicates no immediate changes for several quarters, reflecting confidence in its borrowing capacity. Discussions surrounding the possible introduction of a three-year TIPS may occur, although implementation is anticipated to be at least a year away. The buyback calendar for the upcoming quarter also received minor adjustments, suggesting stable financing operations going forward.
Market Developments and Risk Outlook
Recent Treasury market developments reveal a strong focus on enhancing market resiliency and liquidity post-pandemic, with recommendations aimed at reducing friction within the cash and repo markets. Discussions regarding the relationship between digital assets and Treasury demand highlight a growing integration of technology in the finance sector. Near-term, volatility in rates markets is influenced by the upcoming employment report and pre-election uncertainties, with expectations of increased fiscal deficits. Overall, the market is currently cautious, leading to an expectation of potential upward pressure on rates due to a low-risk appetite among participants.