U.S. stock futures showed a slight increase as traders approached the Federal Reserve rate decision and comments expected later in the week.
Stock-Index Futures Performance
- S&P 500 futures (ES00) rose by 4 points or 0.1%, reaching 4505.
- Dow Jones Industrial Average futures (YM00) gained 33 points or 0.1%, sitting at 34968.
- Nasdaq 100 futures (NQ00) added 14 points or 0.1%, reaching 15428.
Monday’s Market Recap
On Monday, the Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA) increased by 6 points or 0.02%, closing at 34624. Similarly, the S&P 500 (SPX) showed a gain of 3 points or 0.07%, reaching 4454. The Nasdaq Composite (COMP) also experienced a slight increase of 2 points or 0.01%, closing at 13710.
Cautious Trading Ahead of the Federal Reserve Decision
Following a marginal gain of less than 0.1% on Monday, trading remained cautious on Tuesday as investors hesitated to take significant positions before the Federal Reserve’s policy decision.
While the market expects the central bank to maintain the interest rates at a range of 5.25% to 5.50% in its upcoming meeting on Wednesday, traders remain concerned about accompanying guidance regarding future interest rate hikes due to stubborn inflationary pressures. Consequently, the yields on 10-year benchmark Treasury bonds (BX:TMUBMUSD10Y) are holding near their highest level since 2007.
Observing recent economic data surpassing expectations and a 10-month peak in oil prices, Ipek Ozkardeskaya, senior analyst at Swissquote Bank, suggests that the Fed may adopt a “hawkish pause” in their decision-making.
Revised Growth Expectations and Hawkish Tone from Central Bank
The central bank is expected to revise its growth expectations significantly higher as a result of strong consumer spending and solid economic growth. This week, they will likely adopt a cautious and reasonably hawkish stance, according to experts. The dot plot is expected to signal another rate hike before the end of the year, along with a higher median rate throughout the next year.
U.S. Economic Updates and Global Market Uncertainty
On Tuesday, important U.S. economic updates will be released, including housing starts and building permits for August at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time. At present, a sense of uncertainty pervades global markets. While U.S. stocks and bonds remain stable, oil prices are rising, which complicates policy decisions for major central banks like the Federal Reserve, the European Central Bank (ECB), and the Bank of England. Last week, the ECB raised rates by 25 basis points, and the Bank of England is anticipated to do the same this Thursday.
Investor Interest in Instacart’s IPO Performance
Investors are eagerly awaiting to see whether Instacart can replicate the positive reception that Arm Holdings’ IPO received after pricing it towards the top of the proposed range.
Caution on Short-Term Stock Vulnerability
Mark Newton, the head of technical strategy at Fundstrat, has cautioned that poor seasonal trends and the potential for increased volatility in bond yields make stocks appear vulnerable in the short term.
Market Analysis: Seasonal Trends and Treasury Yields
Seasonal Downturn and Treasury Yields
As we examine the current market situation, it is crucial to acknowledge the historical trends that make this week stand out as one of the most challenging in the year. Seasonally speaking, it is known for its difficulties. Moreover, Treasury yields persist in trading at or near their highest levels for 2023.
Catalysts for Risk Assets
The upcoming FOMC meeting and Bank of Japan deliberations are expected to serve as significant catalysts for risk assets. Investors are closely monitoring these events for potential clues about the future direction of the market. However, despite the anticipation surrounding these meetings, both equities and Treasuries have yet to gain enough strength to suggest an imminent push back to 4600 on the S&P 500 index.
In summary, although market players are attentively observing key developments, such as the FOMC meeting and Bank of Japan’s decisions, there is currently insufficient evidence to suggest an immediate reversal in market conditions.
