FOMC finally to deliver a rate hike this week

Dec 13, 2015 21:34 pm UTC| Commentary

This week, the FOMC finally is expected to deliver a rate hike. The expected path of the hiking cycle will ultimately determine USD price action, not the first increase, which is already widely anticipated. It is believed...

FOMC in focus, but also watch for BoJ Tankan and BoJ policy meeting

Dec 13, 2015 21:19 pm UTC| Commentary Central Banks

With a December FOMC lift-off mostly priced in by the markets, the focus will be on how the Fed communicates its rate hike path through Yellens press conference and dot charts. While a dovish surprise would likely weigh on...

University of Michigan consumer sentiment ticks higher in December

Dec 11, 2015 18:52 pm UTC| Commentary

The University of Michigan index of consumer sentiment rose to 91.8 in the preliminary December estimate, coming in above our expectations for a decline (90.5) but below consensus expectations of 92.0. The current...

Asian data to set risk tone, but FOMC policy decision front and centre

Dec 11, 2015 18:43 pm UTC| Commentary Economy

Although the macro calendar serves up some useful data over the course of the coming week, broad market attention is expected to be concentrated around the looming FOMC policy meeting outcome (Wed). By now, a 25bp...

U.S. consumers working up some holiday mojo

Dec 11, 2015 18:13 pm UTC| Commentary Economy

Retail sales for November grew the most in four months, up 0.2 percent. This modest increase is less than expectations but above Octobers 0.1 percent figure. However, excluding gas and autos the figure was up a robust 0.6...

Currency War Series

Mexico to follow in the footsteps of Federal Reserve

Dec 11, 2015 16:49 pm UTC| Commentary Central Banks

The Banxico committee is set for a rate lift-off when it meets the day after the FOMC meeting on Thursday next week - its first rate hike in 7 years. A hike in close tandem with the Fed should also hinder the USD/MXN from...

Russia's central bank keeps key rate unchanged again

Dec 11, 2015 16:21 pm UTC| Commentary Central Banks

The Bank of Russia Board of Directors decided to keep the key rate unchanged at 11%. High inflation risks which stem from the weak rouble are in focus. On the other hand, the risk of the economy cooling will force the CBR...