Thursday, August 30, 2012

August 30, 2012: Overview

Wednesday was another day of underwhelming performance across markets, with equities and currencies remaining locked within their tight ranges (USDCAD moved a whopping 20 points all day). Unfortunately, we could be in for the same fate today, as everyone seems content to wait on Ben Bernanke’s next move from Jackson Hole tomorrow. The Fed Beige Book was released yesterday and, surprise surprise, it highlighted that the economy was expanding gradually but still at a pace that is far too slow for the Fed’s liking. US Unemployment Claims came in essentially unchanged at 374K this morning, while Personal Spending came in on expectations with a 0.4% rise.


The euro is getting a bit of a bid this morning on the back of a strong Italian bond auction and comments from Chinese Premier Wen reaffirming his faith in euro zone bonds. The Australian dollar has pushed through its 50-day moving average to the downside, and now looks vulnerable to further falls. Oil is hanging around the $95 level as we wait to hear if there is any significant damage to the Gulf’s oil-producing assets from Hurricane Isaac.


 
 


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