Daily Flow

• An A-1 rated foreign branch bank’s short-term deposit rates stand out in a highly volatile rate environment. Notably the 3-month term offering is offering 5.00%.
• Minimal movement in the two-way NCD market, with most foreign branch banks offering a +50 margin and domestic banks maintaining a +40 margin for 3 and 6 month terms.
• Significant activity in the secondary bond market, with large movements in the 4-year Semi-Government floating bond segment where Curve executed several deals.

FED Minutes Suggest Plausible Grounds for 0.25% Rate Cut on the Horizon

• A 0.25% rate cut appears imminent, with several Fed officials acknowledging a “plausible cause” for the reduction during their July meeting. Despite holding rates steady, the discussion suggests growing support for easing monetary policy soon.
• Concerns about payroll accuracy and labour market risks discussed in the meeting have contributed to a 40% probability of a 0.5% rate cut in September, reflecting a more dovish outlook.
• Equities continue to rebound from the uncertainty following the Nikkei 225 crash three weeks ago, with the S&P 500 rising 0.44%, contributing to a weekly gain of 3.05%.
• The Aussie Dollar continued to strengthen against the US Dollar, contributing to a weekly gain of 2.31%, as markets anticipate a US rate cut next month.