Originally published by Commonwealth Bank of Australia
The Aussie bond curve bull‑flattened again, driven by offshore moves. Treasury yields slip over a risk‑off session overnight, as geopolitical tensions continued to weigh on risk asset demand. Sentiment was further exacerbated by US President Trump’s tweet that “North Korea is looking for trouble. If China decides to help, that would be great. If not, we will solve the problem without them! U.S.A.”
The Westpac consumer confidence index dipped marginally to 99 in April, but close to the key mark of 100pt. The survey showed respondents were more confident about their finances, but expectations for the economic look have eased. The confidence gauge on the housing market also fell, given recent warnings from policy makers and independent mortgage rate hikes from banks. Furthermore, the unemployment expectations index lifted in April, impacted by recent soft jobs report and weak wage growth.
FOMC voter Dallas Fed President Robert Kaplan speaks tonight. One of the key takeaways from recent FOMC speakers is that core inflation remains below the target and a temporary overshooting above the 2% target is not likely to quicken the pace of rate hikes.
The March employment report is the local focus tomorrow. RBA is also set to release the half‑yearly Financial Stability Review.
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