Originally published by Rivkin Securities
The Dow Jones gained 1.3% overnight, recovering most of the losses from the prior session, and the S&P 500 was up a similar amount. All sectors were positive but the energy sector was the best performing, up just over 3%, as oil prices rebounded from their recent slide. OPEC sought to quell fears surrounding production increases by stating that the current supply quotas would persist through until the end of the year. Financials were also strong, rebounding from the prior day’s losses.
The Bank of Canada decided to keep interest rates on hold at its six-weekly meeting last night although its language implied that another rate hike could come before the end of the year.
Gold prices have remained steady at around US$1,300 per ounce for several days now as the rise in the US dollar has paused. The prospect of a US rate hike in June has also been weighing on the price with market pricing currently suggesting an 88% chance of a 25-basis point hike at the next meeting on 13 June.
Today, Australia releases its private capital expenditure data which is expected to show 0.8% growth for the quarter. This is often a leading indicator of economic health as companies adjust their capital spending depending on market conditions. ASX 200 futures are up 40 points this morning.
Data Releases:
- Australia Private Capital Expenditure 11:30am AEST
- Canada GDP 10:30pm AEST