Blog

by Tim Sharp

 

The markets’ wobble at the beginning of the month was well documented in our mid-month commentary. To recap, a mixture of softening economic data led investors to believe that the US Federal Reserve (Fed) was behind the curve, risking a hard landing. These concerns combined with the unwinding of the Yen carry trade, as the currency strengthened significantly following an unexpected rate tightening by the Bank of Japan (BOJ).

Two weeks later, headline CPI fell below 3%, the lowest inflation print since March 2021, and into the Fed’s target zone. Concurrently, many economists – such as Dr Torsten Slok of Apollo, via his Daily Spark note – pointed out signs of enduring strength in the US economy[i]:

“Looking at the latest daily and weekly data shows that retail sales are strong, jobless claims are falling, restaurant bookings are strong, air travel is strong, hotel occupancy rates are high, bank credit growth is accelerating, bankruptcy filings are trending lower, credit card spending is solid, and Broadway show attendance and box office grosses are strong.

The bottom line is that there are no signs of a recession in the incoming data,”

As we predicted, Fed Chair Powell used the Jackson Hole Symposium to underline the Fed’s view of the data and surprised many by his dovish speech. He unambiguously declared:

“The time has come for policy to adjust. The direction of travel is clear, and the timing and pace of rate cuts will depend on incoming data, the evolving outlook, and the balance of risks.”

With the Fed clearly believing that inflation is on a sustainable path back to 2%, and with employment data robust but related pressures having eased, the fundamentals for a soft landing are falling into place. As the month draws to a close, Fed Funds Futures are pricing in 100bps of cuts by year-end. With just three meetings remaining until year end, the question for September’s meeting is whether it will see a 25bps or 50bps cut.

The other major event for August was Nvidia’s results, after the market close on August 28^th. These were expected to either underline the markets over-optimism in the roll-out of AI (Artificial Intelligence) or extend the run of ‘beat-expectations-and-raise-guidance’ results that investors had become so spectacularly used to receiving. The company reported a very strong second quarter: revenue growth of 122% year-on-year, earnings-per-share (EPS) growth of 152%, and expected third quarter revenue growth of 80%, all of which were higher than the average estimates. However, the results failed to beat the most optimistic of expectations which, combined with the continued slow roll-out of the new Blackwell chip, led to the shares being sold off 8% in after-hours trading, before closing approximately 6% lower the following day. This proves that merely beating expectations is insufficient for mega-tech momentum to continue, against a backdrop of optimistic valuations. Although the belief in the AI story remains, question marks over AI’s ability to generate wider returns through its usage are emerging.

Following the sell-off at the beginning of the month, the equal-weighted S&P500 index regained its all-time high on August 21^st, while the market-weighted index took a couple of days longer to do so and has since weakened into month end, following Nvidia’s results. This suggests to us that a broadening out of returns is underway, a contention that the latest earnings season has supported. With over 97% of the S&P500 having reported, aggregate earnings have beaten estimates by 5.6%, versus an historical average of 4.8%, with 74% of companies topping estimates. Second quarter revenues grew on average 5.2%, while EPS grew 11.6%. Although technology was by far the strongest sector, we feel these results reflect broad strength in the US economy and little sign of a looming recession[ii].

The pricing in of future interest rate cuts has also seen the US Treasury curve steepen, with 2-yr bond yields dropping 7 basis points to 3.90%, while 10-yr yields increased to 3.86%. As a result, the curve is inverted by only c. 4bps, which is the closest we have been to a dis-inversion for the last couple of years.

Turning to the UK, the Labour government is gearing up for the Autumn budget by taking the opportunity to announce a £22bn perceived “black hole” in the country’s finances and forewarn the need for tax rises. Investors are focusing on capital gains tax’s equalisation with income tax, which has caused alarm in the buy-to-let property market and in buy-and-hold investment portfolios. Inheritance tax and employer national insurance contributions are rumoured to be in the crosshairs, as the major taxes have been declared off-limits, to ensure that those who can afford to pay more, contribute more. After the ructions of the Conservative time in office, markets seem more constructive about the challenge facing Chancellor Reeves and her attempts to prove fiscal sustainability. The pound is back to 1.31-1.32 versus the dollar, a level which it has not reached since 2020, although it is debatable whether this is sterling strength or broader dollar weakness. However, 1.19 against the Euro is also back to a level last seen in 2022. Sticky inflation suggests that the Bank of England (BOE) may be less likely to cut rates in September than the European Central Bank (ECB) in our opinion, with Governor Andrew Bailey providing a note of caution at the Jackson Hole Symposium and perhaps looking at November for the next move in UK interest rates.

The boost that hosting the Olympics has given France further highlights the weakness of the German economy, where growth contracted in the second quarter, and inflation surprisingly dropped below 2% in August. Spanish inflation was also weaker than expected, highlighting the possibility that Eurozone inflation may be moving closer to the ECB’s 2% target rate. Although other economies have been performing relatively better, former ECB President Mario Draghi has been researching a potential plan for fiscal stimulus which, if implemented in tandem with an ECB rate cut, may boost the region’s economic prospects. August’s Flash PMI figures suggested weakening growth in both manufacturing and services and the ECB’s July meeting pointed to a re-assessment of the appropriate level of monetary policy in September. Rate cut speculation directly affects currencies, and the Euro sits at 1.1050 versus the dollar as we witness a prolonged period of dollar weakness, with markets pricing in easing speculation, providing breathing space for the wider global economy.

The Dollar Index has had a difficult month, losing 2.4% on shifting rate expectations and, more broadly, is down 4% this quarter-to-date, and flat year-to-date, reflecting the shift in relative real yields. Periods of dollar weakness provide a tailwind for the global economy and have pushed gold 2.77% higher in August, to $2,524/oz and burnishing the metal’s role as a hedge against geopolitical risk which is currently rising in the Middle East and Europe.

As we reach US Labour Day, we expect to see volumes start to increase, following a typically slow August as investors return from vacations. August’s volatility will encourage markets to become even more data dependent as we move towards the central bank decision-making period at the end of September. The current data sees inflation continuing to fall towards the 2% target rate, employment market pressures receding, and growth rates consistent with a soft landing. We believe this environment remains healthy for risk assets and, based on relative economic performance, continue to favour the US over other regions, as the need for monetary easing is finely balanced by continued economic resilience.

 

 

 

 

[i] Slok, Dr Torsten _ Apollo Daily Spark _ The Economy Is Doing Just Fine _ 2024.08.17

[ii] Golub, Jonathan _ UBS _ Earnings Brief 2Q24 August 29 _ 2024.08.29

by Tim Sharp

As has been the case for much of the recent history, the path of inflation and interest rates along with the strength of the broader economy continues to dominate markets. Since the last hike from the Federal Reserve (Fed) in August 2023, a central focus of investors has been around the timing of the first cut, along with the trajectory for interest rates going forward. With Chair Powell signalling that the Fed remains data dependent, markets have been whipsawed as different data points have signalled economic strength or weakness.

We believe this was a trigger for the very pronounced moves in both equity and fixed income markets in Q4 2023, as softening data on the economy led investors to price in five rate cuts in 2024. Up until very recently, continued economic resilience largely underpinned by a strong US consumer and a robust labour market led to interest rate expectations moving higher. Equity markets can look through the rate cuts being priced out, if underpinned by a strong economy, although this has led to far more emphasis on earnings. It has been a far more challenging environment for bond markets, which had suffered against this backdrop.

Touching on valuations in the US Technology sector, “Mega-tech” have contributed significantly to the recent performance of the S&P 500 as an AI related boom has propelled earnings and valuations. Against a backdrop of a reducing number of rate hikes being priced in during H1 2024, greater and greater emphasis has been placed on the earnings of these companies. The most recent quarterly earnings season, we see growing concerns around how – and importantly when – these companies will be able to monetise the significant AI related expenditure. This disappointment triggered a significant technical rotation into the small cap Russell 2000 index in July at the expense of “mega-tech”.  However, it is still unclear to us whether this will continue from being a technical rebound into a full-blown rotation as many investors still seem drawn to the possible growth story within technology and the free cash flow generated by mega-tech but we believe small caps are historically more interest rate sensitive should the easing cycle get under way.

At present we calculate that markets are back to pricing in five cuts by the end of the year up from the two cuts in July, with an almost 100% probability of a September cut. Our approach through this has been to focus on the longer term, rather than attempting to time short term changes in expectations. It may take wise words from Chair Powell at the Jackson Hole Symposium later in August to calm some of the more anxious investors. Economists we follow point out that although the US has slowed, there is no obvious catalyst for recession with asset prices underpinned, profits strong, and inflation falling allowing the Fed more room to manoeuvre[i]. It is likely that interest rates will be lower in the coming months in our opinion.

Turning to geo-politics. In addition to the two major conflicts ongoing in the world now with fears of further escalation, we expect the US presidential election to take centre stage in the latter part of 2024. As things stand, a Trump presidency appears to be the most likely outcome, although a lot can change between now and November. Whilst there is a lot of uncertainty around what Trump 2.0 might look like, there are two key areas of focus for markets. Expectations are for expansionary fiscal policy and business friendly policies, which should be supportive of company’s earnings. That said given the current size of fiscal deficit, markets may be more punishing towards increased spending. In addition to this, policy towards Ukraine and China has been a potential source of concern as Trump leads with an ‘America first’ campaign.

Looking more specifically at the events since the beginning of August, markets have become once again very concerned with the health of the US economy along with valuations in the mega-cap technology sector. A major catalyst for the latest spike in volatility indices was the August unemployment report. The most recent data for July showed the US added 114,000 jobs, far below market expectations of 175,000 along with unemployment that rose to 4.3% against expectations of 4.1%. This has led to fears that the Federal reserve is ‘behind the curve’, with suggestions that they have been too slow to lower interest rates and provide support for the economy, risking a hard landing.

In addition to this, the rise in unemployment in July triggered the “Sahm rule” which indicates a recession has started when the three-month moving average unemployment rate is 0.5% or higher than the lowest point of the last twelve months, an economic indicator that has previously been a signal that the US economy is in recession. However, we also understand that the easing of a Covid-related backlog in US Visa applications has increased labour supply through immigration[ii] and although we can see that private sector job openings are declining the “Sahm rule” was designed for a decline in labour demand so may be less of an indicator in 2024[ii].

Moreover, there continues to be ongoing Covid related dislocations. Unemployment has been rising from a very low base and although the July report was weak, taking a broader perspective over the past three months the US has averaged 170,000 jobs. Comparing this to the pre pandemic average of 178,000 in 2018 and 2019, would suggest to us that an impending major recession is less likely.

The latest data release was Consumer Price Inflation (CPI) which was also benign enough for markets to continue to expect a September cut in rates. The headline rate of 2.9% year-on-year was lower than the 3% expected and the lowest rate since March 2021, while the 0.2% advance month-on-month was in line with expectations. Core inflation that strips out food and energy was also in line with expectations at 3.2% year-on-year and 0.2% month-on-month. Inflation readings have been slowly drifting back towards the Fed’s 2% target although they are sticky in areas, such as shelter, further reducing inflation as a reason for the Fed to stay on hold.

A hawkish rate hike by the Bank of Japan (BOJ) was the second catalyst for the significant moves in financial markets. Japan was the best performing stock market in dollar terms in July largely due to the performance of the Yen[i] and the technical unwinding of the carry trade leading to Yen short covering during July and into August. Historically, we have seen Japanese investors investing overseas which has meant more recently investing in mega-tech or the NASDAQ Index in the US. As the results season has seen “mega-tech” disappoint and valuations back up, coinciding with significant Yen strength, we believe this has led to many Japanese investors repatriating funds. The reaction of Japanese Government Bonds (JGB) to the change in BOJ policy towards yield curve control and the decision to hike rates into an already strengthening currency has assisted JGB 10-Yr yields rise to 1.1% which may well attract local investors. Despite the 11% rally in $ / Yen taking it from 162 to 144, Purchase – Power – Parity (PPP) comparisons suggest that the Yen is still cheap by historical standards while the US – Japan 10-yr yield differential as calculated by ASR also suggests a stronger Yen could continue[i].

Whilst heightened volatility is certainly uncomfortable, and we are actively monitoring the situation, as long-term investors we remain constructive on risk assets. Summer holiday season often coincides with increased volatility in markets and this year has so far been no exception. We continue to look for a broadening out of returns in US equities and were pleased to see that nine out of eleven sectors have surprised on the upside albeit modestly during this US earnings season. We expect to see the beginning of the US interest rate easing cycle in September, although we currently do not see a recession on the horizon. We continue to favour risk assets but perhaps a period of relative underperformance of “mega-tech” in favour of sectors that outperform during easing cycles such as Healthcare, and Consumer Staples.

 

 

 

[i] Ward-Murphy _ Zara _ Absolute Strategy Research_ Investment Committee Briefing – August 2024

[ii] Slok _ Dr. Thorsten _ The Daily Spark _ Apollo _ August 8, 2024

by Rob Cloete

Regional monetary policy, prospects for future easing and the potential for divergent interest rate paths continue to dominate headlines and influence investor positioning. The Eurozone’s widely anticipated June rate cut unusually stole the march on the Federal Reserve, with policymakers willing to risk the adverse ramifications of a strong Dollar for the sake of averting a recession amidst lacklustre economic data. As attention turns stateside, the future path remains unclear, and further complicated by the upcoming elections and inclination for the Federal Reserve to remain unbiased. Meanwhile, the ‘risk on’ (short volatility) environment that’s been in place largely uninterrupted since October 2022 has contributed to lofty valuations across both equities and credit. This note seeks to determine whether hopes pinned on future easing to further drive valuations may be misplaced.

 

 

Figure 1 above reflects the relationship between the nominal 10-year treasury yield (coral line) and the policy rate. The vertical dotted lines illustrate that, the market being a future discounting mechanism, treasury yields typically peak during rate hike cycles (light blue bars) and prior to cycle peaks (grey bars). The Federal Reserve paused hikes in the current cycle in August 2023. Should the current level prove to be the cycle peak, then the ‘top may be in’ for treasury yields in this cycle. We remain constructive on duration and are positioned accordingly, not least due to the asymmetric prospective returns from convexity. A rate cut of 100 bps would result in a 12% appreciation in the 10-year treasury, while an equivalent rate rise would cause just a 3% decline. Elsewhere, while nominal yields on credit are optically attractive, with the US High Yield Index for example offering a yield to maturity approaching 700 bps, the spread over government paper is negligible at around 300bps (and near the bottom of the 300-900bps range since 2010 and some 200bps below the average over that period). Refinancing costs have declined, and the maturity schedule provides flexibility, but risk-adjusted compensation remains inadequate.

 

Figure 2 below shows that, contrary to popular opinion, a rate cutting environment may not support equities: rate cutting cycles have historically regularly preceded earnings recessions. The coral line reflects the S&P 500 earnings per share declines that have typically occurred during rate cycle ‘pauses’ (grey bars) and before rate cuts begin. With equity valuations currently elevated (a forward PE ratio of 21x, from which subsequent annualised ten-year returns have been paltry, ranging from 0% to 5% in data going back to 1988), the stakes are high. With multiples having expanded to the point that the risk premium over ‘safer’ investment grade credit is now negative, we maintain our view that earnings will need to do the heavy lifting if major equity indices are to continue their upward trajectory. On this front, there is cause for optimism, with FactSet consensus forecasts anticipating double digit earnings growth in each of the next two years (11% in 2024 and 14% in 2025¹). While constructive and selective with our equity allocation, we remain cautious, and conscious that stock markets have tended to peak in anticipation of rate cutting cycles (and not during them). Further, equity indices decline in advance of earnings declines, so we remain attuned to changes in earnings expectations as a warning signal that the prevailing ‘risk on’ environment – particularly in the more momentum driven pockets – may be about to turn.

 

 

Going forward, while wary of index levels and valuations, we continue to apply our bottom-up approach and valuation discipline to equity selection, exploiting the risk budget that safer allocations elsewhere (to government bonds, gold, and diversifying alternative funds exposures) permits us.

 

 

 

 

Sources:

¹ Butters, J. (21 June 2024). FactSet Earnings Insight. [online].

Available at: https://www.factset.com/earningsinsight

² Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis. ICE BofA US High Yield Index Option-Adjusted Spread.  [online].

Available at: https://fred.stlouisfed.org/series/BAMLH0A0HYM2

 

by Tim Sharp

 

Global equities had a strong May gaining 4.2% after losing 3% in April with US markets once more leading the way as markets turned “risk-on” largely driven by positive corporate earnings. Technology was the strongest sector up approximately 8% and the “Magnificent 7” gained 10%[i] with the main catalyst being Nvidia with another set of outstanding results. Energy, Autos, and Travel were the weakest sectors as energy and discretionary sectors underperformed. US equities gained 4.8% while Europe added 2.6%, and a weaker dollar assisted emerging market equities to a positive result, +1.95%.

Following the release of the results for Nvidia, the stock gained 7.8% in after hours trading which equates to an increase in market capitalisation of approximately $182 billion[ii]. At a capitalisation of $2.7 trillion it remains marginally smaller than Apple and Microsoft and represents 5.8% of the S&P500. In recent history Nvidia has led the market direction, however, its good fortune failed to lift the wider market on this occasion. There is a disconnect between the reported results of the big seven and the wider market leading to total index earnings rising 7% in the US and falling 5% in Europe although earnings were actually expected to fall 10%.[iii]

The correlation between stocks and bonds turned positive in the month with global bonds gaining 0.9% in dollar termsiii. Gilts were buoyed by weaker inflation due to the changes in the energy bill price cap and positive comments for the prospect of lower rates in late summer. Despite, guidance from European Central Bankers that policy rates were likely to be cut in June, this likely move has been well flaggedi, and we believe largely priced in to markets thereby leaving European government bonds flat on the month. In line with “risk-on” credit markets were positive and spreads tightened marginally with many investors we see attracted to the overall yield on bonds instead of being put off by historically tight spreads available in main markets.

The prospect that developed economies have reached peak rates and most will be looking to cut this year has added a tailwind to listed property (+3%) and infrastructure (+6%) where we feel valuations have reached very attractive levels in certain sectors.

Central bankers and, therefore, investors continue to be data dependent as they look to forecast the future path of interest rates. The US Personal Consumption Expenditure Report (PCE) is the Fed’s preferred inflation gauge, and it reported a 0.3% gain in April as expected while the core rate was +0.2%. This will do little to guide markets so we will look towards the next round of central bank meetings in June to provide any change to perceptions. Currently the ECB is likely to move in June, we see markets currently pricing in a move in the UK in August and only 2 cuts in the US later in the year. Investors will scrutinize the press releases following the June FOMC meeting for clues as to the Feds views on inflation and the economy with some economists predicting the first cut in September.

After much speculation, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak called the date of the UK General Election as July 4, 2024, even though the Labour Party looks to have a 20-point lead leaving the Conservatives with an uphill task to win a majority. Both the major parties are looking to convince financial markets of their fiscal prudence with commitments not to raise income tax, corporation tax, or National Insurance which will severely limit any new government’s flexibility to tackle problems seen within the NHS or immigration. The UK still has a very tight labour market and a low participation rate since the pandemic compared to other developed economies and plans to increase competitiveness and convince markets that they are pro-business will be an important policy exchange during campaigning. Consumer and business confidence remains low despite high savings rates perhaps pointing to a lack of stability in recent times with five changes of primes minister during the last fourteen years. Perhaps a prolonged period of stability following the election result will support a recovery in the UK economy and UK financial markets.

 

 

 

 

 

[i] Ward_Murphy _ Zara _ Absolute Strategy Research _ Investment Committee Briefing _ June 3, 2024

[ii] Authers _ John _ Bloomberg Opinion _ Points of Return _ May 23, 2024

[iii] CIO Office _ Edmond de Rothschild _ Monthly Market review _ May 2024

by Rob Cloete

Halfway through the second quarter, ongoing geopolitical uncertainty, institutional mistrust, and elongated rate cut expectations have contributed to an unusual combination of a high nominal risk-free rate, gold and Dollar strength, buoyant oil prices and government bond market weakness. Against this fragile backdrop, underpinned by rising global liquidity and despite further but moderating weakness in leading economic indicators, risky asset classes have rallied: equity risk premia and credit spreads have compressed, especially in developed markets.

Figure 1: Market Landscape – Gold, Rates, Spreads and Valuations at 20 Year Extremes. Is this sustainable?

With the Federal-Funds rate close to a 20-year high at the time of writing and the three month T-Bill representing gold’s opportunity cost – in the form of yield foregone – it’s unusual to see the gold price near a 20 year-high as well, especially with rate cut expectations moderating (currently two expected by year end, down from five as we entered 2024). Gold’s robust performance is partly attributable to relentless central bank buying: global official gold reserves rose by 290t in 1Q24, a record, with the People’s Bank of China accounting for 27t of this as gold now represents 4.6% or c.$160bn of China’s total reserves (2014: 1.1%). Over the past decade, China’s official holdings of US Treasury Securities have declined by almost 40%, from c.$1.3tr to less than $800bn, as sustained de-dollarisation continues. Over the past decade, the proportion of federal debt held by foreign and international investors has declined from 34% to 24% now, while central bank holdings of gold have grown from 32t to 36t. Going forward, these trends represent a structural, price insensitive bid for gold, and a headwind for treasuries.

While policy rate forecasts have dominated the headlines, liquidity provision has expanded behind the scenes, increasing monetary flows into financial markets, and supporting asset price appreciation. Michael Howell of Crossborder Capital estimates global liquidity, underpinned by central banks, collateralised lending, and cross-border flows, at c.$173tr (vs. 2023 global GDP at $101tr, per the World Bank). The current upward cycle commenced in October 2022 (troughing at c.$160tr) and is expected to peak in late 2025¹. Following a contraction in April – coinciding with a challenging period for risky assets – conditions are again supportive, with the latest weekly reading at +0.6% m/m. However, recent multiple expansion in the equity markets has compressed the equity risk premium to 20-year lows, elevated the CAPE ratio to within the top 4% of all readings back to 1881 (surpassed only by 2021, 2000 and 1929), and outpaced global liquidity. This has historically presaged a near-term correction.

Going forward, we believe that policymakers will continue to be accommodative where possible, although the US fiscal situation continues to deteriorate: gross federal debt of $34tr as of March 2024 represents 120% of GDP, a federal deficit of -6.2% to GDP, and annualised debt service costs of $1.1tr against federal receipts of $4.4tr (more than half of which comprises politically-sensitive individual income taxes). This burgeoning indebtedness is further exacerbated by the escalating monthly effective interest rate, which has almost doubled from 1.7% to 3.2% since in April 2022, as recent issuance has been dominated by short-dated T-bills and more frequently rolled in a rising rate regime. While the benign inflation environment and rate hikes implemented thus far afford the policymakers some flexibility, cutting rates too soon risks stoking inflation, prompting reactionary rate hikes and, critically, imperilling the Federal Reserve’s ability to service and rollover its debt. In the meantime, growing liquidity provision drives fiat currency debasement, debt monetisation and asset price – as opposed to economic – inflation, while underpinning demand for gold as a store of value.

Putting all of this together, our current view is that the ongoing combination of increasing liquidity, moderating inflation, modest economic and corporate earnings growth, and policy inertia stateside as the elections approach, should continue to broadly support asset prices. Given valuations, however, we remain modestly underweight equities (prioritising quality companies that have the potential to perform robustly in a range of economic environments) and overweight bonds, prioritising short-dated high-quality liquid assets while limiting duration and credit exposure. We maintain positions in commodity-exposed equities and gold, as hedges against a resurgence in inflation and further sustained monetary debasement, respectively.

 

 

Sources:

¹ Howell, M. (14 May 2024 and 21 May 2024). Global Liquidity Watch: Weekly Update. [online].

Available at: https://capitalwars.substack.com/

by Tim Sharp

Some of the froth was blown away in April as investors became more cautious about a plausible “no landing” in the US and US interest expectations were trimmed further to less than two cuts in 2024 causing the US Treasury yield to test 5% during the month once more. Global equities fell 3.85% over the course of the month in dollar terms, with the S&P 500 down -3.97%, Eurozone -3.22%, and the Nikkei 225 -3.51%.

We have suggested in previous publications that after the multiple expansion of 2023 companies would need to justify equity valuations with earnings during 1^st quarter 2024.  As we reached the end of April approximately 55% of the S&P 500 had reported with earnings beating expectations by 8.4% versus an historical average of 4.8% and 6.9% recorded last quarter[i]. Earnings surprises are not uncommon, with guidance usually tactically reduced ahead of reporting season. However, this has been less prevalent this quarter; leading to improving outlooks and positive adjustments to Earnings-Per-Share growth.

Our base case this year centred on a broadening out of returns, this began in March and continued into April. Although we think AI is an enduring theme, Meta Platforms results were accompanied by a warning from Mark Zuckerburg that to make the most of the opportunity, the company would need to spend significantly, and the benefits may take longer to reach fruition[ii]. Valuations amongst “Mega Tech” have reached stretched proportions and this might mark the point where a little realism takes hold. A broadening out of returns does not necessarily mean there has to be a downward adjustment in “Mega Tech” but perhaps a period of underperformance may release some pressure on valuations assuming earnings releases to come do not justify valuations.

The broadening out of returns has seen better performance for emerging markets and the UK. A value-based bias, along with a high proportion of overseas earnings has helped UK equities to an outlying position of +2.43% on the month. Rather surprisingly UK equities are now outperforming the NASDAQ Composite year-to-date in price terms 4.99% versus 4.31% as the valuation gap between the major indices narrows favouring markets in deep value territory such as the UK.

Central Banks remains a key focus for markets. It is widely expected that Federal Open Market Committee May meeting will leave rates unchanged. However, signalling around the future trajectory of rates will be closely followed as markets re-calibrate rate cut expectations. The outlook for rates was dealt a blow by the US Employment Cost Index Report for Q1 on the last day of the month which rose 1.2% versus 0.90% in Q423. Private industry saw compensation rise 1.1% and state workers 1.3% suggesting that although job openings are stabilising, wages are still running hot in the US. The importance of a more hawkish stance from the Fed, and the increased risk of inflation rising to financial markets was reflected in equity markets which saw the S&P 500 fall 1.57% and the NASDAQ 2.04%. on the day. We note US headline and core consumer price index inflation were hotter than expected for the third consecutive month at 3.8% and 3.5% respectively despite PMI’s missing expectations to the downside.

Further proof of a global pickup in economic activity saw European, UK, and Japanese PMI’s beat expectations. European GDP has turned a corner after weakness in Germany for most of last year. 1^st quarter GDP in Germany and France grew 0.8% on top of growth of 1.2% and 2.8% in Italy and Spain. The European Central Bank (ECB) has been guiding towards a first rate cut in June, and we believe the case for rate cuts in Europe and the UK is stronger than it is in the US although such a move is often constrained by foreign exchange considerations. The Dollar Index continued to build on a stronger 1^st quarter to gain another 1.6% against a basket of its largest trading partners in April, a situation that will certainly be considered at the May meetings of the ECB and Bank of England.

Additionally, The Bank of Japan’s decision to leave rates on hold at 0.00% in April coincided with the Japanese Golden Week holiday and in less liquid markets the Yen fell to ¥160 versus the dollar. This is likely a function of pressure created by the interest rate differential to the US. The weakness was short lived, with the currency rapidly strengthening back to ¥154.50 in an unconfirmed sign that the Japanese authorities had intervened. Intervening when volumes are low is a tactic that has been used in the past to maximum effect with signs that $20bn – $35bn of dollar reserves had been utilized, as reported by the Financial Times, although the Ministry of Finance declined to comment. This would suggest that the Japanese authorities may have decided to draw a line at ¥160 versus the dollar but it remains to be seen if they defend this level, if necessary, in the future. Although a weaker currency is good for tourism and overseas profits, it clearly affects the cost of living, and domestic consumption when the BoJ is attempting to reflate the economy and boost economic activity.

In summary, developed equity markets have paused, reacting to quarterly earnings as they are reported, while inflation pressures build, and interest rate cuts are paired back by markets with the inevitable move higher in bond yields. There is little doubt that global economic activity has rebounded, and the US economy is still running hot, which should be supportive of risk assets. Against this backdrop the disinflationary path seems less certain and investors are adjusting expectations accordingly.

 

 

 

 

 

[i] Golub_Jonathan _ UBS _ US Equity Strategy _ Earnings Season: Half Time Report _ April 29, 2024

[ii] Murphy_Hannah_Financial Times_April 25, 2024 [Online]

Mark Zuckerberg defends Meta’s AI spending spree as shares tumble (ft.com)

by Tim Sharp

A strong finish to the earnings season particularly mega tech, and especially Nvidia and Meta Platforms whose reporting took on almost macro-economic event proportions, saw equity markets continue generally higher in February. Sticky inflation continued to vex investors as markets pared interest rate cut expectations back further to only three cuts in the US this year which has caused further adjustment in bond markets. Despite a slightly stronger dollar Emerging Markets rallied 4.6% outperforming the developed world as China bounced strongly following central bank easing of lending rates. Japan remained a dominant force up 5.7% on the back of a weak Yen that finished the month at 150 vs. the dollar. The laggard amongst the major markets was the UK where equities were flat on the month despite resilient data although unable to avoid a technical recession in the latter part of 2023, while Europe which continues to flatline saw equities boosted by China to finish up 3.4%.

Nvidia once more reported earnings that were ahead of expectations in the 4^th quarter with revenues up 265% to $22.1 billion vs. $20.4 billion expected guiding even higher for first quarter to rise to $24 billion vs. $22 billion consensus. The markets were unashamedly enthused pushing the shares up 16.4% the next day which was recorded as the largest change in market capitalisation of any stock, anywhere, ever, leaving the shares up 28.6% on the month, 59.7% year-to-date, while the wider S&P500 gained 5.2% in February. The CEO stated a surging global demand for accelerated computing and generative AI had hit a “tipping point” although there are some that believe that many Nvidia customers are over-stocking for fear of demand outstripping supply which may leave an inventory overhang later in the year. In any case the focus on the big 6 technology stocks continues to dominate returns with Meta Platforms also starting the month with bumper earnings. The performance of Meta Platforms following its results when it announced a 3% new dividend added $200bn to its market cap in one session, the equivalent of a gain in the total market cap of Cisco Systems – the darling of the 1999 technology stock boom.

Many active investment managers, including us, run strategies that include exposure to a diverse range of assets and asset classes quite often starting with an equally weighted positioning rather than concentrated in a small number of large positions. This kind of strategy would continue to lag headline indices while they are dominated by a small number of heavy weights even if we had exposure to these main stocks. This means that we must have a view on Alphabet, Amazon.com, Apple, Meta Platforms, Microsoft, and Nvidia, even if we do not intend to invest in them because of their ability to influence returns. There is a diverse range of forecasts for forward earnings for mega tech depending on the level of conviction which means that investors can view them as expensive, or fairy valued at today’s prices.

We have been adding to our software exposure this year viewing the mixture of innovation, cash flow generation, and low levels of debt as quality defensive in nature. Absolute Strategy Research (ASR) point out that Global Software has the best earnings momentum of any sector and a strong 4^th quarter earnings season. The sector has the highest delivered EBITDA margins, seeing a rise of 4% over the last 12 months, sales outgrowing costs, strong profitability, and fast growth on a valuation of 28x forward earnings[i]. Elsewhere, the emphasis on quality defensives sees us continuing to favour Industrials, Energy, and Consumer Staples.

In terms of fixed income, it was reassuring in some ways to see the negative correlation between bonds and equities return as bond markets priced out aggressive easing of rates particularly in the US where Fed Governor Powell ruled out a cut at the March meeting during the post FOMC press conference. During the month US Treasuries fell 1.4% and the speculation spread to Gilts (-1.3%) and European Government Bonds (-1.2%) where the likelihood of a summer cut is perceived more likely due to the current negative growth environment. Whilst Eurozone Services PMI’s were stronger than expected, manufacturing was weaker, and services continue to outperform manufacturing in the UK too. UK inflation remains higher than other developed countries where headline and core CPI were 4% and 5.1% although lower than anticipated, while US inflation surprised on the upside at 3.1% and 3.9%. Japan and China complete the picture with Japanese Q4 GDP reporting a 2^nd negative quarter to join the UK in technical recession while inflation continues to strengthen to 2%, and Chinese disinflation came in weaker than expected at -0.8% yoy[ii]. In summary, the resilience of the US economy is one of the reasons why global growth remains in positive territory presenting the Fed with a dilemma when it comes to the right time to ease monetary conditions.

Although the UK is in a technical recession i.e. back-to-back quarters of negative growth there are tentative signs of a pickup in activity as falling mortgage rates bring buyers back to the housing market pushing prices in January 1.3%, 2.5% yoy which is the strongest rate since 2022. The Business Activity Growth PMI rose to 54.3 vs. 53.4 in December in contrast to the manufacturing index which is affected by Red Sea traffic restrictions. Retail sales rebounded 3.4% in January after a record fall of 3.3% in December although volume of sales remains 1.3% below pre-pandemic levels of February 2020[iii]. Furthermore, the unemployment rate continues to fall, now showing 3.9% to November 2023. The BoE will be watching the path of inflation to try and balance growth and inflation with rate cuts. However, a flat stock market in contrast to the positivity in other developed markets is an indication of the hangover still being felt from Brexit trade restrictions, and the lack of growth stocks within the main indices leaving the UK unloved at present.

Overall, our reasons for caution have not diminished, and the markets readjustment of future rate moves while welcome are still optimistic compared to feedback from the Fed. The possibility of a soft landing is still on the cards although unprecedented in recent market history. The US consumer should not be underestimated, however, there are signs in data and delinquencies that higher rates may be affecting areas of consumer credit notably auto loans and credit cards. US equities appear at a stretched valuation relative to the UK, Europe, and Emerging Markets, but the drive in technological innovation is likely to be reflected in US indices where weightings to growth sectors are higher than elsewhere meaning that US exposure may remain key to future returns.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[i] Nelson, Nick _ Absolute Strategy Research _ Equity Strategy _ Upgrade Software and Telecoms_ 29/02/2024

[ii] Ward-Murphy, Zara _ ASR Investment Committee Briefing _ 01/03/2024

[iii] Razi Salman _ Barclays Private Bank Daily Talking Points _ 16/02/2024

by Tim Sharp

 

Following a strong December “Santa Rally” in equities and a high level of positive correlation between asset classes, financial markets started the year priced for perfection in central banks execution of a perfect soft landing. Q4 earnings season is proving to be generally positive with disappointments harshly treated as the differing fortunes of the “Magnificent Seven” reporting again testifies to a market that needs to justify its current position. Japan was the best performing major market gaining 7.8% in Yen terms while China and Hong Kong were still deep in negative territory. A market perception of strength surrounding large global technology companies persists with the sector leading gains (3.0%), however, the main US indices, S&P500 (+1.6%) and the NASDAQ (+1.0%) performed inline with global equities (+1.2%) following comments from central bankers in the last days of the month. In the UK major equity indices fell 1.3% one of the weaker performances of major markets, as signs of inflation lingering, better flash composite PMI reading of 52.5 but a weaker consumer – retail sales fell 3.2% month-on-month, and no signs of an early rate cut weighed on sentiment. Incidentally, 2 members of the monetary policy committee still voted for another rate increase.

The month started strongly in the US with a robust December jobs report of 216,000 and a 4^th quarter GDP figure of 3.3% annualised that solidly beat expectations. This led quite nicely into an FOMC meeting in the last days of the month where Chair Powell confirmed that a March rate cut was unlikely followed closely by Bank of England Governor Bailey saying likewise in the UK. As we have been saying, we believed that there was a disconnect between the robustness of the US economy, strength in financial markets, and the market forecasts for the future path of interest rates which was laid bare during central bank press conferences. This clearly had effects on government bond markets (-1.8%) that began to price out early moves in rate cuts leaving US 10-year Treasury yields sitting at 3.9% while the dollars fortunes turned positive with the dollar index gaining 1.9%.

The ongoing concerns regarding the outlook for China affected its equity market (-6.3%) and that of Hong Kong (-9.2%) not helped by the news that 2^nd largest Chinese property developer Evergrande was ordered into liquidation following an 18-month Hong Kong court hearing where it failed to convince the court that it had a viable restructuring plan. Chinese 4^th quarter GDP came in at 5.2% year-on-year in line with expectations which is still low by historical comparisons, and Central Bank attempts to add stimulus were considered ineffective. This performance had a telling effect on Emerging Market indices (-4.6%) and the wider Asia Pacific region dominated by the size of the Chinese economy.

We started the year observing that the number of potential holes in the road from geo-political risks were high this year and reports in January have not decreased the potential for macroeconomic surprises. Despite the targeted strikes on Houthi bases in Yemen, the attacks on shipping continue driving a major proportion of Red Sea traffic around the horn of Africa causing supply delays and significant increase in shipping costs. Rising tensions between the US and Iran, and the US and Israel are also concerning escalations in the continuing Gaza conflict that might threaten the wider global economy.

The potential for a soft landing in the US and the positive impact of implied rate cuts in 2024 we feel has been fairly reflected in financial markets and as such we remain mildly defensive.  We believe that this would favour, amongst others, Industrials, Technology Software, and Consumer Staples and so it was notable that the worst performing sectors in January were Auto’s, Energy, Basic Resources and Real Estate. Although we remain slightly sceptical of valuations, and feel an element of caution creeping into markets, we continue to believe that attractive returns are available for long term investors through diversified, active management.

 

References

Nokes, Zara _ JPMorgan Asset Management _ Review of markets over January 2024

Ward-Murphy, Zara _ Absolute Strategy Research _ Investment Committee Briefing

Market statistics verified on Refinitiv Workstation

by Tim Sharp, Research by Jack Williams

Following three consecutive months of declines, November caught investors by surprise, delivering a notable rally in excess of 9% within global equity markets. This has primarily driven by a belief that the path of interest rates will be lower rather than higher going forward.

Technology related stocks have continued to lead the market higher, with the sector gaining 14% as the impact of falling interest rates is discounted. Energy was the market laggard, tracking underlying weakness in the oil price and souring economic sentiment.

The US took pole position in this push higher in markets, outperforming the rest of world in USD terms, while the U.K was the region with weakest performance with a question mark hanging over themselves as investors look to assess the viability and health of its economy.

Further demonstrating the impact interest rate expectations are having on the market, correlations amongst asset classes remains broadly elevated, with global fixed income rising 2.8%. In terms of global yields, the US and European curves saw a bull flattener and in line with the risk on mentality, credit spreads tightened. A bull flattener occurs when longer term rates fall faster than shorter term rates.

Having underwhelmed this year, real assets saw a rally as a result of low valuations and being highly sensitive to interest rates. Copper led industrial metals higher as sentiment warms ever so slightly towards China. The most outsized returns came from the areas that have been most punished over the past year, with real estate being the notable standout as investors seek to capitalise on the deep discounts available within the space. The strongest performing indices of the period (Brazil, Spain, Korea, and the Dax) are all closely linked to Chinese Demand. This may be a signal of growing investor appetite at the margins.

Inflation was the main narrative of the month with developed markets showing a sustained fall in inflation, with both US core and headline CPI coming in below analysts’ expectations at 3.2% rather than the 4% predicted. In the Eurozone CPI fell to 3.6% and 2.4% respectively, UK CPI fell to 5.7% and 4.6%, which while still falling at a fair pace, is behind the inflation curve seen in the US and EU.

In the US, robust consumers saw Q3 GDP revised higher, while eurozone PMI’s remained in contraction territory at 43.8 on the manufacturing side and services of 48.2. U.K composites surprised investors by moving into expansion territory (albeit ever so slightly) surpassing contractionary expectations with a reading of 50.1 compared to 48.7 expected.

While the debate between soft landing and mild recessionary outcomes continues, policy makers have struck a less hawkish tone in recent weeks. Our core view remains that we are likely to see an earnings recession in the US during 2024, although given the surprising resilience exhibited over the past 12 months, have modest conviction.

Companies do seem to be holding up fairly well considering the sheer pace of these rate hikes with balance sheets still looking robust, especially so in the large cap space however we note that smaller capitalised firms relying more heavily on bank finance may be prone to higher levels of risk.

Europe has been skating around recession throughout this year as it has faced significant headwinds. Combating energy security risks, high inflation brought on by the Ukraine conflict along with weaker Chinese demand. Our research partners A.S.R (Absolute Strategy Research) point out that structural issues could persist within the Eurozone region for a longer period with no solution on the table for Europe’s fiscal framework, furthermore the number of cyclical headwinds being experienced by the region could flatten growth over the coming year which would further complicate their current situation.

As a historically more cyclical market, Europe has been impacted by the ongoing weakness in China. The country’s shift from real estate led investment, to growth in manufacturing has proven more difficult than originally envisioned. This will have a knock on in terms of infrastructure spend, with reduced investment in construction through 2024. This could have implications for China’s medium term growth outlook.

Other emerging market nations have shown fierce resiliency in the face of a strong dollar and heightened US interest rates. We are still confident our that emerging market thesis holds and complements our existing Asia positions. GDP growth in Brazil, India, Indonesia, South Africa, and Turkey has been around pre pandemic levels due to them being further within the cycle than developed market peers. Due to being later in the cycle, this allows these nations who moved to combat rising inflation first, the earliest opportunity to emerge out the other side of this tightening cycle whilst still maintaining good levels of financial health and stability. We saw the weak US dollar through the summer capture the interest of investors towards Emerging Market nations, a return to a weak dollar as markets look forward to rates moving lower may well provide some strength to the sector.

US fiscal policy had been receiving closer attention in recent months. Significant budget deficits at a time of low unemployment, along with the impact of the Federal reserve becoming a net seller through quantitative tightening had been cause for concern. However, there is surprisingly no historical relationship between yields and supply. Current net new issuance of $750bn is in line with historical averages and there is nothing to suggest that when facing recession, the level of quantitative tightening is not amended. It would seem the anxiety was short lived, as the recent potential for the Federal reserve to pivot has dominated fixed income markets.

Gold has continued to perform well, despite a recent backdrop that would historically would have been unfavourable. Greater than anticipated declines in inflation have meant real rates – interest rates less the level of inflation – have been rising. One potential explanation is the uptick in central bank purchases of gold who are price insensitive. Additionally, heightened geopolitical tensions are likely to have driven a flight to safety. The positive trend could still yet continue for gold, if we see falling interest rates coupled with dollar weakness.

To the surprise of many – including us – the global economy has remained exceptionally resilient, despite the coordinated effort of central banks to cool inflation and temper demand. However, as the year draws to a close, our views on markets remain broadly unchanged. We continue to believe certain areas of the market are exhibiting exuberance and potentially vulnerable if the economic environment deteriorates materially.

In keeping with this, we continue to be positioned defensively, with a preference for higher quality companies, whose revenues, and earnings we believe to be far more resilient. Whilst we completely understand markets are forward looking, a significant positive impact from falling interest rates in 2024 has been reflected in the prices of both bonds and equities. A healthy dose of scepticism may be appropriate…!

Although our outlook remains cautious, we continue to believe attractive returns are available for long term investors through a disciplined and risk-controlled approach.

by Adam Jones, Researched by Alex Hulkhory

 

As a foreword to this month’s investment commentary, we wanted to acknowledge the ongoing crisis in Israel and Gaza. Whilst we would never want to downplay the immeasurable social and humanitarian costs of the hugely tragic events over the past month, this is not our area of expertise. In our role as custodians of our clients’ assets, our focus is always through the lens of how any events are likely to impact global asset markets.

Much of last month’s blog centred around inflation, and the ongoing risks this presents to asset prices. Although this remains an important issue, as with markets, our attention this month is focused on the ongoing strength of the US economy. In our view, consumers globally have faced increasing headwinds as extreme inflation and rising interest rates have – in theory – reduced their spending ability.

Unstoppable force, meet immovable object.

Post the Global Financial Crisis in the era of ultra-loose monetary policy and quantitative easing, the old edict “don’t fight the fed” became almost gospel to many market participants. In short, the path of monetary policy drives the overall performance of risk assets. Indeed, against a backdrop of significant tightening in 2022 this adage rang especially true. Asset prices – not just equities – suffered significantly.

Investment markets are forward looking and beyond the impact of changing discount rates, we saw the idea of an impending recession in 2023 creeping into the minds of investors. In our view, this was one of the most widely anticipated recessions in modern history. [i]Bloomberg economics had predicted a 100% percent probability of a US recession by October 2023. Comparing this to the latest figures released by the [ii]Bureau of Economic Analysis, which showed US GDP accelerated to an annual rate of 4.9% in the third quarter of 2023, something doesn’t quite add up…

The investment truism “never bet against the American consumer” has returned to the fore with a bang. We can certainly include ourselves in the list of market participants that have been surprised by the ongoing resilience of US consumer spending. In our view, this strength has been the backbone that has propelled equity markets and US GDP this year. One potential explanation has been the level of COVID savings that were accrued whilst we were all in lockdown. However, we feel this is finite and there are clear signs the US consumer is beginning to feel the pinch. The personal savings rate  [iii]  continued to decline through September, falling to a rate of 3.4%. Whilst we are inclined to side with the Fed, only time will tell who will win out in this battle.

What’s been happening in markets?

October heralded Q3 earnings season, an eagerly anticipated look into many of the big tech names that have propelled markets. Touching on the colloquially named ‘Magnificent 7 (The tech-focused, seven largest constituents of the S&P500), we felt that broadly their earnings were impressive. However, it was perhaps an insight into just how high expectations – and valuations – have become!

Alphabet, the parent company of Google, was an excellent example of this. Despite delivering a meaningful [iv]beat on both earnings and revenue, the stock was punished with a bruising 9.5% fall on the day of results. This was also evident for the companies delivering exceptional results with, at best, anaemic upward movements.

This weakness was also reflected in the broader markets with the [v]S&P500 joining the Nasdaq in official correction territory from the highs reached earlier this year. October was a difficult month for markets generally, with most asset classes delivering negative returns. One particular standout was [vi]gold, up 7.4% over October. As a safe-haven asset this reflects recent increases in geo-political tension.

Looking slightly closer to home it was difficult month for the UK market, which was down more than 3% over October. This may in part be driven by sector composition. Energy is not an insignificant component of the UK market and the sector fell by 8.7% over the month. The economic back drop also remains challenging with [vii]ASR’s Nowcast showing continued deceleration along with PMI’s firmly below 50. In our view, one saving grace is that equity valuations here in the UK remain among the most compelling in the global equity universe.

Return of the bond vigilantes…

Another interesting development has been taking shape in bond markets over the past month. Longer dated bond yields have continued to climb, with US 10-year treasuries almost touching 5% on the October 19^th. Despite the implied equity risk premium – the extra return investors demand for holding risk assets relative to government bonds – being at near [viii]historic lows of only 30bps, markets have been unwilling to purchase treasuries en masse. This has no doubt been exacerbated by the current Fiscal position in the US where significant deficits exist alongside exceptionally low levels of unemployment, which we believe to be an unsustainable aberration over the long term.

Given significant levels of indebtedness, large fiscal deficits and an apparent desire to reduce the scale of public sector balance sheets an important question is being asked by markets. Who, ultimately, is going to buy the bonds that DM governments so clearly need to issue? With the need for issuance to cover significant government spending over the coming years, in our view there have been growing fears that yields may have to move meaningfully higher for demand to meet supply. This could partly explain why investors’ appetite for bonds has been lacklustre despite their apparent attractiveness relative to riskier assets such as equities.

Whilst we have seen yields come down at the margin, we expect investors to be more sensitive to changes in fiscal policy and the resulting issuance as we move forward. The “Bond vigilantes” – a term famously coined by Economist Ed Yardeni to describe fiscal hawkishness by markets – are back!

How have central banks responded?

In a break from the new normal, central banks broadly left rates unchanged this month. Much of this is wanting to assess the impact of the rises we have seen over the past two years. However, the previously highlighted [ix]rise in bond yields will also have a meaningful impact in tightening financial conditions, doing a lot of work on behalf of the major central banks.

In what was largely seen as a sleepy month for policy makers, the Bank of Japan provided a point of interest. With the Japanese Yen trading below ¥150 to the dollar – the historic level at which the BoJ has intervened – many had speculated that we could see a shift in policy. [x]Given its influence on global bond markets this could have especially meaningful consequences, particularly if this drew significant levels of liquidity out of bond markets!

 

 

 

 

References:

[i] https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2022-10-17/forecast-for-us-recession-within-year-hits-100-in-blow-to-biden?leadSource=uverify%20wall

[ii] https://www.bea.gov/news/2023/gross-domestic-product-third-quarter-2023-advance-estimate

[iii] https://www.bea.gov/data/income-saving/personal-saving-rate

[iv]  https://www.barrons.com/articles/alphabet-google-earnings-stock-price-4890483f?mod=md_stockoverview_news

 

[v] https://www.ft.com/content/839d42e1-53ce-4f24-8b22-342ab761c0e4

 

[vi] Absolute Strategy Research Investment Committee Briefing – October 2023

[vii]  Absolute Strategy Research Investment Committee Briefing – October 2023

 

[viii]   https://www.reuters.com/markets/rates-bonds/soaring-treasury-yields-threaten-long-term-performance-us-stocks-2023-10-26/

 

[ix]  https://www.reuters.com/markets/us/fed-poised-hold-rates-steady-despite-economys-bullish-tone-2023-11-01/

 

[x] John Authers – points of return 31/10/2023