September Ends on a Mixed Note for Global Markets
Today marks the end of what has historically been the worst month of the year for equity markets. As expected, equity futures are modestly lower this morning ahead of a busy slate of economic data releases. Treasury yields have decreased slightly and crude oil prices are higher, despite reports that oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz are nearing pre-war levels.
The price of gold has increased by over 1% as investors seek safe-haven assets. Bitcoin remains relatively stable at around $83,700. Asian stocks had a mixed performance overnight, with Japan leading gains and China's Shanghai Composite increasing by 0.3%. The Chinese government announced stimulus measures to boost domestic demand and support the property market, including mortgage interest subsidies and eased monetary policy.
Economic data releases are expected throughout the day, starting with ADP Private Payrolls, which came in at 90K versus forecasts of 74K. Personal Income was weaker than expected, while Personal Spending matched forecasts. The GDP Price Index came in weaker than expected at 6.1%, but the market responded positively to these numbers.