Macro Roundup (Sep 19)

Published: Sep 19, 2018 08:44
A roundup of global macroeconomic news last night and what is expected today

SHANGHAI, Sep 19 (SMM) – This is a roundup of global macroeconomic news last night and what is expected today.

Last night

The US dollar index rebounded as it recovered from earlier weakness that came after China responded with new tariffs on $60 billion worth of US goods. Meanwhile, US Treasury yields were also on the rise, to their highest since May for the 10-year bond.

Base metals increased for the most part. LME copper led the gains and surged 2.36%, zinc rose 1.8%, nickel jumped 0.69%, SHFE copper grew 1.91%, zinc went up 0.44%, and nickel closed 0.16% higher. 

The US NAHB homebuilder sentiment indicates signs of stabilizing in September. The index remained stable at 67 for September, a level in line with further rises in homebuilding activity.

The American Petroleum Institute (API) reported that US crude supplies increased by 1.249 million barrels for the week ended September 14. The build comes after a sizable decline of 8.6 million barrels for the week ended September 7. 

The build-up was likely a result of Tropical storm Gordon, said Phil Flynn, a senior market analyst at Price Futures Group, The API data also showed supplies of gasoline declined 1.485 barrels, while distillate stockpiles climbed by 1.536 million barrels.

Day ahead

Market participants should monitor data including the US current account for the second quarter and its EIA weekly crude oil inventory. 

Data Source Statement: Except for publicly available information, all other data are processed by SMM based on publicly available information, market communication, and relying on SMM's internal database model. They are for reference only and do not constitute decision-making recommendations.

For any inquiries or for more information, please contact: lemonzhao@smm.cn
For more information on how to access our research reports, please contact:service.en@smm.cn
Related News
[SMM Flash]  Jubilee Reviews Interest in Undeveloped Tjate PGM Project
1 hour ago
[SMM Flash] Jubilee Reviews Interest in Undeveloped Tjate PGM Project
Read More
[SMM Flash]  Jubilee Reviews Interest in Undeveloped Tjate PGM Project
[SMM Flash] Jubilee Reviews Interest in Undeveloped Tjate PGM Project
Jubilee Metals said in its 14 September operational update that several companies had expressed interest in its Tjate PGM project and that it was reviewing the approaches as part of a strategic review. Jubilee retained the South African asset after selling its other chrome and PGM operations; Miningmx reported that a disposal is under consideration as the company focuses on Zambian copper. A sale could transfer responsibility for developing Tjate. Expressions of interest are neither a sale agreement nor financing commitments, and no production timetable has been announced. Any contribution to PGM supply depends on future development decisions.
1 hour ago
[SMM Flash]  Sylvania Reviews Thaba Plan After Lower Feed-Grade Estimates
1 hour ago
[SMM Flash] Sylvania Reviews Thaba Plan After Lower Feed-Grade Estimates
Read More
[SMM Flash]  Sylvania Reviews Thaba Plan After Lower Feed-Grade Estimates
[SMM Flash] Sylvania Reviews Thaba Plan After Lower Feed-Grade Estimates
Sylvania Platinum said in its 15 September annual results that an updated geological model indicated chrome and PGM feed grades at its Thaba joint venture could be below original assumptions. Miningmx reported estimated shortfalls of 15–20% for PGM grades and 8–12% for chrome grades against earlier targets. Sylvania’s FY2026 group output of 95,885 4E PGM oz includes operations beyond Thaba. The partners are reviewing the mine plan, with an updated life-of-mine plan expected in three to six months. Management says Thaba remains profitable under current assumptions. Lower grades could reduce recoverable metal and project returns; the revised plan and profitability outlook remain subject to that review.
1 hour ago
[SMM Flash] Northam Invites Parties into Strategic Transaction Process
1 hour ago
[SMM Flash] Northam Invites Parties into Strategic Transaction Process
Read More
[SMM Flash] Northam Invites Parties into Strategic Transaction Process
[SMM Flash] Northam Invites Parties into Strategic Transaction Process
Northam Platinum Holdings said on 16 September that it had sent invitations to parties its board and management identified as credible potential participants in its competitive process for possible strategic transactions. The company announced the process on 25 August. Northam said it had received no offer as defined under South Africa’s Companies Act and was not negotiating an affected transaction with any party. Its cautionary announcement remains in place. The invitations advance a process involving a major PGM producer, but establish neither an agreed transaction nor a change in production.
1 hour ago