Macro Roundup (Nov 9)

SHANGHAI, Nov 9 (SMM) — This is a roundup of global macroeconomic news last night and what is expected today.

The dollar dipped on Monday after hitting 15-month highs on Friday following strong U.S. jobs data, as investors digested the report and the Federal Reserve’s plans to start reducing its bond purchases this month.

On Wednesday the Fed stuck to its view that current high inflation is expected to be transitory and said it would start trimming its massive bond-buying program this month, but wait for more job growth before raising interest rates.

Then on Friday, U.S. data showed employment increased more than expected in October as the headwind from the surge in COVID-19 infections over the summer subsided, showing economic activity regaining momentum early in the fourth quarter.

At 0953 EST (1453 GMT), the dollar index was down 0.07% on the day at 94.147, taking a breather after Friday’s rally.

U.S. stock index futures were little changed during overnight trading on Monday after the major averages closed at records, boosted by strength in infrastructure stocks.

Futures contracts tied to the Dow Jones Industrial Average dipped 23 points. S&P 500 futures declined 0.07%, while Nasdaq 100 futures retreated 0.09%.

During regular trading all three major averages rose to new highs. The Dow gained about 104 points, or 0.29%, posting its 44th record close of the year. The S&P 500 added 0.09% and closed above 4,700 for the first time. The move pushed the broad equity index to its 64th record close of 2021. The Nasdaq Composite advanced 0.07% to post its 11th straight positive session, the longest daily winning streak since December 2019. The tech-heavy index registered its 44th record close of 2021.

Oil prices rose on Monday as positive signs for global economic growth supported the outlook for energy demand and the United States said it was weighing options to address high prices.

Brent crude advanced 0.83% to settle at $83.43 per barrel, after dropping nearly 2% last week. U.S. oil gained 0.81%, to settle at $81.93, having declined almost 3% through Friday.

European stocks closed mixed Monday, lacking clear direction at the start of the new trading week.

The pan-European Stoxx 600 closed slightly above the flatline provisionally, with basic resources stocks gaining 1.3% while travel and leisure shares sank 1.1% as sectors pointed in opposite directions.