Thursday, August 1, 2013

Economic Journal - Thursday, 8/1/2013

(As of 7:25 am PST)
 
Markets are in full rally mode as investors reacted to upbeat global data and yesterday’s dovish statements from the US Federal Reserve.   The Fed released its most recent policy statement late Wednesday, calling the economic pace “modest” and reiterating it would continue its stimulus package of $85 billion per month in asset purchases.  Other central banks around the world followed the Fed’s stance, as today the European Central Bank kept its key lending rate unchanged and the Bank of England also maintained its bond-buying programs.  Economic data fresh off the wire is adding to positive sentiment.  The number of people filing for unemployment benefits in the US fell last week to the lowest level in 5 years.  The ISM report on manufacturing showed a surge in activity for July, with the index jumping to 55.4 from 50.9 in June, the highest level since August 2011.  The only disappointing report to hit this morning showed construction spending dropping unexpectedly in June.  Global economic data is strong today.  The official PMI reading in China registered a surprise gain in July which sent Asian markets higher.  European markets are also higher on China and the Fed.  Commodity prices are up with oil higher by 2.5% and gold inching higher.  Treasuries are sliding as the risk on trade has taken hold.  Expect a positive day on the market today with good news winning the day.

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