US equity indices ended mixed for the week, as investors weighed inflation data against worries over the recent rise in long-term interest rates. Volumes were generally light. Value stocks handily outperformed growth stocks; the Dow managed a modest gain while the Nasdaq was down (-2%) for the 2nd straight week (1st time since December.). Healthcare outperformed while technology stocks underperformed on worries that rising rates would reduce the value of future profits.

Mixed progress on inflation (CPI, PPI), the rise in commodities prices, and the ongoing US Treasury auctions continue to exert pressure on bonds.

July monthly review July was a strong month for risk assets, the Dow Jones experienced its longest positive streak since 1987 and the global economy, particularly the US, has shown resilience, with strong performance in the equity market. Additionally, inflation continues to cool. Here are 10 charts to help you look back on what happened in the markets during the month of July.

Fitch Ratings downgrades the U.S. from AAA to AA+ due to debt ceiling standoffs and fiscal concerns. Disagreements arise, but the downgrade reflects rising debt and governance issues. Markets react with higher bond yields, prompting a closer look at potential implications for investors.

U.S. equities started August with a down week after closing out a strong July. Rising Treasury yields and an unexpected downgrade to the U.S. government’s credit rating weighed on sentiment. The Nasdaq suffered the largest losses for the week. On the corporate earnings side, Amazon significantly beat estimates and the stock rallied more than 8% on Friday. Apple was down about 5% after a mixed report as iPhone sales disappointed. Fitch Ratings on Tuesday downgraded the credit rating of U.S. government debt from AAA, to AA+, with the ratings agency saying its decision “reflects governance and medium-term fiscal challenges.”

What a week it has been for the fixed-income market, as long-end rates surged and EM central banks initiated their easing cycle!

The US economy remains resilient despite another hike, the IMF lifts 2023 GDP forecasts and the S&P 500 earnings are predicted to accelerate in 2024. Each week, the Syz investment team takes you through the last seven days in seven charts.

Main US equities indices ended higher over a week notable for the Dow Jones Industrial Average notching its 13th consecutive daily gain on Wednesday, which marked its longest winning streak since 1987. Trading activity was relatively subdued due to the summer vacation season. It was nevertheless a busy week in terms of news flow. The Fed announced a 0.25% increase in the federal funds target rate, as expected. The tone of the Fed’s statement was received as relatively benign, however, and expectations grew that the Fed was done raising rates, at least for the year.

Central banks are diligently proceeding with their anticipated monetary policy tightening, with one exception: the Bank of Japan, which appears inclined to alter its approach to yield curve control. Despite the summer season, their commitment remains unwavering!

The VIX shows a seasonal pattern, the war continues to drive the price of wheat upwards and fund managers are now underweight commodities. Each week, the Syz investment team takes you through the last seven days in seven charts.