It was a light day for news and data. From Japan we had the latest machine order data, more in the bullets above on this, but it was a disappointment and the Cabinet Office downgraded its view on the series saying the pick-up that had been seen was stalling.

On the central bank front, Federal Reserve Board Governor Lisa Cook spoke, saying a soft landing would be more likely “when policy easing began with inflation already close to target and when there was a relatively firm growth backdrop". ‘Close to target’ is the key here, reaffirming the Fed won’t be waiting until 2 % is hit before easing.

The Bank of Korea left its benchmark rate unchanged at 3.5%. In its statement the Bank dropped the phrase 'upside risks to inflation forecasts have increased', increasing expectations of a rate cut (markets are expecting a cut sometime between August and October).

Major FX tracked small ranges only. There was a bout of US dollar weakness. No fresh catalyst was obvious.

US CPI data is due today at 1230 GMT, 0830 US Eastern time – check out the post above on ‘ranges of estimates’ to be prepared for any surprise that might surface.

US political drama/circus will get renewed impetus on Thursday afternoon US time with US President Biden holding a press conference after the NATO meeting.

AUD/USD hit a six month high:

aud usd swrap 11 July 2024 2