Morning wrap (06.09.2023)

• Indices from Asia-Pacific were traded mostly lower. Only the Japanese Nikkei225 traded higher by 0.70%. AustralianS&P/ASX 200 declined by 0.45%, Kospi traded 0.7% lower and indices from China traded 0.65% lower.

• Yesterday the Wall Street session was closed in red. US500 traded 0.05% lower and below 4500 points, US100 was down by 0.1% at the level of 15500 points.

• European index futures point to a slightly lower opening of the cash session on the Old Continent today.

• Australia's economy surpassed expectations with a YoY real GDP growth rate of 2.1%, outperforming the forecast of 1.8% despite the previous rate of 2.3%.

• The QoQ real GDP growth also met expectations at 0.4%, matching the forecast, and improving from the previous 0.2%.

• This performance can be attributed to robust export demand for both products and services, serving as a driving force for the Australian economy. Despite 12 interest rate hikes, the economy continues to display resilience and momentum.

• BoJ's Takata highlighted that achieving the 2% inflation target still remains a challenge and pointed out the influence of the stronger-than-expected US economy on currency dynamics.

• Takata also noted that several key economic indicators indicate a downward deviation in the Chinese economy, warranting attention.

• Energy commodities traded mixed, oil continues to tick higher above $90 per barrel. US natural gas price dropped 0.40%.

• Precious metals gain - gold, palladium and silver trades around 0.05-0.15% higher while platinum dropped 0.40%

• Cryptocurrency market remains to tick slightly lower without any sudden ups and downs. Bitcoin is losing 0.20% and is traded around $25700 while Ethereum is traded 0.40% lower to $1630.

USDJPY is trading slightly lower today after a significant weakening of the Japanese Yen yesterday. The Yen has now entered a territory that historically raises concerns among Japanese politicians and bankers.