Policy measures and resumption in trade talks raise odds that 2H growth may be better than expected. Bond benchmark inclusions could also help support the currency and bond markets.
Hong Kong: Have we Passed the Peak in Political Tensions?
By Celestee Tan
Hong Kong equities surged 3.9% on 4th Sept 2019, on the back of Hong Kong leadership’s decision to scrap the controversial extradition bill in an effort to calm protests. Whilst there may still be pockets of unrest, Citi analysts believe that protests may recede.
China’s Slowing Growth Backdrop and Trade Headwinds
By Jessica Tan
The combination of trade conflict and poor domestic sentiment is hitting growth. In view of this, there may be greater impetus to ease policy in coming months.
China – A Step Forward for Interest Rate Liberalization
By Celestee Tan
China has introduced market-driven lending rate in a bid to lower borrowing costs amid a slowing economy. From 20 August, the People’s Bank of China will use the Loan Prime Rate (LPR) as the primary tool to influence lending cost.
While risk assets generally cheered the delay of tariffs on a multitude of Chinese goods, Citi analysts think that the delay serves to prolong trade tensions between US and China.
The Chinese yuan has depreciated sharply by 2% in the two days after Trump tweeted about additional tariffs. Meanwhile, markets plunged with US equities clocking their worst day in the year. The currency has clearly become a primary tool for China’s trade negotiations, just as tariffs are for the US.
