The US economy has bulldogged its way to growth in February, despite adverse weather, ongoing energy sector layoffs, adverse foreign exchange rate action and periodic talk of rising US interest rates.
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Gradual Improvement in Economic Sentiment is Possible
A number of central banks have implemented fresh easing efforts, German and European economic prospects have shown some minor improvement, and the prospect of lingering cheap energy prices is starting to offer global consumers new confidence.
2015 Commodity Demand Outlook is Better Than You Think
The events in the second half of 2014 will do more to stimulate the global economy than all the central bank and governmental efforts combined.
Will There Be Another Boom Period?
The ongoing fear of global deflation just doesn’t fit with most of signals flowing from the marketplace.
Fears of Global Slowing are Front and Center
The spec net long in physical commodities continues to decline, fears of global slowing (particularly from Europe and China) are front and center, and the ever-strong US Dollar is adding into the bear case for commodities.
Alibaba Laying the Foundation for a Commodity Low
While it is premature to suggest that a major bottoming of commodity prices is imminent, a combination of bearish geopolitical pressures, distinctly adverse currency market action, slack physical demand and rising physical supplies could result in a crescendo of selling and perhaps an intermediate bottoming in several markets.
Is the US Economic Recovery Faltering?
In retrospect, the sharp slide in physical commodity prices was well deserved, what with global macroeconomic sentiment eroding in the wake of signs of lost momentum in the US recovery, threats of additional sanctions against Russia, and perhaps most importantly, a soaring US Dollar.
Renewed Concern of Deflation
The action in equities over the last month has been impressive, but it is even more impressive when one considers that the gains were forged in the wake of generally disappointing global economic news flow and a persistent escalation of tensions between Russia and Ukraine.
Downgrade in Global Economic Expectations; Rise in Geopolitical Anxiety
Over the last two weeks there has been a downgrade in global economic expectations, some adverse currency market action for commodities, and a continued rise in geopolitical anxiety.
Pessimistic Views On Global Recovery Pace
Into the early April high in equities, global economic sentiment was hopeful of a quick return to a progressive recovery pace.