UBS On-Air: Market Moves

Join David Lefkowitz, Head of Equities Americas, each month for a look at the factors that are driving performance across US equities. We also cover risk considerations, thematic focuses, and positioning recommendations from the UBS Chief Investment Office (as outlined within the latest UBS House View). This month, David reflects on the September FOMC meeting outcome and implications of higher rates to US equity markets, shares thoughts around AI adoption and progression amidst recent AI safety concerns, how to think about the US midterm elections as an equity investor, and more. Host: Daniel Cassidy

The Bank of Japan raised rates, as expected. The decision was not unanimous, causing a modest market reaction. The yen has weakened—yelling “house” like a grandmother in a bingo parlor does not offset fundamental market pricing. August inflation was a little lower than expected (helped by government influenced prices). The BoJ wants neutral interest rates, and another rate increase may follow.

Following this week’s highly anticipated FOMC meeting, Andrew Dubinsky, US Economist from the UBS Chief Investment Office, drops by the studio to share takeaways and reflections on the meeting outcome, along with the implications of the rate hike to US economy activity. We also discuss the current inflationary environment, labor market and how the markets have digested the rate hike. Host: Daniel Cassidy

Yesterday’s unanimous vote in favor of a US interest rate increase could be interpreted as defiance against political interference. Having raised once, the Federal Reserve is likely to raise again—to prove this rate increase was intentional and not a mistake (even if it was a mistake). The rate increase has no near-term impact on inflation or economic growth.

A look into the interplay and market dynamics of large government debt issuance and AI-related debt fundraising, factors that have been contributing to rising long-end yields, along with positioning preferences within the asset class. Featured are Leslie Falconio, Head of Taxable Fixed Income Strategy Americas, and John Murtagh, Fixed Income Analyst Americas, UBS Chief Investment Office. Host: Daniel Cassidy