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S&P 500, DAX, FTSE Look to Brexit Vote. Trade Wars Remain a Factor

S&P 500, DAX, FTSE Look to Brexit Vote. Trade Wars Remain a Factor

Peter Hanks, Strategist

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S&P 500 Chart

Equity Fundamental Forecast: Bearish

  • Brexit and the FTSE 100 are poised to dictate this week’s equity price action
  • S&P 500 set to follow suit and awaits further trade war developments
  • DAX looks to Brexit and conclusion on automaker tariff debate

Trade War Uncertainty Weighs on Global Equities

Last week, we highlighted the impact of the G-20 meeting between President Trump and President Xi Jinping could have on the US-China trade war and thus global equities. To start the week, the 90-day trade truce looked to bolster equity strength but the optimism waned as analysts were uncertain of the concrete impact. The uncertainty and arrest of a high-profile Chinese CFO which markets perceived to be a trade war tactic wiped out any lingering confidence and sent equities tumbling. In the week ahead, trade wars will remain a factor as Brexit moves to the forefront of risk for global equities.

Brexit to Dictate Global Equity Performance, Trade Wars Linger

After more than two years of debate, a Brexit deal has finally been presented to the UK’s Parliament for a vote. Currently most analysts believe the vote is doomed which could spell trouble for Theresa May’s tenure as Prime Minister. This past Thursday saw the largest drop in the FTSE since Brexit and further declines could be posted if the vote fails.

Brexit Impact on GBP: How the Pound Might Move After Parliamentary Vote

However, like many market developments, a failed vote is not necessarily a strictly bearish outcome. Should the vote fail, Parliament is due increased power over the decision-making process. While that may draw out the outcome and prolong uncertainty, it could shift the agreed upon terms. Further, a negative reaction in the Pound could soften losses in the FTSE as English exports become more attractive to other nations.

FTSE 100 Price Chart (1) Daily, Year-to-Date

FTSE100 Price Chart

S&P 500 Eyes Fed Tone, Trade War News

As for US equity markets, the unique theme will be commentary from the Fed and CPI data due Wednesday. If CPI data is weaker than expected, the Fed could double down on their dovish shift and equities would enjoy a bump.

See the other economic events in the week ahead with our Economic Calendar.

Similarly, Fed fund futures have shifted. The three-hike expectation in 2019 has been questioned and the change could offer a consistent tailwind for growth. While these events would be a boon for the S&P 500, they are uncertain and should not be banked on in the week ahead as trade wars and Brexit will likely overshadow any data releases.

S&P 500 Price Chart (2) Daily, Year-to-Date

S&P500 Price Chart

DAX Awaits Automaker Tariff Conclusion

While the DAX will also take cues from Brexit and trade wars, the unique risk to the German index will be the decision of the Trump administration on auto tariffs. Last Wednesday the three automakers Daimler, BMW and Volkswagen traveled to Washington to plead their case but fell short of a conclusion. The three manufacturers account for 11% of the DAX’s market capitalization and are thus critically important for its performance. Any bearish development could prove to be the final nail in the coffin for the index as it treads water just above bear market territory.

DAX Price Chart (3) Daily, Year-to-Date

DAX Price Chart

It should be noted the underlying theme for all the indices is the apparent lack of upside. Barring any immediate breakthrough in the US-China trade war, there appear to be few events that could spur a sustained rally. With that in mind it is likely the week ahead will be similar to recent weeks as volatility remains heightened.

--Written by Peter Hanks, Junior Analyst for DailyFX.com

Contact Peter on Twitter at @PeterHanksFX

Other Weekly Fundamental Forecast:

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Oil Forecast - OPEC And Friends Production Cut Exceeds Expectations, Crude Rallies

Canadian Dollar Forecast –Canadian Dollar's Shifting Sentiment May Boost Short Term Prospects

British Pound Forecast -Sterling Traders Bewildered as Brexit Chaos Intensifies

US dollar Forecast -US Dollar May Rise on Inflation Data, Shaky European Politics

Gold Forecast -Can Gold Prices Keep Gains After Brexit Draft Vote, US CPI, ECB?

DailyFX provides forex news and technical analysis on the trends that influence the global currency markets.

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