In post-Tokyo trade, JGB futures are stronger, +16 compared to settlement levels, after US tsys finished the NY session with a bull flattener.
- Heightened geopolitical tensions lent to an early bid in EGBs, Treasuries in tow after Ukraine launched US-made long-range missiles into Russia. The Kremlin has formally approved a further tweak to its nuclear doctrine, allowing for the use of nuclear weaponry in the case of long-range missiles used to strike inside Russian territory.
- Risk-off support moderated as the session wore on, US State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller told reporters that the US has "seen no reason" to adjust its nuclear posture following Russian President Vladimir Putin's move to revise Russia's nuclear doctrine.
- Short-end rates were pushed higher in the second half of the session, as projected rate cut pricing into early 2025 was tempered. KC Fed Schmid said, "While now is the time to begin dialling back the restrictiveness of monetary policy, it remains to be seen how much further interest rates will decline or where they might eventually settle."
- US equities mostly recovered from an opening Ukraine-Russia war swoon (-1.25%). Shares in Nvidia closed 4.9% higher, ahead of its quarterly results tomorrow.
- Today, the local calendar will see Trade Balance, Machine Tool Orders and Tokyo Condominiums for Sale data.