Political uncertainty in Italy could impact global markets, but provide a “fantastic buying opportunity.” Like Jennifer Lawrence’s fall at the Oscars, unexpected but a chance to shine ‘comedically‘, Italy’s elections have shocked investors but provided attractive entry points to strong international firms, insulated from domestic woes (as well as offer up some funny one-liners from candidates).
The British Pound tumbled near year-to-date lows and took the dubious honor of worst-performing major currency on the week, falling almost four percent against the surging Japanese Yen. Disappointing UK PMI Manufacturing survey numbers capped a difficult week for the British Pound, and indeed the stage is set for further declines into an important week ahead.
The US Dollar (ticker: USDOLLAR) traded lower against the Australian Dollar and other high-risk counterparts on a modest improvement in financial market sentiment, but overall momentum left it poised for modest gains against the Euro and British Pound. It was a quiet start to the trading week as highly-anticipated events over the weekend failed to produce material breakthroughs or shifts in financial market sentiment.
– RBA shocks markets and cuts by 50bps to 3.75% – Decision surprising given RBA track record – Aussie sold aggressively across the board in response – UK manufacturing PMIs disappoint; weighs on Pound
