Economics
- Recovery interrupted by the second wave of infections. Smaller setback than in Spring 2020.
- Governments and central banks continue to support the economic comeback with all means at their disposal.
- Monetary and fiscal policy support and vaccines call for a strong recovery from spring onwards.
Equities
- Stock markets have gained in a volatile manner. Under the surface, the rotation into cyclicals/value stocks continues.
- Analysts have raised earnings estimates across almost all regions, and valuations have fallen as a result.
- An optimistic investor sentiment as well as a risk-on positioning of many market participants call for some caution.
Bonds
- Rising real rates and inflation expectations are causing nominal rates to rise. This trend is likely to continue for the time being.
- Corporate bonds record stable to slightly declining spreads despite risk-off environment. Limited potential.
- We underweight bonds and focus on credit risk and off-benchmark themes. Duration: short.
Alternative investments / commodities
- Gold is currently not in demand. The price temporarily fell below USD 1,800 per oz.. We remain optimistic.
- Brent oil is now above USD 65 per barrel. The supply deficit thanks to restrictive OPEC+ commitments provide a tailwind.
- Industrial metals continued their positive price trend. Rising demand due to the economic recovery is supportive.
Currencies
- Euro ends its small phase of weakness and gains moderately against the USD. US stimulus package may bring new impetus.
- As expected, the British pound is benefiting from the Brexit deal and now also from the rapid progress on vaccinations.
- The Swiss franc remains highly valued. Nevertheless, the euro can currently gain more than one cent against the franc.