Monthly Coffee Break

September was characterised by resilient global economic activity, persistent inflationary pressures and increasing concerns over monetary tightening and geopolitical risks. In the United States, economic momentum remained robust, supported by AI-related investment and resilient consumption, despite signs of labour market moderation. In Europe, economic indicators continued to improve, with manufacturing and services PMIs signalling greater resilience.

La Fed a relevé ses taux alors que les investisseurs il y a quelques mois à peine anticipaient des baisses. Les marchés tablent désormais sur une poursuite du resserrement monétaire jusqu’en 2027, mais les actions américaines restent en hausse depuis le début de l’année. Les prévisions de bénéfices ont résisté au retournement des anticipations de politique monétaire. La saison des résultats du troisième trimestre permettra de vérifier si les entreprises sont en mesure de répondre à ces attentes.

We retain a modest duration overweight in the two-to-five-year segment after September's sharp sell-off. Higher real yields have made valuations more appealing, but we keep conviction limited. Our strongest argument remains monetary policy: markets discount a terminal Fed rate around 4.75% , leaving room for a less extensive tightening cycle to support shorter maturities.

After a period in which strong earnings helped equities absorb rising interest rates, higher bond yields have begun to weigh more on equity sentiment. The third-quarter reporting season will now test whether companies can sustain market confidence through solid results and credible guidance. Earnings expectations continue to rise, providing an encouraging starting point, while also raising the bar for companies to deliver.