China/US trade speculation continues to dominate markets, with little in the way of economic data releases coming from the US, down to the extended US Government shutdown. Speculation that the US is preparing curbs on Chinese software, added further disruption to trade, with some equities coming off recent record highs. UK inflation was steady, despite an expectation of a spike, allowing British bonds and equities to settles. The GBP was also calm, trading 1.3370, while the EUR drifted to 1.1610.The Japanese markets are celebrating a new PM and Cabinet, breaking ‘glass ceilings’ apparently, while trade data showed signs of improvement. The AUD continues to struggle below 0.6500, while the NZD consolidates above 0.5700. Markets will focus on global PMI data, due for release, over the next couple of days.
