Everyone came in to cover their shorts (positions). |
For the first time since August 2001, the Treasury will attempt to ease the pain for pension funds and insurance companies who need long assets to pay for a growing number of baby boomers. |
I continue to be surprised and impressed by the U.S. economy. Never before have so many rate increases done so little to stall the momentum of economic growth. Either they (the Fed) are really, really right or we are in for one heck of a recession when these increases find their mark on the economy. |
If it isn't in sync with the markets current leanings, it could get ugly in a hurry. |
If the 'street' is required to own a large portion of this amount, it likes to have it on their terms, which usually results in higher yields and lower prices. |
If this auction doesn't go well, you might want to take a long lunch then go home. |
Inflation is still in check. We are not going to see 5 percent on 10-years. |
It has been a tough week for the longs and I seriously doubt they will be able to hang on to today's gains, but it might help to remember that. |
It is important that he come across in an authoritative way so the markets see him as 'apolitical' and strong. If they sense that he can be maneuvered by Congress, then it could make the markets a bit nervous. |
Right now, the bond market appears to be suffering from indigestion. |
The 30-year will be of particular interest to traders as it will be the first auction in almost 5 years. |
The demand of our debt has come into question. |
The enormity of the storm's effect is something that is unprecedented. If you look at towns where basically all the infrastructure was wiped out, then you have to evaluate those based on who's coming back to pay taxes and rebuild. |
The Fed has pledged to keep the economy and inflation in check, which they're doing now, which will keep the fed funds rate going higher. Low inflation and global demand for U.S. Treasuries will remain strong in 2006, which will keep long rates low. |
The Fed must now remain aggressive in holding costs down which could take the Fed funds rate up a full percentage point in 2006. |