In the last 30 days, the macroeconomic environment has been characterized by significant events and publications that have impacted financial markets and the economies of individual countries. Particular attention is drawn to data regarding inflation, the labor market, and central bank decisions.
In the United States, inflation remains one of the main topics of discussion. Recent data on the Producer Price Index (PPI) for March showed a monthly increase of 0.5%, which is significantly lower than the expected 1.1%. Also, Core PPI, which excludes food and energy prices, rose by only 0.1%, while 0.4% was anticipated. This indicates some stabilization of inflationary pressures in the manufacturing sector. Meanwhile, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) increased by 0.9% month-on-month, slightly below expectations of 1.0%. Year-on-year, CPI rose by 3.3%, which is close to the forecasted 3.4%. This difference may suggest that inflation is beginning to stabilize after a period of sharp increases.
In the labor market in Canada, the unemployment rate in March was 6.7%, slightly better than the expected 6.8%. Employment increased by 14.1 thousand, which was also close to the forecasted increase of 14.5 thousand. Although these data are not spectacular, they indicate some improvement in the labor market, which may support consumption and further economic growth.
Regarding monetary policy, the Federal Reserve of the United States currently maintains interest rates at 3.50-3.75%. At the upcoming FOMC meeting, which will take place on April 29 at 13:30 (Warsaw time), the market does not expect any changes. The current probability of keeping interest rates at the same level is 100%. This shows that the FED is trying to balance controlling inflation with supporting economic growth.
In New Zealand, the RBNZ kept the official interest rate at 2.25%, suggesting that the central bank is taking a cautious approach, considering global economic turmoil and inflationary pressures.
Market sentiment has significantly improved over the last month. The Fear & Greed Index rose from 21/100 a month ago to 47/100 currently, indicating a more optimistic approach from investors. Such an increase of 20 points suggests that markets are beginning to look with greater confidence towards the future, which may be a result of stabilizing inflation data and actions from central banks.
All these elements point to a complicated but stabilizing macroeconomic picture. Although inflation is still above levels considered comfortable by central banks, its rate of increase is beginning to decrease. The labor market, both in the USA and Canada, shows signs of improvement, which may support further economic development. The policies of central banks, focused on stabilizing the economy, seem to be on the right track to address current challenges.
In a global context, events such as OPEC meetings and political actions may also impact the markets; however, in the last 30 days, no significant changes have been recorded that would affect the current economic situation. Under such circumstances, investors and analysts will closely monitor upcoming data and decisions that may influence the direction of the markets in the coming months.