TLT UpWhy am I still expecting TLT to rise?
Let’s start with the fundamental reasons.
After the election, when we focus on Trump’s four main economic directions, it’s hard to think anything other than that we’re in for inflation growth, an increase in interest rates, and so on.
Specifically:
1. A 10-20% tariff on imported goods, and a sudden 60% on goods imported from China. This naturally points to price increases for goods, and we’ve already seen this kind of policy back in 2016. However, in the past eight years, many geopolitical perceptions have changed, and the US position in the global market is substantially different from what it was eight years ago. Some restrictions on certain types of goods might be possible, but applying tariffs across all goods? - I don’t believe so.
2. Income tax reduction. What does this mean? Yes, it’s a realistic but very low-weighted plan. In line with populism, there will be a reduction in taxes, but it can hardly have a significant impact on the overall US budget deficit.
3. Deporting immigrants. To some extent, it will have a minimal effect on the labor market. It’s important to note that immigrants’ labor is not generally secured within the US labor market anyway, and it’s unlikely that US residents would have greatly expanded opportunities in their place.
4. Growth in energy production volumes. It would be redundant to write long paragraphs on how this will have a positive impact on prices.
These four points sum up the populist promises. In another reality, the US Federal Reserve is successfully battling inflation; abnormally high rates only harm issuers, while European spreads are reaching historical highs. After the 1980s, Bond Vigilantes might be set for a return, which would pose significant problems for US Treasuries.
We’re waiting for the Fed’s press conference today.
