Bonds/Interest Rates

A brief look at important company events and economic data releases next week.

Citigroup’s successful preferred issue has provided relief, but stocks are still struggling to find impetus despite a late burst. Dow up 44.

After five months of upside surprises Australian labour force data for February were essentially flat, a result seen as unlikely to pressure the RBA on the timing of further rate hikes.

If investors ever feel the urge to discount the importance of timing, a look at the graph published by Glushkin Sheff’s Dave Rosenberg should cure them.

The Dow went nowhere while the S&P and Nasdaq headed north last night. A new phase? Dow up 3.

In a result below market expectations Australian housing finance approvals in January were down 7.9% as higher interest rates impacted on first home buyers in particular.

The Westpac Consumer Sentiment Index rose again in March but can it withstand further rate rises?

On the anniversary of the market bottom, Wall Street is looking for direction. Dow up 11.

The ANZ Job Ads series for February showed gains in both newspaper and internet ads, more than reversing the fall recorded in January.

The NAB Monthly Business Survey and Economic Outlook for February showed gains in both business confidence and conditions, though the bank’s growth forecasts remain unchanged.