UBS On-Air: Market Moves

On this week’s episode of Viewpoints, Burkhard shares his thoughts on recent geopolitical developments, and how global markets (including oil) have responded over the past few days. Plus, an assessment of market valuations, along with outlook scenarios. To conclude, Burkhard reflects on his unforgettable cycling journey through the Swiss Alps, and cites intersections with the world of investing and the rich history of Switzerland.

The Wall Street Journal reports US President Trump may announce the next Federal Reserve Chair in September or October. The Senate needs to confirm the Chair, and in Trump’s first term was prepared to oppose several of Trump’s Fed nominees. Only convention prevents the Fed from overruling the Chair—an obvious political appointee may be ignored by the FOMC. The greatest threat to policy independence would be someone who was not an obvious political puppet but was swayed by Trump’s instructions.

Dan rejoins the conversation with Jason in studio to exchange thoughts on how to approach asset allocation in today’s market and macro environment. We also spend time weighing potential directions for US trade policy, along with the Fed, geopolitical considerations, and more. Featured are Jason Draho, Head of Asset Allocation Americas with the UBS Chief Investment Office, and Dan Ivascyn, Group Chief Investment Officer for PIMCO. Host: Daniel Cassidy

In the US yesterday, Federal Reserve Chair Powell delivered a speech to members of the House of Representatives (most of whom are not economists). The main messages were: no rush to cut rates, and trade taxes create uncertainty. This will not surprise markets. There was a further softening of the data dependency mantra, as Powell focused on future inflation as a reason to keep rates unchanged for now. Powell testifies again today.

Our conversation outlines the current landscape for fixed income investors and where to locate opportunity within the asset class. We also discuss the convergence of public and private credit, along with the risks and opportunities within private credit to be mindful of. Featured are Leslie Falconio, Head of Taxable Fixed Income Strategy Americas, UBS Chief Investment Office, and Amanda Lynam, Head of Macro Credit Research within the Portfolio Management Group, BlackRock. Host: Daniel Cassidy

Iran and Israel seem to be saying “if they stop, I’ll stop”, although there were some missile exchanges overnight. That is enough for markets, with oil prices back to the levels of a couple of weeks ago (wiping out the potential economic impact). As with situations like North Korea, investors are not inclined to give weight to extreme tail risks, so things like the location of enriched uranium will be overlooked.

With the summer season now officially underway, it is already shaping up to be an eventful one for investors. In addition to this past weekend’s geopolitical developments in the Middle East, policy developments on tariffs and taxes, the potential impact of tariffs on the economy, and corporate earnings will keep investors preoccupied. Featured is Jason Draho, Head of Asset Allocation Americas, UBS Chief Investment Office. Host: Daniel Cassidy

We live in a world of political polarization and soundbite economics. That encourages sensationalism. Deckchair generals will offer extreme opinions on the US attacks on Iran. Both supporters and opponents the attacks are likely to dramatize events. Investors should be cautious of knee-jerk overreactions.

UBS WM Chief Economist Paul Donovan discusses the current hostilities between Israel and Iran and what they might mean for the global economy and markets. Why have geopolitical crises historically dominated the headlines, but faded so quickly from the attention of investors? And are there tectonic shifts in global politics that investors can’t afford to ignore? Paul is joined by co-hosts Christopher Swann and Belinda Peeters

On this week’s episode of Viewpoints, Burkhard outlines potential scenarios as to how developments in the Middle East involving Israel and Iran could evolve, and how to prepare your portfolio accordingly. We also touch on what has been a busy week for the Fed, and other global central banks.

European powers begin nuclear talks with Iran, and the US has signaled that it does not intend to decide on military strikes against Iran for two weeks. That means two weeks of uncertainty for financial markets, but investors are still inclined to see the Middle East conflict as a local, not a global, economic issue.

The US Federal Deserve did as expected yesterday—nothing. The Fed’s dilemma can be summed up by a comment from US President Trump (in a different context) “I mean, nobody knows what I’m going to do”. The uncertainty about trade taxes, fiscal policy, and the reactions of US companies and consumers means (as Fed Chair Powell noted) there can be very little certainty about the future path of interest rates.

On this week’s episode of Viewpoints, Burkhard outlines potential scenarios as to how developments in the Middle East involving Israel and Iran could evolve, and how to prepare your portfolio accordingly. We also touch on what has been a busy week for the Fed, and other global central banks.

Learn about how retirees can manage taxes when withdrawing from their accounts in retirement to ultimately improve their after-tax growth potential. Featured are Justin Waring, Senior Total Wealth Strategist, & Ainsley Carbone, Retirement Strategist, UBS Chief Investment Office. Host: Daniel Cassidy

Yesterday’s US data flurry gave hints about trade tax effects. Headline retail sales were weakened by poor auto sales. Some consumers bought cars early, anticipating trade taxes, and so did not show up at car dealerships in May. Import prices rose, suggesting that foreign companies were not absorbing trade taxes (so US companies and consumers will pay). Japan’s May trade data did show a 4.7% m/m drop in passenger car export prices, suggesting Japan’s automakers were absorbing some of the tariffs. Only auto prices showed this shift, which should appear in June’s US import price data.

We examine recent muni market performance, along with look at the investment case for the asset class against a backdrop of macro uncertainties. We also spotlight CIO’s risk assessment framework of local government obligors. Featured is Sudip Mukherjee, Senior Fixed Income Strategist Americas, and Jeannine Lennon, Municipal Strategist Americas, UBS Chief Investment Office. Host: Daniel Cassidy

US President Trump left the G7 summit a day early. Their departure does not change much of substance—the US was resisting a joint statement on Iran-Israel. However, there is symbolism about Trump’s willingness to cooperate with others. An executive order to implement some of the UK trade agreement was signed, but little progress seems to have been made with Japan.

We begin the week by covering the conflict involving Israel and Iran, along with the potential market impacts (including to oil prices). Plus, a preview of this week’s G-7 summit in Canada, along with the FOMC meeting. We conclude by outlining portfolio considerations when it comes to navigating geopolitical and policy risk. Featured is Jason Draho, Head of Asset Allocation Americas, UBS Chief Investment Office. Host: Daniel Cassidy

Xingchen rejoins the conversation to share an update on US-China trade negotiations, along with a look at the health of China’s economy and markets. We also touch on considerations when it comes to global diversification for portfolios. Featured is Xingchen Yu, Emerging Markets Strategist Americas, UBS Chief Investment Office. Host: Daniel Cassidy

The ongoing exchange of missile strikes between Iran and Israel this weekend has not had a major impact on financial markets. The severity of Israel’s initial strike against Iran was unexpected and caused a reaction. Further market moves would be justified only if there were expectations of even more disruption to energy supplies or shipping lanes.

Shane drops by to share the latest developments out of the Middle East involving Israel and Iran, along with notable domestic developments spanning progress on the One Big Beautiful Bill, and Federal response to recent occurrences of civil unrest. Plus, thoughts on the outcome of this week’s round of US-China trade talks. Featured is Shane Lieberman, Senior Governmental Affairs Advisor, Governmental Affairs US. Host: Daniel Cassidy

We close out another trading week by recapping US-China trade talks, the latest round of US inflation-data, along with other macro points of interest. Plus, thoughts on US equities at current levels, equity positioning, and a preview of what to expect in the week ahead. Featured is Matt Tormey, Equity Strategist Americas, UBS Chief Investment Office. Host: Shiavon Chatman

The scale of Israel’s air strikes against Iran were not anticipated by financial markets (US President Trump having suggested a deal with Iran was close, just yesterday). As a result, the oil price has had the largest spike since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The economic disruption may well be contained—the starting point was quite a weak oil market, given expectations of a US growth slowdown.

On this week’s episode of Viewpoints, Burkhard outlines the factors behind the recovery of US equities, along with what could drive further momentum from here. We also cover why European markets may not have an “unfair advantage” when it comes a lower rate environment, when compared to the Fed holding steady for now. Plus, thoughts on the recent performance of South Korea’s KOSPI-Index.

Yesterday’s US consumer price inflation data showed, as expected, faint hints at the effects of trade taxes and clearer examples of weak demand. The declining number of people wishing to visit the US helped weaken air fares. Goods where inventory is held for longer (like autos) avoided tariff effects for now. Imported goods with shorter inventory times—like bananas—saw price surges. Large consumer appliances had the second largest price increase on record. Producer price data may show more tariff price effects, as these goods sit closer to the point of import in the supply chain.

On this week’s episode of Viewpoints, Burkhard outlines the factors behind the recovery of US equities, along with what could drive further momentum from here. We also cover why European markets may not have an “unfair advantage” when it comes a lower rate environment, when compared to the Fed holding steady for now. Plus, thoughts on the recent performance of South Korea’s KOSPI-Index.

A special edition fireside chat with Joe Tsai, Chairman of Alibaba, a global leader in e-commerce and artificial intelligence. Following introductory remarks from Mike Ebert, Head IB Americas at UBS, Ulrike Hoffmann-Burchardi, Global Head CIO Equity at UBS, moderates a conversation, delving into topics like the future of AI and the dynamics of the China Tech market.

US President Trump has declared trade talks with China “not easy”. There may be a difference between the administration’s perception of its bargaining position and reality. With the 90-day deadline to do deals approaching, no deals have yet been made—and the UK trade agreement has not come into effect. There are suggestions that Trump will retreat from export restrictions on chips in exchange for some so-called “rare” earths.

Jason rejoins in-studio to weigh in on a variety of factors that have (or have the potential to) move markets, including last week’s labor market data, and this week’s round of trade talks between the US and China. Plus, thoughts on the impact on the Trump-Musk split to the progression of Trump 2.0 economic policies, along with guidance when it comes to positioning for the current environment. Featured is Jason Draho, Head of Asset Allocation Americas, UBS Chief Investment Office. Host: Daniel Cassidy

Media coverage of events in Los Angeles has been intense. There are economic and financial market consequences, but domestic and international investors may react differently. Domestic investors’ views will be shaped by their chosen cable news channel, and potentially by fake news on social media. International investors’ perceptions of risk will be affected by their own experiences of protest, civil unrest, militarization, and secession.

Kurt rejoins the conversation in studio to reflect on the latest developments surrounding US trade policy, along with how markets have reacted - plus, thoughts on how trade negotiations (most notably with China) may evolve in the weeks and months ahead. We also discuss investor concern stemming from the US fiscal outlook, and the path forward for the US budgetary situation. Featured is Kurt Reiman, Head of Fixed Income Americas, UBS Chief Investment Office. Host: Daniel Cassidy

We check back in on the emerging markets by discussing the headwinds facing the US dollar, and what it all means for emerging market assets. Plus, a spotlight on investment considerations surrounding Argentina. Featured is Alejo Czerwonko, Chief Investment Officer for Emerging Markets Americas, UBS Chief Investment Office. Host: Daniel Cassidy

We close out the week by reflecting on the latest jobs numbers and what the results indicate about the health of the US labor market. We also review this past week’s notable data releases, including a look at the Fed’s Beige Book. Plus, a preview of what to expect in the week ahead. Featured is Danny Kessler, Asset Allocation Strategist Americas, UBS Chief Investment Office. Host: Shiavon Chatman

The US May employment report is due, with the regular reminders that this data has become increasingly unreliable in recent years, and average earnings are not wages. This month’s data will correct errors that crept into last month’s data. Signs of weakness in restaurant and leisure travel sectors mean fewer lower paid workers may be employed, raising average earnings without affecting wages. But, the Federal Reserve’s “data dependency” means the labor market is seen as a trigger for policy action.

On this week’s episode of Viewpoints, Burkhard outlines the investment case for global markets to continue their climb higher and provides a performance update on some of CIO’s investment themes. We also cover considerations for investors when it comes to climate change-related investment risks, along with reflect on the potential impacts of Japan’s fiscal deficit to global markets.

A total of 52 out of 52 surveyed economists expect a quarter point ECB rate reduction today. How could so many economists possibly be wrong?

Rich rejoins the conversation with Jason to exchange thoughts around the evolution of US trade policy, the current market environment, the health of the US economy, and portfolio positioning recommendations. Featured are Jason Draho, Head of Asset Allocation Americas with the UBS Chief Investment Office, and Richard Bernstein, Founder, Chief Executive Officer and Chief Investment Officer of Richard Bernstein Advisors (RBA). Host: Daniel Cassidy

US President Trump’s mega-donor Musk was strongly critical of the “big, beautiful bill” currently before Congress. The bill contains many things markets are worried about. Musk’s opposition may embolden some Republican senators to oppose parts of the bill (Musk has more money than Trump, but their recent political forays have not been universally successful).

May was a good month for the markets, though there are many questions that investors are asking as we enter June, such as the fate of tariffs, the outcome of trade negotiations, the status of the One Big Beautiful Bill, and what impact the tariffs will have on the economy. Jason Draho, Head of Asset Allocation Americas, from the UBS Chief Investment Office, weighs in on those questions, along with shares guidance when it comes to positioning for the current environment. Host: Shiavon Chatman

Reports in Washington suggest US President Trump may talk directly with China’s President Xi later this week (after several days of more heated rhetoric between the US and China over trade). As Trump has been anxious for the call, and China has not, this may hint at more US retreats over trade taxes as a concession to bring China to the telephone.

US President Trump doubled taxes on US consumers of imported steel on Friday, and (so far) has not retreated from that tax increase. Trump reacted angrily when confronted with the Financial Times acronym “TACO”, and the implication that markets expect Trump to reverse policy rapidly. Investors may worry that Trump persists with these taxes, not because of some economic objective but instead as an emotional reaction to market perceptions of their negotiating stance.

We close out the trading week by reviewing the latest developments surrounding US trade policy, recapping notable macro data releases (including a look at the FOMC meeting minutes) - plus, a preview of the week ahead. Featured is Mike Gourd, Asset Allocation Strategist Americas, UBS Chief Investment Office. Host: Shiavon Chatman

There is yet more uncertainty in the US economy. US President Trump appealed the ruling that their trade taxes were illegal. While this is decided, the taxes stay. There are thus three layers of uncertainty. Will the taxes survive? If they are illegal, will US companies and consumers get refunds? And are trade taxes today actually being collected? There is also uncertainty around how US companies will react to this uncertainty, especially with pricing.

There has been no letup in the trade drama, with a US federal court striking down much of President Trump’s recent tariff hikes. That followed a sudden pivot in trade talks with the European Union - with the threat of a 50% tariff to an acceleration of negotiations all within the space of a few days. So what have we learnt about Trump’s strategy? What does this all mean for the EU and Switzerland? And where do we see the safest investment opportunities across the pond? Hear perspective from Dean Turner, CIO Eurozone and UK Economist. Co-hosts: Christopher Swann and Belinda Peeters.

A timely review of overnight trade developments, plus a look at positioning recommendations within EM equities, and thoughts on the dollar. We also touch on how investors can position using EM and international equities in the context of portfolio diversification. Featured is Xingchen Yu, Emerging Markets Strategist Americas. Host: Daniel Cassidy

The US trade court ruled that about half of US President Trump’s trade tax increases are illegal. Markets reacted positively, but the US has not been reset to its factory settings.

Equity markets seemingly rallied on optimistic comments from US President Trump around trade. So much focus on the words of one individual is unusual. Trump has the power to limit future economic damage from new trade taxes, but cannot undo the damage of past policy swings. For example, comments in yesterday’s sentiment data highlighted that companies are delaying decisions in the face of policy uncertainty, even as Trump retreated from some tariffs.

Until recently, gold’s rally seemed unstoppable. In an environment where perceived safe havens were scarce, gold stood out. However, in recent weeks, investor sentiment has shifted as geopolitical tensions eased. Does this mean gold’s rally has come to an end? Not necessarily, according to our commodities experts, Wayne Gordon, CIO APAC Head of Investment Advisory & Content, and Giovanni Staunovo, CIO Commodity Strategist. Co-hosts: Christopher Swann and Belinda Peeters.

The US long weekend was marked by aggressive policies and then a retreat, but that still leaves its mark on financial markets. The US dollar remains near its recent lows against major currencies. Investors are concerned that the retreats may not be comprehensive, and that economic behavior will still have to adjust to accommodate wild policy swings.

US President Trump has retreated from their threat to aggressively tax US consumers of European products, delaying the suggested 50% tariff to July. These retreats are so frequent that investors should rationally expect them. So why do markets still react to the initial announcements, as happened last Friday?