US shares fluctuated yesterday, with tech stocks leading the way, as closer-than-expected interest rate hikes might weigh on the future market performance. The Fed stated that the risk of inflation is escalating and began the discussion around the scaling on bond purchases. US jobless claims rose to 412,00 in the week ending June 12 for the first time since late April, as the economy continues to recover. The dollar rallied, and the 10yr US Treasury yield softened to 1.5040%. The BoJ rate decision is out today and is expected to remain unchanged.
The rally in metals continued to stall yesterday as concerns surrounding inflationary pressures spurred expectations of the pullback of stimulus support. Copper prices sold off to test appetite at $9,272/t, the lowest level in two months, but support at that level triggered a close at $9,315.5/t. Zinc was next in line, down 4.05%, closing at the day’s lows at $2,911.50/t; cash to 3-month spread widened out -$13.50/t. Aluminium remained under pressure during the second half of the day, closing at $2,400/t. Nickel tested the $17,100/t level to close at $17,174/t.
Oil futures dipped amid dollar strength, with Iran signalling that it is closer to reaching the nuclear deal agreement. WTI and Brent softened into $70.52/bl and $72.63/bl. Precious metals were also down on the day, with gold and silver falling down to $1,773.98/oz and $25.85/oz, respectively.
All price data is from 17.06.2021 as of 17:30