Treasuries Show Mixed Response as Bond Market Sees New Wave of Sales
The US Treasury market displayed a mixed reaction as it braced for a significant seven-year note auction and a robust lineup of corporate bonds, signaling a busy period for Wall Street with issuers rushing to secure funds before forthcoming economic updates. Ahead of a $42 billion seven-year Treasury auction, the market also anticipated new offerings from eight companies aiming for US investment-grade bond sales on Tuesday, hinting at a bustling day following a record-setting debt issuance spree in February.
Investors are navigating through a landscape marked by heightened rates and shifting expectations around the Federal Reserve’s interest rate policies, amidst a deluge of corporate bond offerings providing attractive alternatives for yield-seekers. Inflation data, expected on Thursday, may reveal an uptick for January, stirring the market further.
Key market movements include:
- Treasury 10-year yields steadied at 4.29%.
- The S&P 500 saw fluctuations around the 5,070 mark.
- Nvidia Corp paused its recent rally, while Macy’s Inc experienced a surge amid store closure plans to ward off acquisition attempts.
- Bitcoin climbed past $57,000, reaching heights not seen since late 2021.
Corporate Developments:
- Norwegian Cruise Line (NCHL) projected a buoyant financial outlook for 2024, surpassing analyst expectations.
- Lowe’s (LOW) forecasted a continued downturn in sales, attributing it to cautious consumer spending on home improvements.
- Viking Therapeutics (VKTX) reported promising mid-stage trial results for its obesity treatment.
- Zoom Video Communications (ZM) exceeded quarterly sales and profit expectations, alongside announcing a $1.5 billion share buyback program.
- Workday (WDAY) provided a somewhat subdued subscription revenue outlook for the year.
- Intuitive Machines (LUNR) faced challenges after a lunar lander mishap, impacting its stock performance.
- Exxon Mobil (XOM) and Cnooc Ltd are contemplating a strategic move to acquire Hess Corp.’s (HES) stake in a major offshore Guyana oil project, potentially disrupting Chevron Corp.’s (CVX) acquisition plans.
