On Wednesday, U.S. Treasury yields increased as investors analyzed the most recent economic data and evaluated the current state of the economy. At 4:54 a.m. ET, the 10-year Treasury yield rose by over two basis points to 4.6273%, while the 2-year Treasury yield was up by more than three basis points to 4.9414%. Yields and prices move in opposite directions, with each basis point representing 0.01%.
Investors continue to closely monitor economic data as uncertainty persists about the state of the economy and its potential impact on Federal Reserve monetary policy decisions. Recent data, including the S&P Global Flash manufacturing PMI for the U.S., which came in at a four-month low of 49.9 in April, suggested a contraction in the sector, leading investors to believe that there may be some easing ahead.
Despite concerns about elevated interest rates and persistent inflation, recent economic data has shown resilience in the economy. Expectations for impending interest rate cuts by the Fed have shifted, raising questions about whether there will be fewer cuts than expected this year. More economic data will be released throughout the week, including durable goods orders, a first-quarter GDP reading, and the personal consumption expenditures price index (PCEPI).
The upcoming Fed meeting on April 30-May 1 will closely monitor these data releases ahead of making any monetary policy decisions. While it is widely anticipated that current rates will remain unchanged, investors will keep their eyes peeled for any indications about future rate cuts or changes to monetary policy overall. Fed officials have recently shown caution regarding a timeline for rate cuts, further adding to uncertainty surrounding