Trade Hopes, Momentum, and New Highs

What’s in Today’s Report:

• Bottom Line: Momentum and Hope Continue to Fuel the Rally
• Weekly Economic Cheat Sheet: Focus on Friday’s Flash PMIs

U.S. futures are modestly higher and most international markets rallied overnight thanks to more trade war optimism and unexpected stimulus by China’s central bank.

A “constructive” phone call between China’s Liu He, USTR Lighthizer and Secretary Mnuchin reportedly took place on Saturday which is helping boosting hopes for a trade deal.

Additionally, the PBOC cut a key interest rate for the first time in 4 years, offering a dovish tailwind to risk assets this morning.

Today is lining up to be a fairly quiet session as far as catalysts go as there is just one economic report: Housing Market Index (E: 71) and only one Fed official is scheduled to speak: Mester (12:00 p.m. ET).

With trade war optimism continuing to be the main driver of this most recent run to new all-time highs the markets will remain keenly focused on any new developments or news regarding the “phase one” trade deal.