Morning Commentary: Unlawful

Foreign Exchange - Morning Commentary
Unlawful
Share this story:
Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Email
Andrew Kositkun
Andrew Kositkun
Foreign Exchange Head Trader
UK PM Johnson suffered another setback overnight as the UK Supreme Court ruled, unanimously, that PM Johnson’s suspension of parliament was unlawful.  In what is an unprecedented legal rebuke, the high court found that the decision to suspend parliament prevented it from carrying out “…its constitutional functions.”  Further, the court ruled that parliament should convene as soon as possible, i.e. this Wednesday.   

Subsequently the GBP has found itself higher on the session as markets are interpreting this development as a further step to diminish PM Johnson’s authority and the risk of a no deal exit.  As such, the implied probability of a no deal exit in 2019 have fallen back down to their lows, raising the possibility that markets could be underpricing no deal risk.

While the court’s decision certainly is a defeat for the government, parliament’s return, in practical terms, most likely doesn’t change much.  Parliament has already passed a law requiring the PM to seek an extension by October 19 should a deal not be struck by then, leaving it with little to do in the interim. 

A key question that remains is whether or not PM Johnson will actually write an extension request, something he has reiterated that he has no intention to do.  Some possible paths to avoid an extension include, but aren’t limited to the following:
  • Striking a deal with the EU.
  • Using legal creativity to circumvent the Benn law.
  • Trying to get an EU member state to veto an extension.
  • Resigning and forcing Corbyn to write the extension letter. 

In the end, the court ruling does little to change the politics around Brexit.  However, one thing that will change is the resignation of the Speaker of the House after October 31.  As the Brexit process has taught us, the role of the Speaker is a crucial one, making the new Speaker an important factor moving forward.    
HERE ARE THE KEY NEWS STORIES FROM OVERNIGHT:
  • The US/China trade narrative continues to evolve in a positive manner.  The most recent development has China granting waivers to companies to buy between 2 to 3 million tons of US soybeans without being subject to retaliatory tariffs.  Additionally, China’s previously cancelled farm visit has been rescheduled. However, it is important to remember that many of the red line issues remain unresolved.
  • Trump will address the UN General Assembly today with Iran expected to be a key focus.  France, Germany and UK have also blamed Iran for the Saudi oil attack.
  • The German IFO Business Climate index came in mixed with the current climate beating expectations but future expectations missing consensus. 
  • The central bank of New Zealand announces its latest rate decision tonight and is expected to keep rates on hold as the central bank has laid out a more balanced view since its August rate cut.
If we can help you with any Foreign Exchange needs, please email foreignexchange@cnb.com or call (800) 447‑4133.
Want to learn more about international finance, economics, and global events? Sign up for our other Foreign Exchange emails and videos!
Follow City National Bank on social media:
Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Google Plus YouTube
Non-deposit investment products:
Are not FDIC insured,
Are not deposits or other obligations of City National Bank and are not guaranteed by City National Bank, and
Are subject to investment risks, including possible loss of the principal invested.
This report is for general information and education only and was compiled from data and sources believed to be reliable. City National Bank does not warrant that it is accurate or complete. Opinions expressed and estimates or projections given are those of the authors as of the date of the report with no obligation to update or notify of inaccuracy or change. This report is not a recommendation or an offer or solicitation to buy or sell any financial instrument discussed. It is not specific investment advice. Financial instruments discussed may not be suitable for the reader. Readers must make independent investment decisions based on their own investment objectives and financial situations. Prices and financial instruments discussed are subject to change without notice. Instruments denominated in a foreign currency are subject to exchange rate and other risks. City National Bank (and its clients or associated persons) may engage in transactions inconsistent with this report and may buy from or sell to clients or others the financial instruments discussed on a principal basis. Past performance is not an indication of future results. This report may not be reproduced, distributed or further published by any person without the written consent of City National Bank. Please cite source when quoting.
Unsubscribe from this list  |  Update email preferences
This message has been sent to bank@banking.offers.report. Please do not reply to this email. To ensure the delivery of future emails, please add foreignexchange@emails.cnb.com to your email address book or safe sender list.
Copyright ©2019 City National Bank – All Rights Reserved.
350 South Grand Avenue, 12th Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90071
City National Bank is a subsidiary of Royal Bank of Canada.
TERMS & CONDITIONS  |  PRIVACY STATEMENT
Equal Housing Lender
NMLSR ID# 536994 | City National Bank Member FDIC
                                                           

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Are tax hikes coming?

Go long—for top rates