China's Caixin PMI Services edged up slightly from 52.5 to 52.7 in March, matched expectations. PMI Composite, which tracks both manufacturing and service sectors, also increased from 52.5 to 52.7, indicating the most pronounced expansion of overall business activity since May 2023.
The forex markets showed rather muted response to the latest batch of economic data released today. Euro has continued its near-term recovery, unaffected by Eurozone's lower than expected CPI flash data coming. This lack of response likely stems from the understanding that a slight miss in CPI figures does not significantly alter ECB plans for a rate cut in June, supported by a growing consensus within the bank. Notably, even the more conservative members of ECB Governing Council have signaled openness to adjusting rates in June, further cementing expectations.
Activity in global financial markets remain generally subdued due to the extended Easter holiday in many regions. Nevertheless, Japan's markets kicked off the new fiscal year on a tumultuous note, with Nikkei index having a sharp sell-off. Analysts have largely dismissed the latest quarterly Tankan survey as the catalyst for this downturn. Instead, the sell-off could be attributed to institutional investors engaging in profit-booking activities typical of the financial year's commencement. Meanwhile, Yen remained relatively stable, showing little reaction and maintaining a very tight range amid the market activity.