Forecasts and Fragility: UK Spring Statement, US CPI, and China’s Growth Tolerance

Matt Jones and Neil Staines discuss the macro themes for the week ahead against major uncertainty from the Middle East conflict, noting it is likely to dominate sentiment and positioning while they limit forecasts to the macroeconomy. In the UK, the Spring Statement brought no policy change but updated OBR projections: 2026 growth cut to 1.1% (from 1.4%), peak unemployment lifted to 5.3% (from 4.9%), and inflation lowered to 2.3%. The fiscal outlook also improved via higher projected revenues and lower debt funding costs due to a lower yield curve, though they remain skeptical given January tax effects and the sensitivity of public finances to moves in rates following developments around Iran. January UK GDP is the key domestic release. Globally, with the BoE and ECB entering blackout periods ahead of meetings on the 19th (and the FOMC ahead of the 18th), focus includes Eurozone investor confidence and industrial production, Isabel Schnabel’s remarks, China’s CPI/PPI amid limited domestic-demand messaging from Two Sessions, and inflation releases across several EMs alongside Hungary minutes and a Turkey rate decision. In the US, February CPI, the trade balance, PCE, and JOLTS are key, with oil’s impact on inflation and expectations central.00:00 Show Intro00:27 Middle East Backdrop01:12 UK Spring Statement02:27 UK GDP Watch02:50 Global Data Radar03:14 Europe And Energy03:41 China Inflation Focus04:48 US CPI And Oil06:41 Weekend Sports Picks07:29 Long And Short Signoff07:57 Closing DisclosuresThe opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the presenters and do not necessarily reflect the views of Eurizon SLJ Capital, Eurizon Capital, or the Intesa Sanpaolo Group. The information and opinions shared are intended solely for professional investors and should not be relied upon by other investors. Please note that the information provided in this recording is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be complete or constitute an offer to buy or sell securities or any derivatives. It has not been prepared in accordance with legal and regulatory requirements designed to promote the independence of investment research and is not subject to any prohibition on dealing ahead of the dissemination of investment research. It does not constitute research on investment matters and should not be construed as containing any recommendation, advice or suggestion, implicit or explicit, for any investment strategy or financial instruments, the issuers of any financial instruments, or a solicitation, offer or financial promotion relating to any securities or investments. ESLJ and its affiliates do not assume any liability whatsoever for the contents of this podcast and do not make any representation or warranty as to the accuracy or completeness of any information contained in this communication.