US trade confounds expectations

Macro 3 minutes to read

Christopher Dembik

Head of Macro Analysis

Summary: More evidence of economic progress in the US - the trade gap has narrowed unexpectedly. But, with hopes of a China-US trade deal running high, this print wasn't a market mover.

February US trade data are out. Contrary to expectations, the monthly trade deficit decreases to $49.4bn and the politically-sensitive deficit with China narrows to $30.1bn. There is little market impact. Given the fact that the deadline was extended, investors still consider that a trade deal between China and the USA will be announced soon.

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