
US trade confounds expectations

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.