This information has been prepared by IG, a trading name of IG Markets Limited. In addition to the disclaimer below, the material on this page does not contain a record of our trading prices, or an offer of, or solicitation for, a transaction in any financial instrument. IG accepts no responsibility for any use that may be made of these comments and for any consequences that result. No representation or warranty is given as to the accuracy or completeness of this information. Consequently any person acting on it does so entirely at their own risk. Any research provided does not have regard to the specific investment objectives, financial situation and needs of any specific person who may receive it. It has not been prepared in accordance with legal requirements designed to promote the independence of investment research and as such is considered to be a marketing communication. Although we are not specifically constrained from dealing ahead of our recommendations we do not seek to take advantage of them before they are provided to our clients. See full non-independent research disclaimer and quarterly summary.
Risk-off sentiment rises on North Korea threat
The broad sell-off within Asian markets had continued into the European session after North Korea sparked a new wave of concern over further escalation of their missile threats. Dragging markets out of their desensitised form towards these missile tests had been the latest Intercontinental Ballistic Missile. The successful test of the abovementioned firepower now suggests that US territories, such as Hawaii and Alaska, are within North Korea’s reach and adds to the factor of uncertainty towards the escalation of geopolitical tensions.
The trio of haven assets including US treasuries, gold and USD/JPY were seen responding to the lift in risk sentiment, albeit moderately. Specifically, gold prices were seen rebounding ahead of the key support at $1217, though the move had been slight. With items including the Fed minutes and US NFP ahead, items that could exert an influence on the US dollar, the market would be keeping watch on the price setup to see if it remain in the near-term down trend or exhibit a more decisive reversal for trade.