21 Nov 2025 - Hedge Clippings |21 November 2025

By: FundMonitors.com

Hedge Clippings | 21 November 2025

Reflecting on last week's edition of Hedge Clippings we're struck by the fact that we could simply reproduce the commentary of the chances of a rate cut both here and in the US, but with some small adjustments to the actual numbers.

In the case of the RBA's next meeting, due on the 8th and 9th of December, we'd suggest the decision to hold has pretty much been set in stone, with the only chance of a cut being next Wednesday's release of October CPI numbers. While the RBA's minutes of the November meeting showed the decision to hold was unanimous, there were plenty of variables and possibilities about how inflation and the labour market might influence monetary policy. Hedging of bets (appropriate, given the meeting was held on Cup Day) was covered by consideration of multiple factors, uncertainties, resulting in "on the one hand" and then in the next sentence (or paragraph) "on the other hand".

At least we know the Board explored all the options!

Meanwhile, over in the US, last week we noted that the market's near overwhelming certainty (97%) of a rate cut just a month ago, had dropped to 50/50 based on a FactSet poll of market economists. This has now slipped further to being an outside chance at 22%, in spite of Trump's rhetoric and abuse directed at Jerome Powell, and the pressure he's trying to put him under. From what we've observed, Powell, to use the phrase coined by Maggie Thatcher way back in 1980, "is not for turning." As it is, Powell's term ends next May, so he probably feels he has a point to make regarding his independence, and the likelihood of his appointment for another (third) term is zilch, at least while Donald is in the White House.

He might as well tough it out.

The US Fed's next FOMC meeting is also in the second week of December, so on current projections, there'll be plenty of discussion and opinion, but not much action.

Where there is action is in equity markets, with increasing calls from various well-known parties that the stretched valuations in the tech sector can't continue forever. Others of course maintain the usual mantra that "this boom is different" - and while it may be, the signs and psychology seem very similar.

The following chart, courtesy of Callum Thomas of The Weekly Chartstorm, paints an eerie picture: