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October 5, 2026

Trade Winds Weekly — October 05, 2026

TRADE WINDS

MACRO REGIME MONITOR

CURRENT REGIME: RISING GROWTH / RISING INFLATION
This Week in Macro

Here’s your macro digest for the week, packed with insights and implications for the markets. Grab your favorite beverage and let’s dive in!

UK diesel prices hit record highs as they reach £2 per litre, with rising concerns over Middle Eastern oil supply amid geopolitical tensions. This spike reflects broader inflationary pressures that could impact consumer spending and economic growth, reinforcing the current regime of Rising Growth/Rising Inflation (BBC News, CNBC).
UK diesel price hits £2 a litre for first time, RAC says →
Oil extends gains as Middle East supply concerns persist →
Oil prices continue to rise due to persistent supply concerns in the Middle East, compounded by U.S. military presence and tensions with Iran. The potential for further disruptions could keep energy prices elevated, which is a significant factor in the inflation narrative (CNBC).
More tankers struck in the Middle East as Iran reiterates conditions for reopening the Strait of Hormuz →
U.S. and China are set to lower tariffs on $60 billion worth of goods, a move that could ease trade tensions and support economic growth. This development may provide a slight boost to market sentiment, but it also highlights the fragility of trade relations, which could challenge the current macro regime (CNBC).
U.S., China to lower tariffs on $60 billion of goods. Here's what qualifies →
Traders are scaling back expectations for a Fed rate hike in October following a weak jobs report, indicating that the labor market may not be as strong as previously thought. This could lead to a more dovish monetary policy stance, which might support growth but also keep inflation concerns alive (CNBC).
Racehorse market breaks records riding high on tax breaks, stock market gains →
Pressure on U.S. Treasurys has eased after the 30-year yield hit its highest level since 2002, suggesting a potential stabilization in long-term interest rates. This could provide some relief to bond investors, but the overall market remains sensitive to inflation data (CNBC).
Pressure on U.S. Treasurys eases after 30-year yield hits highest level since 2002 →
High interest rates are impacting the housing market, with many Americans facing foreclosure on remodeling projects. This reflects a broader trend of tightening financial conditions that could slow down consumer spending and economic activity (CNBC).
High interest rates are foreclosing on the American home remodeling dream →
China's factory activity expanded for the first time in three months, indicating a potential recovery in the manufacturing sector. This could bolster global demand, but the ongoing U.S.-China rivalry adds a layer of uncertainty that markets will need to navigate carefully (CNBC).
China factory activity expands for first time in three months in September →

Bottom line: With rising energy costs and a mixed bag of economic indicators, the current macro regime of Rising Growth/Rising Inflation remains intact, but the path forward is fraught with potential headwinds. Stay vigilant!

Ted's Take

This week’s news paints a picture of a precarious balance between growth and inflation, as rising diesel prices and geopolitical tensions threaten to squeeze consumer spending. While the easing of tariffs between the U.S. and China is a welcome sign, it doesn’t negate the fragility of our macro environment—especially with labor market signals softening. I’m closely watching any further shifts in inflation data; if we see sustained pressure alongside a slowdown in growth, it could signal a regime change that warrants a more defensive positioning. Until then, I’ll continue to prioritize strategies that minimize drawdowns in this turbulent landscape.

Trade Winds by Ted Holliday — Macro isn't about beating SPY, it's about surviving the bear markets.

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