Danske Bank’s Danske Research Team notes that global equities paused and are set to open lower as Oil prices and yields move higher following renewed US-Iran tensions. They highlight profit-taking in momentum stocks after strong gains, with consumer sectors and heavily shorted names outperforming in what they describe as a catch-up move rather than data-driven rotation.

Momentum unwinds, risk tone softer

"US momentum stocks have rallied 5% in a week, and up almost 30% over the last month, so it makes sense to see days of profit-taking. In the absence of tech, consumer stocks led the market yesterday, across retail, staples, home builders etc."

"Equities took a breather yesterday and will decline further as markets open today. Instead of a peace deal, which investors are eagerly waiting for and pricing, the US carried out fresh strikes on Iran last night."

"Korean Kospi down 3% this morning and US and European futures point to a move 0.5-1% lower today, as oil prices and yields have retraced higher."

"The big trade in markets - momentum - gave back some gains yesterday. Interestingly, this happened despite oil prices and yields being lower yesterday."

"There was no macro data or earnings catalyst driving the sudden preference, rather it should be seen as a catch-up move, given profit-taking in the winners. Similarly, most shorted stocks also fared well yesterday."

(This article was created with the help of an Artificial Intelligence tool and reviewed by an editor.)