GS CAS Views The July FOMC – Goldman’s Take from Traders and Research
- **FOMC Rate Decision & Geopolitical Risks**: Fed likely holds rates amid Iran escalation, with dissent possible; supply shocks from conflict create inflation unpredictability, potentially lowering bar for July hike despite tariffs/AI effects on inflation.
- **Forward OIS Expectations**: Terminal pricing above 50bps through March/April 2026 (e.g., 54.3 for 17Mar2027) signals persistent rate expectations, reflecting market pricing of prolonged higher rates.
- **Credit Markets & Geopolitics**: Credit spreads widening due to Middle East tensions, IG/HY volatility, and hawkish repricing; credit shorts remain attractive amid CPI/earnings support and capital reset.