Italy’s 10-year BTP yield declined to 3.38%, its lowest level since November 12, as investors looked ahead to the release of US consumer price index data later in the day for further guidance on the Federal Reserve’s policy path. The move came after stronger-than-expected US employment figures on Wednesday, which tempered expectations of an imminent Fed rate cut.
In Europe, investors weighed signals that the European Central Bank remains broadly comfortable with the euro’s recent appreciation. Markets also reacted to reports that Bank of France Governor François Villeroy de Galhau, regarded as a dovish policymaker, may leave his post earlier than previously expected.
ECB President Christine Lagarde said last week that the inflation outlook remains in a “good place,” while downplaying concerns about the euro’s strength. Money markets are currently pricing in only around a 30% chance of an ECB rate cut by December.
