Germany’s 10-year Bund yield slipped to 3.3%, its lowest level since late August, as a renewed drop in oil prices bolstered bond markets despite lingering concerns over Europe’s fiscal outlook. Those worries were underscored by Fitch Ratings’ unscheduled decision last week to revise France’s credit outlook to negative.
Brent crude fell below $110 a barrel after reports that US President Donald Trump was prepared to allow more time for diplomatic efforts with Iran before considering renewed military strikes following Tuesday’s midterm elections, which could alter the balance of power in Congress.
At the same time, the European Central Bank left interest rates unchanged on Thursday and offered only limited guidance on the future path of monetary policy. President Christine Lagarde said a rate increase had been discussed, but policymakers unanimously chose to keep borrowing costs on hold, pointing to tighter financial conditions as one factor helping to restrain inflationary pressures.
