Sector Commentary
Currencies: The U.S. dollar rallied to a six-week high after the U.S. Federal Reserve reinforced expectations it would raise interest rates as early as September. The value of the Canadian dollar fell amidst the Greece crisis and on speculation the Bank of Canada will further cut interest rates. Economic reports indicating Canada may be in a recession also weakened the currency. The Australian dollar lost value as a result of weak commodity prices and weak Chinese manufacturing data.
Energy: Natural gas and heating oil markets fell because of an increase in supplies. Crude oil prices declined by almost 20% amidst volatility in the Chinese stock markets and on U.S Energy Information Administration reports which confirmed global production continued to exceed demand.
Equities: U.S. and Eurozone equity markets moved higher after the Greek Parliament agreed to the austerity measures needed to receive assistance from the Eurozone. Bullish corporate earnings in the U.S., especially in the technology sector, also supported equity market strength.
Fixed Income: Global fixed-income prices moved higher due to increased demand for safe-haven assets amidst volatility in the global equity markets and on sharp declines in commodity prices. U.S. Treasury markets were also bolstered by increased demand from international investors.
Grains/Foods: Corn, wheat, and soybean markets fell as favorable weather raised harvest forecasts. Sugar prices also declined in reaction to increased supplies and weak demand. Cotton prices moved lower after the U.S. government unexpectedly cut its demand forecast for China. Coffee markets weakened as dry weather supported growing conditions; the fall in value of the Brazilian real also contributed to lower prices.
Metals: Gold and silver prices fell slightly after Federal Reserve Chairwoman Yellen suggested the U.S. economy was improving and an interest rate hike in 2015 is likely. Platinum prices fell as China’s passenger-vehicle sales declined for the first time in two years. Copper markets declined after Greece's early-month vote against austerity and after data from China raised speculation economic growth may continue to falter.
Additional Information: For the Fund’s monthly Account Statement, including the net asset value per unit, and related information, please visit our website at www.grantparkfunds.com.
Sincerely,
David Kavanagh
President
Daily fund performance and weekly commentaries are available on our website at www.grantparkfunds.com.
PAST PERFORMANCE IS NOT INDICATIVE OF FUTURE RESULTS
FUTURES TRADING INVOLVES A HIGH DEGREE OF RISK AND IS NOT SUITABLE FOR ALL INVESTORS
THIS DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AN OFFER OF ANY SECURITY FOR SALE NOR SHALL THERE BE ANY SALE OF SECURITIES IN ANY JURISDICTION IN WHICH AN OFFER, SOLICITATION OR SALE WOULD BE UNLAWFUL PRIOR TO REGISTRATION OR QUALIFICATION UNDER THE SECURITIES LAWS OF ANY SUCH JURISDICTION OFFERING BY PROSPECTUS ONLY.