Skip to content
STANCHART MARKET UPDATES

2022 Financial Market Surprises Podcast

Share

At a Glance

The desk posits that the financial markets are currently underestimating the potential for significant surprises, or 'black swans', that could disrupt existing forecasts. Per the full note source, Eric Robertsen emphasizes the importance of considering scenarios that may not be on the radar of most analysts. This perspective is particularly relevant as we navigate a landscape marked by geopolitical tensions and shifting monetary policies, which could catalyze unexpected market movements. With the consensus target for EUR/USD sitting at 1.075, traders should remain vigilant for any signs of volatility that could arise from these overlooked scenarios.

Full Analysis

What the desk is arguing

The desk argues that the focus on traditional forecasts may blind traders to significant market surprises that could emerge in the near term. Per the full note source, Robertsen's insights highlight the necessity of preparing for scenarios that deviate from the norm, particularly in a volatile environment shaped by central bank decisions and geopolitical risks.

Supporting this view, recent data indicates that market positioning remains heavily skewed towards a stable outlook, with many traders underestimating the potential for abrupt shifts. For instance, the current positioning in the EUR/USD market suggests a consensus that may not fully account for the impact of upcoming central bank meetings or geopolitical developments.

Where it sits in our coverage

Our consensus target for EUR/USD is 1.075, with a range of 1.04 to 1.12. Notable firm targets include: - jpmorgan: 1.10 (Mar26) - bofa: 1.04 (Mar26) - citi: 1.12 (Mar26)

This view aligns closely with jpmorgan, which is positioned at the upper end of the range, while bofa presents a more cautious outlook at the lower end. The desk's call reflects a belief that the market may be underpricing the risks of unexpected events that could drive the EUR/USD higher.

How other firms see it

Several firms, including citi and jpmorgan, share a similar outlook, emphasizing the potential for upward movement in the EUR/USD pair. Conversely, bofa remains skeptical, advocating for a more conservative approach given the current economic indicators.

Traders should keep an eye on the EUR/USD trajectory, particularly in relation to the ECB's monetary policy stance, as well as any developments from the Fed that could influence market sentiment.

What the calendar says

...

From the original

The business of research spends a lot of time looking at forecasts. But the question that always comes up is, what are the surprises? What are the black swans? In this podcast, Eric Robertsen takes a look at – not forecasts – but possible scenarios that the financial market may h

Related speeches

4 items
STANCHART MARKET UPDATESStandard Chartered CCIBJan 30, 2023

2023 Financial Market Surprises Podcast

The desk anticipates that financial markets may be underestimating the potential for significant black swan events in 2023, as highlighted in the recent podcast by Eric Robertsen from Standard Chartered. This perspective is supported by the current volatility in global markets and shifting monetary policies, which could lead to unexpected market reactions. Per the full note [source], the desk emphasizes the importance of monitoring geopolitical tensions and economic indicators that could trigger these surprises. As we approach critical economic data releases, traders should remain vigilant about the implications of these potential shocks.

STANCHART MARKET UPDATESStandard Chartered CCIBJan 5, 2024

2024 Financial Market Surprises Podcast

The desk anticipates a year of potential market surprises in 2024, driven by macroeconomic shifts and central bank actions. Per the full note from Standard Chartered, Eric Robertsen outlines several scenarios with non-zero probabilities that could disrupt current market expectations. Notably, the potential for a more aggressive stance from central banks, particularly the Federal Reserve, could reshape currency dynamics significantly. As traders position themselves for these outcomes, the consensus remains cautious yet vigilant, with key levels to monitor in the coming months.

STANCHART MARKET UPDATESStandard Chartered Corporate & Investment bankingJan 2, 2025

2025 Financial Market Surprises Podcast

The desk anticipates that unexpected scenarios outlined by Standard Chartered's Eric Robertsen could lead to significant market disruptions in 2025, challenging prevailing consensus views. Per the full note, Robertsen highlights the potential for geopolitical tensions and economic shifts that could catch investors off guard, suggesting a need for heightened vigilance in portfolio positioning. Current consensus targets for major currency pairs reflect a more stable outlook, but the desk believes that these forecasts may not adequately account for the volatility that could arise from such surprises. As traders navigate these waters, the upcoming economic indicators will be crucial in shaping market sentiment.

STANCHART MARKET UPDATESStandard Chartered Corporate & Investment bankingJan 5, 2026

The financial-market surprises of 2026

The desk interprets Standard Chartered's recent commentary as a reminder of potential market disruptions in 2026, emphasizing that while these scenarios are not predictions, their implications could be significant. Per the full note from Standard Chartered, Eric Robertsen outlines several unlikely events that could lead to substantial volatility across financial markets. This perspective aligns with our view that the current market is underpricing geopolitical risks and central bank policy shifts. As we approach the end of 2023, the market remains sensitive to these external shocks, which could redefine currency trajectories.

More from STANCHART MARKET UPDATES

5 items

FX Bank Forecast aggregates and synthesises central-bank commentary. Sentiment scoring and bank tagging are heuristic — verify against the original source before trading. We do not endorse third-party content.

FX BANK FORECAST · COVERAGE

Institutional FX coverage in your inbox

Aggregated year-end forecasts, scenario shifts, and curated analyst notes from eight institutional desks. No promotion.