News

Risk of US Government shutdown rises as Congress hits funding impasse

Rising Risk of US Government Shutdown
AP
1/6
Rising Risk of US Government Shutdown
The risk of a partial US government shutdown is increasing as congressional Democrats and Republicans remain at an impasse over federal funding. A shutdown could begin next week, potentially affecting financial markets and delaying key economic data releases. (Source: Reuters)
Market Implications
Agencies
2/6
Market Implications
Historically, financial markets have largely shrugged off government shutdowns. However, a prolonged shutdown this time could delay critical economic reports, such as employment and inflation data. This would leave investors and the Federal Reserve with less information to gauge macroeconomic trends.
Fed & Treasury Outlook
Agencies
3/6
Fed & Treasury Outlook
With limited economic data, the Federal Reserve may have to rely on its own projections, likely maintaining two 25-basis-point rate cuts in 2025. Investors may also react by pricing in rate cuts, which could steepen the Treasury yield curve, widening the gap between short- and long-term yields. Complex trades might be affected if regulatory guidance is delayed.
Financial Regulators Impact
NYT News Service
4/6
Financial Regulators Impact
The White House has asked federal agencies to prepare plans for mass firings, a departure from the temporary furloughs seen in past shutdowns. Agencies like the SEC and CFTC could operate with skeletal staff, severely limiting their ability to review corporate filings, investigate misconduct, and oversee markets.
Other Regulatory Effects
iStock
5/6
Other Regulatory Effects
Banking regulators and the consumer watchdog, which do not rely on congressional appropriations, would remain functional. Previous shutdowns slowed down regulatory processes, including the formal publication of new rules, which can affect broader policy and market activity.
IPOs & Equity Markets
ETMarkets.com
6/6
IPOs & Equity Markets
A shutdown would likely freeze the IPO pipeline, as companies need SEC approval to go public. This could dampen momentum in equity capital markets, which have recently seen a boom in IPO activity. (Disclaimer: This slideshow has been sourced from Reuters)
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