Attention: Initial Jobless Claims for Spotlight Announced! "Key Points on April 2 and Event Schedule"

The new fiscal year started yesterday, but stock prices fell sharply, and the Nikkei Stock Average briefly dropped by more than 1,000 yen.

Western and European stocks are also plunging sharply.

The economic downturn caused by the coronavirus is having a significant impact on emerging markets as well, with the Turkish lira, South African rand, and Mexican peso hitting new lows against the yen.

The price of crude oil briefly fell below $20 yesterday, but quickly recovered back into the $20 range.

In April, Saudi Arabia is increasing production.

We are at a critical juncture whether crude oil prices will dip below $20 or be able to endure.

◎ Today's Points of Focus

1) Initial Jobless Claims

Last week, the number of new unemployment claims reached an astonishing 3.28 million, and today’s forecast is also 3.5 million.

Forecasts vary widely, with some places predicting as high as 5 million.

The unemployment rate, which is considered crucial for judging the economy and the business climate, is a key indicator.

Tomorrow’s unemployment rate will reflect conditions before the state of emergency, so for the time being the weekly new unemployment claims will attract the most attention.

2) City Lockdowns

Yesterday, Germany announced an extension of its lockdown period.

There are concerns that this trend may expand further.

Currently, even areas not under lockdown are receiving attention as potential lockdown sites.

In particular, in Japan, with the new fiscal year beginning, there are rumors that lockdowns could be announced today or tomorrow.

As lockdowns or state of emergency declarations are expanded or extended or announced, markets tend to react.

Be cautious of rumors concerning lockdowns or state of emergency declarations and statements by key figures.

◎ Today’s Event Schedule

Thursday, April 2

15:00　GBP　UK House Price Index

15:30　CHF　Swiss CPI (Consumer Price Index)

17:30　GBPUK Construction PMI

21:30　USDInitial Jobless Claims (Forecast 3.5 million)・US Trade Balance

21:30　CAD　Canada Trade Balance

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