China's exports grew by 8.7% year-on-year in August, primarily by manufacturers rushing orders ahead of anticipated tariffs from trade partners. However, imports increased by only 0.5%, missing expectations and pointing to weak domestic demand. The mixed trade data highlights Beijing's challenge in boosting overall growth without overreliance on exports, especially given tightening consumer spending. China faces growing trade barriers from various countries, including the United States, European Union, Canada, India, Indonesia, and Malaysia, which could threaten its export momentum. Some analysts believe China's exports may remain strong due to the relative weakness of the yuan and exporters' ability to reroute goods to avoid tariffs. Nevertheless, there is remaining doubt on the sustainability of China's export growth and overall economic recovery.

EQUITY

Wall Street's major indexes rebounded on Monday, with all three gaining over 1% with bargain purchases after the previous week's sell-off. Apple's new release caught attention but not the right one after internet users were disappointed at the sight of the same form factor. Nvidia on the other hand, gained 3.5% in a wide market gain. Palantir rose 14% and Dell Technologies added 3.8% on news that they will join the S&P 500 index on September 23rd.

GOLD

Gold hovers around $2,500 per ounce ahead of key U.S. inflation data. The Consumer Price Index release on Wednesday will likely influence the Federal Reserve's rate cut decision. Expectations are split between a 25 and 50 basis point reduction at the upcoming meeting. Lower inflation could boost gold prices by increasing the likelihood of a larger rate cut.

OIL
Oil prices are still weighed down by weaker Chinese demand and global oversupply concerns, despite supply disruptions from Tropical Storm Francine in the Gulf of Mexico that offered some relief. The storm has led to the closure of some Texas ports and the suspension of oil production at several offshore platforms, putting at least 125,000 barrels per day of oil capacity at risk.

CURRENCY

The US dollar is expected to recover in the coming months due to global economic risk and worsening liquidity conditions, according to BCA Research. UBS, however, advises investors to sell the dollar in the short term, anticipating a more bearish medium-term outlook for the currency. Asian currencies see little volatility, while investors are looking ahead for key US inflation data.