China’s Vice-Premier and Chief trade negotiator Liu He is on the wires now, via Reuters, noting that he is "cautiously optimistic" about reaching a phase one trade deal. He added that he remains confident but confused about the US demands. Despite Liu still expecting the preliminary trade deal signing, markets are not buying into it as of now, with escalating US-China political tensions over the Hong Kong bill and following the latest comments from US President Trump. The risk sentiment remains sour as Trump is expected to sign the bill into law after the US House approved it late Wednesday. USD/JPY is off the lows, ... (full story)