\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

1 4 5 6 7 8 9

Most Read

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

By subscribing, you agree with our privacy and terms.

Follow The Distributed

ADVERTISEMENT
\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

1 4 5 6 7 8 9

Most Read

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

By subscribing, you agree with our privacy and terms.

Follow The Distributed

ADVERTISEMENT
\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

1 4 5 6 7 8 9

Most Read

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

By subscribing, you agree with our privacy and terms.

Follow The Distributed

ADVERTISEMENT
\n
\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

1 4 5 6 7 8 9

Most Read

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

By subscribing, you agree with our privacy and terms.

Follow The Distributed

ADVERTISEMENT
\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

1 4 5 6 7 8 9

Most Read

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

By subscribing, you agree with our privacy and terms.

Follow The Distributed

ADVERTISEMENT
\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

Most Read

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

By subscribing, you agree with our privacy and terms.

Follow The Distributed

ADVERTISEMENT
\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

Most Read

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

By subscribing, you agree with our privacy and terms.

Follow The Distributed

ADVERTISEMENT
\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

Most Read

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

By subscribing, you agree with our privacy and terms.

Follow The Distributed

ADVERTISEMENT
\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

Most Read

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

By subscribing, you agree with our privacy and terms.

Follow The Distributed

ADVERTISEMENT
\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

Most Read

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

By subscribing, you agree with our privacy and terms.

Follow The Distributed

ADVERTISEMENT
\n

THIS TUESDAY, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that groundbreaking new American homes jumped by 21.7% in May 2023 to 1.63 million units. Building permits, considered among the housing market's most forward-looking indicators, increased more than expected in May, rising 5.2% to 1.49 million units at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Kieran Clancy, Senior Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

Most Read

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

By subscribing, you agree with our privacy and terms.

Follow The Distributed

ADVERTISEMENT
\n

Recent inflation data signalled that the Fed's monetary tightening is cooling the world's largest economy, and according to many analysts, the Federal Reserve is near the end of its tightening cycle. The U.S. economy remains stable even though the federal funds rate remains at its highest since 2007; the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been substantial, and the unemployment rate has remained low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

THIS TUESDAY, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that groundbreaking new American homes jumped by 21.7% in May 2023 to 1.63 million units. Building permits, considered among the housing market's most forward-looking indicators, increased more than expected in May, rising 5.2% to 1.49 million units at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Kieran Clancy, Senior Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

Most Read

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

By subscribing, you agree with our privacy and terms.

Follow The Distributed

ADVERTISEMENT
\n

The University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers released data on Friday, showing that consumer sentiment in the U.S. improved to a four-month high in June. This is also positive news, and the improved view reflects greater optimism after signs of easing inflation, economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season in the U.S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recent inflation data signalled that the Fed's monetary tightening is cooling the world's largest economy, and according to many analysts, the Federal Reserve is near the end of its tightening cycle. The U.S. economy remains stable even though the federal funds rate remains at its highest since 2007; the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been substantial, and the unemployment rate has remained low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

THIS TUESDAY, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that groundbreaking new American homes jumped by 21.7% in May 2023 to 1.63 million units. Building permits, considered among the housing market's most forward-looking indicators, increased more than expected in May, rising 5.2% to 1.49 million units at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Kieran Clancy, Senior Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

Most Read

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

By subscribing, you agree with our privacy and terms.

Follow The Distributed

ADVERTISEMENT
\n
\"Surveys<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers released data on Friday, showing that consumer sentiment in the U.S. improved to a four-month high in June. This is also positive news, and the improved view reflects greater optimism after signs of easing inflation, economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season in the U.S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recent inflation data signalled that the Fed's monetary tightening is cooling the world's largest economy, and according to many analysts, the Federal Reserve is near the end of its tightening cycle. The U.S. economy remains stable even though the federal funds rate remains at its highest since 2007; the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been substantial, and the unemployment rate has remained low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

THIS TUESDAY, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that groundbreaking new American homes jumped by 21.7% in May 2023 to 1.63 million units. Building permits, considered among the housing market's most forward-looking indicators, increased more than expected in May, rising 5.2% to 1.49 million units at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Kieran Clancy, Senior Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

Most Read

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

By subscribing, you agree with our privacy and terms.

Follow The Distributed

ADVERTISEMENT
\n

According to the latest American Association of Individual Investors(AAII) survey, Investor confidence is at a peak reaching a 19-month high. American Association of Individual Investors also reported that bearish sentiment fell to a 23-month low, and there is general expectation that the stock prices would rise over the next several months. The crypto market displayed a high correlation with U.S. equities. If a positive trend is witnessed in the stock market, the same is usually replicated in the crypto-sphere as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Surveys<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers released data on Friday, showing that consumer sentiment in the U.S. improved to a four-month high in June. This is also positive news, and the improved view reflects greater optimism after signs of easing inflation, economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season in the U.S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recent inflation data signalled that the Fed's monetary tightening is cooling the world's largest economy, and according to many analysts, the Federal Reserve is near the end of its tightening cycle. The U.S. economy remains stable even though the federal funds rate remains at its highest since 2007; the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been substantial, and the unemployment rate has remained low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

THIS TUESDAY, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that groundbreaking new American homes jumped by 21.7% in May 2023 to 1.63 million units. Building permits, considered among the housing market's most forward-looking indicators, increased more than expected in May, rising 5.2% to 1.49 million units at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Kieran Clancy, Senior Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

Most Read

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

By subscribing, you agree with our privacy and terms.

Follow The Distributed

ADVERTISEMENT
\n

Investor Jeremy Grantham warns of potential losses in the U.S. stock market and advises cautiousness. It's important to note that cryptocurrencies could also face a significant decline. This is due to the high correlation between the crypto market and U.S. equities. If the stock market experiences a downturn, the crypto-sphere may follow suit. Investors must consider this possibility.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Upbeat Economic Data Lifted Investors' Mood, But Days Ahead Could Give Cues On The Next Federal Reserve's Steps","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"upbeat-economic-data-lifted-investors-mood-but-days-ahead-could-give-cues-on-the-next-federal-reserves-steps","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-29 06:44:23","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12237","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12127,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-21 15:38:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:34","post_content":"\n

According to the latest American Association of Individual Investors(AAII) survey, Investor confidence is at a peak reaching a 19-month high. American Association of Individual Investors also reported that bearish sentiment fell to a 23-month low, and there is general expectation that the stock prices would rise over the next several months. The crypto market displayed a high correlation with U.S. equities. If a positive trend is witnessed in the stock market, the same is usually replicated in the crypto-sphere as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Surveys<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers released data on Friday, showing that consumer sentiment in the U.S. improved to a four-month high in June. This is also positive news, and the improved view reflects greater optimism after signs of easing inflation, economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season in the U.S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recent inflation data signalled that the Fed's monetary tightening is cooling the world's largest economy, and according to many analysts, the Federal Reserve is near the end of its tightening cycle. The U.S. economy remains stable even though the federal funds rate remains at its highest since 2007; the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been substantial, and the unemployment rate has remained low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

THIS TUESDAY, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that groundbreaking new American homes jumped by 21.7% in May 2023 to 1.63 million units. Building permits, considered among the housing market's most forward-looking indicators, increased more than expected in May, rising 5.2% to 1.49 million units at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Kieran Clancy, Senior Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

Most Read

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

By subscribing, you agree with our privacy and terms.

Follow The Distributed

ADVERTISEMENT
\n

Experts recommend a cautious approach when interest rates exceed 5%. This involves taking calculated risks due to the current economic climate, which is unstable and unpredictable. As interest rates increase, companies face higher borrowing costs, causing them to decrease spending, especially on hiring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Investor Jeremy Grantham warns of potential losses in the U.S. stock market and advises cautiousness. It's important to note that cryptocurrencies could also face a significant decline. This is due to the high correlation between the crypto market and U.S. equities. If the stock market experiences a downturn, the crypto-sphere may follow suit. Investors must consider this possibility.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Upbeat Economic Data Lifted Investors' Mood, But Days Ahead Could Give Cues On The Next Federal Reserve's Steps","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"upbeat-economic-data-lifted-investors-mood-but-days-ahead-could-give-cues-on-the-next-federal-reserves-steps","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-29 06:44:23","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12237","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12127,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-21 15:38:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:34","post_content":"\n

According to the latest American Association of Individual Investors(AAII) survey, Investor confidence is at a peak reaching a 19-month high. American Association of Individual Investors also reported that bearish sentiment fell to a 23-month low, and there is general expectation that the stock prices would rise over the next several months. The crypto market displayed a high correlation with U.S. equities. If a positive trend is witnessed in the stock market, the same is usually replicated in the crypto-sphere as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Surveys<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers released data on Friday, showing that consumer sentiment in the U.S. improved to a four-month high in June. This is also positive news, and the improved view reflects greater optimism after signs of easing inflation, economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season in the U.S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recent inflation data signalled that the Fed's monetary tightening is cooling the world's largest economy, and according to many analysts, the Federal Reserve is near the end of its tightening cycle. The U.S. economy remains stable even though the federal funds rate remains at its highest since 2007; the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been substantial, and the unemployment rate has remained low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

THIS TUESDAY, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that groundbreaking new American homes jumped by 21.7% in May 2023 to 1.63 million units. Building permits, considered among the housing market's most forward-looking indicators, increased more than expected in May, rising 5.2% to 1.49 million units at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Kieran Clancy, Senior Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

Most Read

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

By subscribing, you agree with our privacy and terms.

Follow The Distributed

ADVERTISEMENT
\n

The U.S. economy remains steady despite the federal funds rate reaching its peak since 2007. Investors should note that good economic data may lead to a 25 basis point increase in interest rates at the Federal Reserve's July meeting. Financial markets predict a 79.4% chance of this happening. This week's important economic data includes a crucial inflation measure that could provide valuable insight into the Federal Reserve's plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Experts recommend a cautious approach when interest rates exceed 5%. This involves taking calculated risks due to the current economic climate, which is unstable and unpredictable. As interest rates increase, companies face higher borrowing costs, causing them to decrease spending, especially on hiring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Investor Jeremy Grantham warns of potential losses in the U.S. stock market and advises cautiousness. It's important to note that cryptocurrencies could also face a significant decline. This is due to the high correlation between the crypto market and U.S. equities. If the stock market experiences a downturn, the crypto-sphere may follow suit. Investors must consider this possibility.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Upbeat Economic Data Lifted Investors' Mood, But Days Ahead Could Give Cues On The Next Federal Reserve's Steps","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"upbeat-economic-data-lifted-investors-mood-but-days-ahead-could-give-cues-on-the-next-federal-reserves-steps","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-29 06:44:23","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12237","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12127,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-21 15:38:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:34","post_content":"\n

According to the latest American Association of Individual Investors(AAII) survey, Investor confidence is at a peak reaching a 19-month high. American Association of Individual Investors also reported that bearish sentiment fell to a 23-month low, and there is general expectation that the stock prices would rise over the next several months. The crypto market displayed a high correlation with U.S. equities. If a positive trend is witnessed in the stock market, the same is usually replicated in the crypto-sphere as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Surveys<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers released data on Friday, showing that consumer sentiment in the U.S. improved to a four-month high in June. This is also positive news, and the improved view reflects greater optimism after signs of easing inflation, economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season in the U.S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recent inflation data signalled that the Fed's monetary tightening is cooling the world's largest economy, and according to many analysts, the Federal Reserve is near the end of its tightening cycle. The U.S. economy remains stable even though the federal funds rate remains at its highest since 2007; the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been substantial, and the unemployment rate has remained low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

THIS TUESDAY, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that groundbreaking new American homes jumped by 21.7% in May 2023 to 1.63 million units. Building permits, considered among the housing market's most forward-looking indicators, increased more than expected in May, rising 5.2% to 1.49 million units at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Kieran Clancy, Senior Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

Most Read

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

By subscribing, you agree with our privacy and terms.

Follow The Distributed

ADVERTISEMENT
\n
\"Durable<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. economy remains steady despite the federal funds rate reaching its peak since 2007. Investors should note that good economic data may lead to a 25 basis point increase in interest rates at the Federal Reserve's July meeting. Financial markets predict a 79.4% chance of this happening. This week's important economic data includes a crucial inflation measure that could provide valuable insight into the Federal Reserve's plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Experts recommend a cautious approach when interest rates exceed 5%. This involves taking calculated risks due to the current economic climate, which is unstable and unpredictable. As interest rates increase, companies face higher borrowing costs, causing them to decrease spending, especially on hiring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Investor Jeremy Grantham warns of potential losses in the U.S. stock market and advises cautiousness. It's important to note that cryptocurrencies could also face a significant decline. This is due to the high correlation between the crypto market and U.S. equities. If the stock market experiences a downturn, the crypto-sphere may follow suit. Investors must consider this possibility.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Upbeat Economic Data Lifted Investors' Mood, But Days Ahead Could Give Cues On The Next Federal Reserve's Steps","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"upbeat-economic-data-lifted-investors-mood-but-days-ahead-could-give-cues-on-the-next-federal-reserves-steps","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-29 06:44:23","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12237","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12127,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-21 15:38:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:34","post_content":"\n

According to the latest American Association of Individual Investors(AAII) survey, Investor confidence is at a peak reaching a 19-month high. American Association of Individual Investors also reported that bearish sentiment fell to a 23-month low, and there is general expectation that the stock prices would rise over the next several months. The crypto market displayed a high correlation with U.S. equities. If a positive trend is witnessed in the stock market, the same is usually replicated in the crypto-sphere as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Surveys<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers released data on Friday, showing that consumer sentiment in the U.S. improved to a four-month high in June. This is also positive news, and the improved view reflects greater optimism after signs of easing inflation, economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season in the U.S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recent inflation data signalled that the Fed's monetary tightening is cooling the world's largest economy, and according to many analysts, the Federal Reserve is near the end of its tightening cycle. The U.S. economy remains stable even though the federal funds rate remains at its highest since 2007; the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been substantial, and the unemployment rate has remained low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

THIS TUESDAY, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that groundbreaking new American homes jumped by 21.7% in May 2023 to 1.63 million units. Building permits, considered among the housing market's most forward-looking indicators, increased more than expected in May, rising 5.2% to 1.49 million units at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Kieran Clancy, Senior Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

Most Read

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

By subscribing, you agree with our privacy and terms.

Follow The Distributed

ADVERTISEMENT
\n

\"The May durable goods orders and shipments data help to fend off fears that a recession is just around the corner. However, the economic backdrop is set to become more discouraging for manufacturers as tighter lending standards and elevated interest rates weaken demand for goods.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Durable<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. economy remains steady despite the federal funds rate reaching its peak since 2007. Investors should note that good economic data may lead to a 25 basis point increase in interest rates at the Federal Reserve's July meeting. Financial markets predict a 79.4% chance of this happening. This week's important economic data includes a crucial inflation measure that could provide valuable insight into the Federal Reserve's plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Experts recommend a cautious approach when interest rates exceed 5%. This involves taking calculated risks due to the current economic climate, which is unstable and unpredictable. As interest rates increase, companies face higher borrowing costs, causing them to decrease spending, especially on hiring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Investor Jeremy Grantham warns of potential losses in the U.S. stock market and advises cautiousness. It's important to note that cryptocurrencies could also face a significant decline. This is due to the high correlation between the crypto market and U.S. equities. If the stock market experiences a downturn, the crypto-sphere may follow suit. Investors must consider this possibility.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Upbeat Economic Data Lifted Investors' Mood, But Days Ahead Could Give Cues On The Next Federal Reserve's Steps","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"upbeat-economic-data-lifted-investors-mood-but-days-ahead-could-give-cues-on-the-next-federal-reserves-steps","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-29 06:44:23","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12237","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12127,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-21 15:38:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:34","post_content":"\n

According to the latest American Association of Individual Investors(AAII) survey, Investor confidence is at a peak reaching a 19-month high. American Association of Individual Investors also reported that bearish sentiment fell to a 23-month low, and there is general expectation that the stock prices would rise over the next several months. The crypto market displayed a high correlation with U.S. equities. If a positive trend is witnessed in the stock market, the same is usually replicated in the crypto-sphere as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Surveys<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers released data on Friday, showing that consumer sentiment in the U.S. improved to a four-month high in June. This is also positive news, and the improved view reflects greater optimism after signs of easing inflation, economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season in the U.S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recent inflation data signalled that the Fed's monetary tightening is cooling the world's largest economy, and according to many analysts, the Federal Reserve is near the end of its tightening cycle. The U.S. economy remains stable even though the federal funds rate remains at its highest since 2007; the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been substantial, and the unemployment rate has remained low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

THIS TUESDAY, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that groundbreaking new American homes jumped by 21.7% in May 2023 to 1.63 million units. Building permits, considered among the housing market's most forward-looking indicators, increased more than expected in May, rising 5.2% to 1.49 million units at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Kieran Clancy, Senior Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

Most Read

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

By subscribing, you agree with our privacy and terms.

Follow The Distributed

ADVERTISEMENT
\n

The Commerce Department's durable goods report brought good news for analysts in May. Commercial aircraft\/parts saw a significant rise of 32.5%, transportation equipment increased by 3.9%, and autos\/features grew by 2.2%, leading to new orders. Non-defense capital goods, excluding aircraft, grew by 0.7%. The report indicates greater confidence in future business conditions and job availability for six months. Oren Klachkin, lead U.S. economist at Oxford Economics (OE), said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The May durable goods orders and shipments data help to fend off fears that a recession is just around the corner. However, the economic backdrop is set to become more discouraging for manufacturers as tighter lending standards and elevated interest rates weaken demand for goods.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Durable<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. economy remains steady despite the federal funds rate reaching its peak since 2007. Investors should note that good economic data may lead to a 25 basis point increase in interest rates at the Federal Reserve's July meeting. Financial markets predict a 79.4% chance of this happening. This week's important economic data includes a crucial inflation measure that could provide valuable insight into the Federal Reserve's plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Experts recommend a cautious approach when interest rates exceed 5%. This involves taking calculated risks due to the current economic climate, which is unstable and unpredictable. As interest rates increase, companies face higher borrowing costs, causing them to decrease spending, especially on hiring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Investor Jeremy Grantham warns of potential losses in the U.S. stock market and advises cautiousness. It's important to note that cryptocurrencies could also face a significant decline. This is due to the high correlation between the crypto market and U.S. equities. If the stock market experiences a downturn, the crypto-sphere may follow suit. Investors must consider this possibility.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Upbeat Economic Data Lifted Investors' Mood, But Days Ahead Could Give Cues On The Next Federal Reserve's Steps","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"upbeat-economic-data-lifted-investors-mood-but-days-ahead-could-give-cues-on-the-next-federal-reserves-steps","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-29 06:44:23","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12237","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12127,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-21 15:38:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:34","post_content":"\n

According to the latest American Association of Individual Investors(AAII) survey, Investor confidence is at a peak reaching a 19-month high. American Association of Individual Investors also reported that bearish sentiment fell to a 23-month low, and there is general expectation that the stock prices would rise over the next several months. The crypto market displayed a high correlation with U.S. equities. If a positive trend is witnessed in the stock market, the same is usually replicated in the crypto-sphere as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Surveys<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers released data on Friday, showing that consumer sentiment in the U.S. improved to a four-month high in June. This is also positive news, and the improved view reflects greater optimism after signs of easing inflation, economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season in the U.S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recent inflation data signalled that the Fed's monetary tightening is cooling the world's largest economy, and according to many analysts, the Federal Reserve is near the end of its tightening cycle. The U.S. economy remains stable even though the federal funds rate remains at its highest since 2007; the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been substantial, and the unemployment rate has remained low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

THIS TUESDAY, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that groundbreaking new American homes jumped by 21.7% in May 2023 to 1.63 million units. Building permits, considered among the housing market's most forward-looking indicators, increased more than expected in May, rising 5.2% to 1.49 million units at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Kieran Clancy, Senior Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

Most Read

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

By subscribing, you agree with our privacy and terms.

Follow The Distributed

ADVERTISEMENT
\n

The U.S. stock market recovered this Tuesday from recent losses as upbeat economic data cooled investor worries of a possible recession that could be triggered by the Federal Reserve's aggressive interest rate hikes. In May, the U.S. economy showed positive signs, with higher-than-expected orders for essential capital goods and a significant increase in sales of new single-family homes. Moreover, consumer confidence in the U.S. reached its highest level since January 2022.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Commerce Department's durable goods report brought good news for analysts in May. Commercial aircraft\/parts saw a significant rise of 32.5%, transportation equipment increased by 3.9%, and autos\/features grew by 2.2%, leading to new orders. Non-defense capital goods, excluding aircraft, grew by 0.7%. The report indicates greater confidence in future business conditions and job availability for six months. Oren Klachkin, lead U.S. economist at Oxford Economics (OE), said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The May durable goods orders and shipments data help to fend off fears that a recession is just around the corner. However, the economic backdrop is set to become more discouraging for manufacturers as tighter lending standards and elevated interest rates weaken demand for goods.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Durable<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. economy remains steady despite the federal funds rate reaching its peak since 2007. Investors should note that good economic data may lead to a 25 basis point increase in interest rates at the Federal Reserve's July meeting. Financial markets predict a 79.4% chance of this happening. This week's important economic data includes a crucial inflation measure that could provide valuable insight into the Federal Reserve's plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Experts recommend a cautious approach when interest rates exceed 5%. This involves taking calculated risks due to the current economic climate, which is unstable and unpredictable. As interest rates increase, companies face higher borrowing costs, causing them to decrease spending, especially on hiring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Investor Jeremy Grantham warns of potential losses in the U.S. stock market and advises cautiousness. It's important to note that cryptocurrencies could also face a significant decline. This is due to the high correlation between the crypto market and U.S. equities. If the stock market experiences a downturn, the crypto-sphere may follow suit. Investors must consider this possibility.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Upbeat Economic Data Lifted Investors' Mood, But Days Ahead Could Give Cues On The Next Federal Reserve's Steps","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"upbeat-economic-data-lifted-investors-mood-but-days-ahead-could-give-cues-on-the-next-federal-reserves-steps","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-29 06:44:23","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12237","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12127,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-21 15:38:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:34","post_content":"\n

According to the latest American Association of Individual Investors(AAII) survey, Investor confidence is at a peak reaching a 19-month high. American Association of Individual Investors also reported that bearish sentiment fell to a 23-month low, and there is general expectation that the stock prices would rise over the next several months. The crypto market displayed a high correlation with U.S. equities. If a positive trend is witnessed in the stock market, the same is usually replicated in the crypto-sphere as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Surveys<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers released data on Friday, showing that consumer sentiment in the U.S. improved to a four-month high in June. This is also positive news, and the improved view reflects greater optimism after signs of easing inflation, economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season in the U.S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recent inflation data signalled that the Fed's monetary tightening is cooling the world's largest economy, and according to many analysts, the Federal Reserve is near the end of its tightening cycle. The U.S. economy remains stable even though the federal funds rate remains at its highest since 2007; the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been substantial, and the unemployment rate has remained low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

THIS TUESDAY, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that groundbreaking new American homes jumped by 21.7% in May 2023 to 1.63 million units. Building permits, considered among the housing market's most forward-looking indicators, increased more than expected in May, rising 5.2% to 1.49 million units at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Kieran Clancy, Senior Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

Most Read

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

By subscribing, you agree with our privacy and terms.

Follow The Distributed

ADVERTISEMENT
\n

While sentiment-based indicators show that investors are no longer in panic, a recommendation is that you should continue to take a defensive investment approach in the upcoming days because another strong job report could also pressure the Fed to do more by anchoring a 25 bp hike this month and pushing back against the timeline for rate cuts. The next Federal Reserve meeting is on July 26. The CME Group survey shows a high probability of a 25 basis point rate increase.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Economy Has Proven More Resilient Than Analysts Previously Expected. The Focus Of Investors Is Switching To The U.S. Jobs Report","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-economy-has-proven-more-resilient-than-analysts-previously-expected-the-focus-of-investors-is-switching-to-the-u-s-jobs-report","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-05 22:47:08","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12354","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12237,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-29 06:44:16","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:16","post_content":"\n

The U.S. stock market recovered this Tuesday from recent losses as upbeat economic data cooled investor worries of a possible recession that could be triggered by the Federal Reserve's aggressive interest rate hikes. In May, the U.S. economy showed positive signs, with higher-than-expected orders for essential capital goods and a significant increase in sales of new single-family homes. Moreover, consumer confidence in the U.S. reached its highest level since January 2022.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Commerce Department's durable goods report brought good news for analysts in May. Commercial aircraft\/parts saw a significant rise of 32.5%, transportation equipment increased by 3.9%, and autos\/features grew by 2.2%, leading to new orders. Non-defense capital goods, excluding aircraft, grew by 0.7%. The report indicates greater confidence in future business conditions and job availability for six months. Oren Klachkin, lead U.S. economist at Oxford Economics (OE), said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The May durable goods orders and shipments data help to fend off fears that a recession is just around the corner. However, the economic backdrop is set to become more discouraging for manufacturers as tighter lending standards and elevated interest rates weaken demand for goods.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Durable<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. economy remains steady despite the federal funds rate reaching its peak since 2007. Investors should note that good economic data may lead to a 25 basis point increase in interest rates at the Federal Reserve's July meeting. Financial markets predict a 79.4% chance of this happening. This week's important economic data includes a crucial inflation measure that could provide valuable insight into the Federal Reserve's plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Experts recommend a cautious approach when interest rates exceed 5%. This involves taking calculated risks due to the current economic climate, which is unstable and unpredictable. As interest rates increase, companies face higher borrowing costs, causing them to decrease spending, especially on hiring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Investor Jeremy Grantham warns of potential losses in the U.S. stock market and advises cautiousness. It's important to note that cryptocurrencies could also face a significant decline. This is due to the high correlation between the crypto market and U.S. equities. If the stock market experiences a downturn, the crypto-sphere may follow suit. Investors must consider this possibility.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Upbeat Economic Data Lifted Investors' Mood, But Days Ahead Could Give Cues On The Next Federal Reserve's Steps","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"upbeat-economic-data-lifted-investors-mood-but-days-ahead-could-give-cues-on-the-next-federal-reserves-steps","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-29 06:44:23","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12237","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12127,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-21 15:38:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:34","post_content":"\n

According to the latest American Association of Individual Investors(AAII) survey, Investor confidence is at a peak reaching a 19-month high. American Association of Individual Investors also reported that bearish sentiment fell to a 23-month low, and there is general expectation that the stock prices would rise over the next several months. The crypto market displayed a high correlation with U.S. equities. If a positive trend is witnessed in the stock market, the same is usually replicated in the crypto-sphere as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Surveys<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers released data on Friday, showing that consumer sentiment in the U.S. improved to a four-month high in June. This is also positive news, and the improved view reflects greater optimism after signs of easing inflation, economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season in the U.S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recent inflation data signalled that the Fed's monetary tightening is cooling the world's largest economy, and according to many analysts, the Federal Reserve is near the end of its tightening cycle. The U.S. economy remains stable even though the federal funds rate remains at its highest since 2007; the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been substantial, and the unemployment rate has remained low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

THIS TUESDAY, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that groundbreaking new American homes jumped by 21.7% in May 2023 to 1.63 million units. Building permits, considered among the housing market's most forward-looking indicators, increased more than expected in May, rising 5.2% to 1.49 million units at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Kieran Clancy, Senior Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

Most Read

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

By subscribing, you agree with our privacy and terms.

Follow The Distributed

ADVERTISEMENT
\n
\"Non-Farm<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

While sentiment-based indicators show that investors are no longer in panic, a recommendation is that you should continue to take a defensive investment approach in the upcoming days because another strong job report could also pressure the Fed to do more by anchoring a 25 bp hike this month and pushing back against the timeline for rate cuts. The next Federal Reserve meeting is on July 26. The CME Group survey shows a high probability of a 25 basis point rate increase.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Economy Has Proven More Resilient Than Analysts Previously Expected. The Focus Of Investors Is Switching To The U.S. Jobs Report","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-economy-has-proven-more-resilient-than-analysts-previously-expected-the-focus-of-investors-is-switching-to-the-u-s-jobs-report","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-05 22:47:08","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12354","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12237,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-29 06:44:16","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:16","post_content":"\n

The U.S. stock market recovered this Tuesday from recent losses as upbeat economic data cooled investor worries of a possible recession that could be triggered by the Federal Reserve's aggressive interest rate hikes. In May, the U.S. economy showed positive signs, with higher-than-expected orders for essential capital goods and a significant increase in sales of new single-family homes. Moreover, consumer confidence in the U.S. reached its highest level since January 2022.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Commerce Department's durable goods report brought good news for analysts in May. Commercial aircraft\/parts saw a significant rise of 32.5%, transportation equipment increased by 3.9%, and autos\/features grew by 2.2%, leading to new orders. Non-defense capital goods, excluding aircraft, grew by 0.7%. The report indicates greater confidence in future business conditions and job availability for six months. Oren Klachkin, lead U.S. economist at Oxford Economics (OE), said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The May durable goods orders and shipments data help to fend off fears that a recession is just around the corner. However, the economic backdrop is set to become more discouraging for manufacturers as tighter lending standards and elevated interest rates weaken demand for goods.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Durable<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. economy remains steady despite the federal funds rate reaching its peak since 2007. Investors should note that good economic data may lead to a 25 basis point increase in interest rates at the Federal Reserve's July meeting. Financial markets predict a 79.4% chance of this happening. This week's important economic data includes a crucial inflation measure that could provide valuable insight into the Federal Reserve's plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Experts recommend a cautious approach when interest rates exceed 5%. This involves taking calculated risks due to the current economic climate, which is unstable and unpredictable. As interest rates increase, companies face higher borrowing costs, causing them to decrease spending, especially on hiring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Investor Jeremy Grantham warns of potential losses in the U.S. stock market and advises cautiousness. It's important to note that cryptocurrencies could also face a significant decline. This is due to the high correlation between the crypto market and U.S. equities. If the stock market experiences a downturn, the crypto-sphere may follow suit. Investors must consider this possibility.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Upbeat Economic Data Lifted Investors' Mood, But Days Ahead Could Give Cues On The Next Federal Reserve's Steps","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"upbeat-economic-data-lifted-investors-mood-but-days-ahead-could-give-cues-on-the-next-federal-reserves-steps","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-29 06:44:23","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12237","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12127,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-21 15:38:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:34","post_content":"\n

According to the latest American Association of Individual Investors(AAII) survey, Investor confidence is at a peak reaching a 19-month high. American Association of Individual Investors also reported that bearish sentiment fell to a 23-month low, and there is general expectation that the stock prices would rise over the next several months. The crypto market displayed a high correlation with U.S. equities. If a positive trend is witnessed in the stock market, the same is usually replicated in the crypto-sphere as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Surveys<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers released data on Friday, showing that consumer sentiment in the U.S. improved to a four-month high in June. This is also positive news, and the improved view reflects greater optimism after signs of easing inflation, economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season in the U.S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recent inflation data signalled that the Fed's monetary tightening is cooling the world's largest economy, and according to many analysts, the Federal Reserve is near the end of its tightening cycle. The U.S. economy remains stable even though the federal funds rate remains at its highest since 2007; the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been substantial, and the unemployment rate has remained low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

THIS TUESDAY, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that groundbreaking new American homes jumped by 21.7% in May 2023 to 1.63 million units. Building permits, considered among the housing market's most forward-looking indicators, increased more than expected in May, rising 5.2% to 1.49 million units at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Kieran Clancy, Senior Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

Most Read

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

By subscribing, you agree with our privacy and terms.

Follow The Distributed

ADVERTISEMENT
\n

Over the past twelve months, the U.S. job report has outperformed market expectations on 11 out of 12 occasions, and another set of better-than-expected readings may reinforce hopes of a soft landing (a possibility that the U.S. economy escaped a deep recession). The U.S. economy added 339,000 jobs in May 2023, and in the chart below, we can also see how the job market performed since June 2021.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Non-Farm<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

While sentiment-based indicators show that investors are no longer in panic, a recommendation is that you should continue to take a defensive investment approach in the upcoming days because another strong job report could also pressure the Fed to do more by anchoring a 25 bp hike this month and pushing back against the timeline for rate cuts. The next Federal Reserve meeting is on July 26. The CME Group survey shows a high probability of a 25 basis point rate increase.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Economy Has Proven More Resilient Than Analysts Previously Expected. The Focus Of Investors Is Switching To The U.S. Jobs Report","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-economy-has-proven-more-resilient-than-analysts-previously-expected-the-focus-of-investors-is-switching-to-the-u-s-jobs-report","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-05 22:47:08","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12354","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12237,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-29 06:44:16","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:16","post_content":"\n

The U.S. stock market recovered this Tuesday from recent losses as upbeat economic data cooled investor worries of a possible recession that could be triggered by the Federal Reserve's aggressive interest rate hikes. In May, the U.S. economy showed positive signs, with higher-than-expected orders for essential capital goods and a significant increase in sales of new single-family homes. Moreover, consumer confidence in the U.S. reached its highest level since January 2022.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Commerce Department's durable goods report brought good news for analysts in May. Commercial aircraft\/parts saw a significant rise of 32.5%, transportation equipment increased by 3.9%, and autos\/features grew by 2.2%, leading to new orders. Non-defense capital goods, excluding aircraft, grew by 0.7%. The report indicates greater confidence in future business conditions and job availability for six months. Oren Klachkin, lead U.S. economist at Oxford Economics (OE), said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The May durable goods orders and shipments data help to fend off fears that a recession is just around the corner. However, the economic backdrop is set to become more discouraging for manufacturers as tighter lending standards and elevated interest rates weaken demand for goods.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Durable<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. economy remains steady despite the federal funds rate reaching its peak since 2007. Investors should note that good economic data may lead to a 25 basis point increase in interest rates at the Federal Reserve's July meeting. Financial markets predict a 79.4% chance of this happening. This week's important economic data includes a crucial inflation measure that could provide valuable insight into the Federal Reserve's plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Experts recommend a cautious approach when interest rates exceed 5%. This involves taking calculated risks due to the current economic climate, which is unstable and unpredictable. As interest rates increase, companies face higher borrowing costs, causing them to decrease spending, especially on hiring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Investor Jeremy Grantham warns of potential losses in the U.S. stock market and advises cautiousness. It's important to note that cryptocurrencies could also face a significant decline. This is due to the high correlation between the crypto market and U.S. equities. If the stock market experiences a downturn, the crypto-sphere may follow suit. Investors must consider this possibility.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Upbeat Economic Data Lifted Investors' Mood, But Days Ahead Could Give Cues On The Next Federal Reserve's Steps","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"upbeat-economic-data-lifted-investors-mood-but-days-ahead-could-give-cues-on-the-next-federal-reserves-steps","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-29 06:44:23","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12237","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12127,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-21 15:38:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:34","post_content":"\n

According to the latest American Association of Individual Investors(AAII) survey, Investor confidence is at a peak reaching a 19-month high. American Association of Individual Investors also reported that bearish sentiment fell to a 23-month low, and there is general expectation that the stock prices would rise over the next several months. The crypto market displayed a high correlation with U.S. equities. If a positive trend is witnessed in the stock market, the same is usually replicated in the crypto-sphere as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Surveys<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers released data on Friday, showing that consumer sentiment in the U.S. improved to a four-month high in June. This is also positive news, and the improved view reflects greater optimism after signs of easing inflation, economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season in the U.S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recent inflation data signalled that the Fed's monetary tightening is cooling the world's largest economy, and according to many analysts, the Federal Reserve is near the end of its tightening cycle. The U.S. economy remains stable even though the federal funds rate remains at its highest since 2007; the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been substantial, and the unemployment rate has remained low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

THIS TUESDAY, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that groundbreaking new American homes jumped by 21.7% in May 2023 to 1.63 million units. Building permits, considered among the housing market's most forward-looking indicators, increased more than expected in May, rising 5.2% to 1.49 million units at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Kieran Clancy, Senior Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

Most Read

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

By subscribing, you agree with our privacy and terms.

Follow The Distributed

ADVERTISEMENT
\n

The jobs report on Friday is the next big test that could show if the economy is still resilient as higher rates crimp company credit lines. Companies must pay more to borrow when interest rates rise, causing them to decrease spending and job opportunities. According to analysts' estimates, the job report on Friday could show that the U.S. economy added 225,000 jobs in June 2023, with the unemployment rate set to fall to 3.6%, down from 3.7% in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Over the past twelve months, the U.S. job report has outperformed market expectations on 11 out of 12 occasions, and another set of better-than-expected readings may reinforce hopes of a soft landing (a possibility that the U.S. economy escaped a deep recession). The U.S. economy added 339,000 jobs in May 2023, and in the chart below, we can also see how the job market performed since June 2021.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Non-Farm<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

While sentiment-based indicators show that investors are no longer in panic, a recommendation is that you should continue to take a defensive investment approach in the upcoming days because another strong job report could also pressure the Fed to do more by anchoring a 25 bp hike this month and pushing back against the timeline for rate cuts. The next Federal Reserve meeting is on July 26. The CME Group survey shows a high probability of a 25 basis point rate increase.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Economy Has Proven More Resilient Than Analysts Previously Expected. The Focus Of Investors Is Switching To The U.S. Jobs Report","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-economy-has-proven-more-resilient-than-analysts-previously-expected-the-focus-of-investors-is-switching-to-the-u-s-jobs-report","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-05 22:47:08","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12354","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12237,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-29 06:44:16","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:16","post_content":"\n

The U.S. stock market recovered this Tuesday from recent losses as upbeat economic data cooled investor worries of a possible recession that could be triggered by the Federal Reserve's aggressive interest rate hikes. In May, the U.S. economy showed positive signs, with higher-than-expected orders for essential capital goods and a significant increase in sales of new single-family homes. Moreover, consumer confidence in the U.S. reached its highest level since January 2022.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Commerce Department's durable goods report brought good news for analysts in May. Commercial aircraft\/parts saw a significant rise of 32.5%, transportation equipment increased by 3.9%, and autos\/features grew by 2.2%, leading to new orders. Non-defense capital goods, excluding aircraft, grew by 0.7%. The report indicates greater confidence in future business conditions and job availability for six months. Oren Klachkin, lead U.S. economist at Oxford Economics (OE), said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The May durable goods orders and shipments data help to fend off fears that a recession is just around the corner. However, the economic backdrop is set to become more discouraging for manufacturers as tighter lending standards and elevated interest rates weaken demand for goods.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Durable<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. economy remains steady despite the federal funds rate reaching its peak since 2007. Investors should note that good economic data may lead to a 25 basis point increase in interest rates at the Federal Reserve's July meeting. Financial markets predict a 79.4% chance of this happening. This week's important economic data includes a crucial inflation measure that could provide valuable insight into the Federal Reserve's plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Experts recommend a cautious approach when interest rates exceed 5%. This involves taking calculated risks due to the current economic climate, which is unstable and unpredictable. As interest rates increase, companies face higher borrowing costs, causing them to decrease spending, especially on hiring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Investor Jeremy Grantham warns of potential losses in the U.S. stock market and advises cautiousness. It's important to note that cryptocurrencies could also face a significant decline. This is due to the high correlation between the crypto market and U.S. equities. If the stock market experiences a downturn, the crypto-sphere may follow suit. Investors must consider this possibility.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Upbeat Economic Data Lifted Investors' Mood, But Days Ahead Could Give Cues On The Next Federal Reserve's Steps","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"upbeat-economic-data-lifted-investors-mood-but-days-ahead-could-give-cues-on-the-next-federal-reserves-steps","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-29 06:44:23","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12237","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12127,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-21 15:38:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:34","post_content":"\n

According to the latest American Association of Individual Investors(AAII) survey, Investor confidence is at a peak reaching a 19-month high. American Association of Individual Investors also reported that bearish sentiment fell to a 23-month low, and there is general expectation that the stock prices would rise over the next several months. The crypto market displayed a high correlation with U.S. equities. If a positive trend is witnessed in the stock market, the same is usually replicated in the crypto-sphere as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Surveys<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers released data on Friday, showing that consumer sentiment in the U.S. improved to a four-month high in June. This is also positive news, and the improved view reflects greater optimism after signs of easing inflation, economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season in the U.S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recent inflation data signalled that the Fed's monetary tightening is cooling the world's largest economy, and according to many analysts, the Federal Reserve is near the end of its tightening cycle. The U.S. economy remains stable even though the federal funds rate remains at its highest since 2007; the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been substantial, and the unemployment rate has remained low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

THIS TUESDAY, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that groundbreaking new American homes jumped by 21.7% in May 2023 to 1.63 million units. Building permits, considered among the housing market's most forward-looking indicators, increased more than expected in May, rising 5.2% to 1.49 million units at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Kieran Clancy, Senior Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

Most Read

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

By subscribing, you agree with our privacy and terms.

Follow The Distributed

ADVERTISEMENT
\n

\"The economy has proven more resilient than we previously expected, owing largely to consumption. However, we do not expect such robust prints to continue. Momentum in the economy should slow as the lagged effects of tighter monetary policy and financial conditions start to take hold.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The jobs report on Friday is the next big test that could show if the economy is still resilient as higher rates crimp company credit lines. Companies must pay more to borrow when interest rates rise, causing them to decrease spending and job opportunities. According to analysts' estimates, the job report on Friday could show that the U.S. economy added 225,000 jobs in June 2023, with the unemployment rate set to fall to 3.6%, down from 3.7% in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Over the past twelve months, the U.S. job report has outperformed market expectations on 11 out of 12 occasions, and another set of better-than-expected readings may reinforce hopes of a soft landing (a possibility that the U.S. economy escaped a deep recession). The U.S. economy added 339,000 jobs in May 2023, and in the chart below, we can also see how the job market performed since June 2021.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Non-Farm<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

While sentiment-based indicators show that investors are no longer in panic, a recommendation is that you should continue to take a defensive investment approach in the upcoming days because another strong job report could also pressure the Fed to do more by anchoring a 25 bp hike this month and pushing back against the timeline for rate cuts. The next Federal Reserve meeting is on July 26. The CME Group survey shows a high probability of a 25 basis point rate increase.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Economy Has Proven More Resilient Than Analysts Previously Expected. The Focus Of Investors Is Switching To The U.S. Jobs Report","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-economy-has-proven-more-resilient-than-analysts-previously-expected-the-focus-of-investors-is-switching-to-the-u-s-jobs-report","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-05 22:47:08","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12354","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12237,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-29 06:44:16","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:16","post_content":"\n

The U.S. stock market recovered this Tuesday from recent losses as upbeat economic data cooled investor worries of a possible recession that could be triggered by the Federal Reserve's aggressive interest rate hikes. In May, the U.S. economy showed positive signs, with higher-than-expected orders for essential capital goods and a significant increase in sales of new single-family homes. Moreover, consumer confidence in the U.S. reached its highest level since January 2022.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Commerce Department's durable goods report brought good news for analysts in May. Commercial aircraft\/parts saw a significant rise of 32.5%, transportation equipment increased by 3.9%, and autos\/features grew by 2.2%, leading to new orders. Non-defense capital goods, excluding aircraft, grew by 0.7%. The report indicates greater confidence in future business conditions and job availability for six months. Oren Klachkin, lead U.S. economist at Oxford Economics (OE), said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The May durable goods orders and shipments data help to fend off fears that a recession is just around the corner. However, the economic backdrop is set to become more discouraging for manufacturers as tighter lending standards and elevated interest rates weaken demand for goods.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Durable<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. economy remains steady despite the federal funds rate reaching its peak since 2007. Investors should note that good economic data may lead to a 25 basis point increase in interest rates at the Federal Reserve's July meeting. Financial markets predict a 79.4% chance of this happening. This week's important economic data includes a crucial inflation measure that could provide valuable insight into the Federal Reserve's plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Experts recommend a cautious approach when interest rates exceed 5%. This involves taking calculated risks due to the current economic climate, which is unstable and unpredictable. As interest rates increase, companies face higher borrowing costs, causing them to decrease spending, especially on hiring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Investor Jeremy Grantham warns of potential losses in the U.S. stock market and advises cautiousness. It's important to note that cryptocurrencies could also face a significant decline. This is due to the high correlation between the crypto market and U.S. equities. If the stock market experiences a downturn, the crypto-sphere may follow suit. Investors must consider this possibility.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Upbeat Economic Data Lifted Investors' Mood, But Days Ahead Could Give Cues On The Next Federal Reserve's Steps","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"upbeat-economic-data-lifted-investors-mood-but-days-ahead-could-give-cues-on-the-next-federal-reserves-steps","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-29 06:44:23","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12237","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12127,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-21 15:38:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:34","post_content":"\n

According to the latest American Association of Individual Investors(AAII) survey, Investor confidence is at a peak reaching a 19-month high. American Association of Individual Investors also reported that bearish sentiment fell to a 23-month low, and there is general expectation that the stock prices would rise over the next several months. The crypto market displayed a high correlation with U.S. equities. If a positive trend is witnessed in the stock market, the same is usually replicated in the crypto-sphere as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Surveys<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers released data on Friday, showing that consumer sentiment in the U.S. improved to a four-month high in June. This is also positive news, and the improved view reflects greater optimism after signs of easing inflation, economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season in the U.S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recent inflation data signalled that the Fed's monetary tightening is cooling the world's largest economy, and according to many analysts, the Federal Reserve is near the end of its tightening cycle. The U.S. economy remains stable even though the federal funds rate remains at its highest since 2007; the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been substantial, and the unemployment rate has remained low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

THIS TUESDAY, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that groundbreaking new American homes jumped by 21.7% in May 2023 to 1.63 million units. Building permits, considered among the housing market's most forward-looking indicators, increased more than expected in May, rising 5.2% to 1.49 million units at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Kieran Clancy, Senior Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

Most Read

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

By subscribing, you agree with our privacy and terms.

Follow The Distributed

ADVERTISEMENT
\n

On March 12, the central bank's bank term funding program announcement reinforced faith in the banking system, and investors were content to see additional signs of decreased inflation. The stock market tracked with the economy in the first half of 2023, surprising the upside and leaving investors to wonder if the resilience can continue. The current rally in the cryptocurrency market is also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity. Bank of America U.S. economist Michael Gapen said<\/a> on Friday:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The economy has proven more resilient than we previously expected, owing largely to consumption. However, we do not expect such robust prints to continue. Momentum in the economy should slow as the lagged effects of tighter monetary policy and financial conditions start to take hold.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The jobs report on Friday is the next big test that could show if the economy is still resilient as higher rates crimp company credit lines. Companies must pay more to borrow when interest rates rise, causing them to decrease spending and job opportunities. According to analysts' estimates, the job report on Friday could show that the U.S. economy added 225,000 jobs in June 2023, with the unemployment rate set to fall to 3.6%, down from 3.7% in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Over the past twelve months, the U.S. job report has outperformed market expectations on 11 out of 12 occasions, and another set of better-than-expected readings may reinforce hopes of a soft landing (a possibility that the U.S. economy escaped a deep recession). The U.S. economy added 339,000 jobs in May 2023, and in the chart below, we can also see how the job market performed since June 2021.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Non-Farm<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

While sentiment-based indicators show that investors are no longer in panic, a recommendation is that you should continue to take a defensive investment approach in the upcoming days because another strong job report could also pressure the Fed to do more by anchoring a 25 bp hike this month and pushing back against the timeline for rate cuts. The next Federal Reserve meeting is on July 26. The CME Group survey shows a high probability of a 25 basis point rate increase.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Economy Has Proven More Resilient Than Analysts Previously Expected. The Focus Of Investors Is Switching To The U.S. Jobs Report","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-economy-has-proven-more-resilient-than-analysts-previously-expected-the-focus-of-investors-is-switching-to-the-u-s-jobs-report","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-05 22:47:08","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12354","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12237,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-29 06:44:16","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:16","post_content":"\n

The U.S. stock market recovered this Tuesday from recent losses as upbeat economic data cooled investor worries of a possible recession that could be triggered by the Federal Reserve's aggressive interest rate hikes. In May, the U.S. economy showed positive signs, with higher-than-expected orders for essential capital goods and a significant increase in sales of new single-family homes. Moreover, consumer confidence in the U.S. reached its highest level since January 2022.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Commerce Department's durable goods report brought good news for analysts in May. Commercial aircraft\/parts saw a significant rise of 32.5%, transportation equipment increased by 3.9%, and autos\/features grew by 2.2%, leading to new orders. Non-defense capital goods, excluding aircraft, grew by 0.7%. The report indicates greater confidence in future business conditions and job availability for six months. Oren Klachkin, lead U.S. economist at Oxford Economics (OE), said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The May durable goods orders and shipments data help to fend off fears that a recession is just around the corner. However, the economic backdrop is set to become more discouraging for manufacturers as tighter lending standards and elevated interest rates weaken demand for goods.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Durable<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. economy remains steady despite the federal funds rate reaching its peak since 2007. Investors should note that good economic data may lead to a 25 basis point increase in interest rates at the Federal Reserve's July meeting. Financial markets predict a 79.4% chance of this happening. This week's important economic data includes a crucial inflation measure that could provide valuable insight into the Federal Reserve's plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Experts recommend a cautious approach when interest rates exceed 5%. This involves taking calculated risks due to the current economic climate, which is unstable and unpredictable. As interest rates increase, companies face higher borrowing costs, causing them to decrease spending, especially on hiring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Investor Jeremy Grantham warns of potential losses in the U.S. stock market and advises cautiousness. It's important to note that cryptocurrencies could also face a significant decline. This is due to the high correlation between the crypto market and U.S. equities. If the stock market experiences a downturn, the crypto-sphere may follow suit. Investors must consider this possibility.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Upbeat Economic Data Lifted Investors' Mood, But Days Ahead Could Give Cues On The Next Federal Reserve's Steps","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"upbeat-economic-data-lifted-investors-mood-but-days-ahead-could-give-cues-on-the-next-federal-reserves-steps","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-29 06:44:23","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12237","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12127,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-21 15:38:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:34","post_content":"\n

According to the latest American Association of Individual Investors(AAII) survey, Investor confidence is at a peak reaching a 19-month high. American Association of Individual Investors also reported that bearish sentiment fell to a 23-month low, and there is general expectation that the stock prices would rise over the next several months. The crypto market displayed a high correlation with U.S. equities. If a positive trend is witnessed in the stock market, the same is usually replicated in the crypto-sphere as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Surveys<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers released data on Friday, showing that consumer sentiment in the U.S. improved to a four-month high in June. This is also positive news, and the improved view reflects greater optimism after signs of easing inflation, economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season in the U.S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recent inflation data signalled that the Fed's monetary tightening is cooling the world's largest economy, and according to many analysts, the Federal Reserve is near the end of its tightening cycle. The U.S. economy remains stable even though the federal funds rate remains at its highest since 2007; the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been substantial, and the unemployment rate has remained low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

THIS TUESDAY, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that groundbreaking new American homes jumped by 21.7% in May 2023 to 1.63 million units. Building permits, considered among the housing market's most forward-looking indicators, increased more than expected in May, rising 5.2% to 1.49 million units at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Kieran Clancy, Senior Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

Most Read

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

By subscribing, you agree with our privacy and terms.

Follow The Distributed

ADVERTISEMENT
\n

Despite the high federal funds rate, durable goods orders exceeded expectations, which caused investors to remain unconcerned about a recession, surprising analysts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 12, the central bank's bank term funding program announcement reinforced faith in the banking system, and investors were content to see additional signs of decreased inflation. The stock market tracked with the economy in the first half of 2023, surprising the upside and leaving investors to wonder if the resilience can continue. The current rally in the cryptocurrency market is also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity. Bank of America U.S. economist Michael Gapen said<\/a> on Friday:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The economy has proven more resilient than we previously expected, owing largely to consumption. However, we do not expect such robust prints to continue. Momentum in the economy should slow as the lagged effects of tighter monetary policy and financial conditions start to take hold.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The jobs report on Friday is the next big test that could show if the economy is still resilient as higher rates crimp company credit lines. Companies must pay more to borrow when interest rates rise, causing them to decrease spending and job opportunities. According to analysts' estimates, the job report on Friday could show that the U.S. economy added 225,000 jobs in June 2023, with the unemployment rate set to fall to 3.6%, down from 3.7% in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Over the past twelve months, the U.S. job report has outperformed market expectations on 11 out of 12 occasions, and another set of better-than-expected readings may reinforce hopes of a soft landing (a possibility that the U.S. economy escaped a deep recession). The U.S. economy added 339,000 jobs in May 2023, and in the chart below, we can also see how the job market performed since June 2021.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Non-Farm<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

While sentiment-based indicators show that investors are no longer in panic, a recommendation is that you should continue to take a defensive investment approach in the upcoming days because another strong job report could also pressure the Fed to do more by anchoring a 25 bp hike this month and pushing back against the timeline for rate cuts. The next Federal Reserve meeting is on July 26. The CME Group survey shows a high probability of a 25 basis point rate increase.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Economy Has Proven More Resilient Than Analysts Previously Expected. The Focus Of Investors Is Switching To The U.S. Jobs Report","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-economy-has-proven-more-resilient-than-analysts-previously-expected-the-focus-of-investors-is-switching-to-the-u-s-jobs-report","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-05 22:47:08","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12354","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12237,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-29 06:44:16","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:16","post_content":"\n

The U.S. stock market recovered this Tuesday from recent losses as upbeat economic data cooled investor worries of a possible recession that could be triggered by the Federal Reserve's aggressive interest rate hikes. In May, the U.S. economy showed positive signs, with higher-than-expected orders for essential capital goods and a significant increase in sales of new single-family homes. Moreover, consumer confidence in the U.S. reached its highest level since January 2022.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Commerce Department's durable goods report brought good news for analysts in May. Commercial aircraft\/parts saw a significant rise of 32.5%, transportation equipment increased by 3.9%, and autos\/features grew by 2.2%, leading to new orders. Non-defense capital goods, excluding aircraft, grew by 0.7%. The report indicates greater confidence in future business conditions and job availability for six months. Oren Klachkin, lead U.S. economist at Oxford Economics (OE), said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The May durable goods orders and shipments data help to fend off fears that a recession is just around the corner. However, the economic backdrop is set to become more discouraging for manufacturers as tighter lending standards and elevated interest rates weaken demand for goods.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Durable<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. economy remains steady despite the federal funds rate reaching its peak since 2007. Investors should note that good economic data may lead to a 25 basis point increase in interest rates at the Federal Reserve's July meeting. Financial markets predict a 79.4% chance of this happening. This week's important economic data includes a crucial inflation measure that could provide valuable insight into the Federal Reserve's plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Experts recommend a cautious approach when interest rates exceed 5%. This involves taking calculated risks due to the current economic climate, which is unstable and unpredictable. As interest rates increase, companies face higher borrowing costs, causing them to decrease spending, especially on hiring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Investor Jeremy Grantham warns of potential losses in the U.S. stock market and advises cautiousness. It's important to note that cryptocurrencies could also face a significant decline. This is due to the high correlation between the crypto market and U.S. equities. If the stock market experiences a downturn, the crypto-sphere may follow suit. Investors must consider this possibility.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Upbeat Economic Data Lifted Investors' Mood, But Days Ahead Could Give Cues On The Next Federal Reserve's Steps","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"upbeat-economic-data-lifted-investors-mood-but-days-ahead-could-give-cues-on-the-next-federal-reserves-steps","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-29 06:44:23","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12237","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12127,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-21 15:38:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:34","post_content":"\n

According to the latest American Association of Individual Investors(AAII) survey, Investor confidence is at a peak reaching a 19-month high. American Association of Individual Investors also reported that bearish sentiment fell to a 23-month low, and there is general expectation that the stock prices would rise over the next several months. The crypto market displayed a high correlation with U.S. equities. If a positive trend is witnessed in the stock market, the same is usually replicated in the crypto-sphere as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Surveys<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers released data on Friday, showing that consumer sentiment in the U.S. improved to a four-month high in June. This is also positive news, and the improved view reflects greater optimism after signs of easing inflation, economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season in the U.S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recent inflation data signalled that the Fed's monetary tightening is cooling the world's largest economy, and according to many analysts, the Federal Reserve is near the end of its tightening cycle. The U.S. economy remains stable even though the federal funds rate remains at its highest since 2007; the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been substantial, and the unemployment rate has remained low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

THIS TUESDAY, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that groundbreaking new American homes jumped by 21.7% in May 2023 to 1.63 million units. Building permits, considered among the housing market's most forward-looking indicators, increased more than expected in May, rising 5.2% to 1.49 million units at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Kieran Clancy, Senior Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

Most Read

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

By subscribing, you agree with our privacy and terms.

Follow The Distributed

ADVERTISEMENT
\n

Starting in March 2022, the U.S. Federal Reserve has enacted ten consecutive interest rate increases totaling five percentage points, and the next Federal Reserve policy meeting will be at the center of attention in July 2023. The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5% to 5.25%, which is the highest level since the 2006 year, and in the days ahead, stock and cryptocurrency markets will be hypersensitive to any FED comments.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Inflation Cooled More Than Expected In June. Does This Indicate That The Federal Reserve Is Near The End Of Its Rapid Interest Rate Hikes?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"inflation-cooled-more-than-expected-in-june-does-this-indicate-that-the-federal-reserve-is-near-the-end-of-its-rapid-interest-rate-hikes","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-13 21:13:36","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12490","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12354,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-05 22:47:04","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:04","post_content":"\n

Despite the high federal funds rate, durable goods orders exceeded expectations, which caused investors to remain unconcerned about a recession, surprising analysts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 12, the central bank's bank term funding program announcement reinforced faith in the banking system, and investors were content to see additional signs of decreased inflation. The stock market tracked with the economy in the first half of 2023, surprising the upside and leaving investors to wonder if the resilience can continue. The current rally in the cryptocurrency market is also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity. Bank of America U.S. economist Michael Gapen said<\/a> on Friday:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The economy has proven more resilient than we previously expected, owing largely to consumption. However, we do not expect such robust prints to continue. Momentum in the economy should slow as the lagged effects of tighter monetary policy and financial conditions start to take hold.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The jobs report on Friday is the next big test that could show if the economy is still resilient as higher rates crimp company credit lines. Companies must pay more to borrow when interest rates rise, causing them to decrease spending and job opportunities. According to analysts' estimates, the job report on Friday could show that the U.S. economy added 225,000 jobs in June 2023, with the unemployment rate set to fall to 3.6%, down from 3.7% in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Over the past twelve months, the U.S. job report has outperformed market expectations on 11 out of 12 occasions, and another set of better-than-expected readings may reinforce hopes of a soft landing (a possibility that the U.S. economy escaped a deep recession). The U.S. economy added 339,000 jobs in May 2023, and in the chart below, we can also see how the job market performed since June 2021.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Non-Farm<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

While sentiment-based indicators show that investors are no longer in panic, a recommendation is that you should continue to take a defensive investment approach in the upcoming days because another strong job report could also pressure the Fed to do more by anchoring a 25 bp hike this month and pushing back against the timeline for rate cuts. The next Federal Reserve meeting is on July 26. The CME Group survey shows a high probability of a 25 basis point rate increase.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Economy Has Proven More Resilient Than Analysts Previously Expected. The Focus Of Investors Is Switching To The U.S. Jobs Report","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-economy-has-proven-more-resilient-than-analysts-previously-expected-the-focus-of-investors-is-switching-to-the-u-s-jobs-report","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-05 22:47:08","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12354","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12237,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-29 06:44:16","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:16","post_content":"\n

The U.S. stock market recovered this Tuesday from recent losses as upbeat economic data cooled investor worries of a possible recession that could be triggered by the Federal Reserve's aggressive interest rate hikes. In May, the U.S. economy showed positive signs, with higher-than-expected orders for essential capital goods and a significant increase in sales of new single-family homes. Moreover, consumer confidence in the U.S. reached its highest level since January 2022.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Commerce Department's durable goods report brought good news for analysts in May. Commercial aircraft\/parts saw a significant rise of 32.5%, transportation equipment increased by 3.9%, and autos\/features grew by 2.2%, leading to new orders. Non-defense capital goods, excluding aircraft, grew by 0.7%. The report indicates greater confidence in future business conditions and job availability for six months. Oren Klachkin, lead U.S. economist at Oxford Economics (OE), said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The May durable goods orders and shipments data help to fend off fears that a recession is just around the corner. However, the economic backdrop is set to become more discouraging for manufacturers as tighter lending standards and elevated interest rates weaken demand for goods.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Durable<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. economy remains steady despite the federal funds rate reaching its peak since 2007. Investors should note that good economic data may lead to a 25 basis point increase in interest rates at the Federal Reserve's July meeting. Financial markets predict a 79.4% chance of this happening. This week's important economic data includes a crucial inflation measure that could provide valuable insight into the Federal Reserve's plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Experts recommend a cautious approach when interest rates exceed 5%. This involves taking calculated risks due to the current economic climate, which is unstable and unpredictable. As interest rates increase, companies face higher borrowing costs, causing them to decrease spending, especially on hiring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Investor Jeremy Grantham warns of potential losses in the U.S. stock market and advises cautiousness. It's important to note that cryptocurrencies could also face a significant decline. This is due to the high correlation between the crypto market and U.S. equities. If the stock market experiences a downturn, the crypto-sphere may follow suit. Investors must consider this possibility.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Upbeat Economic Data Lifted Investors' Mood, But Days Ahead Could Give Cues On The Next Federal Reserve's Steps","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"upbeat-economic-data-lifted-investors-mood-but-days-ahead-could-give-cues-on-the-next-federal-reserves-steps","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-29 06:44:23","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12237","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12127,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-21 15:38:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:34","post_content":"\n

According to the latest American Association of Individual Investors(AAII) survey, Investor confidence is at a peak reaching a 19-month high. American Association of Individual Investors also reported that bearish sentiment fell to a 23-month low, and there is general expectation that the stock prices would rise over the next several months. The crypto market displayed a high correlation with U.S. equities. If a positive trend is witnessed in the stock market, the same is usually replicated in the crypto-sphere as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Surveys<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers released data on Friday, showing that consumer sentiment in the U.S. improved to a four-month high in June. This is also positive news, and the improved view reflects greater optimism after signs of easing inflation, economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season in the U.S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recent inflation data signalled that the Fed's monetary tightening is cooling the world's largest economy, and according to many analysts, the Federal Reserve is near the end of its tightening cycle. The U.S. economy remains stable even though the federal funds rate remains at its highest since 2007; the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been substantial, and the unemployment rate has remained low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

THIS TUESDAY, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that groundbreaking new American homes jumped by 21.7% in May 2023 to 1.63 million units. Building permits, considered among the housing market's most forward-looking indicators, increased more than expected in May, rising 5.2% to 1.49 million units at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Kieran Clancy, Senior Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

Most Read

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

By subscribing, you agree with our privacy and terms.

Follow The Distributed

ADVERTISEMENT
\n

\"U.S. consumer prices rose modestly in June and logged their smallest annual increase in more than two years as inflation continued to subside. Even though the Federal Reserve has probably already talked itself into a corner needing to hike at the July meeting, it may be the last one for this hiking cycle.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Starting in March 2022, the U.S. Federal Reserve has enacted ten consecutive interest rate increases totaling five percentage points, and the next Federal Reserve policy meeting will be at the center of attention in July 2023. The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5% to 5.25%, which is the highest level since the 2006 year, and in the days ahead, stock and cryptocurrency markets will be hypersensitive to any FED comments.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Inflation Cooled More Than Expected In June. Does This Indicate That The Federal Reserve Is Near The End Of Its Rapid Interest Rate Hikes?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"inflation-cooled-more-than-expected-in-june-does-this-indicate-that-the-federal-reserve-is-near-the-end-of-its-rapid-interest-rate-hikes","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-13 21:13:36","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12490","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12354,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-05 22:47:04","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:04","post_content":"\n

Despite the high federal funds rate, durable goods orders exceeded expectations, which caused investors to remain unconcerned about a recession, surprising analysts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 12, the central bank's bank term funding program announcement reinforced faith in the banking system, and investors were content to see additional signs of decreased inflation. The stock market tracked with the economy in the first half of 2023, surprising the upside and leaving investors to wonder if the resilience can continue. The current rally in the cryptocurrency market is also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity. Bank of America U.S. economist Michael Gapen said<\/a> on Friday:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The economy has proven more resilient than we previously expected, owing largely to consumption. However, we do not expect such robust prints to continue. Momentum in the economy should slow as the lagged effects of tighter monetary policy and financial conditions start to take hold.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The jobs report on Friday is the next big test that could show if the economy is still resilient as higher rates crimp company credit lines. Companies must pay more to borrow when interest rates rise, causing them to decrease spending and job opportunities. According to analysts' estimates, the job report on Friday could show that the U.S. economy added 225,000 jobs in June 2023, with the unemployment rate set to fall to 3.6%, down from 3.7% in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Over the past twelve months, the U.S. job report has outperformed market expectations on 11 out of 12 occasions, and another set of better-than-expected readings may reinforce hopes of a soft landing (a possibility that the U.S. economy escaped a deep recession). The U.S. economy added 339,000 jobs in May 2023, and in the chart below, we can also see how the job market performed since June 2021.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Non-Farm<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

While sentiment-based indicators show that investors are no longer in panic, a recommendation is that you should continue to take a defensive investment approach in the upcoming days because another strong job report could also pressure the Fed to do more by anchoring a 25 bp hike this month and pushing back against the timeline for rate cuts. The next Federal Reserve meeting is on July 26. The CME Group survey shows a high probability of a 25 basis point rate increase.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Economy Has Proven More Resilient Than Analysts Previously Expected. The Focus Of Investors Is Switching To The U.S. Jobs Report","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-economy-has-proven-more-resilient-than-analysts-previously-expected-the-focus-of-investors-is-switching-to-the-u-s-jobs-report","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-05 22:47:08","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12354","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12237,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-29 06:44:16","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:16","post_content":"\n

The U.S. stock market recovered this Tuesday from recent losses as upbeat economic data cooled investor worries of a possible recession that could be triggered by the Federal Reserve's aggressive interest rate hikes. In May, the U.S. economy showed positive signs, with higher-than-expected orders for essential capital goods and a significant increase in sales of new single-family homes. Moreover, consumer confidence in the U.S. reached its highest level since January 2022.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Commerce Department's durable goods report brought good news for analysts in May. Commercial aircraft\/parts saw a significant rise of 32.5%, transportation equipment increased by 3.9%, and autos\/features grew by 2.2%, leading to new orders. Non-defense capital goods, excluding aircraft, grew by 0.7%. The report indicates greater confidence in future business conditions and job availability for six months. Oren Klachkin, lead U.S. economist at Oxford Economics (OE), said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The May durable goods orders and shipments data help to fend off fears that a recession is just around the corner. However, the economic backdrop is set to become more discouraging for manufacturers as tighter lending standards and elevated interest rates weaken demand for goods.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Durable<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. economy remains steady despite the federal funds rate reaching its peak since 2007. Investors should note that good economic data may lead to a 25 basis point increase in interest rates at the Federal Reserve's July meeting. Financial markets predict a 79.4% chance of this happening. This week's important economic data includes a crucial inflation measure that could provide valuable insight into the Federal Reserve's plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Experts recommend a cautious approach when interest rates exceed 5%. This involves taking calculated risks due to the current economic climate, which is unstable and unpredictable. As interest rates increase, companies face higher borrowing costs, causing them to decrease spending, especially on hiring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Investor Jeremy Grantham warns of potential losses in the U.S. stock market and advises cautiousness. It's important to note that cryptocurrencies could also face a significant decline. This is due to the high correlation between the crypto market and U.S. equities. If the stock market experiences a downturn, the crypto-sphere may follow suit. Investors must consider this possibility.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Upbeat Economic Data Lifted Investors' Mood, But Days Ahead Could Give Cues On The Next Federal Reserve's Steps","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"upbeat-economic-data-lifted-investors-mood-but-days-ahead-could-give-cues-on-the-next-federal-reserves-steps","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-29 06:44:23","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12237","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12127,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-21 15:38:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:34","post_content":"\n

According to the latest American Association of Individual Investors(AAII) survey, Investor confidence is at a peak reaching a 19-month high. American Association of Individual Investors also reported that bearish sentiment fell to a 23-month low, and there is general expectation that the stock prices would rise over the next several months. The crypto market displayed a high correlation with U.S. equities. If a positive trend is witnessed in the stock market, the same is usually replicated in the crypto-sphere as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Surveys<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers released data on Friday, showing that consumer sentiment in the U.S. improved to a four-month high in June. This is also positive news, and the improved view reflects greater optimism after signs of easing inflation, economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season in the U.S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recent inflation data signalled that the Fed's monetary tightening is cooling the world's largest economy, and according to many analysts, the Federal Reserve is near the end of its tightening cycle. The U.S. economy remains stable even though the federal funds rate remains at its highest since 2007; the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been substantial, and the unemployment rate has remained low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

THIS TUESDAY, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that groundbreaking new American homes jumped by 21.7% in May 2023 to 1.63 million units. Building permits, considered among the housing market's most forward-looking indicators, increased more than expected in May, rising 5.2% to 1.49 million units at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Kieran Clancy, Senior Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

Most Read

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

By subscribing, you agree with our privacy and terms.

Follow The Distributed

ADVERTISEMENT
\n

Wall Street is in celebration mode after a sharper-than-expected deceleration of inflation, but it remains above Powell & Co's average annual 2% target. However, there is a great probability that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. Brian Jacobsen, chief economist at Annex Wealth Management, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"U.S. consumer prices rose modestly in June and logged their smallest annual increase in more than two years as inflation continued to subside. Even though the Federal Reserve has probably already talked itself into a corner needing to hike at the July meeting, it may be the last one for this hiking cycle.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Starting in March 2022, the U.S. Federal Reserve has enacted ten consecutive interest rate increases totaling five percentage points, and the next Federal Reserve policy meeting will be at the center of attention in July 2023. The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5% to 5.25%, which is the highest level since the 2006 year, and in the days ahead, stock and cryptocurrency markets will be hypersensitive to any FED comments.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Inflation Cooled More Than Expected In June. Does This Indicate That The Federal Reserve Is Near The End Of Its Rapid Interest Rate Hikes?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"inflation-cooled-more-than-expected-in-june-does-this-indicate-that-the-federal-reserve-is-near-the-end-of-its-rapid-interest-rate-hikes","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-13 21:13:36","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12490","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12354,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-05 22:47:04","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:04","post_content":"\n

Despite the high federal funds rate, durable goods orders exceeded expectations, which caused investors to remain unconcerned about a recession, surprising analysts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 12, the central bank's bank term funding program announcement reinforced faith in the banking system, and investors were content to see additional signs of decreased inflation. The stock market tracked with the economy in the first half of 2023, surprising the upside and leaving investors to wonder if the resilience can continue. The current rally in the cryptocurrency market is also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity. Bank of America U.S. economist Michael Gapen said<\/a> on Friday:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The economy has proven more resilient than we previously expected, owing largely to consumption. However, we do not expect such robust prints to continue. Momentum in the economy should slow as the lagged effects of tighter monetary policy and financial conditions start to take hold.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The jobs report on Friday is the next big test that could show if the economy is still resilient as higher rates crimp company credit lines. Companies must pay more to borrow when interest rates rise, causing them to decrease spending and job opportunities. According to analysts' estimates, the job report on Friday could show that the U.S. economy added 225,000 jobs in June 2023, with the unemployment rate set to fall to 3.6%, down from 3.7% in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Over the past twelve months, the U.S. job report has outperformed market expectations on 11 out of 12 occasions, and another set of better-than-expected readings may reinforce hopes of a soft landing (a possibility that the U.S. economy escaped a deep recession). The U.S. economy added 339,000 jobs in May 2023, and in the chart below, we can also see how the job market performed since June 2021.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Non-Farm<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

While sentiment-based indicators show that investors are no longer in panic, a recommendation is that you should continue to take a defensive investment approach in the upcoming days because another strong job report could also pressure the Fed to do more by anchoring a 25 bp hike this month and pushing back against the timeline for rate cuts. The next Federal Reserve meeting is on July 26. The CME Group survey shows a high probability of a 25 basis point rate increase.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Economy Has Proven More Resilient Than Analysts Previously Expected. The Focus Of Investors Is Switching To The U.S. Jobs Report","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-economy-has-proven-more-resilient-than-analysts-previously-expected-the-focus-of-investors-is-switching-to-the-u-s-jobs-report","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-05 22:47:08","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12354","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12237,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-29 06:44:16","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:16","post_content":"\n

The U.S. stock market recovered this Tuesday from recent losses as upbeat economic data cooled investor worries of a possible recession that could be triggered by the Federal Reserve's aggressive interest rate hikes. In May, the U.S. economy showed positive signs, with higher-than-expected orders for essential capital goods and a significant increase in sales of new single-family homes. Moreover, consumer confidence in the U.S. reached its highest level since January 2022.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Commerce Department's durable goods report brought good news for analysts in May. Commercial aircraft\/parts saw a significant rise of 32.5%, transportation equipment increased by 3.9%, and autos\/features grew by 2.2%, leading to new orders. Non-defense capital goods, excluding aircraft, grew by 0.7%. The report indicates greater confidence in future business conditions and job availability for six months. Oren Klachkin, lead U.S. economist at Oxford Economics (OE), said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The May durable goods orders and shipments data help to fend off fears that a recession is just around the corner. However, the economic backdrop is set to become more discouraging for manufacturers as tighter lending standards and elevated interest rates weaken demand for goods.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Durable<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. economy remains steady despite the federal funds rate reaching its peak since 2007. Investors should note that good economic data may lead to a 25 basis point increase in interest rates at the Federal Reserve's July meeting. Financial markets predict a 79.4% chance of this happening. This week's important economic data includes a crucial inflation measure that could provide valuable insight into the Federal Reserve's plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Experts recommend a cautious approach when interest rates exceed 5%. This involves taking calculated risks due to the current economic climate, which is unstable and unpredictable. As interest rates increase, companies face higher borrowing costs, causing them to decrease spending, especially on hiring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Investor Jeremy Grantham warns of potential losses in the U.S. stock market and advises cautiousness. It's important to note that cryptocurrencies could also face a significant decline. This is due to the high correlation between the crypto market and U.S. equities. If the stock market experiences a downturn, the crypto-sphere may follow suit. Investors must consider this possibility.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Upbeat Economic Data Lifted Investors' Mood, But Days Ahead Could Give Cues On The Next Federal Reserve's Steps","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"upbeat-economic-data-lifted-investors-mood-but-days-ahead-could-give-cues-on-the-next-federal-reserves-steps","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-29 06:44:23","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12237","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12127,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-21 15:38:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:34","post_content":"\n

According to the latest American Association of Individual Investors(AAII) survey, Investor confidence is at a peak reaching a 19-month high. American Association of Individual Investors also reported that bearish sentiment fell to a 23-month low, and there is general expectation that the stock prices would rise over the next several months. The crypto market displayed a high correlation with U.S. equities. If a positive trend is witnessed in the stock market, the same is usually replicated in the crypto-sphere as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Surveys<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers released data on Friday, showing that consumer sentiment in the U.S. improved to a four-month high in June. This is also positive news, and the improved view reflects greater optimism after signs of easing inflation, economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season in the U.S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recent inflation data signalled that the Fed's monetary tightening is cooling the world's largest economy, and according to many analysts, the Federal Reserve is near the end of its tightening cycle. The U.S. economy remains stable even though the federal funds rate remains at its highest since 2007; the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been substantial, and the unemployment rate has remained low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

THIS TUESDAY, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that groundbreaking new American homes jumped by 21.7% in May 2023 to 1.63 million units. Building permits, considered among the housing market's most forward-looking indicators, increased more than expected in May, rising 5.2% to 1.49 million units at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Kieran Clancy, Senior Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

Most Read

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

By subscribing, you agree with our privacy and terms.

Follow The Distributed

ADVERTISEMENT
\n

The Fed may debate whether to hike the policy rate further based on the new inflation data. However, Ryan Sweet, the Chief US Economist at Oxford Economics, thinks that the cooler-than-expected inflation report will not stop the Federal Reserve from raising its policy rate by 25 basis points at its meeting this month. According to a survey from the CME Group, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points at the next Federal Reserve meeting scheduled for July 26.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Wall Street is in celebration mode after a sharper-than-expected deceleration of inflation, but it remains above Powell & Co's average annual 2% target. However, there is a great probability that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. Brian Jacobsen, chief economist at Annex Wealth Management, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"U.S. consumer prices rose modestly in June and logged their smallest annual increase in more than two years as inflation continued to subside. Even though the Federal Reserve has probably already talked itself into a corner needing to hike at the July meeting, it may be the last one for this hiking cycle.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Starting in March 2022, the U.S. Federal Reserve has enacted ten consecutive interest rate increases totaling five percentage points, and the next Federal Reserve policy meeting will be at the center of attention in July 2023. The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5% to 5.25%, which is the highest level since the 2006 year, and in the days ahead, stock and cryptocurrency markets will be hypersensitive to any FED comments.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Inflation Cooled More Than Expected In June. Does This Indicate That The Federal Reserve Is Near The End Of Its Rapid Interest Rate Hikes?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"inflation-cooled-more-than-expected-in-june-does-this-indicate-that-the-federal-reserve-is-near-the-end-of-its-rapid-interest-rate-hikes","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-13 21:13:36","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12490","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12354,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-05 22:47:04","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:04","post_content":"\n

Despite the high federal funds rate, durable goods orders exceeded expectations, which caused investors to remain unconcerned about a recession, surprising analysts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 12, the central bank's bank term funding program announcement reinforced faith in the banking system, and investors were content to see additional signs of decreased inflation. The stock market tracked with the economy in the first half of 2023, surprising the upside and leaving investors to wonder if the resilience can continue. The current rally in the cryptocurrency market is also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity. Bank of America U.S. economist Michael Gapen said<\/a> on Friday:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The economy has proven more resilient than we previously expected, owing largely to consumption. However, we do not expect such robust prints to continue. Momentum in the economy should slow as the lagged effects of tighter monetary policy and financial conditions start to take hold.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The jobs report on Friday is the next big test that could show if the economy is still resilient as higher rates crimp company credit lines. Companies must pay more to borrow when interest rates rise, causing them to decrease spending and job opportunities. According to analysts' estimates, the job report on Friday could show that the U.S. economy added 225,000 jobs in June 2023, with the unemployment rate set to fall to 3.6%, down from 3.7% in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Over the past twelve months, the U.S. job report has outperformed market expectations on 11 out of 12 occasions, and another set of better-than-expected readings may reinforce hopes of a soft landing (a possibility that the U.S. economy escaped a deep recession). The U.S. economy added 339,000 jobs in May 2023, and in the chart below, we can also see how the job market performed since June 2021.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Non-Farm<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

While sentiment-based indicators show that investors are no longer in panic, a recommendation is that you should continue to take a defensive investment approach in the upcoming days because another strong job report could also pressure the Fed to do more by anchoring a 25 bp hike this month and pushing back against the timeline for rate cuts. The next Federal Reserve meeting is on July 26. The CME Group survey shows a high probability of a 25 basis point rate increase.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Economy Has Proven More Resilient Than Analysts Previously Expected. The Focus Of Investors Is Switching To The U.S. Jobs Report","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-economy-has-proven-more-resilient-than-analysts-previously-expected-the-focus-of-investors-is-switching-to-the-u-s-jobs-report","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-05 22:47:08","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12354","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12237,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-29 06:44:16","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:16","post_content":"\n

The U.S. stock market recovered this Tuesday from recent losses as upbeat economic data cooled investor worries of a possible recession that could be triggered by the Federal Reserve's aggressive interest rate hikes. In May, the U.S. economy showed positive signs, with higher-than-expected orders for essential capital goods and a significant increase in sales of new single-family homes. Moreover, consumer confidence in the U.S. reached its highest level since January 2022.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Commerce Department's durable goods report brought good news for analysts in May. Commercial aircraft\/parts saw a significant rise of 32.5%, transportation equipment increased by 3.9%, and autos\/features grew by 2.2%, leading to new orders. Non-defense capital goods, excluding aircraft, grew by 0.7%. The report indicates greater confidence in future business conditions and job availability for six months. Oren Klachkin, lead U.S. economist at Oxford Economics (OE), said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The May durable goods orders and shipments data help to fend off fears that a recession is just around the corner. However, the economic backdrop is set to become more discouraging for manufacturers as tighter lending standards and elevated interest rates weaken demand for goods.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Durable<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. economy remains steady despite the federal funds rate reaching its peak since 2007. Investors should note that good economic data may lead to a 25 basis point increase in interest rates at the Federal Reserve's July meeting. Financial markets predict a 79.4% chance of this happening. This week's important economic data includes a crucial inflation measure that could provide valuable insight into the Federal Reserve's plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Experts recommend a cautious approach when interest rates exceed 5%. This involves taking calculated risks due to the current economic climate, which is unstable and unpredictable. As interest rates increase, companies face higher borrowing costs, causing them to decrease spending, especially on hiring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Investor Jeremy Grantham warns of potential losses in the U.S. stock market and advises cautiousness. It's important to note that cryptocurrencies could also face a significant decline. This is due to the high correlation between the crypto market and U.S. equities. If the stock market experiences a downturn, the crypto-sphere may follow suit. Investors must consider this possibility.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Upbeat Economic Data Lifted Investors' Mood, But Days Ahead Could Give Cues On The Next Federal Reserve's Steps","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"upbeat-economic-data-lifted-investors-mood-but-days-ahead-could-give-cues-on-the-next-federal-reserves-steps","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-29 06:44:23","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12237","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12127,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-21 15:38:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:34","post_content":"\n

According to the latest American Association of Individual Investors(AAII) survey, Investor confidence is at a peak reaching a 19-month high. American Association of Individual Investors also reported that bearish sentiment fell to a 23-month low, and there is general expectation that the stock prices would rise over the next several months. The crypto market displayed a high correlation with U.S. equities. If a positive trend is witnessed in the stock market, the same is usually replicated in the crypto-sphere as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Surveys<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers released data on Friday, showing that consumer sentiment in the U.S. improved to a four-month high in June. This is also positive news, and the improved view reflects greater optimism after signs of easing inflation, economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season in the U.S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recent inflation data signalled that the Fed's monetary tightening is cooling the world's largest economy, and according to many analysts, the Federal Reserve is near the end of its tightening cycle. The U.S. economy remains stable even though the federal funds rate remains at its highest since 2007; the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been substantial, and the unemployment rate has remained low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

THIS TUESDAY, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that groundbreaking new American homes jumped by 21.7% in May 2023 to 1.63 million units. Building permits, considered among the housing market's most forward-looking indicators, increased more than expected in May, rising 5.2% to 1.49 million units at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Kieran Clancy, Senior Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

Most Read

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

By subscribing, you agree with our privacy and terms.

Follow The Distributed

ADVERTISEMENT
\n

The CPI reading has cooled considerably since peeking out around 9% in June 2022, which suggests that the Fed's campaign to quell inflation is working well. Another positive information is that a core measure that strips out volatile food and energy prices was 0.2% every month in June, halving from the 0.4% growth rate in each of the three months prior.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Fed may debate whether to hike the policy rate further based on the new inflation data. However, Ryan Sweet, the Chief US Economist at Oxford Economics, thinks that the cooler-than-expected inflation report will not stop the Federal Reserve from raising its policy rate by 25 basis points at its meeting this month. According to a survey from the CME Group, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points at the next Federal Reserve meeting scheduled for July 26.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Wall Street is in celebration mode after a sharper-than-expected deceleration of inflation, but it remains above Powell & Co's average annual 2% target. However, there is a great probability that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. Brian Jacobsen, chief economist at Annex Wealth Management, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"U.S. consumer prices rose modestly in June and logged their smallest annual increase in more than two years as inflation continued to subside. Even though the Federal Reserve has probably already talked itself into a corner needing to hike at the July meeting, it may be the last one for this hiking cycle.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Starting in March 2022, the U.S. Federal Reserve has enacted ten consecutive interest rate increases totaling five percentage points, and the next Federal Reserve policy meeting will be at the center of attention in July 2023. The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5% to 5.25%, which is the highest level since the 2006 year, and in the days ahead, stock and cryptocurrency markets will be hypersensitive to any FED comments.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Inflation Cooled More Than Expected In June. Does This Indicate That The Federal Reserve Is Near The End Of Its Rapid Interest Rate Hikes?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"inflation-cooled-more-than-expected-in-june-does-this-indicate-that-the-federal-reserve-is-near-the-end-of-its-rapid-interest-rate-hikes","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-13 21:13:36","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12490","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12354,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-05 22:47:04","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:04","post_content":"\n

Despite the high federal funds rate, durable goods orders exceeded expectations, which caused investors to remain unconcerned about a recession, surprising analysts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 12, the central bank's bank term funding program announcement reinforced faith in the banking system, and investors were content to see additional signs of decreased inflation. The stock market tracked with the economy in the first half of 2023, surprising the upside and leaving investors to wonder if the resilience can continue. The current rally in the cryptocurrency market is also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity. Bank of America U.S. economist Michael Gapen said<\/a> on Friday:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The economy has proven more resilient than we previously expected, owing largely to consumption. However, we do not expect such robust prints to continue. Momentum in the economy should slow as the lagged effects of tighter monetary policy and financial conditions start to take hold.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The jobs report on Friday is the next big test that could show if the economy is still resilient as higher rates crimp company credit lines. Companies must pay more to borrow when interest rates rise, causing them to decrease spending and job opportunities. According to analysts' estimates, the job report on Friday could show that the U.S. economy added 225,000 jobs in June 2023, with the unemployment rate set to fall to 3.6%, down from 3.7% in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Over the past twelve months, the U.S. job report has outperformed market expectations on 11 out of 12 occasions, and another set of better-than-expected readings may reinforce hopes of a soft landing (a possibility that the U.S. economy escaped a deep recession). The U.S. economy added 339,000 jobs in May 2023, and in the chart below, we can also see how the job market performed since June 2021.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Non-Farm<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

While sentiment-based indicators show that investors are no longer in panic, a recommendation is that you should continue to take a defensive investment approach in the upcoming days because another strong job report could also pressure the Fed to do more by anchoring a 25 bp hike this month and pushing back against the timeline for rate cuts. The next Federal Reserve meeting is on July 26. The CME Group survey shows a high probability of a 25 basis point rate increase.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Economy Has Proven More Resilient Than Analysts Previously Expected. The Focus Of Investors Is Switching To The U.S. Jobs Report","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-economy-has-proven-more-resilient-than-analysts-previously-expected-the-focus-of-investors-is-switching-to-the-u-s-jobs-report","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-05 22:47:08","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12354","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12237,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-29 06:44:16","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:16","post_content":"\n

The U.S. stock market recovered this Tuesday from recent losses as upbeat economic data cooled investor worries of a possible recession that could be triggered by the Federal Reserve's aggressive interest rate hikes. In May, the U.S. economy showed positive signs, with higher-than-expected orders for essential capital goods and a significant increase in sales of new single-family homes. Moreover, consumer confidence in the U.S. reached its highest level since January 2022.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Commerce Department's durable goods report brought good news for analysts in May. Commercial aircraft\/parts saw a significant rise of 32.5%, transportation equipment increased by 3.9%, and autos\/features grew by 2.2%, leading to new orders. Non-defense capital goods, excluding aircraft, grew by 0.7%. The report indicates greater confidence in future business conditions and job availability for six months. Oren Klachkin, lead U.S. economist at Oxford Economics (OE), said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The May durable goods orders and shipments data help to fend off fears that a recession is just around the corner. However, the economic backdrop is set to become more discouraging for manufacturers as tighter lending standards and elevated interest rates weaken demand for goods.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Durable<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. economy remains steady despite the federal funds rate reaching its peak since 2007. Investors should note that good economic data may lead to a 25 basis point increase in interest rates at the Federal Reserve's July meeting. Financial markets predict a 79.4% chance of this happening. This week's important economic data includes a crucial inflation measure that could provide valuable insight into the Federal Reserve's plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Experts recommend a cautious approach when interest rates exceed 5%. This involves taking calculated risks due to the current economic climate, which is unstable and unpredictable. As interest rates increase, companies face higher borrowing costs, causing them to decrease spending, especially on hiring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Investor Jeremy Grantham warns of potential losses in the U.S. stock market and advises cautiousness. It's important to note that cryptocurrencies could also face a significant decline. This is due to the high correlation between the crypto market and U.S. equities. If the stock market experiences a downturn, the crypto-sphere may follow suit. Investors must consider this possibility.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Upbeat Economic Data Lifted Investors' Mood, But Days Ahead Could Give Cues On The Next Federal Reserve's Steps","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"upbeat-economic-data-lifted-investors-mood-but-days-ahead-could-give-cues-on-the-next-federal-reserves-steps","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-29 06:44:23","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12237","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12127,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-21 15:38:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:34","post_content":"\n

According to the latest American Association of Individual Investors(AAII) survey, Investor confidence is at a peak reaching a 19-month high. American Association of Individual Investors also reported that bearish sentiment fell to a 23-month low, and there is general expectation that the stock prices would rise over the next several months. The crypto market displayed a high correlation with U.S. equities. If a positive trend is witnessed in the stock market, the same is usually replicated in the crypto-sphere as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Surveys<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers released data on Friday, showing that consumer sentiment in the U.S. improved to a four-month high in June. This is also positive news, and the improved view reflects greater optimism after signs of easing inflation, economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season in the U.S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recent inflation data signalled that the Fed's monetary tightening is cooling the world's largest economy, and according to many analysts, the Federal Reserve is near the end of its tightening cycle. The U.S. economy remains stable even though the federal funds rate remains at its highest since 2007; the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been substantial, and the unemployment rate has remained low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

THIS TUESDAY, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that groundbreaking new American homes jumped by 21.7% in May 2023 to 1.63 million units. Building permits, considered among the housing market's most forward-looking indicators, increased more than expected in May, rising 5.2% to 1.49 million units at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Kieran Clancy, Senior Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

Most Read

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

By subscribing, you agree with our privacy and terms.

Follow The Distributed

ADVERTISEMENT
\n
\"Consumer<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The CPI reading has cooled considerably since peeking out around 9% in June 2022, which suggests that the Fed's campaign to quell inflation is working well. Another positive information is that a core measure that strips out volatile food and energy prices was 0.2% every month in June, halving from the 0.4% growth rate in each of the three months prior.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Fed may debate whether to hike the policy rate further based on the new inflation data. However, Ryan Sweet, the Chief US Economist at Oxford Economics, thinks that the cooler-than-expected inflation report will not stop the Federal Reserve from raising its policy rate by 25 basis points at its meeting this month. According to a survey from the CME Group, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points at the next Federal Reserve meeting scheduled for July 26.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Wall Street is in celebration mode after a sharper-than-expected deceleration of inflation, but it remains above Powell & Co's average annual 2% target. However, there is a great probability that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. Brian Jacobsen, chief economist at Annex Wealth Management, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"U.S. consumer prices rose modestly in June and logged their smallest annual increase in more than two years as inflation continued to subside. Even though the Federal Reserve has probably already talked itself into a corner needing to hike at the July meeting, it may be the last one for this hiking cycle.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Starting in March 2022, the U.S. Federal Reserve has enacted ten consecutive interest rate increases totaling five percentage points, and the next Federal Reserve policy meeting will be at the center of attention in July 2023. The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5% to 5.25%, which is the highest level since the 2006 year, and in the days ahead, stock and cryptocurrency markets will be hypersensitive to any FED comments.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Inflation Cooled More Than Expected In June. Does This Indicate That The Federal Reserve Is Near The End Of Its Rapid Interest Rate Hikes?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"inflation-cooled-more-than-expected-in-june-does-this-indicate-that-the-federal-reserve-is-near-the-end-of-its-rapid-interest-rate-hikes","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-13 21:13:36","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12490","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12354,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-05 22:47:04","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:04","post_content":"\n

Despite the high federal funds rate, durable goods orders exceeded expectations, which caused investors to remain unconcerned about a recession, surprising analysts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 12, the central bank's bank term funding program announcement reinforced faith in the banking system, and investors were content to see additional signs of decreased inflation. The stock market tracked with the economy in the first half of 2023, surprising the upside and leaving investors to wonder if the resilience can continue. The current rally in the cryptocurrency market is also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity. Bank of America U.S. economist Michael Gapen said<\/a> on Friday:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The economy has proven more resilient than we previously expected, owing largely to consumption. However, we do not expect such robust prints to continue. Momentum in the economy should slow as the lagged effects of tighter monetary policy and financial conditions start to take hold.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The jobs report on Friday is the next big test that could show if the economy is still resilient as higher rates crimp company credit lines. Companies must pay more to borrow when interest rates rise, causing them to decrease spending and job opportunities. According to analysts' estimates, the job report on Friday could show that the U.S. economy added 225,000 jobs in June 2023, with the unemployment rate set to fall to 3.6%, down from 3.7% in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Over the past twelve months, the U.S. job report has outperformed market expectations on 11 out of 12 occasions, and another set of better-than-expected readings may reinforce hopes of a soft landing (a possibility that the U.S. economy escaped a deep recession). The U.S. economy added 339,000 jobs in May 2023, and in the chart below, we can also see how the job market performed since June 2021.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Non-Farm<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

While sentiment-based indicators show that investors are no longer in panic, a recommendation is that you should continue to take a defensive investment approach in the upcoming days because another strong job report could also pressure the Fed to do more by anchoring a 25 bp hike this month and pushing back against the timeline for rate cuts. The next Federal Reserve meeting is on July 26. The CME Group survey shows a high probability of a 25 basis point rate increase.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Economy Has Proven More Resilient Than Analysts Previously Expected. The Focus Of Investors Is Switching To The U.S. Jobs Report","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-economy-has-proven-more-resilient-than-analysts-previously-expected-the-focus-of-investors-is-switching-to-the-u-s-jobs-report","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-05 22:47:08","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12354","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12237,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-29 06:44:16","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:16","post_content":"\n

The U.S. stock market recovered this Tuesday from recent losses as upbeat economic data cooled investor worries of a possible recession that could be triggered by the Federal Reserve's aggressive interest rate hikes. In May, the U.S. economy showed positive signs, with higher-than-expected orders for essential capital goods and a significant increase in sales of new single-family homes. Moreover, consumer confidence in the U.S. reached its highest level since January 2022.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Commerce Department's durable goods report brought good news for analysts in May. Commercial aircraft\/parts saw a significant rise of 32.5%, transportation equipment increased by 3.9%, and autos\/features grew by 2.2%, leading to new orders. Non-defense capital goods, excluding aircraft, grew by 0.7%. The report indicates greater confidence in future business conditions and job availability for six months. Oren Klachkin, lead U.S. economist at Oxford Economics (OE), said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The May durable goods orders and shipments data help to fend off fears that a recession is just around the corner. However, the economic backdrop is set to become more discouraging for manufacturers as tighter lending standards and elevated interest rates weaken demand for goods.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Durable<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. economy remains steady despite the federal funds rate reaching its peak since 2007. Investors should note that good economic data may lead to a 25 basis point increase in interest rates at the Federal Reserve's July meeting. Financial markets predict a 79.4% chance of this happening. This week's important economic data includes a crucial inflation measure that could provide valuable insight into the Federal Reserve's plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Experts recommend a cautious approach when interest rates exceed 5%. This involves taking calculated risks due to the current economic climate, which is unstable and unpredictable. As interest rates increase, companies face higher borrowing costs, causing them to decrease spending, especially on hiring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Investor Jeremy Grantham warns of potential losses in the U.S. stock market and advises cautiousness. It's important to note that cryptocurrencies could also face a significant decline. This is due to the high correlation between the crypto market and U.S. equities. If the stock market experiences a downturn, the crypto-sphere may follow suit. Investors must consider this possibility.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Upbeat Economic Data Lifted Investors' Mood, But Days Ahead Could Give Cues On The Next Federal Reserve's Steps","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"upbeat-economic-data-lifted-investors-mood-but-days-ahead-could-give-cues-on-the-next-federal-reserves-steps","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-29 06:44:23","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12237","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12127,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-21 15:38:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:34","post_content":"\n

According to the latest American Association of Individual Investors(AAII) survey, Investor confidence is at a peak reaching a 19-month high. American Association of Individual Investors also reported that bearish sentiment fell to a 23-month low, and there is general expectation that the stock prices would rise over the next several months. The crypto market displayed a high correlation with U.S. equities. If a positive trend is witnessed in the stock market, the same is usually replicated in the crypto-sphere as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Surveys<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers released data on Friday, showing that consumer sentiment in the U.S. improved to a four-month high in June. This is also positive news, and the improved view reflects greater optimism after signs of easing inflation, economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season in the U.S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recent inflation data signalled that the Fed's monetary tightening is cooling the world's largest economy, and according to many analysts, the Federal Reserve is near the end of its tightening cycle. The U.S. economy remains stable even though the federal funds rate remains at its highest since 2007; the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been substantial, and the unemployment rate has remained low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

THIS TUESDAY, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that groundbreaking new American homes jumped by 21.7% in May 2023 to 1.63 million units. Building permits, considered among the housing market's most forward-looking indicators, increased more than expected in May, rising 5.2% to 1.49 million units at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Kieran Clancy, Senior Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

Most Read

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\n

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released its June inflation report this Wednesday, and the report showed that the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which measures prices that urban consumers pay for a basket of goods and services, rose 0.2% in June compared with May's 0.1% growth, but landed below the 0.3% consensus. In the 12 months through June, the consumer prices (CPI) advanced only 3.0%, and it is important to say that this was the smallest year-on-year increase since March 2021 and followed a 4.0% rise in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Consumer<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The CPI reading has cooled considerably since peeking out around 9% in June 2022, which suggests that the Fed's campaign to quell inflation is working well. Another positive information is that a core measure that strips out volatile food and energy prices was 0.2% every month in June, halving from the 0.4% growth rate in each of the three months prior.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Fed may debate whether to hike the policy rate further based on the new inflation data. However, Ryan Sweet, the Chief US Economist at Oxford Economics, thinks that the cooler-than-expected inflation report will not stop the Federal Reserve from raising its policy rate by 25 basis points at its meeting this month. According to a survey from the CME Group, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points at the next Federal Reserve meeting scheduled for July 26.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Wall Street is in celebration mode after a sharper-than-expected deceleration of inflation, but it remains above Powell & Co's average annual 2% target. However, there is a great probability that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. Brian Jacobsen, chief economist at Annex Wealth Management, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"U.S. consumer prices rose modestly in June and logged their smallest annual increase in more than two years as inflation continued to subside. Even though the Federal Reserve has probably already talked itself into a corner needing to hike at the July meeting, it may be the last one for this hiking cycle.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Starting in March 2022, the U.S. Federal Reserve has enacted ten consecutive interest rate increases totaling five percentage points, and the next Federal Reserve policy meeting will be at the center of attention in July 2023. The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5% to 5.25%, which is the highest level since the 2006 year, and in the days ahead, stock and cryptocurrency markets will be hypersensitive to any FED comments.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Inflation Cooled More Than Expected In June. Does This Indicate That The Federal Reserve Is Near The End Of Its Rapid Interest Rate Hikes?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"inflation-cooled-more-than-expected-in-june-does-this-indicate-that-the-federal-reserve-is-near-the-end-of-its-rapid-interest-rate-hikes","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-13 21:13:36","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12490","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12354,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-05 22:47:04","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:04","post_content":"\n

Despite the high federal funds rate, durable goods orders exceeded expectations, which caused investors to remain unconcerned about a recession, surprising analysts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 12, the central bank's bank term funding program announcement reinforced faith in the banking system, and investors were content to see additional signs of decreased inflation. The stock market tracked with the economy in the first half of 2023, surprising the upside and leaving investors to wonder if the resilience can continue. The current rally in the cryptocurrency market is also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity. Bank of America U.S. economist Michael Gapen said<\/a> on Friday:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The economy has proven more resilient than we previously expected, owing largely to consumption. However, we do not expect such robust prints to continue. Momentum in the economy should slow as the lagged effects of tighter monetary policy and financial conditions start to take hold.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The jobs report on Friday is the next big test that could show if the economy is still resilient as higher rates crimp company credit lines. Companies must pay more to borrow when interest rates rise, causing them to decrease spending and job opportunities. According to analysts' estimates, the job report on Friday could show that the U.S. economy added 225,000 jobs in June 2023, with the unemployment rate set to fall to 3.6%, down from 3.7% in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Over the past twelve months, the U.S. job report has outperformed market expectations on 11 out of 12 occasions, and another set of better-than-expected readings may reinforce hopes of a soft landing (a possibility that the U.S. economy escaped a deep recession). The U.S. economy added 339,000 jobs in May 2023, and in the chart below, we can also see how the job market performed since June 2021.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Non-Farm<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

While sentiment-based indicators show that investors are no longer in panic, a recommendation is that you should continue to take a defensive investment approach in the upcoming days because another strong job report could also pressure the Fed to do more by anchoring a 25 bp hike this month and pushing back against the timeline for rate cuts. The next Federal Reserve meeting is on July 26. The CME Group survey shows a high probability of a 25 basis point rate increase.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Economy Has Proven More Resilient Than Analysts Previously Expected. The Focus Of Investors Is Switching To The U.S. Jobs Report","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-economy-has-proven-more-resilient-than-analysts-previously-expected-the-focus-of-investors-is-switching-to-the-u-s-jobs-report","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-05 22:47:08","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12354","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12237,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-29 06:44:16","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:16","post_content":"\n

The U.S. stock market recovered this Tuesday from recent losses as upbeat economic data cooled investor worries of a possible recession that could be triggered by the Federal Reserve's aggressive interest rate hikes. In May, the U.S. economy showed positive signs, with higher-than-expected orders for essential capital goods and a significant increase in sales of new single-family homes. Moreover, consumer confidence in the U.S. reached its highest level since January 2022.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Commerce Department's durable goods report brought good news for analysts in May. Commercial aircraft\/parts saw a significant rise of 32.5%, transportation equipment increased by 3.9%, and autos\/features grew by 2.2%, leading to new orders. Non-defense capital goods, excluding aircraft, grew by 0.7%. The report indicates greater confidence in future business conditions and job availability for six months. Oren Klachkin, lead U.S. economist at Oxford Economics (OE), said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The May durable goods orders and shipments data help to fend off fears that a recession is just around the corner. However, the economic backdrop is set to become more discouraging for manufacturers as tighter lending standards and elevated interest rates weaken demand for goods.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Durable<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. economy remains steady despite the federal funds rate reaching its peak since 2007. Investors should note that good economic data may lead to a 25 basis point increase in interest rates at the Federal Reserve's July meeting. Financial markets predict a 79.4% chance of this happening. This week's important economic data includes a crucial inflation measure that could provide valuable insight into the Federal Reserve's plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Experts recommend a cautious approach when interest rates exceed 5%. This involves taking calculated risks due to the current economic climate, which is unstable and unpredictable. As interest rates increase, companies face higher borrowing costs, causing them to decrease spending, especially on hiring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Investor Jeremy Grantham warns of potential losses in the U.S. stock market and advises cautiousness. It's important to note that cryptocurrencies could also face a significant decline. This is due to the high correlation between the crypto market and U.S. equities. If the stock market experiences a downturn, the crypto-sphere may follow suit. Investors must consider this possibility.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Upbeat Economic Data Lifted Investors' Mood, But Days Ahead Could Give Cues On The Next Federal Reserve's Steps","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"upbeat-economic-data-lifted-investors-mood-but-days-ahead-could-give-cues-on-the-next-federal-reserves-steps","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-29 06:44:23","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12237","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12127,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-21 15:38:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:34","post_content":"\n

According to the latest American Association of Individual Investors(AAII) survey, Investor confidence is at a peak reaching a 19-month high. American Association of Individual Investors also reported that bearish sentiment fell to a 23-month low, and there is general expectation that the stock prices would rise over the next several months. The crypto market displayed a high correlation with U.S. equities. If a positive trend is witnessed in the stock market, the same is usually replicated in the crypto-sphere as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Surveys<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers released data on Friday, showing that consumer sentiment in the U.S. improved to a four-month high in June. This is also positive news, and the improved view reflects greater optimism after signs of easing inflation, economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season in the U.S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recent inflation data signalled that the Fed's monetary tightening is cooling the world's largest economy, and according to many analysts, the Federal Reserve is near the end of its tightening cycle. The U.S. economy remains stable even though the federal funds rate remains at its highest since 2007; the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been substantial, and the unemployment rate has remained low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

THIS TUESDAY, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that groundbreaking new American homes jumped by 21.7% in May 2023 to 1.63 million units. Building permits, considered among the housing market's most forward-looking indicators, increased more than expected in May, rising 5.2% to 1.49 million units at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Kieran Clancy, Senior Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

Most Read

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

By subscribing, you agree with our privacy and terms.

Follow The Distributed

ADVERTISEMENT
\n

In the days ahead, the U.S. stock market will also be hypersensitive to FED comments. However, prices and producer prices data provided evidence that inflation cooled more than expected, stoking hopes that the U.S. Federal Reserve will soon end its monetary policy tightening. However, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points on July 26. Still, there is also a great chance that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings.<\/p>\n","post_title":"U.S. Stocks Are Advancing At The Start Of The Earnings Season; Here's What To Expect","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"u-s-stocks-are-advancing-at-the-start-of-the-earnings-season-heres-what-to-expect","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-19 15:44:48","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12610","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12490,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-13 21:13:24","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:24","post_content":"\n

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released its June inflation report this Wednesday, and the report showed that the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which measures prices that urban consumers pay for a basket of goods and services, rose 0.2% in June compared with May's 0.1% growth, but landed below the 0.3% consensus. In the 12 months through June, the consumer prices (CPI) advanced only 3.0%, and it is important to say that this was the smallest year-on-year increase since March 2021 and followed a 4.0% rise in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Consumer<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The CPI reading has cooled considerably since peeking out around 9% in June 2022, which suggests that the Fed's campaign to quell inflation is working well. Another positive information is that a core measure that strips out volatile food and energy prices was 0.2% every month in June, halving from the 0.4% growth rate in each of the three months prior.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Fed may debate whether to hike the policy rate further based on the new inflation data. However, Ryan Sweet, the Chief US Economist at Oxford Economics, thinks that the cooler-than-expected inflation report will not stop the Federal Reserve from raising its policy rate by 25 basis points at its meeting this month. According to a survey from the CME Group, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points at the next Federal Reserve meeting scheduled for July 26.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Wall Street is in celebration mode after a sharper-than-expected deceleration of inflation, but it remains above Powell & Co's average annual 2% target. However, there is a great probability that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. Brian Jacobsen, chief economist at Annex Wealth Management, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"U.S. consumer prices rose modestly in June and logged their smallest annual increase in more than two years as inflation continued to subside. Even though the Federal Reserve has probably already talked itself into a corner needing to hike at the July meeting, it may be the last one for this hiking cycle.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Starting in March 2022, the U.S. Federal Reserve has enacted ten consecutive interest rate increases totaling five percentage points, and the next Federal Reserve policy meeting will be at the center of attention in July 2023. The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5% to 5.25%, which is the highest level since the 2006 year, and in the days ahead, stock and cryptocurrency markets will be hypersensitive to any FED comments.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Inflation Cooled More Than Expected In June. Does This Indicate That The Federal Reserve Is Near The End Of Its Rapid Interest Rate Hikes?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"inflation-cooled-more-than-expected-in-june-does-this-indicate-that-the-federal-reserve-is-near-the-end-of-its-rapid-interest-rate-hikes","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-13 21:13:36","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12490","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12354,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-05 22:47:04","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:04","post_content":"\n

Despite the high federal funds rate, durable goods orders exceeded expectations, which caused investors to remain unconcerned about a recession, surprising analysts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 12, the central bank's bank term funding program announcement reinforced faith in the banking system, and investors were content to see additional signs of decreased inflation. The stock market tracked with the economy in the first half of 2023, surprising the upside and leaving investors to wonder if the resilience can continue. The current rally in the cryptocurrency market is also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity. Bank of America U.S. economist Michael Gapen said<\/a> on Friday:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The economy has proven more resilient than we previously expected, owing largely to consumption. However, we do not expect such robust prints to continue. Momentum in the economy should slow as the lagged effects of tighter monetary policy and financial conditions start to take hold.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The jobs report on Friday is the next big test that could show if the economy is still resilient as higher rates crimp company credit lines. Companies must pay more to borrow when interest rates rise, causing them to decrease spending and job opportunities. According to analysts' estimates, the job report on Friday could show that the U.S. economy added 225,000 jobs in June 2023, with the unemployment rate set to fall to 3.6%, down from 3.7% in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Over the past twelve months, the U.S. job report has outperformed market expectations on 11 out of 12 occasions, and another set of better-than-expected readings may reinforce hopes of a soft landing (a possibility that the U.S. economy escaped a deep recession). The U.S. economy added 339,000 jobs in May 2023, and in the chart below, we can also see how the job market performed since June 2021.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Non-Farm<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

While sentiment-based indicators show that investors are no longer in panic, a recommendation is that you should continue to take a defensive investment approach in the upcoming days because another strong job report could also pressure the Fed to do more by anchoring a 25 bp hike this month and pushing back against the timeline for rate cuts. The next Federal Reserve meeting is on July 26. The CME Group survey shows a high probability of a 25 basis point rate increase.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Economy Has Proven More Resilient Than Analysts Previously Expected. The Focus Of Investors Is Switching To The U.S. Jobs Report","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-economy-has-proven-more-resilient-than-analysts-previously-expected-the-focus-of-investors-is-switching-to-the-u-s-jobs-report","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-05 22:47:08","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12354","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12237,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-29 06:44:16","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:16","post_content":"\n

The U.S. stock market recovered this Tuesday from recent losses as upbeat economic data cooled investor worries of a possible recession that could be triggered by the Federal Reserve's aggressive interest rate hikes. In May, the U.S. economy showed positive signs, with higher-than-expected orders for essential capital goods and a significant increase in sales of new single-family homes. Moreover, consumer confidence in the U.S. reached its highest level since January 2022.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Commerce Department's durable goods report brought good news for analysts in May. Commercial aircraft\/parts saw a significant rise of 32.5%, transportation equipment increased by 3.9%, and autos\/features grew by 2.2%, leading to new orders. Non-defense capital goods, excluding aircraft, grew by 0.7%. The report indicates greater confidence in future business conditions and job availability for six months. Oren Klachkin, lead U.S. economist at Oxford Economics (OE), said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The May durable goods orders and shipments data help to fend off fears that a recession is just around the corner. However, the economic backdrop is set to become more discouraging for manufacturers as tighter lending standards and elevated interest rates weaken demand for goods.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Durable<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. economy remains steady despite the federal funds rate reaching its peak since 2007. Investors should note that good economic data may lead to a 25 basis point increase in interest rates at the Federal Reserve's July meeting. Financial markets predict a 79.4% chance of this happening. This week's important economic data includes a crucial inflation measure that could provide valuable insight into the Federal Reserve's plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Experts recommend a cautious approach when interest rates exceed 5%. This involves taking calculated risks due to the current economic climate, which is unstable and unpredictable. As interest rates increase, companies face higher borrowing costs, causing them to decrease spending, especially on hiring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Investor Jeremy Grantham warns of potential losses in the U.S. stock market and advises cautiousness. It's important to note that cryptocurrencies could also face a significant decline. This is due to the high correlation between the crypto market and U.S. equities. If the stock market experiences a downturn, the crypto-sphere may follow suit. Investors must consider this possibility.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Upbeat Economic Data Lifted Investors' Mood, But Days Ahead Could Give Cues On The Next Federal Reserve's Steps","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"upbeat-economic-data-lifted-investors-mood-but-days-ahead-could-give-cues-on-the-next-federal-reserves-steps","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-29 06:44:23","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12237","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12127,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-21 15:38:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:34","post_content":"\n

According to the latest American Association of Individual Investors(AAII) survey, Investor confidence is at a peak reaching a 19-month high. American Association of Individual Investors also reported that bearish sentiment fell to a 23-month low, and there is general expectation that the stock prices would rise over the next several months. The crypto market displayed a high correlation with U.S. equities. If a positive trend is witnessed in the stock market, the same is usually replicated in the crypto-sphere as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Surveys<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers released data on Friday, showing that consumer sentiment in the U.S. improved to a four-month high in June. This is also positive news, and the improved view reflects greater optimism after signs of easing inflation, economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season in the U.S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recent inflation data signalled that the Fed's monetary tightening is cooling the world's largest economy, and according to many analysts, the Federal Reserve is near the end of its tightening cycle. The U.S. economy remains stable even though the federal funds rate remains at its highest since 2007; the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been substantial, and the unemployment rate has remained low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

THIS TUESDAY, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that groundbreaking new American homes jumped by 21.7% in May 2023 to 1.63 million units. Building permits, considered among the housing market's most forward-looking indicators, increased more than expected in May, rising 5.2% to 1.49 million units at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Kieran Clancy, Senior Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

Most Read

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

By subscribing, you agree with our privacy and terms.

Follow The Distributed

ADVERTISEMENT
\n

Goldman Sachs, International Business Machines (IBM), Netflix, Tesla, Blackstone (BX), Johnson & Johnson, Philip Morris International (PM), Newmont (NEM), and American Express are among the companies scheduled to report quarterly results by the end of this trading week. A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street even more, and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy and strong.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the days ahead, the U.S. stock market will also be hypersensitive to FED comments. However, prices and producer prices data provided evidence that inflation cooled more than expected, stoking hopes that the U.S. Federal Reserve will soon end its monetary policy tightening. However, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points on July 26. Still, there is also a great chance that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings.<\/p>\n","post_title":"U.S. Stocks Are Advancing At The Start Of The Earnings Season; Here's What To Expect","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"u-s-stocks-are-advancing-at-the-start-of-the-earnings-season-heres-what-to-expect","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-19 15:44:48","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12610","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12490,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-13 21:13:24","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:24","post_content":"\n

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released its June inflation report this Wednesday, and the report showed that the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which measures prices that urban consumers pay for a basket of goods and services, rose 0.2% in June compared with May's 0.1% growth, but landed below the 0.3% consensus. In the 12 months through June, the consumer prices (CPI) advanced only 3.0%, and it is important to say that this was the smallest year-on-year increase since March 2021 and followed a 4.0% rise in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Consumer<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The CPI reading has cooled considerably since peeking out around 9% in June 2022, which suggests that the Fed's campaign to quell inflation is working well. Another positive information is that a core measure that strips out volatile food and energy prices was 0.2% every month in June, halving from the 0.4% growth rate in each of the three months prior.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Fed may debate whether to hike the policy rate further based on the new inflation data. However, Ryan Sweet, the Chief US Economist at Oxford Economics, thinks that the cooler-than-expected inflation report will not stop the Federal Reserve from raising its policy rate by 25 basis points at its meeting this month. According to a survey from the CME Group, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points at the next Federal Reserve meeting scheduled for July 26.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Wall Street is in celebration mode after a sharper-than-expected deceleration of inflation, but it remains above Powell & Co's average annual 2% target. However, there is a great probability that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. Brian Jacobsen, chief economist at Annex Wealth Management, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"U.S. consumer prices rose modestly in June and logged their smallest annual increase in more than two years as inflation continued to subside. Even though the Federal Reserve has probably already talked itself into a corner needing to hike at the July meeting, it may be the last one for this hiking cycle.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Starting in March 2022, the U.S. Federal Reserve has enacted ten consecutive interest rate increases totaling five percentage points, and the next Federal Reserve policy meeting will be at the center of attention in July 2023. The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5% to 5.25%, which is the highest level since the 2006 year, and in the days ahead, stock and cryptocurrency markets will be hypersensitive to any FED comments.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Inflation Cooled More Than Expected In June. Does This Indicate That The Federal Reserve Is Near The End Of Its Rapid Interest Rate Hikes?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"inflation-cooled-more-than-expected-in-june-does-this-indicate-that-the-federal-reserve-is-near-the-end-of-its-rapid-interest-rate-hikes","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-13 21:13:36","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12490","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12354,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-05 22:47:04","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:04","post_content":"\n

Despite the high federal funds rate, durable goods orders exceeded expectations, which caused investors to remain unconcerned about a recession, surprising analysts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 12, the central bank's bank term funding program announcement reinforced faith in the banking system, and investors were content to see additional signs of decreased inflation. The stock market tracked with the economy in the first half of 2023, surprising the upside and leaving investors to wonder if the resilience can continue. The current rally in the cryptocurrency market is also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity. Bank of America U.S. economist Michael Gapen said<\/a> on Friday:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The economy has proven more resilient than we previously expected, owing largely to consumption. However, we do not expect such robust prints to continue. Momentum in the economy should slow as the lagged effects of tighter monetary policy and financial conditions start to take hold.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The jobs report on Friday is the next big test that could show if the economy is still resilient as higher rates crimp company credit lines. Companies must pay more to borrow when interest rates rise, causing them to decrease spending and job opportunities. According to analysts' estimates, the job report on Friday could show that the U.S. economy added 225,000 jobs in June 2023, with the unemployment rate set to fall to 3.6%, down from 3.7% in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Over the past twelve months, the U.S. job report has outperformed market expectations on 11 out of 12 occasions, and another set of better-than-expected readings may reinforce hopes of a soft landing (a possibility that the U.S. economy escaped a deep recession). The U.S. economy added 339,000 jobs in May 2023, and in the chart below, we can also see how the job market performed since June 2021.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Non-Farm<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

While sentiment-based indicators show that investors are no longer in panic, a recommendation is that you should continue to take a defensive investment approach in the upcoming days because another strong job report could also pressure the Fed to do more by anchoring a 25 bp hike this month and pushing back against the timeline for rate cuts. The next Federal Reserve meeting is on July 26. The CME Group survey shows a high probability of a 25 basis point rate increase.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Economy Has Proven More Resilient Than Analysts Previously Expected. The Focus Of Investors Is Switching To The U.S. Jobs Report","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-economy-has-proven-more-resilient-than-analysts-previously-expected-the-focus-of-investors-is-switching-to-the-u-s-jobs-report","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-05 22:47:08","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12354","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12237,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-29 06:44:16","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:16","post_content":"\n

The U.S. stock market recovered this Tuesday from recent losses as upbeat economic data cooled investor worries of a possible recession that could be triggered by the Federal Reserve's aggressive interest rate hikes. In May, the U.S. economy showed positive signs, with higher-than-expected orders for essential capital goods and a significant increase in sales of new single-family homes. Moreover, consumer confidence in the U.S. reached its highest level since January 2022.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Commerce Department's durable goods report brought good news for analysts in May. Commercial aircraft\/parts saw a significant rise of 32.5%, transportation equipment increased by 3.9%, and autos\/features grew by 2.2%, leading to new orders. Non-defense capital goods, excluding aircraft, grew by 0.7%. The report indicates greater confidence in future business conditions and job availability for six months. Oren Klachkin, lead U.S. economist at Oxford Economics (OE), said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The May durable goods orders and shipments data help to fend off fears that a recession is just around the corner. However, the economic backdrop is set to become more discouraging for manufacturers as tighter lending standards and elevated interest rates weaken demand for goods.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Durable<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. economy remains steady despite the federal funds rate reaching its peak since 2007. Investors should note that good economic data may lead to a 25 basis point increase in interest rates at the Federal Reserve's July meeting. Financial markets predict a 79.4% chance of this happening. This week's important economic data includes a crucial inflation measure that could provide valuable insight into the Federal Reserve's plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Experts recommend a cautious approach when interest rates exceed 5%. This involves taking calculated risks due to the current economic climate, which is unstable and unpredictable. As interest rates increase, companies face higher borrowing costs, causing them to decrease spending, especially on hiring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Investor Jeremy Grantham warns of potential losses in the U.S. stock market and advises cautiousness. It's important to note that cryptocurrencies could also face a significant decline. This is due to the high correlation between the crypto market and U.S. equities. If the stock market experiences a downturn, the crypto-sphere may follow suit. Investors must consider this possibility.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Upbeat Economic Data Lifted Investors' Mood, But Days Ahead Could Give Cues On The Next Federal Reserve's Steps","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"upbeat-economic-data-lifted-investors-mood-but-days-ahead-could-give-cues-on-the-next-federal-reserves-steps","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-29 06:44:23","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12237","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12127,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-21 15:38:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:34","post_content":"\n

According to the latest American Association of Individual Investors(AAII) survey, Investor confidence is at a peak reaching a 19-month high. American Association of Individual Investors also reported that bearish sentiment fell to a 23-month low, and there is general expectation that the stock prices would rise over the next several months. The crypto market displayed a high correlation with U.S. equities. If a positive trend is witnessed in the stock market, the same is usually replicated in the crypto-sphere as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Surveys<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers released data on Friday, showing that consumer sentiment in the U.S. improved to a four-month high in June. This is also positive news, and the improved view reflects greater optimism after signs of easing inflation, economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season in the U.S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recent inflation data signalled that the Fed's monetary tightening is cooling the world's largest economy, and according to many analysts, the Federal Reserve is near the end of its tightening cycle. The U.S. economy remains stable even though the federal funds rate remains at its highest since 2007; the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been substantial, and the unemployment rate has remained low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

THIS TUESDAY, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that groundbreaking new American homes jumped by 21.7% in May 2023 to 1.63 million units. Building permits, considered among the housing market's most forward-looking indicators, increased more than expected in May, rising 5.2% to 1.49 million units at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Kieran Clancy, Senior Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

Most Read

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

By subscribing, you agree with our privacy and terms.

Follow The Distributed

ADVERTISEMENT
\n
\"Megacaps<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Goldman Sachs, International Business Machines (IBM), Netflix, Tesla, Blackstone (BX), Johnson & Johnson, Philip Morris International (PM), Newmont (NEM), and American Express are among the companies scheduled to report quarterly results by the end of this trading week. A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street even more, and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy and strong.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the days ahead, the U.S. stock market will also be hypersensitive to FED comments. However, prices and producer prices data provided evidence that inflation cooled more than expected, stoking hopes that the U.S. Federal Reserve will soon end its monetary policy tightening. However, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points on July 26. Still, there is also a great chance that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings.<\/p>\n","post_title":"U.S. Stocks Are Advancing At The Start Of The Earnings Season; Here's What To Expect","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"u-s-stocks-are-advancing-at-the-start-of-the-earnings-season-heres-what-to-expect","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-19 15:44:48","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12610","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12490,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-13 21:13:24","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:24","post_content":"\n

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released its June inflation report this Wednesday, and the report showed that the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which measures prices that urban consumers pay for a basket of goods and services, rose 0.2% in June compared with May's 0.1% growth, but landed below the 0.3% consensus. In the 12 months through June, the consumer prices (CPI) advanced only 3.0%, and it is important to say that this was the smallest year-on-year increase since March 2021 and followed a 4.0% rise in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Consumer<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The CPI reading has cooled considerably since peeking out around 9% in June 2022, which suggests that the Fed's campaign to quell inflation is working well. Another positive information is that a core measure that strips out volatile food and energy prices was 0.2% every month in June, halving from the 0.4% growth rate in each of the three months prior.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Fed may debate whether to hike the policy rate further based on the new inflation data. However, Ryan Sweet, the Chief US Economist at Oxford Economics, thinks that the cooler-than-expected inflation report will not stop the Federal Reserve from raising its policy rate by 25 basis points at its meeting this month. According to a survey from the CME Group, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points at the next Federal Reserve meeting scheduled for July 26.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Wall Street is in celebration mode after a sharper-than-expected deceleration of inflation, but it remains above Powell & Co's average annual 2% target. However, there is a great probability that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. Brian Jacobsen, chief economist at Annex Wealth Management, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"U.S. consumer prices rose modestly in June and logged their smallest annual increase in more than two years as inflation continued to subside. Even though the Federal Reserve has probably already talked itself into a corner needing to hike at the July meeting, it may be the last one for this hiking cycle.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Starting in March 2022, the U.S. Federal Reserve has enacted ten consecutive interest rate increases totaling five percentage points, and the next Federal Reserve policy meeting will be at the center of attention in July 2023. The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5% to 5.25%, which is the highest level since the 2006 year, and in the days ahead, stock and cryptocurrency markets will be hypersensitive to any FED comments.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Inflation Cooled More Than Expected In June. Does This Indicate That The Federal Reserve Is Near The End Of Its Rapid Interest Rate Hikes?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"inflation-cooled-more-than-expected-in-june-does-this-indicate-that-the-federal-reserve-is-near-the-end-of-its-rapid-interest-rate-hikes","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-13 21:13:36","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12490","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12354,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-05 22:47:04","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:04","post_content":"\n

Despite the high federal funds rate, durable goods orders exceeded expectations, which caused investors to remain unconcerned about a recession, surprising analysts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 12, the central bank's bank term funding program announcement reinforced faith in the banking system, and investors were content to see additional signs of decreased inflation. The stock market tracked with the economy in the first half of 2023, surprising the upside and leaving investors to wonder if the resilience can continue. The current rally in the cryptocurrency market is also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity. Bank of America U.S. economist Michael Gapen said<\/a> on Friday:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The economy has proven more resilient than we previously expected, owing largely to consumption. However, we do not expect such robust prints to continue. Momentum in the economy should slow as the lagged effects of tighter monetary policy and financial conditions start to take hold.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The jobs report on Friday is the next big test that could show if the economy is still resilient as higher rates crimp company credit lines. Companies must pay more to borrow when interest rates rise, causing them to decrease spending and job opportunities. According to analysts' estimates, the job report on Friday could show that the U.S. economy added 225,000 jobs in June 2023, with the unemployment rate set to fall to 3.6%, down from 3.7% in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Over the past twelve months, the U.S. job report has outperformed market expectations on 11 out of 12 occasions, and another set of better-than-expected readings may reinforce hopes of a soft landing (a possibility that the U.S. economy escaped a deep recession). The U.S. economy added 339,000 jobs in May 2023, and in the chart below, we can also see how the job market performed since June 2021.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Non-Farm<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

While sentiment-based indicators show that investors are no longer in panic, a recommendation is that you should continue to take a defensive investment approach in the upcoming days because another strong job report could also pressure the Fed to do more by anchoring a 25 bp hike this month and pushing back against the timeline for rate cuts. The next Federal Reserve meeting is on July 26. The CME Group survey shows a high probability of a 25 basis point rate increase.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Economy Has Proven More Resilient Than Analysts Previously Expected. The Focus Of Investors Is Switching To The U.S. Jobs Report","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-economy-has-proven-more-resilient-than-analysts-previously-expected-the-focus-of-investors-is-switching-to-the-u-s-jobs-report","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-05 22:47:08","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12354","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12237,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-29 06:44:16","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:16","post_content":"\n

The U.S. stock market recovered this Tuesday from recent losses as upbeat economic data cooled investor worries of a possible recession that could be triggered by the Federal Reserve's aggressive interest rate hikes. In May, the U.S. economy showed positive signs, with higher-than-expected orders for essential capital goods and a significant increase in sales of new single-family homes. Moreover, consumer confidence in the U.S. reached its highest level since January 2022.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Commerce Department's durable goods report brought good news for analysts in May. Commercial aircraft\/parts saw a significant rise of 32.5%, transportation equipment increased by 3.9%, and autos\/features grew by 2.2%, leading to new orders. Non-defense capital goods, excluding aircraft, grew by 0.7%. The report indicates greater confidence in future business conditions and job availability for six months. Oren Klachkin, lead U.S. economist at Oxford Economics (OE), said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The May durable goods orders and shipments data help to fend off fears that a recession is just around the corner. However, the economic backdrop is set to become more discouraging for manufacturers as tighter lending standards and elevated interest rates weaken demand for goods.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Durable<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. economy remains steady despite the federal funds rate reaching its peak since 2007. Investors should note that good economic data may lead to a 25 basis point increase in interest rates at the Federal Reserve's July meeting. Financial markets predict a 79.4% chance of this happening. This week's important economic data includes a crucial inflation measure that could provide valuable insight into the Federal Reserve's plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Experts recommend a cautious approach when interest rates exceed 5%. This involves taking calculated risks due to the current economic climate, which is unstable and unpredictable. As interest rates increase, companies face higher borrowing costs, causing them to decrease spending, especially on hiring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Investor Jeremy Grantham warns of potential losses in the U.S. stock market and advises cautiousness. It's important to note that cryptocurrencies could also face a significant decline. This is due to the high correlation between the crypto market and U.S. equities. If the stock market experiences a downturn, the crypto-sphere may follow suit. Investors must consider this possibility.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Upbeat Economic Data Lifted Investors' Mood, But Days Ahead Could Give Cues On The Next Federal Reserve's Steps","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"upbeat-economic-data-lifted-investors-mood-but-days-ahead-could-give-cues-on-the-next-federal-reserves-steps","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-29 06:44:23","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12237","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12127,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-21 15:38:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:34","post_content":"\n

According to the latest American Association of Individual Investors(AAII) survey, Investor confidence is at a peak reaching a 19-month high. American Association of Individual Investors also reported that bearish sentiment fell to a 23-month low, and there is general expectation that the stock prices would rise over the next several months. The crypto market displayed a high correlation with U.S. equities. If a positive trend is witnessed in the stock market, the same is usually replicated in the crypto-sphere as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Surveys<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers released data on Friday, showing that consumer sentiment in the U.S. improved to a four-month high in June. This is also positive news, and the improved view reflects greater optimism after signs of easing inflation, economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season in the U.S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recent inflation data signalled that the Fed's monetary tightening is cooling the world's largest economy, and according to many analysts, the Federal Reserve is near the end of its tightening cycle. The U.S. economy remains stable even though the federal funds rate remains at its highest since 2007; the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been substantial, and the unemployment rate has remained low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

THIS TUESDAY, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that groundbreaking new American homes jumped by 21.7% in May 2023 to 1.63 million units. Building permits, considered among the housing market's most forward-looking indicators, increased more than expected in May, rising 5.2% to 1.49 million units at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Kieran Clancy, Senior Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

Most Read

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

By subscribing, you agree with our privacy and terms.

Follow The Distributed

ADVERTISEMENT
\n

\"Investors are looking at the fact that the economy has been resilient, and corporate earnings so far are coming in pretty well. The tech-heavy Nasdaq led Wall Street higher, supported by mega-cap growth stocks including Apple and Tesla, ahead of quarterly results from industry heavyweights through the week.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Megacaps<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Goldman Sachs, International Business Machines (IBM), Netflix, Tesla, Blackstone (BX), Johnson & Johnson, Philip Morris International (PM), Newmont (NEM), and American Express are among the companies scheduled to report quarterly results by the end of this trading week. A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street even more, and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy and strong.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the days ahead, the U.S. stock market will also be hypersensitive to FED comments. However, prices and producer prices data provided evidence that inflation cooled more than expected, stoking hopes that the U.S. Federal Reserve will soon end its monetary policy tightening. However, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points on July 26. Still, there is also a great chance that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings.<\/p>\n","post_title":"U.S. Stocks Are Advancing At The Start Of The Earnings Season; Here's What To Expect","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"u-s-stocks-are-advancing-at-the-start-of-the-earnings-season-heres-what-to-expect","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-19 15:44:48","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12610","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12490,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-13 21:13:24","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:24","post_content":"\n

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released its June inflation report this Wednesday, and the report showed that the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which measures prices that urban consumers pay for a basket of goods and services, rose 0.2% in June compared with May's 0.1% growth, but landed below the 0.3% consensus. In the 12 months through June, the consumer prices (CPI) advanced only 3.0%, and it is important to say that this was the smallest year-on-year increase since March 2021 and followed a 4.0% rise in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Consumer<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The CPI reading has cooled considerably since peeking out around 9% in June 2022, which suggests that the Fed's campaign to quell inflation is working well. Another positive information is that a core measure that strips out volatile food and energy prices was 0.2% every month in June, halving from the 0.4% growth rate in each of the three months prior.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Fed may debate whether to hike the policy rate further based on the new inflation data. However, Ryan Sweet, the Chief US Economist at Oxford Economics, thinks that the cooler-than-expected inflation report will not stop the Federal Reserve from raising its policy rate by 25 basis points at its meeting this month. According to a survey from the CME Group, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points at the next Federal Reserve meeting scheduled for July 26.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Wall Street is in celebration mode after a sharper-than-expected deceleration of inflation, but it remains above Powell & Co's average annual 2% target. However, there is a great probability that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. Brian Jacobsen, chief economist at Annex Wealth Management, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"U.S. consumer prices rose modestly in June and logged their smallest annual increase in more than two years as inflation continued to subside. Even though the Federal Reserve has probably already talked itself into a corner needing to hike at the July meeting, it may be the last one for this hiking cycle.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Starting in March 2022, the U.S. Federal Reserve has enacted ten consecutive interest rate increases totaling five percentage points, and the next Federal Reserve policy meeting will be at the center of attention in July 2023. The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5% to 5.25%, which is the highest level since the 2006 year, and in the days ahead, stock and cryptocurrency markets will be hypersensitive to any FED comments.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Inflation Cooled More Than Expected In June. Does This Indicate That The Federal Reserve Is Near The End Of Its Rapid Interest Rate Hikes?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"inflation-cooled-more-than-expected-in-june-does-this-indicate-that-the-federal-reserve-is-near-the-end-of-its-rapid-interest-rate-hikes","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-13 21:13:36","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12490","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12354,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-05 22:47:04","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:04","post_content":"\n

Despite the high federal funds rate, durable goods orders exceeded expectations, which caused investors to remain unconcerned about a recession, surprising analysts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 12, the central bank's bank term funding program announcement reinforced faith in the banking system, and investors were content to see additional signs of decreased inflation. The stock market tracked with the economy in the first half of 2023, surprising the upside and leaving investors to wonder if the resilience can continue. The current rally in the cryptocurrency market is also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity. Bank of America U.S. economist Michael Gapen said<\/a> on Friday:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The economy has proven more resilient than we previously expected, owing largely to consumption. However, we do not expect such robust prints to continue. Momentum in the economy should slow as the lagged effects of tighter monetary policy and financial conditions start to take hold.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The jobs report on Friday is the next big test that could show if the economy is still resilient as higher rates crimp company credit lines. Companies must pay more to borrow when interest rates rise, causing them to decrease spending and job opportunities. According to analysts' estimates, the job report on Friday could show that the U.S. economy added 225,000 jobs in June 2023, with the unemployment rate set to fall to 3.6%, down from 3.7% in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Over the past twelve months, the U.S. job report has outperformed market expectations on 11 out of 12 occasions, and another set of better-than-expected readings may reinforce hopes of a soft landing (a possibility that the U.S. economy escaped a deep recession). The U.S. economy added 339,000 jobs in May 2023, and in the chart below, we can also see how the job market performed since June 2021.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Non-Farm<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

While sentiment-based indicators show that investors are no longer in panic, a recommendation is that you should continue to take a defensive investment approach in the upcoming days because another strong job report could also pressure the Fed to do more by anchoring a 25 bp hike this month and pushing back against the timeline for rate cuts. The next Federal Reserve meeting is on July 26. The CME Group survey shows a high probability of a 25 basis point rate increase.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Economy Has Proven More Resilient Than Analysts Previously Expected. The Focus Of Investors Is Switching To The U.S. Jobs Report","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-economy-has-proven-more-resilient-than-analysts-previously-expected-the-focus-of-investors-is-switching-to-the-u-s-jobs-report","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-05 22:47:08","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12354","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12237,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-29 06:44:16","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:16","post_content":"\n

The U.S. stock market recovered this Tuesday from recent losses as upbeat economic data cooled investor worries of a possible recession that could be triggered by the Federal Reserve's aggressive interest rate hikes. In May, the U.S. economy showed positive signs, with higher-than-expected orders for essential capital goods and a significant increase in sales of new single-family homes. Moreover, consumer confidence in the U.S. reached its highest level since January 2022.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Commerce Department's durable goods report brought good news for analysts in May. Commercial aircraft\/parts saw a significant rise of 32.5%, transportation equipment increased by 3.9%, and autos\/features grew by 2.2%, leading to new orders. Non-defense capital goods, excluding aircraft, grew by 0.7%. The report indicates greater confidence in future business conditions and job availability for six months. Oren Klachkin, lead U.S. economist at Oxford Economics (OE), said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The May durable goods orders and shipments data help to fend off fears that a recession is just around the corner. However, the economic backdrop is set to become more discouraging for manufacturers as tighter lending standards and elevated interest rates weaken demand for goods.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Durable<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. economy remains steady despite the federal funds rate reaching its peak since 2007. Investors should note that good economic data may lead to a 25 basis point increase in interest rates at the Federal Reserve's July meeting. Financial markets predict a 79.4% chance of this happening. This week's important economic data includes a crucial inflation measure that could provide valuable insight into the Federal Reserve's plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Experts recommend a cautious approach when interest rates exceed 5%. This involves taking calculated risks due to the current economic climate, which is unstable and unpredictable. As interest rates increase, companies face higher borrowing costs, causing them to decrease spending, especially on hiring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Investor Jeremy Grantham warns of potential losses in the U.S. stock market and advises cautiousness. It's important to note that cryptocurrencies could also face a significant decline. This is due to the high correlation between the crypto market and U.S. equities. If the stock market experiences a downturn, the crypto-sphere may follow suit. Investors must consider this possibility.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Upbeat Economic Data Lifted Investors' Mood, But Days Ahead Could Give Cues On The Next Federal Reserve's Steps","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"upbeat-economic-data-lifted-investors-mood-but-days-ahead-could-give-cues-on-the-next-federal-reserves-steps","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-29 06:44:23","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12237","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12127,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-21 15:38:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:34","post_content":"\n

According to the latest American Association of Individual Investors(AAII) survey, Investor confidence is at a peak reaching a 19-month high. American Association of Individual Investors also reported that bearish sentiment fell to a 23-month low, and there is general expectation that the stock prices would rise over the next several months. The crypto market displayed a high correlation with U.S. equities. If a positive trend is witnessed in the stock market, the same is usually replicated in the crypto-sphere as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Surveys<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers released data on Friday, showing that consumer sentiment in the U.S. improved to a four-month high in June. This is also positive news, and the improved view reflects greater optimism after signs of easing inflation, economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season in the U.S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recent inflation data signalled that the Fed's monetary tightening is cooling the world's largest economy, and according to many analysts, the Federal Reserve is near the end of its tightening cycle. The U.S. economy remains stable even though the federal funds rate remains at its highest since 2007; the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been substantial, and the unemployment rate has remained low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

THIS TUESDAY, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that groundbreaking new American homes jumped by 21.7% in May 2023 to 1.63 million units. Building permits, considered among the housing market's most forward-looking indicators, increased more than expected in May, rising 5.2% to 1.49 million units at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Kieran Clancy, Senior Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

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\n

According to Refinitiv data, of the 30 companies in the S&P 500 that reported earnings last week, 80% beat analyst expectations. Corporate profits are emerging as the big driver of what the market is likely to do in the near term, but if earnings results fall short of expectations, the stock market's reaction could be severe. Chris Zaccarelli, chief investment officer for Independent Advisor Alliance, added<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Investors are looking at the fact that the economy has been resilient, and corporate earnings so far are coming in pretty well. The tech-heavy Nasdaq led Wall Street higher, supported by mega-cap growth stocks including Apple and Tesla, ahead of quarterly results from industry heavyweights through the week.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Megacaps<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Goldman Sachs, International Business Machines (IBM), Netflix, Tesla, Blackstone (BX), Johnson & Johnson, Philip Morris International (PM), Newmont (NEM), and American Express are among the companies scheduled to report quarterly results by the end of this trading week. A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street even more, and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy and strong.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the days ahead, the U.S. stock market will also be hypersensitive to FED comments. However, prices and producer prices data provided evidence that inflation cooled more than expected, stoking hopes that the U.S. Federal Reserve will soon end its monetary policy tightening. However, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points on July 26. Still, there is also a great chance that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings.<\/p>\n","post_title":"U.S. Stocks Are Advancing At The Start Of The Earnings Season; Here's What To Expect","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"u-s-stocks-are-advancing-at-the-start-of-the-earnings-season-heres-what-to-expect","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-19 15:44:48","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12610","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12490,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-13 21:13:24","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:24","post_content":"\n

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released its June inflation report this Wednesday, and the report showed that the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which measures prices that urban consumers pay for a basket of goods and services, rose 0.2% in June compared with May's 0.1% growth, but landed below the 0.3% consensus. In the 12 months through June, the consumer prices (CPI) advanced only 3.0%, and it is important to say that this was the smallest year-on-year increase since March 2021 and followed a 4.0% rise in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Consumer<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The CPI reading has cooled considerably since peeking out around 9% in June 2022, which suggests that the Fed's campaign to quell inflation is working well. Another positive information is that a core measure that strips out volatile food and energy prices was 0.2% every month in June, halving from the 0.4% growth rate in each of the three months prior.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Fed may debate whether to hike the policy rate further based on the new inflation data. However, Ryan Sweet, the Chief US Economist at Oxford Economics, thinks that the cooler-than-expected inflation report will not stop the Federal Reserve from raising its policy rate by 25 basis points at its meeting this month. According to a survey from the CME Group, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points at the next Federal Reserve meeting scheduled for July 26.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Wall Street is in celebration mode after a sharper-than-expected deceleration of inflation, but it remains above Powell & Co's average annual 2% target. However, there is a great probability that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. Brian Jacobsen, chief economist at Annex Wealth Management, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"U.S. consumer prices rose modestly in June and logged their smallest annual increase in more than two years as inflation continued to subside. Even though the Federal Reserve has probably already talked itself into a corner needing to hike at the July meeting, it may be the last one for this hiking cycle.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Starting in March 2022, the U.S. Federal Reserve has enacted ten consecutive interest rate increases totaling five percentage points, and the next Federal Reserve policy meeting will be at the center of attention in July 2023. The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5% to 5.25%, which is the highest level since the 2006 year, and in the days ahead, stock and cryptocurrency markets will be hypersensitive to any FED comments.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Inflation Cooled More Than Expected In June. Does This Indicate That The Federal Reserve Is Near The End Of Its Rapid Interest Rate Hikes?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"inflation-cooled-more-than-expected-in-june-does-this-indicate-that-the-federal-reserve-is-near-the-end-of-its-rapid-interest-rate-hikes","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-13 21:13:36","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12490","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12354,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-05 22:47:04","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:04","post_content":"\n

Despite the high federal funds rate, durable goods orders exceeded expectations, which caused investors to remain unconcerned about a recession, surprising analysts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 12, the central bank's bank term funding program announcement reinforced faith in the banking system, and investors were content to see additional signs of decreased inflation. The stock market tracked with the economy in the first half of 2023, surprising the upside and leaving investors to wonder if the resilience can continue. The current rally in the cryptocurrency market is also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity. Bank of America U.S. economist Michael Gapen said<\/a> on Friday:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The economy has proven more resilient than we previously expected, owing largely to consumption. However, we do not expect such robust prints to continue. Momentum in the economy should slow as the lagged effects of tighter monetary policy and financial conditions start to take hold.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The jobs report on Friday is the next big test that could show if the economy is still resilient as higher rates crimp company credit lines. Companies must pay more to borrow when interest rates rise, causing them to decrease spending and job opportunities. According to analysts' estimates, the job report on Friday could show that the U.S. economy added 225,000 jobs in June 2023, with the unemployment rate set to fall to 3.6%, down from 3.7% in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Over the past twelve months, the U.S. job report has outperformed market expectations on 11 out of 12 occasions, and another set of better-than-expected readings may reinforce hopes of a soft landing (a possibility that the U.S. economy escaped a deep recession). The U.S. economy added 339,000 jobs in May 2023, and in the chart below, we can also see how the job market performed since June 2021.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Non-Farm<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

While sentiment-based indicators show that investors are no longer in panic, a recommendation is that you should continue to take a defensive investment approach in the upcoming days because another strong job report could also pressure the Fed to do more by anchoring a 25 bp hike this month and pushing back against the timeline for rate cuts. The next Federal Reserve meeting is on July 26. The CME Group survey shows a high probability of a 25 basis point rate increase.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Economy Has Proven More Resilient Than Analysts Previously Expected. The Focus Of Investors Is Switching To The U.S. Jobs Report","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-economy-has-proven-more-resilient-than-analysts-previously-expected-the-focus-of-investors-is-switching-to-the-u-s-jobs-report","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-05 22:47:08","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12354","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12237,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-29 06:44:16","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:16","post_content":"\n

The U.S. stock market recovered this Tuesday from recent losses as upbeat economic data cooled investor worries of a possible recession that could be triggered by the Federal Reserve's aggressive interest rate hikes. In May, the U.S. economy showed positive signs, with higher-than-expected orders for essential capital goods and a significant increase in sales of new single-family homes. Moreover, consumer confidence in the U.S. reached its highest level since January 2022.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Commerce Department's durable goods report brought good news for analysts in May. Commercial aircraft\/parts saw a significant rise of 32.5%, transportation equipment increased by 3.9%, and autos\/features grew by 2.2%, leading to new orders. Non-defense capital goods, excluding aircraft, grew by 0.7%. The report indicates greater confidence in future business conditions and job availability for six months. Oren Klachkin, lead U.S. economist at Oxford Economics (OE), said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The May durable goods orders and shipments data help to fend off fears that a recession is just around the corner. However, the economic backdrop is set to become more discouraging for manufacturers as tighter lending standards and elevated interest rates weaken demand for goods.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Durable<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. economy remains steady despite the federal funds rate reaching its peak since 2007. Investors should note that good economic data may lead to a 25 basis point increase in interest rates at the Federal Reserve's July meeting. Financial markets predict a 79.4% chance of this happening. This week's important economic data includes a crucial inflation measure that could provide valuable insight into the Federal Reserve's plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Experts recommend a cautious approach when interest rates exceed 5%. This involves taking calculated risks due to the current economic climate, which is unstable and unpredictable. As interest rates increase, companies face higher borrowing costs, causing them to decrease spending, especially on hiring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Investor Jeremy Grantham warns of potential losses in the U.S. stock market and advises cautiousness. It's important to note that cryptocurrencies could also face a significant decline. This is due to the high correlation between the crypto market and U.S. equities. If the stock market experiences a downturn, the crypto-sphere may follow suit. Investors must consider this possibility.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Upbeat Economic Data Lifted Investors' Mood, But Days Ahead Could Give Cues On The Next Federal Reserve's Steps","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"upbeat-economic-data-lifted-investors-mood-but-days-ahead-could-give-cues-on-the-next-federal-reserves-steps","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-29 06:44:23","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12237","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12127,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-21 15:38:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:34","post_content":"\n

According to the latest American Association of Individual Investors(AAII) survey, Investor confidence is at a peak reaching a 19-month high. American Association of Individual Investors also reported that bearish sentiment fell to a 23-month low, and there is general expectation that the stock prices would rise over the next several months. The crypto market displayed a high correlation with U.S. equities. If a positive trend is witnessed in the stock market, the same is usually replicated in the crypto-sphere as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Surveys<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers released data on Friday, showing that consumer sentiment in the U.S. improved to a four-month high in June. This is also positive news, and the improved view reflects greater optimism after signs of easing inflation, economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season in the U.S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recent inflation data signalled that the Fed's monetary tightening is cooling the world's largest economy, and according to many analysts, the Federal Reserve is near the end of its tightening cycle. The U.S. economy remains stable even though the federal funds rate remains at its highest since 2007; the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been substantial, and the unemployment rate has remained low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

THIS TUESDAY, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that groundbreaking new American homes jumped by 21.7% in May 2023 to 1.63 million units. Building permits, considered among the housing market's most forward-looking indicators, increased more than expected in May, rising 5.2% to 1.49 million units at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Kieran Clancy, Senior Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

Most Read

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

By subscribing, you agree with our privacy and terms.

Follow The Distributed

ADVERTISEMENT
\n

Some of the largest U.S. banks, including JPMorgan Chase and Wells Fargo, reported a profit boost from higher rates, pointing towards a resilient economy. This Tuesday, Bank of America posted a 20% surge in second-quarter profit, and it is also important to mention that Morgan Stanley's stock had today the most significant single-day gain since late 2020, after its second-quarter profit and revenue beat analyst expectations on a boost from its wealth management business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to Refinitiv data, of the 30 companies in the S&P 500 that reported earnings last week, 80% beat analyst expectations. Corporate profits are emerging as the big driver of what the market is likely to do in the near term, but if earnings results fall short of expectations, the stock market's reaction could be severe. Chris Zaccarelli, chief investment officer for Independent Advisor Alliance, added<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Investors are looking at the fact that the economy has been resilient, and corporate earnings so far are coming in pretty well. The tech-heavy Nasdaq led Wall Street higher, supported by mega-cap growth stocks including Apple and Tesla, ahead of quarterly results from industry heavyweights through the week.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Megacaps<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Goldman Sachs, International Business Machines (IBM), Netflix, Tesla, Blackstone (BX), Johnson & Johnson, Philip Morris International (PM), Newmont (NEM), and American Express are among the companies scheduled to report quarterly results by the end of this trading week. A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street even more, and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy and strong.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the days ahead, the U.S. stock market will also be hypersensitive to FED comments. However, prices and producer prices data provided evidence that inflation cooled more than expected, stoking hopes that the U.S. Federal Reserve will soon end its monetary policy tightening. However, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points on July 26. Still, there is also a great chance that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings.<\/p>\n","post_title":"U.S. Stocks Are Advancing At The Start Of The Earnings Season; Here's What To Expect","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"u-s-stocks-are-advancing-at-the-start-of-the-earnings-season-heres-what-to-expect","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-19 15:44:48","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12610","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12490,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-13 21:13:24","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:24","post_content":"\n

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released its June inflation report this Wednesday, and the report showed that the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which measures prices that urban consumers pay for a basket of goods and services, rose 0.2% in June compared with May's 0.1% growth, but landed below the 0.3% consensus. In the 12 months through June, the consumer prices (CPI) advanced only 3.0%, and it is important to say that this was the smallest year-on-year increase since March 2021 and followed a 4.0% rise in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Consumer<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The CPI reading has cooled considerably since peeking out around 9% in June 2022, which suggests that the Fed's campaign to quell inflation is working well. Another positive information is that a core measure that strips out volatile food and energy prices was 0.2% every month in June, halving from the 0.4% growth rate in each of the three months prior.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Fed may debate whether to hike the policy rate further based on the new inflation data. However, Ryan Sweet, the Chief US Economist at Oxford Economics, thinks that the cooler-than-expected inflation report will not stop the Federal Reserve from raising its policy rate by 25 basis points at its meeting this month. According to a survey from the CME Group, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points at the next Federal Reserve meeting scheduled for July 26.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Wall Street is in celebration mode after a sharper-than-expected deceleration of inflation, but it remains above Powell & Co's average annual 2% target. However, there is a great probability that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. Brian Jacobsen, chief economist at Annex Wealth Management, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"U.S. consumer prices rose modestly in June and logged their smallest annual increase in more than two years as inflation continued to subside. Even though the Federal Reserve has probably already talked itself into a corner needing to hike at the July meeting, it may be the last one for this hiking cycle.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Starting in March 2022, the U.S. Federal Reserve has enacted ten consecutive interest rate increases totaling five percentage points, and the next Federal Reserve policy meeting will be at the center of attention in July 2023. The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5% to 5.25%, which is the highest level since the 2006 year, and in the days ahead, stock and cryptocurrency markets will be hypersensitive to any FED comments.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Inflation Cooled More Than Expected In June. Does This Indicate That The Federal Reserve Is Near The End Of Its Rapid Interest Rate Hikes?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"inflation-cooled-more-than-expected-in-june-does-this-indicate-that-the-federal-reserve-is-near-the-end-of-its-rapid-interest-rate-hikes","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-13 21:13:36","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12490","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12354,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-05 22:47:04","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:04","post_content":"\n

Despite the high federal funds rate, durable goods orders exceeded expectations, which caused investors to remain unconcerned about a recession, surprising analysts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 12, the central bank's bank term funding program announcement reinforced faith in the banking system, and investors were content to see additional signs of decreased inflation. The stock market tracked with the economy in the first half of 2023, surprising the upside and leaving investors to wonder if the resilience can continue. The current rally in the cryptocurrency market is also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity. Bank of America U.S. economist Michael Gapen said<\/a> on Friday:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The economy has proven more resilient than we previously expected, owing largely to consumption. However, we do not expect such robust prints to continue. Momentum in the economy should slow as the lagged effects of tighter monetary policy and financial conditions start to take hold.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The jobs report on Friday is the next big test that could show if the economy is still resilient as higher rates crimp company credit lines. Companies must pay more to borrow when interest rates rise, causing them to decrease spending and job opportunities. According to analysts' estimates, the job report on Friday could show that the U.S. economy added 225,000 jobs in June 2023, with the unemployment rate set to fall to 3.6%, down from 3.7% in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Over the past twelve months, the U.S. job report has outperformed market expectations on 11 out of 12 occasions, and another set of better-than-expected readings may reinforce hopes of a soft landing (a possibility that the U.S. economy escaped a deep recession). The U.S. economy added 339,000 jobs in May 2023, and in the chart below, we can also see how the job market performed since June 2021.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Non-Farm<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

While sentiment-based indicators show that investors are no longer in panic, a recommendation is that you should continue to take a defensive investment approach in the upcoming days because another strong job report could also pressure the Fed to do more by anchoring a 25 bp hike this month and pushing back against the timeline for rate cuts. The next Federal Reserve meeting is on July 26. The CME Group survey shows a high probability of a 25 basis point rate increase.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Economy Has Proven More Resilient Than Analysts Previously Expected. The Focus Of Investors Is Switching To The U.S. Jobs Report","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-economy-has-proven-more-resilient-than-analysts-previously-expected-the-focus-of-investors-is-switching-to-the-u-s-jobs-report","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-05 22:47:08","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12354","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12237,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-29 06:44:16","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:16","post_content":"\n

The U.S. stock market recovered this Tuesday from recent losses as upbeat economic data cooled investor worries of a possible recession that could be triggered by the Federal Reserve's aggressive interest rate hikes. In May, the U.S. economy showed positive signs, with higher-than-expected orders for essential capital goods and a significant increase in sales of new single-family homes. Moreover, consumer confidence in the U.S. reached its highest level since January 2022.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Commerce Department's durable goods report brought good news for analysts in May. Commercial aircraft\/parts saw a significant rise of 32.5%, transportation equipment increased by 3.9%, and autos\/features grew by 2.2%, leading to new orders. Non-defense capital goods, excluding aircraft, grew by 0.7%. The report indicates greater confidence in future business conditions and job availability for six months. Oren Klachkin, lead U.S. economist at Oxford Economics (OE), said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The May durable goods orders and shipments data help to fend off fears that a recession is just around the corner. However, the economic backdrop is set to become more discouraging for manufacturers as tighter lending standards and elevated interest rates weaken demand for goods.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Durable<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. economy remains steady despite the federal funds rate reaching its peak since 2007. Investors should note that good economic data may lead to a 25 basis point increase in interest rates at the Federal Reserve's July meeting. Financial markets predict a 79.4% chance of this happening. This week's important economic data includes a crucial inflation measure that could provide valuable insight into the Federal Reserve's plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Experts recommend a cautious approach when interest rates exceed 5%. This involves taking calculated risks due to the current economic climate, which is unstable and unpredictable. As interest rates increase, companies face higher borrowing costs, causing them to decrease spending, especially on hiring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Investor Jeremy Grantham warns of potential losses in the U.S. stock market and advises cautiousness. It's important to note that cryptocurrencies could also face a significant decline. This is due to the high correlation between the crypto market and U.S. equities. If the stock market experiences a downturn, the crypto-sphere may follow suit. Investors must consider this possibility.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Upbeat Economic Data Lifted Investors' Mood, But Days Ahead Could Give Cues On The Next Federal Reserve's Steps","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"upbeat-economic-data-lifted-investors-mood-but-days-ahead-could-give-cues-on-the-next-federal-reserves-steps","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-29 06:44:23","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12237","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12127,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-21 15:38:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:34","post_content":"\n

According to the latest American Association of Individual Investors(AAII) survey, Investor confidence is at a peak reaching a 19-month high. American Association of Individual Investors also reported that bearish sentiment fell to a 23-month low, and there is general expectation that the stock prices would rise over the next several months. The crypto market displayed a high correlation with U.S. equities. If a positive trend is witnessed in the stock market, the same is usually replicated in the crypto-sphere as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Surveys<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers released data on Friday, showing that consumer sentiment in the U.S. improved to a four-month high in June. This is also positive news, and the improved view reflects greater optimism after signs of easing inflation, economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season in the U.S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recent inflation data signalled that the Fed's monetary tightening is cooling the world's largest economy, and according to many analysts, the Federal Reserve is near the end of its tightening cycle. The U.S. economy remains stable even though the federal funds rate remains at its highest since 2007; the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been substantial, and the unemployment rate has remained low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

THIS TUESDAY, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that groundbreaking new American homes jumped by 21.7% in May 2023 to 1.63 million units. Building permits, considered among the housing market's most forward-looking indicators, increased more than expected in May, rising 5.2% to 1.49 million units at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Kieran Clancy, Senior Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

Most Read

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

By subscribing, you agree with our privacy and terms.

Follow The Distributed

ADVERTISEMENT
\n

Shares on Wall Street continue to be supported, led by gains in financial and technology stocks, with investors looking toward the next round of quarterly results as earnings season gets underway. The S&P 500 is up to nearly 19% year-to-date, while the Nasdaq has advanced about 37%, and both indexes are on track for their fifth straight month of gains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Some of the largest U.S. banks, including JPMorgan Chase and Wells Fargo, reported a profit boost from higher rates, pointing towards a resilient economy. This Tuesday, Bank of America posted a 20% surge in second-quarter profit, and it is also important to mention that Morgan Stanley's stock had today the most significant single-day gain since late 2020, after its second-quarter profit and revenue beat analyst expectations on a boost from its wealth management business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to Refinitiv data, of the 30 companies in the S&P 500 that reported earnings last week, 80% beat analyst expectations. Corporate profits are emerging as the big driver of what the market is likely to do in the near term, but if earnings results fall short of expectations, the stock market's reaction could be severe. Chris Zaccarelli, chief investment officer for Independent Advisor Alliance, added<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Investors are looking at the fact that the economy has been resilient, and corporate earnings so far are coming in pretty well. The tech-heavy Nasdaq led Wall Street higher, supported by mega-cap growth stocks including Apple and Tesla, ahead of quarterly results from industry heavyweights through the week.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Megacaps<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Goldman Sachs, International Business Machines (IBM), Netflix, Tesla, Blackstone (BX), Johnson & Johnson, Philip Morris International (PM), Newmont (NEM), and American Express are among the companies scheduled to report quarterly results by the end of this trading week. A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street even more, and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy and strong.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the days ahead, the U.S. stock market will also be hypersensitive to FED comments. However, prices and producer prices data provided evidence that inflation cooled more than expected, stoking hopes that the U.S. Federal Reserve will soon end its monetary policy tightening. However, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points on July 26. Still, there is also a great chance that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings.<\/p>\n","post_title":"U.S. Stocks Are Advancing At The Start Of The Earnings Season; Here's What To Expect","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"u-s-stocks-are-advancing-at-the-start-of-the-earnings-season-heres-what-to-expect","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-19 15:44:48","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12610","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12490,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-13 21:13:24","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:24","post_content":"\n

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released its June inflation report this Wednesday, and the report showed that the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which measures prices that urban consumers pay for a basket of goods and services, rose 0.2% in June compared with May's 0.1% growth, but landed below the 0.3% consensus. In the 12 months through June, the consumer prices (CPI) advanced only 3.0%, and it is important to say that this was the smallest year-on-year increase since March 2021 and followed a 4.0% rise in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Consumer<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The CPI reading has cooled considerably since peeking out around 9% in June 2022, which suggests that the Fed's campaign to quell inflation is working well. Another positive information is that a core measure that strips out volatile food and energy prices was 0.2% every month in June, halving from the 0.4% growth rate in each of the three months prior.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Fed may debate whether to hike the policy rate further based on the new inflation data. However, Ryan Sweet, the Chief US Economist at Oxford Economics, thinks that the cooler-than-expected inflation report will not stop the Federal Reserve from raising its policy rate by 25 basis points at its meeting this month. According to a survey from the CME Group, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points at the next Federal Reserve meeting scheduled for July 26.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Wall Street is in celebration mode after a sharper-than-expected deceleration of inflation, but it remains above Powell & Co's average annual 2% target. However, there is a great probability that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. Brian Jacobsen, chief economist at Annex Wealth Management, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"U.S. consumer prices rose modestly in June and logged their smallest annual increase in more than two years as inflation continued to subside. Even though the Federal Reserve has probably already talked itself into a corner needing to hike at the July meeting, it may be the last one for this hiking cycle.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Starting in March 2022, the U.S. Federal Reserve has enacted ten consecutive interest rate increases totaling five percentage points, and the next Federal Reserve policy meeting will be at the center of attention in July 2023. The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5% to 5.25%, which is the highest level since the 2006 year, and in the days ahead, stock and cryptocurrency markets will be hypersensitive to any FED comments.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Inflation Cooled More Than Expected In June. Does This Indicate That The Federal Reserve Is Near The End Of Its Rapid Interest Rate Hikes?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"inflation-cooled-more-than-expected-in-june-does-this-indicate-that-the-federal-reserve-is-near-the-end-of-its-rapid-interest-rate-hikes","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-13 21:13:36","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12490","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12354,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-05 22:47:04","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:04","post_content":"\n

Despite the high federal funds rate, durable goods orders exceeded expectations, which caused investors to remain unconcerned about a recession, surprising analysts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 12, the central bank's bank term funding program announcement reinforced faith in the banking system, and investors were content to see additional signs of decreased inflation. The stock market tracked with the economy in the first half of 2023, surprising the upside and leaving investors to wonder if the resilience can continue. The current rally in the cryptocurrency market is also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity. Bank of America U.S. economist Michael Gapen said<\/a> on Friday:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The economy has proven more resilient than we previously expected, owing largely to consumption. However, we do not expect such robust prints to continue. Momentum in the economy should slow as the lagged effects of tighter monetary policy and financial conditions start to take hold.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The jobs report on Friday is the next big test that could show if the economy is still resilient as higher rates crimp company credit lines. Companies must pay more to borrow when interest rates rise, causing them to decrease spending and job opportunities. According to analysts' estimates, the job report on Friday could show that the U.S. economy added 225,000 jobs in June 2023, with the unemployment rate set to fall to 3.6%, down from 3.7% in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Over the past twelve months, the U.S. job report has outperformed market expectations on 11 out of 12 occasions, and another set of better-than-expected readings may reinforce hopes of a soft landing (a possibility that the U.S. economy escaped a deep recession). The U.S. economy added 339,000 jobs in May 2023, and in the chart below, we can also see how the job market performed since June 2021.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Non-Farm<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

While sentiment-based indicators show that investors are no longer in panic, a recommendation is that you should continue to take a defensive investment approach in the upcoming days because another strong job report could also pressure the Fed to do more by anchoring a 25 bp hike this month and pushing back against the timeline for rate cuts. The next Federal Reserve meeting is on July 26. The CME Group survey shows a high probability of a 25 basis point rate increase.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Economy Has Proven More Resilient Than Analysts Previously Expected. The Focus Of Investors Is Switching To The U.S. Jobs Report","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-economy-has-proven-more-resilient-than-analysts-previously-expected-the-focus-of-investors-is-switching-to-the-u-s-jobs-report","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-05 22:47:08","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12354","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12237,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-29 06:44:16","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:16","post_content":"\n

The U.S. stock market recovered this Tuesday from recent losses as upbeat economic data cooled investor worries of a possible recession that could be triggered by the Federal Reserve's aggressive interest rate hikes. In May, the U.S. economy showed positive signs, with higher-than-expected orders for essential capital goods and a significant increase in sales of new single-family homes. Moreover, consumer confidence in the U.S. reached its highest level since January 2022.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Commerce Department's durable goods report brought good news for analysts in May. Commercial aircraft\/parts saw a significant rise of 32.5%, transportation equipment increased by 3.9%, and autos\/features grew by 2.2%, leading to new orders. Non-defense capital goods, excluding aircraft, grew by 0.7%. The report indicates greater confidence in future business conditions and job availability for six months. Oren Klachkin, lead U.S. economist at Oxford Economics (OE), said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The May durable goods orders and shipments data help to fend off fears that a recession is just around the corner. However, the economic backdrop is set to become more discouraging for manufacturers as tighter lending standards and elevated interest rates weaken demand for goods.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Durable<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. economy remains steady despite the federal funds rate reaching its peak since 2007. Investors should note that good economic data may lead to a 25 basis point increase in interest rates at the Federal Reserve's July meeting. Financial markets predict a 79.4% chance of this happening. This week's important economic data includes a crucial inflation measure that could provide valuable insight into the Federal Reserve's plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Experts recommend a cautious approach when interest rates exceed 5%. This involves taking calculated risks due to the current economic climate, which is unstable and unpredictable. As interest rates increase, companies face higher borrowing costs, causing them to decrease spending, especially on hiring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Investor Jeremy Grantham warns of potential losses in the U.S. stock market and advises cautiousness. It's important to note that cryptocurrencies could also face a significant decline. This is due to the high correlation between the crypto market and U.S. equities. If the stock market experiences a downturn, the crypto-sphere may follow suit. Investors must consider this possibility.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Upbeat Economic Data Lifted Investors' Mood, But Days Ahead Could Give Cues On The Next Federal Reserve's Steps","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"upbeat-economic-data-lifted-investors-mood-but-days-ahead-could-give-cues-on-the-next-federal-reserves-steps","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-29 06:44:23","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12237","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12127,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-21 15:38:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:34","post_content":"\n

According to the latest American Association of Individual Investors(AAII) survey, Investor confidence is at a peak reaching a 19-month high. American Association of Individual Investors also reported that bearish sentiment fell to a 23-month low, and there is general expectation that the stock prices would rise over the next several months. The crypto market displayed a high correlation with U.S. equities. If a positive trend is witnessed in the stock market, the same is usually replicated in the crypto-sphere as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Surveys<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers released data on Friday, showing that consumer sentiment in the U.S. improved to a four-month high in June. This is also positive news, and the improved view reflects greater optimism after signs of easing inflation, economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season in the U.S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recent inflation data signalled that the Fed's monetary tightening is cooling the world's largest economy, and according to many analysts, the Federal Reserve is near the end of its tightening cycle. The U.S. economy remains stable even though the federal funds rate remains at its highest since 2007; the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been substantial, and the unemployment rate has remained low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

THIS TUESDAY, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that groundbreaking new American homes jumped by 21.7% in May 2023 to 1.63 million units. Building permits, considered among the housing market's most forward-looking indicators, increased more than expected in May, rising 5.2% to 1.49 million units at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Kieran Clancy, Senior Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

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\n

A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy. The International Monetary Fund raised its global economic outlook for 2023 due to strong activity in the services sector in the first quarter.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank May Raise Rates By 25 BPS; How Will This Impact Financial And Crypto Markets?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-may-raise-rates-by-25-bps-how-will-this-impact-financial-and-crypto-markets","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-27 16:27:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-27 06:27:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12726","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12610,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-19 15:44:42","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:42","post_content":"\n

Shares on Wall Street continue to be supported, led by gains in financial and technology stocks, with investors looking toward the next round of quarterly results as earnings season gets underway. The S&P 500 is up to nearly 19% year-to-date, while the Nasdaq has advanced about 37%, and both indexes are on track for their fifth straight month of gains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Some of the largest U.S. banks, including JPMorgan Chase and Wells Fargo, reported a profit boost from higher rates, pointing towards a resilient economy. This Tuesday, Bank of America posted a 20% surge in second-quarter profit, and it is also important to mention that Morgan Stanley's stock had today the most significant single-day gain since late 2020, after its second-quarter profit and revenue beat analyst expectations on a boost from its wealth management business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to Refinitiv data, of the 30 companies in the S&P 500 that reported earnings last week, 80% beat analyst expectations. Corporate profits are emerging as the big driver of what the market is likely to do in the near term, but if earnings results fall short of expectations, the stock market's reaction could be severe. Chris Zaccarelli, chief investment officer for Independent Advisor Alliance, added<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Investors are looking at the fact that the economy has been resilient, and corporate earnings so far are coming in pretty well. The tech-heavy Nasdaq led Wall Street higher, supported by mega-cap growth stocks including Apple and Tesla, ahead of quarterly results from industry heavyweights through the week.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Megacaps<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Goldman Sachs, International Business Machines (IBM), Netflix, Tesla, Blackstone (BX), Johnson & Johnson, Philip Morris International (PM), Newmont (NEM), and American Express are among the companies scheduled to report quarterly results by the end of this trading week. A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street even more, and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy and strong.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the days ahead, the U.S. stock market will also be hypersensitive to FED comments. However, prices and producer prices data provided evidence that inflation cooled more than expected, stoking hopes that the U.S. Federal Reserve will soon end its monetary policy tightening. However, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points on July 26. Still, there is also a great chance that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings.<\/p>\n","post_title":"U.S. Stocks Are Advancing At The Start Of The Earnings Season; Here's What To Expect","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"u-s-stocks-are-advancing-at-the-start-of-the-earnings-season-heres-what-to-expect","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-19 15:44:48","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12610","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12490,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-13 21:13:24","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:24","post_content":"\n

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released its June inflation report this Wednesday, and the report showed that the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which measures prices that urban consumers pay for a basket of goods and services, rose 0.2% in June compared with May's 0.1% growth, but landed below the 0.3% consensus. In the 12 months through June, the consumer prices (CPI) advanced only 3.0%, and it is important to say that this was the smallest year-on-year increase since March 2021 and followed a 4.0% rise in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Consumer<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The CPI reading has cooled considerably since peeking out around 9% in June 2022, which suggests that the Fed's campaign to quell inflation is working well. Another positive information is that a core measure that strips out volatile food and energy prices was 0.2% every month in June, halving from the 0.4% growth rate in each of the three months prior.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Fed may debate whether to hike the policy rate further based on the new inflation data. However, Ryan Sweet, the Chief US Economist at Oxford Economics, thinks that the cooler-than-expected inflation report will not stop the Federal Reserve from raising its policy rate by 25 basis points at its meeting this month. According to a survey from the CME Group, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points at the next Federal Reserve meeting scheduled for July 26.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Wall Street is in celebration mode after a sharper-than-expected deceleration of inflation, but it remains above Powell & Co's average annual 2% target. However, there is a great probability that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. Brian Jacobsen, chief economist at Annex Wealth Management, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"U.S. consumer prices rose modestly in June and logged their smallest annual increase in more than two years as inflation continued to subside. Even though the Federal Reserve has probably already talked itself into a corner needing to hike at the July meeting, it may be the last one for this hiking cycle.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Starting in March 2022, the U.S. Federal Reserve has enacted ten consecutive interest rate increases totaling five percentage points, and the next Federal Reserve policy meeting will be at the center of attention in July 2023. The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5% to 5.25%, which is the highest level since the 2006 year, and in the days ahead, stock and cryptocurrency markets will be hypersensitive to any FED comments.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Inflation Cooled More Than Expected In June. Does This Indicate That The Federal Reserve Is Near The End Of Its Rapid Interest Rate Hikes?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"inflation-cooled-more-than-expected-in-june-does-this-indicate-that-the-federal-reserve-is-near-the-end-of-its-rapid-interest-rate-hikes","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-13 21:13:36","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12490","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12354,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-05 22:47:04","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:04","post_content":"\n

Despite the high federal funds rate, durable goods orders exceeded expectations, which caused investors to remain unconcerned about a recession, surprising analysts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 12, the central bank's bank term funding program announcement reinforced faith in the banking system, and investors were content to see additional signs of decreased inflation. The stock market tracked with the economy in the first half of 2023, surprising the upside and leaving investors to wonder if the resilience can continue. The current rally in the cryptocurrency market is also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity. Bank of America U.S. economist Michael Gapen said<\/a> on Friday:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The economy has proven more resilient than we previously expected, owing largely to consumption. However, we do not expect such robust prints to continue. Momentum in the economy should slow as the lagged effects of tighter monetary policy and financial conditions start to take hold.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The jobs report on Friday is the next big test that could show if the economy is still resilient as higher rates crimp company credit lines. Companies must pay more to borrow when interest rates rise, causing them to decrease spending and job opportunities. According to analysts' estimates, the job report on Friday could show that the U.S. economy added 225,000 jobs in June 2023, with the unemployment rate set to fall to 3.6%, down from 3.7% in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Over the past twelve months, the U.S. job report has outperformed market expectations on 11 out of 12 occasions, and another set of better-than-expected readings may reinforce hopes of a soft landing (a possibility that the U.S. economy escaped a deep recession). The U.S. economy added 339,000 jobs in May 2023, and in the chart below, we can also see how the job market performed since June 2021.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Non-Farm<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

While sentiment-based indicators show that investors are no longer in panic, a recommendation is that you should continue to take a defensive investment approach in the upcoming days because another strong job report could also pressure the Fed to do more by anchoring a 25 bp hike this month and pushing back against the timeline for rate cuts. The next Federal Reserve meeting is on July 26. The CME Group survey shows a high probability of a 25 basis point rate increase.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Economy Has Proven More Resilient Than Analysts Previously Expected. The Focus Of Investors Is Switching To The U.S. Jobs Report","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-economy-has-proven-more-resilient-than-analysts-previously-expected-the-focus-of-investors-is-switching-to-the-u-s-jobs-report","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-05 22:47:08","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12354","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12237,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-29 06:44:16","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:16","post_content":"\n

The U.S. stock market recovered this Tuesday from recent losses as upbeat economic data cooled investor worries of a possible recession that could be triggered by the Federal Reserve's aggressive interest rate hikes. In May, the U.S. economy showed positive signs, with higher-than-expected orders for essential capital goods and a significant increase in sales of new single-family homes. Moreover, consumer confidence in the U.S. reached its highest level since January 2022.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Commerce Department's durable goods report brought good news for analysts in May. Commercial aircraft\/parts saw a significant rise of 32.5%, transportation equipment increased by 3.9%, and autos\/features grew by 2.2%, leading to new orders. Non-defense capital goods, excluding aircraft, grew by 0.7%. The report indicates greater confidence in future business conditions and job availability for six months. Oren Klachkin, lead U.S. economist at Oxford Economics (OE), said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The May durable goods orders and shipments data help to fend off fears that a recession is just around the corner. However, the economic backdrop is set to become more discouraging for manufacturers as tighter lending standards and elevated interest rates weaken demand for goods.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Durable<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. economy remains steady despite the federal funds rate reaching its peak since 2007. Investors should note that good economic data may lead to a 25 basis point increase in interest rates at the Federal Reserve's July meeting. Financial markets predict a 79.4% chance of this happening. This week's important economic data includes a crucial inflation measure that could provide valuable insight into the Federal Reserve's plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Experts recommend a cautious approach when interest rates exceed 5%. This involves taking calculated risks due to the current economic climate, which is unstable and unpredictable. As interest rates increase, companies face higher borrowing costs, causing them to decrease spending, especially on hiring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Investor Jeremy Grantham warns of potential losses in the U.S. stock market and advises cautiousness. It's important to note that cryptocurrencies could also face a significant decline. This is due to the high correlation between the crypto market and U.S. equities. If the stock market experiences a downturn, the crypto-sphere may follow suit. Investors must consider this possibility.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Upbeat Economic Data Lifted Investors' Mood, But Days Ahead Could Give Cues On The Next Federal Reserve's Steps","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"upbeat-economic-data-lifted-investors-mood-but-days-ahead-could-give-cues-on-the-next-federal-reserves-steps","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-29 06:44:23","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12237","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12127,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-21 15:38:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:34","post_content":"\n

According to the latest American Association of Individual Investors(AAII) survey, Investor confidence is at a peak reaching a 19-month high. American Association of Individual Investors also reported that bearish sentiment fell to a 23-month low, and there is general expectation that the stock prices would rise over the next several months. The crypto market displayed a high correlation with U.S. equities. If a positive trend is witnessed in the stock market, the same is usually replicated in the crypto-sphere as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Surveys<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers released data on Friday, showing that consumer sentiment in the U.S. improved to a four-month high in June. This is also positive news, and the improved view reflects greater optimism after signs of easing inflation, economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season in the U.S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recent inflation data signalled that the Fed's monetary tightening is cooling the world's largest economy, and according to many analysts, the Federal Reserve is near the end of its tightening cycle. The U.S. economy remains stable even though the federal funds rate remains at its highest since 2007; the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been substantial, and the unemployment rate has remained low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

THIS TUESDAY, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that groundbreaking new American homes jumped by 21.7% in May 2023 to 1.63 million units. Building permits, considered among the housing market's most forward-looking indicators, increased more than expected in May, rising 5.2% to 1.49 million units at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Kieran Clancy, Senior Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

Most Read

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

By subscribing, you agree with our privacy and terms.

Follow The Distributed

ADVERTISEMENT
\n

The S&P 500 is up to nearly 20% year-to-date, while the Nasdaq has advanced about 37%, and both indexes are on track for their fifth straight month of gains. Corporate earnings so far are coming in pretty well, and Alphabet (Google), Microsoft, Visa, AT&T, Coca-Cola, Meta, Boeing, Procter & Gamble, Exxon Mobil, McDonald's, Ford, and Intel are among the companies scheduled to report quarterly results by the end of this trading week.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy. The International Monetary Fund raised its global economic outlook for 2023 due to strong activity in the services sector in the first quarter.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank May Raise Rates By 25 BPS; How Will This Impact Financial And Crypto Markets?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-may-raise-rates-by-25-bps-how-will-this-impact-financial-and-crypto-markets","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-27 16:27:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-27 06:27:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12726","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12610,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-19 15:44:42","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:42","post_content":"\n

Shares on Wall Street continue to be supported, led by gains in financial and technology stocks, with investors looking toward the next round of quarterly results as earnings season gets underway. The S&P 500 is up to nearly 19% year-to-date, while the Nasdaq has advanced about 37%, and both indexes are on track for their fifth straight month of gains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Some of the largest U.S. banks, including JPMorgan Chase and Wells Fargo, reported a profit boost from higher rates, pointing towards a resilient economy. This Tuesday, Bank of America posted a 20% surge in second-quarter profit, and it is also important to mention that Morgan Stanley's stock had today the most significant single-day gain since late 2020, after its second-quarter profit and revenue beat analyst expectations on a boost from its wealth management business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to Refinitiv data, of the 30 companies in the S&P 500 that reported earnings last week, 80% beat analyst expectations. Corporate profits are emerging as the big driver of what the market is likely to do in the near term, but if earnings results fall short of expectations, the stock market's reaction could be severe. Chris Zaccarelli, chief investment officer for Independent Advisor Alliance, added<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Investors are looking at the fact that the economy has been resilient, and corporate earnings so far are coming in pretty well. The tech-heavy Nasdaq led Wall Street higher, supported by mega-cap growth stocks including Apple and Tesla, ahead of quarterly results from industry heavyweights through the week.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Megacaps<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Goldman Sachs, International Business Machines (IBM), Netflix, Tesla, Blackstone (BX), Johnson & Johnson, Philip Morris International (PM), Newmont (NEM), and American Express are among the companies scheduled to report quarterly results by the end of this trading week. A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street even more, and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy and strong.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the days ahead, the U.S. stock market will also be hypersensitive to FED comments. However, prices and producer prices data provided evidence that inflation cooled more than expected, stoking hopes that the U.S. Federal Reserve will soon end its monetary policy tightening. However, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points on July 26. Still, there is also a great chance that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings.<\/p>\n","post_title":"U.S. Stocks Are Advancing At The Start Of The Earnings Season; Here's What To Expect","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"u-s-stocks-are-advancing-at-the-start-of-the-earnings-season-heres-what-to-expect","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-19 15:44:48","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12610","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12490,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-13 21:13:24","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:24","post_content":"\n

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released its June inflation report this Wednesday, and the report showed that the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which measures prices that urban consumers pay for a basket of goods and services, rose 0.2% in June compared with May's 0.1% growth, but landed below the 0.3% consensus. In the 12 months through June, the consumer prices (CPI) advanced only 3.0%, and it is important to say that this was the smallest year-on-year increase since March 2021 and followed a 4.0% rise in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Consumer<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The CPI reading has cooled considerably since peeking out around 9% in June 2022, which suggests that the Fed's campaign to quell inflation is working well. Another positive information is that a core measure that strips out volatile food and energy prices was 0.2% every month in June, halving from the 0.4% growth rate in each of the three months prior.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Fed may debate whether to hike the policy rate further based on the new inflation data. However, Ryan Sweet, the Chief US Economist at Oxford Economics, thinks that the cooler-than-expected inflation report will not stop the Federal Reserve from raising its policy rate by 25 basis points at its meeting this month. According to a survey from the CME Group, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points at the next Federal Reserve meeting scheduled for July 26.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Wall Street is in celebration mode after a sharper-than-expected deceleration of inflation, but it remains above Powell & Co's average annual 2% target. However, there is a great probability that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. Brian Jacobsen, chief economist at Annex Wealth Management, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"U.S. consumer prices rose modestly in June and logged their smallest annual increase in more than two years as inflation continued to subside. Even though the Federal Reserve has probably already talked itself into a corner needing to hike at the July meeting, it may be the last one for this hiking cycle.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Starting in March 2022, the U.S. Federal Reserve has enacted ten consecutive interest rate increases totaling five percentage points, and the next Federal Reserve policy meeting will be at the center of attention in July 2023. The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5% to 5.25%, which is the highest level since the 2006 year, and in the days ahead, stock and cryptocurrency markets will be hypersensitive to any FED comments.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Inflation Cooled More Than Expected In June. Does This Indicate That The Federal Reserve Is Near The End Of Its Rapid Interest Rate Hikes?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"inflation-cooled-more-than-expected-in-june-does-this-indicate-that-the-federal-reserve-is-near-the-end-of-its-rapid-interest-rate-hikes","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-13 21:13:36","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12490","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12354,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-05 22:47:04","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:04","post_content":"\n

Despite the high federal funds rate, durable goods orders exceeded expectations, which caused investors to remain unconcerned about a recession, surprising analysts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 12, the central bank's bank term funding program announcement reinforced faith in the banking system, and investors were content to see additional signs of decreased inflation. The stock market tracked with the economy in the first half of 2023, surprising the upside and leaving investors to wonder if the resilience can continue. The current rally in the cryptocurrency market is also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity. Bank of America U.S. economist Michael Gapen said<\/a> on Friday:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The economy has proven more resilient than we previously expected, owing largely to consumption. However, we do not expect such robust prints to continue. Momentum in the economy should slow as the lagged effects of tighter monetary policy and financial conditions start to take hold.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The jobs report on Friday is the next big test that could show if the economy is still resilient as higher rates crimp company credit lines. Companies must pay more to borrow when interest rates rise, causing them to decrease spending and job opportunities. According to analysts' estimates, the job report on Friday could show that the U.S. economy added 225,000 jobs in June 2023, with the unemployment rate set to fall to 3.6%, down from 3.7% in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Over the past twelve months, the U.S. job report has outperformed market expectations on 11 out of 12 occasions, and another set of better-than-expected readings may reinforce hopes of a soft landing (a possibility that the U.S. economy escaped a deep recession). The U.S. economy added 339,000 jobs in May 2023, and in the chart below, we can also see how the job market performed since June 2021.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Non-Farm<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

While sentiment-based indicators show that investors are no longer in panic, a recommendation is that you should continue to take a defensive investment approach in the upcoming days because another strong job report could also pressure the Fed to do more by anchoring a 25 bp hike this month and pushing back against the timeline for rate cuts. The next Federal Reserve meeting is on July 26. The CME Group survey shows a high probability of a 25 basis point rate increase.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Economy Has Proven More Resilient Than Analysts Previously Expected. The Focus Of Investors Is Switching To The U.S. Jobs Report","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-economy-has-proven-more-resilient-than-analysts-previously-expected-the-focus-of-investors-is-switching-to-the-u-s-jobs-report","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-05 22:47:08","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12354","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12237,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-29 06:44:16","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:16","post_content":"\n

The U.S. stock market recovered this Tuesday from recent losses as upbeat economic data cooled investor worries of a possible recession that could be triggered by the Federal Reserve's aggressive interest rate hikes. In May, the U.S. economy showed positive signs, with higher-than-expected orders for essential capital goods and a significant increase in sales of new single-family homes. Moreover, consumer confidence in the U.S. reached its highest level since January 2022.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Commerce Department's durable goods report brought good news for analysts in May. Commercial aircraft\/parts saw a significant rise of 32.5%, transportation equipment increased by 3.9%, and autos\/features grew by 2.2%, leading to new orders. Non-defense capital goods, excluding aircraft, grew by 0.7%. The report indicates greater confidence in future business conditions and job availability for six months. Oren Klachkin, lead U.S. economist at Oxford Economics (OE), said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The May durable goods orders and shipments data help to fend off fears that a recession is just around the corner. However, the economic backdrop is set to become more discouraging for manufacturers as tighter lending standards and elevated interest rates weaken demand for goods.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Durable<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. economy remains steady despite the federal funds rate reaching its peak since 2007. Investors should note that good economic data may lead to a 25 basis point increase in interest rates at the Federal Reserve's July meeting. Financial markets predict a 79.4% chance of this happening. This week's important economic data includes a crucial inflation measure that could provide valuable insight into the Federal Reserve's plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Experts recommend a cautious approach when interest rates exceed 5%. This involves taking calculated risks due to the current economic climate, which is unstable and unpredictable. As interest rates increase, companies face higher borrowing costs, causing them to decrease spending, especially on hiring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Investor Jeremy Grantham warns of potential losses in the U.S. stock market and advises cautiousness. It's important to note that cryptocurrencies could also face a significant decline. This is due to the high correlation between the crypto market and U.S. equities. If the stock market experiences a downturn, the crypto-sphere may follow suit. Investors must consider this possibility.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Upbeat Economic Data Lifted Investors' Mood, But Days Ahead Could Give Cues On The Next Federal Reserve's Steps","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"upbeat-economic-data-lifted-investors-mood-but-days-ahead-could-give-cues-on-the-next-federal-reserves-steps","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-29 06:44:23","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12237","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12127,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-21 15:38:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:34","post_content":"\n

According to the latest American Association of Individual Investors(AAII) survey, Investor confidence is at a peak reaching a 19-month high. American Association of Individual Investors also reported that bearish sentiment fell to a 23-month low, and there is general expectation that the stock prices would rise over the next several months. The crypto market displayed a high correlation with U.S. equities. If a positive trend is witnessed in the stock market, the same is usually replicated in the crypto-sphere as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Surveys<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers released data on Friday, showing that consumer sentiment in the U.S. improved to a four-month high in June. This is also positive news, and the improved view reflects greater optimism after signs of easing inflation, economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season in the U.S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recent inflation data signalled that the Fed's monetary tightening is cooling the world's largest economy, and according to many analysts, the Federal Reserve is near the end of its tightening cycle. The U.S. economy remains stable even though the federal funds rate remains at its highest since 2007; the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been substantial, and the unemployment rate has remained low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

THIS TUESDAY, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that groundbreaking new American homes jumped by 21.7% in May 2023 to 1.63 million units. Building permits, considered among the housing market's most forward-looking indicators, increased more than expected in May, rising 5.2% to 1.49 million units at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Kieran Clancy, Senior Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

Most Read

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

By subscribing, you agree with our privacy and terms.

Follow The Distributed

ADVERTISEMENT
\n

With higher interest rates, companies need to spend more money to borrow money to invest in growth, but as long the U.S. economy is not in recession and the corporate profit remains healthy, there is no risk of a bigger sell-off on the stock market. The recent rally in the cryptocurrency market was also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The S&P 500 is up to nearly 20% year-to-date, while the Nasdaq has advanced about 37%, and both indexes are on track for their fifth straight month of gains. Corporate earnings so far are coming in pretty well, and Alphabet (Google), Microsoft, Visa, AT&T, Coca-Cola, Meta, Boeing, Procter & Gamble, Exxon Mobil, McDonald's, Ford, and Intel are among the companies scheduled to report quarterly results by the end of this trading week.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy. The International Monetary Fund raised its global economic outlook for 2023 due to strong activity in the services sector in the first quarter.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank May Raise Rates By 25 BPS; How Will This Impact Financial And Crypto Markets?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-may-raise-rates-by-25-bps-how-will-this-impact-financial-and-crypto-markets","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-27 16:27:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-27 06:27:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12726","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12610,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-19 15:44:42","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:42","post_content":"\n

Shares on Wall Street continue to be supported, led by gains in financial and technology stocks, with investors looking toward the next round of quarterly results as earnings season gets underway. The S&P 500 is up to nearly 19% year-to-date, while the Nasdaq has advanced about 37%, and both indexes are on track for their fifth straight month of gains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Some of the largest U.S. banks, including JPMorgan Chase and Wells Fargo, reported a profit boost from higher rates, pointing towards a resilient economy. This Tuesday, Bank of America posted a 20% surge in second-quarter profit, and it is also important to mention that Morgan Stanley's stock had today the most significant single-day gain since late 2020, after its second-quarter profit and revenue beat analyst expectations on a boost from its wealth management business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to Refinitiv data, of the 30 companies in the S&P 500 that reported earnings last week, 80% beat analyst expectations. Corporate profits are emerging as the big driver of what the market is likely to do in the near term, but if earnings results fall short of expectations, the stock market's reaction could be severe. Chris Zaccarelli, chief investment officer for Independent Advisor Alliance, added<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Investors are looking at the fact that the economy has been resilient, and corporate earnings so far are coming in pretty well. The tech-heavy Nasdaq led Wall Street higher, supported by mega-cap growth stocks including Apple and Tesla, ahead of quarterly results from industry heavyweights through the week.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Megacaps<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Goldman Sachs, International Business Machines (IBM), Netflix, Tesla, Blackstone (BX), Johnson & Johnson, Philip Morris International (PM), Newmont (NEM), and American Express are among the companies scheduled to report quarterly results by the end of this trading week. A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street even more, and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy and strong.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the days ahead, the U.S. stock market will also be hypersensitive to FED comments. However, prices and producer prices data provided evidence that inflation cooled more than expected, stoking hopes that the U.S. Federal Reserve will soon end its monetary policy tightening. However, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points on July 26. Still, there is also a great chance that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings.<\/p>\n","post_title":"U.S. Stocks Are Advancing At The Start Of The Earnings Season; Here's What To Expect","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"u-s-stocks-are-advancing-at-the-start-of-the-earnings-season-heres-what-to-expect","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-19 15:44:48","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12610","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12490,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-13 21:13:24","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:24","post_content":"\n

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released its June inflation report this Wednesday, and the report showed that the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which measures prices that urban consumers pay for a basket of goods and services, rose 0.2% in June compared with May's 0.1% growth, but landed below the 0.3% consensus. In the 12 months through June, the consumer prices (CPI) advanced only 3.0%, and it is important to say that this was the smallest year-on-year increase since March 2021 and followed a 4.0% rise in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Consumer<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The CPI reading has cooled considerably since peeking out around 9% in June 2022, which suggests that the Fed's campaign to quell inflation is working well. Another positive information is that a core measure that strips out volatile food and energy prices was 0.2% every month in June, halving from the 0.4% growth rate in each of the three months prior.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Fed may debate whether to hike the policy rate further based on the new inflation data. However, Ryan Sweet, the Chief US Economist at Oxford Economics, thinks that the cooler-than-expected inflation report will not stop the Federal Reserve from raising its policy rate by 25 basis points at its meeting this month. According to a survey from the CME Group, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points at the next Federal Reserve meeting scheduled for July 26.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Wall Street is in celebration mode after a sharper-than-expected deceleration of inflation, but it remains above Powell & Co's average annual 2% target. However, there is a great probability that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. Brian Jacobsen, chief economist at Annex Wealth Management, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"U.S. consumer prices rose modestly in June and logged their smallest annual increase in more than two years as inflation continued to subside. Even though the Federal Reserve has probably already talked itself into a corner needing to hike at the July meeting, it may be the last one for this hiking cycle.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Starting in March 2022, the U.S. Federal Reserve has enacted ten consecutive interest rate increases totaling five percentage points, and the next Federal Reserve policy meeting will be at the center of attention in July 2023. The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5% to 5.25%, which is the highest level since the 2006 year, and in the days ahead, stock and cryptocurrency markets will be hypersensitive to any FED comments.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Inflation Cooled More Than Expected In June. Does This Indicate That The Federal Reserve Is Near The End Of Its Rapid Interest Rate Hikes?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"inflation-cooled-more-than-expected-in-june-does-this-indicate-that-the-federal-reserve-is-near-the-end-of-its-rapid-interest-rate-hikes","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-13 21:13:36","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12490","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12354,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-05 22:47:04","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:04","post_content":"\n

Despite the high federal funds rate, durable goods orders exceeded expectations, which caused investors to remain unconcerned about a recession, surprising analysts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 12, the central bank's bank term funding program announcement reinforced faith in the banking system, and investors were content to see additional signs of decreased inflation. The stock market tracked with the economy in the first half of 2023, surprising the upside and leaving investors to wonder if the resilience can continue. The current rally in the cryptocurrency market is also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity. Bank of America U.S. economist Michael Gapen said<\/a> on Friday:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The economy has proven more resilient than we previously expected, owing largely to consumption. However, we do not expect such robust prints to continue. Momentum in the economy should slow as the lagged effects of tighter monetary policy and financial conditions start to take hold.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The jobs report on Friday is the next big test that could show if the economy is still resilient as higher rates crimp company credit lines. Companies must pay more to borrow when interest rates rise, causing them to decrease spending and job opportunities. According to analysts' estimates, the job report on Friday could show that the U.S. economy added 225,000 jobs in June 2023, with the unemployment rate set to fall to 3.6%, down from 3.7% in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Over the past twelve months, the U.S. job report has outperformed market expectations on 11 out of 12 occasions, and another set of better-than-expected readings may reinforce hopes of a soft landing (a possibility that the U.S. economy escaped a deep recession). The U.S. economy added 339,000 jobs in May 2023, and in the chart below, we can also see how the job market performed since June 2021.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Non-Farm<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

While sentiment-based indicators show that investors are no longer in panic, a recommendation is that you should continue to take a defensive investment approach in the upcoming days because another strong job report could also pressure the Fed to do more by anchoring a 25 bp hike this month and pushing back against the timeline for rate cuts. The next Federal Reserve meeting is on July 26. The CME Group survey shows a high probability of a 25 basis point rate increase.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Economy Has Proven More Resilient Than Analysts Previously Expected. The Focus Of Investors Is Switching To The U.S. Jobs Report","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-economy-has-proven-more-resilient-than-analysts-previously-expected-the-focus-of-investors-is-switching-to-the-u-s-jobs-report","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-05 22:47:08","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12354","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12237,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-29 06:44:16","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:16","post_content":"\n

The U.S. stock market recovered this Tuesday from recent losses as upbeat economic data cooled investor worries of a possible recession that could be triggered by the Federal Reserve's aggressive interest rate hikes. In May, the U.S. economy showed positive signs, with higher-than-expected orders for essential capital goods and a significant increase in sales of new single-family homes. Moreover, consumer confidence in the U.S. reached its highest level since January 2022.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Commerce Department's durable goods report brought good news for analysts in May. Commercial aircraft\/parts saw a significant rise of 32.5%, transportation equipment increased by 3.9%, and autos\/features grew by 2.2%, leading to new orders. Non-defense capital goods, excluding aircraft, grew by 0.7%. The report indicates greater confidence in future business conditions and job availability for six months. Oren Klachkin, lead U.S. economist at Oxford Economics (OE), said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The May durable goods orders and shipments data help to fend off fears that a recession is just around the corner. However, the economic backdrop is set to become more discouraging for manufacturers as tighter lending standards and elevated interest rates weaken demand for goods.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Durable<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. economy remains steady despite the federal funds rate reaching its peak since 2007. Investors should note that good economic data may lead to a 25 basis point increase in interest rates at the Federal Reserve's July meeting. Financial markets predict a 79.4% chance of this happening. This week's important economic data includes a crucial inflation measure that could provide valuable insight into the Federal Reserve's plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Experts recommend a cautious approach when interest rates exceed 5%. This involves taking calculated risks due to the current economic climate, which is unstable and unpredictable. As interest rates increase, companies face higher borrowing costs, causing them to decrease spending, especially on hiring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Investor Jeremy Grantham warns of potential losses in the U.S. stock market and advises cautiousness. It's important to note that cryptocurrencies could also face a significant decline. This is due to the high correlation between the crypto market and U.S. equities. If the stock market experiences a downturn, the crypto-sphere may follow suit. Investors must consider this possibility.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Upbeat Economic Data Lifted Investors' Mood, But Days Ahead Could Give Cues On The Next Federal Reserve's Steps","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"upbeat-economic-data-lifted-investors-mood-but-days-ahead-could-give-cues-on-the-next-federal-reserves-steps","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-29 06:44:23","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12237","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12127,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-21 15:38:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:34","post_content":"\n

According to the latest American Association of Individual Investors(AAII) survey, Investor confidence is at a peak reaching a 19-month high. American Association of Individual Investors also reported that bearish sentiment fell to a 23-month low, and there is general expectation that the stock prices would rise over the next several months. The crypto market displayed a high correlation with U.S. equities. If a positive trend is witnessed in the stock market, the same is usually replicated in the crypto-sphere as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Surveys<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers released data on Friday, showing that consumer sentiment in the U.S. improved to a four-month high in June. This is also positive news, and the improved view reflects greater optimism after signs of easing inflation, economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season in the U.S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recent inflation data signalled that the Fed's monetary tightening is cooling the world's largest economy, and according to many analysts, the Federal Reserve is near the end of its tightening cycle. The U.S. economy remains stable even though the federal funds rate remains at its highest since 2007; the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been substantial, and the unemployment rate has remained low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

THIS TUESDAY, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that groundbreaking new American homes jumped by 21.7% in May 2023 to 1.63 million units. Building permits, considered among the housing market's most forward-looking indicators, increased more than expected in May, rising 5.2% to 1.49 million units at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Kieran Clancy, Senior Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

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\n
\"Fed.<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

With higher interest rates, companies need to spend more money to borrow money to invest in growth, but as long the U.S. economy is not in recession and the corporate profit remains healthy, there is no risk of a bigger sell-off on the stock market. The recent rally in the cryptocurrency market was also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The S&P 500 is up to nearly 20% year-to-date, while the Nasdaq has advanced about 37%, and both indexes are on track for their fifth straight month of gains. Corporate earnings so far are coming in pretty well, and Alphabet (Google), Microsoft, Visa, AT&T, Coca-Cola, Meta, Boeing, Procter & Gamble, Exxon Mobil, McDonald's, Ford, and Intel are among the companies scheduled to report quarterly results by the end of this trading week.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy. The International Monetary Fund raised its global economic outlook for 2023 due to strong activity in the services sector in the first quarter.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank May Raise Rates By 25 BPS; How Will This Impact Financial And Crypto Markets?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-may-raise-rates-by-25-bps-how-will-this-impact-financial-and-crypto-markets","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-27 16:27:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-27 06:27:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12726","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12610,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-19 15:44:42","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:42","post_content":"\n

Shares on Wall Street continue to be supported, led by gains in financial and technology stocks, with investors looking toward the next round of quarterly results as earnings season gets underway. The S&P 500 is up to nearly 19% year-to-date, while the Nasdaq has advanced about 37%, and both indexes are on track for their fifth straight month of gains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Some of the largest U.S. banks, including JPMorgan Chase and Wells Fargo, reported a profit boost from higher rates, pointing towards a resilient economy. This Tuesday, Bank of America posted a 20% surge in second-quarter profit, and it is also important to mention that Morgan Stanley's stock had today the most significant single-day gain since late 2020, after its second-quarter profit and revenue beat analyst expectations on a boost from its wealth management business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to Refinitiv data, of the 30 companies in the S&P 500 that reported earnings last week, 80% beat analyst expectations. Corporate profits are emerging as the big driver of what the market is likely to do in the near term, but if earnings results fall short of expectations, the stock market's reaction could be severe. Chris Zaccarelli, chief investment officer for Independent Advisor Alliance, added<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Investors are looking at the fact that the economy has been resilient, and corporate earnings so far are coming in pretty well. The tech-heavy Nasdaq led Wall Street higher, supported by mega-cap growth stocks including Apple and Tesla, ahead of quarterly results from industry heavyweights through the week.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Megacaps<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Goldman Sachs, International Business Machines (IBM), Netflix, Tesla, Blackstone (BX), Johnson & Johnson, Philip Morris International (PM), Newmont (NEM), and American Express are among the companies scheduled to report quarterly results by the end of this trading week. A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street even more, and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy and strong.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the days ahead, the U.S. stock market will also be hypersensitive to FED comments. However, prices and producer prices data provided evidence that inflation cooled more than expected, stoking hopes that the U.S. Federal Reserve will soon end its monetary policy tightening. However, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points on July 26. Still, there is also a great chance that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings.<\/p>\n","post_title":"U.S. Stocks Are Advancing At The Start Of The Earnings Season; Here's What To Expect","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"u-s-stocks-are-advancing-at-the-start-of-the-earnings-season-heres-what-to-expect","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-19 15:44:48","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12610","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12490,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-13 21:13:24","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:24","post_content":"\n

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released its June inflation report this Wednesday, and the report showed that the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which measures prices that urban consumers pay for a basket of goods and services, rose 0.2% in June compared with May's 0.1% growth, but landed below the 0.3% consensus. In the 12 months through June, the consumer prices (CPI) advanced only 3.0%, and it is important to say that this was the smallest year-on-year increase since March 2021 and followed a 4.0% rise in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Consumer<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The CPI reading has cooled considerably since peeking out around 9% in June 2022, which suggests that the Fed's campaign to quell inflation is working well. Another positive information is that a core measure that strips out volatile food and energy prices was 0.2% every month in June, halving from the 0.4% growth rate in each of the three months prior.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Fed may debate whether to hike the policy rate further based on the new inflation data. However, Ryan Sweet, the Chief US Economist at Oxford Economics, thinks that the cooler-than-expected inflation report will not stop the Federal Reserve from raising its policy rate by 25 basis points at its meeting this month. According to a survey from the CME Group, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points at the next Federal Reserve meeting scheduled for July 26.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Wall Street is in celebration mode after a sharper-than-expected deceleration of inflation, but it remains above Powell & Co's average annual 2% target. However, there is a great probability that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. Brian Jacobsen, chief economist at Annex Wealth Management, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"U.S. consumer prices rose modestly in June and logged their smallest annual increase in more than two years as inflation continued to subside. Even though the Federal Reserve has probably already talked itself into a corner needing to hike at the July meeting, it may be the last one for this hiking cycle.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Starting in March 2022, the U.S. Federal Reserve has enacted ten consecutive interest rate increases totaling five percentage points, and the next Federal Reserve policy meeting will be at the center of attention in July 2023. The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5% to 5.25%, which is the highest level since the 2006 year, and in the days ahead, stock and cryptocurrency markets will be hypersensitive to any FED comments.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Inflation Cooled More Than Expected In June. Does This Indicate That The Federal Reserve Is Near The End Of Its Rapid Interest Rate Hikes?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"inflation-cooled-more-than-expected-in-june-does-this-indicate-that-the-federal-reserve-is-near-the-end-of-its-rapid-interest-rate-hikes","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-13 21:13:36","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12490","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12354,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-05 22:47:04","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:04","post_content":"\n

Despite the high federal funds rate, durable goods orders exceeded expectations, which caused investors to remain unconcerned about a recession, surprising analysts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 12, the central bank's bank term funding program announcement reinforced faith in the banking system, and investors were content to see additional signs of decreased inflation. The stock market tracked with the economy in the first half of 2023, surprising the upside and leaving investors to wonder if the resilience can continue. The current rally in the cryptocurrency market is also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity. Bank of America U.S. economist Michael Gapen said<\/a> on Friday:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The economy has proven more resilient than we previously expected, owing largely to consumption. However, we do not expect such robust prints to continue. Momentum in the economy should slow as the lagged effects of tighter monetary policy and financial conditions start to take hold.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The jobs report on Friday is the next big test that could show if the economy is still resilient as higher rates crimp company credit lines. Companies must pay more to borrow when interest rates rise, causing them to decrease spending and job opportunities. According to analysts' estimates, the job report on Friday could show that the U.S. economy added 225,000 jobs in June 2023, with the unemployment rate set to fall to 3.6%, down from 3.7% in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Over the past twelve months, the U.S. job report has outperformed market expectations on 11 out of 12 occasions, and another set of better-than-expected readings may reinforce hopes of a soft landing (a possibility that the U.S. economy escaped a deep recession). The U.S. economy added 339,000 jobs in May 2023, and in the chart below, we can also see how the job market performed since June 2021.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Non-Farm<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

While sentiment-based indicators show that investors are no longer in panic, a recommendation is that you should continue to take a defensive investment approach in the upcoming days because another strong job report could also pressure the Fed to do more by anchoring a 25 bp hike this month and pushing back against the timeline for rate cuts. The next Federal Reserve meeting is on July 26. The CME Group survey shows a high probability of a 25 basis point rate increase.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Economy Has Proven More Resilient Than Analysts Previously Expected. The Focus Of Investors Is Switching To The U.S. Jobs Report","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-economy-has-proven-more-resilient-than-analysts-previously-expected-the-focus-of-investors-is-switching-to-the-u-s-jobs-report","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-05 22:47:08","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12354","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12237,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-29 06:44:16","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:16","post_content":"\n

The U.S. stock market recovered this Tuesday from recent losses as upbeat economic data cooled investor worries of a possible recession that could be triggered by the Federal Reserve's aggressive interest rate hikes. In May, the U.S. economy showed positive signs, with higher-than-expected orders for essential capital goods and a significant increase in sales of new single-family homes. Moreover, consumer confidence in the U.S. reached its highest level since January 2022.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Commerce Department's durable goods report brought good news for analysts in May. Commercial aircraft\/parts saw a significant rise of 32.5%, transportation equipment increased by 3.9%, and autos\/features grew by 2.2%, leading to new orders. Non-defense capital goods, excluding aircraft, grew by 0.7%. The report indicates greater confidence in future business conditions and job availability for six months. Oren Klachkin, lead U.S. economist at Oxford Economics (OE), said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The May durable goods orders and shipments data help to fend off fears that a recession is just around the corner. However, the economic backdrop is set to become more discouraging for manufacturers as tighter lending standards and elevated interest rates weaken demand for goods.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Durable<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. economy remains steady despite the federal funds rate reaching its peak since 2007. Investors should note that good economic data may lead to a 25 basis point increase in interest rates at the Federal Reserve's July meeting. Financial markets predict a 79.4% chance of this happening. This week's important economic data includes a crucial inflation measure that could provide valuable insight into the Federal Reserve's plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Experts recommend a cautious approach when interest rates exceed 5%. This involves taking calculated risks due to the current economic climate, which is unstable and unpredictable. As interest rates increase, companies face higher borrowing costs, causing them to decrease spending, especially on hiring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Investor Jeremy Grantham warns of potential losses in the U.S. stock market and advises cautiousness. It's important to note that cryptocurrencies could also face a significant decline. This is due to the high correlation between the crypto market and U.S. equities. If the stock market experiences a downturn, the crypto-sphere may follow suit. Investors must consider this possibility.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Upbeat Economic Data Lifted Investors' Mood, But Days Ahead Could Give Cues On The Next Federal Reserve's Steps","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"upbeat-economic-data-lifted-investors-mood-but-days-ahead-could-give-cues-on-the-next-federal-reserves-steps","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-29 06:44:23","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12237","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12127,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-21 15:38:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:34","post_content":"\n

According to the latest American Association of Individual Investors(AAII) survey, Investor confidence is at a peak reaching a 19-month high. American Association of Individual Investors also reported that bearish sentiment fell to a 23-month low, and there is general expectation that the stock prices would rise over the next several months. The crypto market displayed a high correlation with U.S. equities. If a positive trend is witnessed in the stock market, the same is usually replicated in the crypto-sphere as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Surveys<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers released data on Friday, showing that consumer sentiment in the U.S. improved to a four-month high in June. This is also positive news, and the improved view reflects greater optimism after signs of easing inflation, economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season in the U.S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recent inflation data signalled that the Fed's monetary tightening is cooling the world's largest economy, and according to many analysts, the Federal Reserve is near the end of its tightening cycle. The U.S. economy remains stable even though the federal funds rate remains at its highest since 2007; the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been substantial, and the unemployment rate has remained low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

THIS TUESDAY, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that groundbreaking new American homes jumped by 21.7% in May 2023 to 1.63 million units. Building permits, considered among the housing market's most forward-looking indicators, increased more than expected in May, rising 5.2% to 1.49 million units at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Kieran Clancy, Senior Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

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\n

Markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points on July 26. Still, there is also a significant chance that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. The federal funds rate is at 5% to 5.25%, the highest since 2007, but financial and tech stock gains still supported Wall Street shares.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Fed.<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

With higher interest rates, companies need to spend more money to borrow money to invest in growth, but as long the U.S. economy is not in recession and the corporate profit remains healthy, there is no risk of a bigger sell-off on the stock market. The recent rally in the cryptocurrency market was also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The S&P 500 is up to nearly 20% year-to-date, while the Nasdaq has advanced about 37%, and both indexes are on track for their fifth straight month of gains. Corporate earnings so far are coming in pretty well, and Alphabet (Google), Microsoft, Visa, AT&T, Coca-Cola, Meta, Boeing, Procter & Gamble, Exxon Mobil, McDonald's, Ford, and Intel are among the companies scheduled to report quarterly results by the end of this trading week.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy. The International Monetary Fund raised its global economic outlook for 2023 due to strong activity in the services sector in the first quarter.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank May Raise Rates By 25 BPS; How Will This Impact Financial And Crypto Markets?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-may-raise-rates-by-25-bps-how-will-this-impact-financial-and-crypto-markets","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-27 16:27:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-27 06:27:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12726","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12610,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-19 15:44:42","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:42","post_content":"\n

Shares on Wall Street continue to be supported, led by gains in financial and technology stocks, with investors looking toward the next round of quarterly results as earnings season gets underway. The S&P 500 is up to nearly 19% year-to-date, while the Nasdaq has advanced about 37%, and both indexes are on track for their fifth straight month of gains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Some of the largest U.S. banks, including JPMorgan Chase and Wells Fargo, reported a profit boost from higher rates, pointing towards a resilient economy. This Tuesday, Bank of America posted a 20% surge in second-quarter profit, and it is also important to mention that Morgan Stanley's stock had today the most significant single-day gain since late 2020, after its second-quarter profit and revenue beat analyst expectations on a boost from its wealth management business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to Refinitiv data, of the 30 companies in the S&P 500 that reported earnings last week, 80% beat analyst expectations. Corporate profits are emerging as the big driver of what the market is likely to do in the near term, but if earnings results fall short of expectations, the stock market's reaction could be severe. Chris Zaccarelli, chief investment officer for Independent Advisor Alliance, added<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Investors are looking at the fact that the economy has been resilient, and corporate earnings so far are coming in pretty well. The tech-heavy Nasdaq led Wall Street higher, supported by mega-cap growth stocks including Apple and Tesla, ahead of quarterly results from industry heavyweights through the week.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Megacaps<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Goldman Sachs, International Business Machines (IBM), Netflix, Tesla, Blackstone (BX), Johnson & Johnson, Philip Morris International (PM), Newmont (NEM), and American Express are among the companies scheduled to report quarterly results by the end of this trading week. A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street even more, and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy and strong.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the days ahead, the U.S. stock market will also be hypersensitive to FED comments. However, prices and producer prices data provided evidence that inflation cooled more than expected, stoking hopes that the U.S. Federal Reserve will soon end its monetary policy tightening. However, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points on July 26. Still, there is also a great chance that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings.<\/p>\n","post_title":"U.S. Stocks Are Advancing At The Start Of The Earnings Season; Here's What To Expect","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"u-s-stocks-are-advancing-at-the-start-of-the-earnings-season-heres-what-to-expect","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-19 15:44:48","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12610","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12490,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-13 21:13:24","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:24","post_content":"\n

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released its June inflation report this Wednesday, and the report showed that the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which measures prices that urban consumers pay for a basket of goods and services, rose 0.2% in June compared with May's 0.1% growth, but landed below the 0.3% consensus. In the 12 months through June, the consumer prices (CPI) advanced only 3.0%, and it is important to say that this was the smallest year-on-year increase since March 2021 and followed a 4.0% rise in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Consumer<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The CPI reading has cooled considerably since peeking out around 9% in June 2022, which suggests that the Fed's campaign to quell inflation is working well. Another positive information is that a core measure that strips out volatile food and energy prices was 0.2% every month in June, halving from the 0.4% growth rate in each of the three months prior.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Fed may debate whether to hike the policy rate further based on the new inflation data. However, Ryan Sweet, the Chief US Economist at Oxford Economics, thinks that the cooler-than-expected inflation report will not stop the Federal Reserve from raising its policy rate by 25 basis points at its meeting this month. According to a survey from the CME Group, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points at the next Federal Reserve meeting scheduled for July 26.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Wall Street is in celebration mode after a sharper-than-expected deceleration of inflation, but it remains above Powell & Co's average annual 2% target. However, there is a great probability that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. Brian Jacobsen, chief economist at Annex Wealth Management, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"U.S. consumer prices rose modestly in June and logged their smallest annual increase in more than two years as inflation continued to subside. Even though the Federal Reserve has probably already talked itself into a corner needing to hike at the July meeting, it may be the last one for this hiking cycle.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Starting in March 2022, the U.S. Federal Reserve has enacted ten consecutive interest rate increases totaling five percentage points, and the next Federal Reserve policy meeting will be at the center of attention in July 2023. The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5% to 5.25%, which is the highest level since the 2006 year, and in the days ahead, stock and cryptocurrency markets will be hypersensitive to any FED comments.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Inflation Cooled More Than Expected In June. Does This Indicate That The Federal Reserve Is Near The End Of Its Rapid Interest Rate Hikes?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"inflation-cooled-more-than-expected-in-june-does-this-indicate-that-the-federal-reserve-is-near-the-end-of-its-rapid-interest-rate-hikes","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-13 21:13:36","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12490","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12354,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-05 22:47:04","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:04","post_content":"\n

Despite the high federal funds rate, durable goods orders exceeded expectations, which caused investors to remain unconcerned about a recession, surprising analysts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 12, the central bank's bank term funding program announcement reinforced faith in the banking system, and investors were content to see additional signs of decreased inflation. The stock market tracked with the economy in the first half of 2023, surprising the upside and leaving investors to wonder if the resilience can continue. The current rally in the cryptocurrency market is also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity. Bank of America U.S. economist Michael Gapen said<\/a> on Friday:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The economy has proven more resilient than we previously expected, owing largely to consumption. However, we do not expect such robust prints to continue. Momentum in the economy should slow as the lagged effects of tighter monetary policy and financial conditions start to take hold.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The jobs report on Friday is the next big test that could show if the economy is still resilient as higher rates crimp company credit lines. Companies must pay more to borrow when interest rates rise, causing them to decrease spending and job opportunities. According to analysts' estimates, the job report on Friday could show that the U.S. economy added 225,000 jobs in June 2023, with the unemployment rate set to fall to 3.6%, down from 3.7% in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Over the past twelve months, the U.S. job report has outperformed market expectations on 11 out of 12 occasions, and another set of better-than-expected readings may reinforce hopes of a soft landing (a possibility that the U.S. economy escaped a deep recession). The U.S. economy added 339,000 jobs in May 2023, and in the chart below, we can also see how the job market performed since June 2021.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Non-Farm<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

While sentiment-based indicators show that investors are no longer in panic, a recommendation is that you should continue to take a defensive investment approach in the upcoming days because another strong job report could also pressure the Fed to do more by anchoring a 25 bp hike this month and pushing back against the timeline for rate cuts. The next Federal Reserve meeting is on July 26. The CME Group survey shows a high probability of a 25 basis point rate increase.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Economy Has Proven More Resilient Than Analysts Previously Expected. The Focus Of Investors Is Switching To The U.S. Jobs Report","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-economy-has-proven-more-resilient-than-analysts-previously-expected-the-focus-of-investors-is-switching-to-the-u-s-jobs-report","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-05 22:47:08","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12354","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12237,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-29 06:44:16","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:16","post_content":"\n

The U.S. stock market recovered this Tuesday from recent losses as upbeat economic data cooled investor worries of a possible recession that could be triggered by the Federal Reserve's aggressive interest rate hikes. In May, the U.S. economy showed positive signs, with higher-than-expected orders for essential capital goods and a significant increase in sales of new single-family homes. Moreover, consumer confidence in the U.S. reached its highest level since January 2022.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Commerce Department's durable goods report brought good news for analysts in May. Commercial aircraft\/parts saw a significant rise of 32.5%, transportation equipment increased by 3.9%, and autos\/features grew by 2.2%, leading to new orders. Non-defense capital goods, excluding aircraft, grew by 0.7%. The report indicates greater confidence in future business conditions and job availability for six months. Oren Klachkin, lead U.S. economist at Oxford Economics (OE), said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The May durable goods orders and shipments data help to fend off fears that a recession is just around the corner. However, the economic backdrop is set to become more discouraging for manufacturers as tighter lending standards and elevated interest rates weaken demand for goods.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Durable<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. economy remains steady despite the federal funds rate reaching its peak since 2007. Investors should note that good economic data may lead to a 25 basis point increase in interest rates at the Federal Reserve's July meeting. Financial markets predict a 79.4% chance of this happening. This week's important economic data includes a crucial inflation measure that could provide valuable insight into the Federal Reserve's plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Experts recommend a cautious approach when interest rates exceed 5%. This involves taking calculated risks due to the current economic climate, which is unstable and unpredictable. As interest rates increase, companies face higher borrowing costs, causing them to decrease spending, especially on hiring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Investor Jeremy Grantham warns of potential losses in the U.S. stock market and advises cautiousness. It's important to note that cryptocurrencies could also face a significant decline. This is due to the high correlation between the crypto market and U.S. equities. If the stock market experiences a downturn, the crypto-sphere may follow suit. Investors must consider this possibility.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Upbeat Economic Data Lifted Investors' Mood, But Days Ahead Could Give Cues On The Next Federal Reserve's Steps","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"upbeat-economic-data-lifted-investors-mood-but-days-ahead-could-give-cues-on-the-next-federal-reserves-steps","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-29 06:44:23","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12237","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12127,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-21 15:38:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:34","post_content":"\n

According to the latest American Association of Individual Investors(AAII) survey, Investor confidence is at a peak reaching a 19-month high. American Association of Individual Investors also reported that bearish sentiment fell to a 23-month low, and there is general expectation that the stock prices would rise over the next several months. The crypto market displayed a high correlation with U.S. equities. If a positive trend is witnessed in the stock market, the same is usually replicated in the crypto-sphere as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Surveys<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers released data on Friday, showing that consumer sentiment in the U.S. improved to a four-month high in June. This is also positive news, and the improved view reflects greater optimism after signs of easing inflation, economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season in the U.S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recent inflation data signalled that the Fed's monetary tightening is cooling the world's largest economy, and according to many analysts, the Federal Reserve is near the end of its tightening cycle. The U.S. economy remains stable even though the federal funds rate remains at its highest since 2007; the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been substantial, and the unemployment rate has remained low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

THIS TUESDAY, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that groundbreaking new American homes jumped by 21.7% in May 2023 to 1.63 million units. Building permits, considered among the housing market's most forward-looking indicators, increased more than expected in May, rising 5.2% to 1.49 million units at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Kieran Clancy, Senior Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

Most Read

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

By subscribing, you agree with our privacy and terms.

Follow The Distributed

ADVERTISEMENT
\n

The US economy is doing better than expected, but inflation is still higher than the target of 2%. The latest economic data, corporate earnings, solid job market, and consumer sentiment cemented this expectation, and according to analysts, the U.S. economy still has some vibrancy, which gives the Fed cover to continue its rate hike policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points on July 26. Still, there is also a significant chance that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. The federal funds rate is at 5% to 5.25%, the highest since 2007, but financial and tech stock gains still supported Wall Street shares.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Fed.<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

With higher interest rates, companies need to spend more money to borrow money to invest in growth, but as long the U.S. economy is not in recession and the corporate profit remains healthy, there is no risk of a bigger sell-off on the stock market. The recent rally in the cryptocurrency market was also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The S&P 500 is up to nearly 20% year-to-date, while the Nasdaq has advanced about 37%, and both indexes are on track for their fifth straight month of gains. Corporate earnings so far are coming in pretty well, and Alphabet (Google), Microsoft, Visa, AT&T, Coca-Cola, Meta, Boeing, Procter & Gamble, Exxon Mobil, McDonald's, Ford, and Intel are among the companies scheduled to report quarterly results by the end of this trading week.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy. The International Monetary Fund raised its global economic outlook for 2023 due to strong activity in the services sector in the first quarter.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank May Raise Rates By 25 BPS; How Will This Impact Financial And Crypto Markets?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-may-raise-rates-by-25-bps-how-will-this-impact-financial-and-crypto-markets","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-27 16:27:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-27 06:27:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12726","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12610,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-19 15:44:42","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:42","post_content":"\n

Shares on Wall Street continue to be supported, led by gains in financial and technology stocks, with investors looking toward the next round of quarterly results as earnings season gets underway. The S&P 500 is up to nearly 19% year-to-date, while the Nasdaq has advanced about 37%, and both indexes are on track for their fifth straight month of gains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Some of the largest U.S. banks, including JPMorgan Chase and Wells Fargo, reported a profit boost from higher rates, pointing towards a resilient economy. This Tuesday, Bank of America posted a 20% surge in second-quarter profit, and it is also important to mention that Morgan Stanley's stock had today the most significant single-day gain since late 2020, after its second-quarter profit and revenue beat analyst expectations on a boost from its wealth management business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to Refinitiv data, of the 30 companies in the S&P 500 that reported earnings last week, 80% beat analyst expectations. Corporate profits are emerging as the big driver of what the market is likely to do in the near term, but if earnings results fall short of expectations, the stock market's reaction could be severe. Chris Zaccarelli, chief investment officer for Independent Advisor Alliance, added<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Investors are looking at the fact that the economy has been resilient, and corporate earnings so far are coming in pretty well. The tech-heavy Nasdaq led Wall Street higher, supported by mega-cap growth stocks including Apple and Tesla, ahead of quarterly results from industry heavyweights through the week.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Megacaps<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Goldman Sachs, International Business Machines (IBM), Netflix, Tesla, Blackstone (BX), Johnson & Johnson, Philip Morris International (PM), Newmont (NEM), and American Express are among the companies scheduled to report quarterly results by the end of this trading week. A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street even more, and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy and strong.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the days ahead, the U.S. stock market will also be hypersensitive to FED comments. However, prices and producer prices data provided evidence that inflation cooled more than expected, stoking hopes that the U.S. Federal Reserve will soon end its monetary policy tightening. However, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points on July 26. Still, there is also a great chance that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings.<\/p>\n","post_title":"U.S. Stocks Are Advancing At The Start Of The Earnings Season; Here's What To Expect","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"u-s-stocks-are-advancing-at-the-start-of-the-earnings-season-heres-what-to-expect","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-19 15:44:48","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12610","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12490,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-13 21:13:24","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:24","post_content":"\n

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released its June inflation report this Wednesday, and the report showed that the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which measures prices that urban consumers pay for a basket of goods and services, rose 0.2% in June compared with May's 0.1% growth, but landed below the 0.3% consensus. In the 12 months through June, the consumer prices (CPI) advanced only 3.0%, and it is important to say that this was the smallest year-on-year increase since March 2021 and followed a 4.0% rise in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Consumer<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The CPI reading has cooled considerably since peeking out around 9% in June 2022, which suggests that the Fed's campaign to quell inflation is working well. Another positive information is that a core measure that strips out volatile food and energy prices was 0.2% every month in June, halving from the 0.4% growth rate in each of the three months prior.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Fed may debate whether to hike the policy rate further based on the new inflation data. However, Ryan Sweet, the Chief US Economist at Oxford Economics, thinks that the cooler-than-expected inflation report will not stop the Federal Reserve from raising its policy rate by 25 basis points at its meeting this month. According to a survey from the CME Group, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points at the next Federal Reserve meeting scheduled for July 26.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Wall Street is in celebration mode after a sharper-than-expected deceleration of inflation, but it remains above Powell & Co's average annual 2% target. However, there is a great probability that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. Brian Jacobsen, chief economist at Annex Wealth Management, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"U.S. consumer prices rose modestly in June and logged their smallest annual increase in more than two years as inflation continued to subside. Even though the Federal Reserve has probably already talked itself into a corner needing to hike at the July meeting, it may be the last one for this hiking cycle.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Starting in March 2022, the U.S. Federal Reserve has enacted ten consecutive interest rate increases totaling five percentage points, and the next Federal Reserve policy meeting will be at the center of attention in July 2023. The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5% to 5.25%, which is the highest level since the 2006 year, and in the days ahead, stock and cryptocurrency markets will be hypersensitive to any FED comments.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Inflation Cooled More Than Expected In June. Does This Indicate That The Federal Reserve Is Near The End Of Its Rapid Interest Rate Hikes?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"inflation-cooled-more-than-expected-in-june-does-this-indicate-that-the-federal-reserve-is-near-the-end-of-its-rapid-interest-rate-hikes","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-13 21:13:36","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12490","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12354,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-05 22:47:04","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:04","post_content":"\n

Despite the high federal funds rate, durable goods orders exceeded expectations, which caused investors to remain unconcerned about a recession, surprising analysts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 12, the central bank's bank term funding program announcement reinforced faith in the banking system, and investors were content to see additional signs of decreased inflation. The stock market tracked with the economy in the first half of 2023, surprising the upside and leaving investors to wonder if the resilience can continue. The current rally in the cryptocurrency market is also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity. Bank of America U.S. economist Michael Gapen said<\/a> on Friday:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The economy has proven more resilient than we previously expected, owing largely to consumption. However, we do not expect such robust prints to continue. Momentum in the economy should slow as the lagged effects of tighter monetary policy and financial conditions start to take hold.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The jobs report on Friday is the next big test that could show if the economy is still resilient as higher rates crimp company credit lines. Companies must pay more to borrow when interest rates rise, causing them to decrease spending and job opportunities. According to analysts' estimates, the job report on Friday could show that the U.S. economy added 225,000 jobs in June 2023, with the unemployment rate set to fall to 3.6%, down from 3.7% in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Over the past twelve months, the U.S. job report has outperformed market expectations on 11 out of 12 occasions, and another set of better-than-expected readings may reinforce hopes of a soft landing (a possibility that the U.S. economy escaped a deep recession). The U.S. economy added 339,000 jobs in May 2023, and in the chart below, we can also see how the job market performed since June 2021.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Non-Farm<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

While sentiment-based indicators show that investors are no longer in panic, a recommendation is that you should continue to take a defensive investment approach in the upcoming days because another strong job report could also pressure the Fed to do more by anchoring a 25 bp hike this month and pushing back against the timeline for rate cuts. The next Federal Reserve meeting is on July 26. The CME Group survey shows a high probability of a 25 basis point rate increase.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Economy Has Proven More Resilient Than Analysts Previously Expected. The Focus Of Investors Is Switching To The U.S. Jobs Report","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-economy-has-proven-more-resilient-than-analysts-previously-expected-the-focus-of-investors-is-switching-to-the-u-s-jobs-report","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-05 22:47:08","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12354","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12237,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-29 06:44:16","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:16","post_content":"\n

The U.S. stock market recovered this Tuesday from recent losses as upbeat economic data cooled investor worries of a possible recession that could be triggered by the Federal Reserve's aggressive interest rate hikes. In May, the U.S. economy showed positive signs, with higher-than-expected orders for essential capital goods and a significant increase in sales of new single-family homes. Moreover, consumer confidence in the U.S. reached its highest level since January 2022.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Commerce Department's durable goods report brought good news for analysts in May. Commercial aircraft\/parts saw a significant rise of 32.5%, transportation equipment increased by 3.9%, and autos\/features grew by 2.2%, leading to new orders. Non-defense capital goods, excluding aircraft, grew by 0.7%. The report indicates greater confidence in future business conditions and job availability for six months. Oren Klachkin, lead U.S. economist at Oxford Economics (OE), said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The May durable goods orders and shipments data help to fend off fears that a recession is just around the corner. However, the economic backdrop is set to become more discouraging for manufacturers as tighter lending standards and elevated interest rates weaken demand for goods.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Durable<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. economy remains steady despite the federal funds rate reaching its peak since 2007. Investors should note that good economic data may lead to a 25 basis point increase in interest rates at the Federal Reserve's July meeting. Financial markets predict a 79.4% chance of this happening. This week's important economic data includes a crucial inflation measure that could provide valuable insight into the Federal Reserve's plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Experts recommend a cautious approach when interest rates exceed 5%. This involves taking calculated risks due to the current economic climate, which is unstable and unpredictable. As interest rates increase, companies face higher borrowing costs, causing them to decrease spending, especially on hiring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Investor Jeremy Grantham warns of potential losses in the U.S. stock market and advises cautiousness. It's important to note that cryptocurrencies could also face a significant decline. This is due to the high correlation between the crypto market and U.S. equities. If the stock market experiences a downturn, the crypto-sphere may follow suit. Investors must consider this possibility.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Upbeat Economic Data Lifted Investors' Mood, But Days Ahead Could Give Cues On The Next Federal Reserve's Steps","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"upbeat-economic-data-lifted-investors-mood-but-days-ahead-could-give-cues-on-the-next-federal-reserves-steps","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-29 06:44:23","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12237","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12127,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-21 15:38:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:34","post_content":"\n

According to the latest American Association of Individual Investors(AAII) survey, Investor confidence is at a peak reaching a 19-month high. American Association of Individual Investors also reported that bearish sentiment fell to a 23-month low, and there is general expectation that the stock prices would rise over the next several months. The crypto market displayed a high correlation with U.S. equities. If a positive trend is witnessed in the stock market, the same is usually replicated in the crypto-sphere as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Surveys<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers released data on Friday, showing that consumer sentiment in the U.S. improved to a four-month high in June. This is also positive news, and the improved view reflects greater optimism after signs of easing inflation, economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season in the U.S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recent inflation data signalled that the Fed's monetary tightening is cooling the world's largest economy, and according to many analysts, the Federal Reserve is near the end of its tightening cycle. The U.S. economy remains stable even though the federal funds rate remains at its highest since 2007; the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been substantial, and the unemployment rate has remained low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

THIS TUESDAY, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that groundbreaking new American homes jumped by 21.7% in May 2023 to 1.63 million units. Building permits, considered among the housing market's most forward-looking indicators, increased more than expected in May, rising 5.2% to 1.49 million units at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Kieran Clancy, Senior Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

Most Read

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

By subscribing, you agree with our privacy and terms.

Follow The Distributed

ADVERTISEMENT
\n

Investors continue to observe comments from Federal Reserve officials that could give more insight into the path of interest rates, but it is important to say that the U.S. Central Bank is widely seen raising rates by 25 basis points at its meeting this Wednesday, although the consumer prices and producer prices data provided evidence that inflation cooled more than expected.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The US economy is doing better than expected, but inflation is still higher than the target of 2%. The latest economic data, corporate earnings, solid job market, and consumer sentiment cemented this expectation, and according to analysts, the U.S. economy still has some vibrancy, which gives the Fed cover to continue its rate hike policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points on July 26. Still, there is also a significant chance that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. The federal funds rate is at 5% to 5.25%, the highest since 2007, but financial and tech stock gains still supported Wall Street shares.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Fed.<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

With higher interest rates, companies need to spend more money to borrow money to invest in growth, but as long the U.S. economy is not in recession and the corporate profit remains healthy, there is no risk of a bigger sell-off on the stock market. The recent rally in the cryptocurrency market was also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The S&P 500 is up to nearly 20% year-to-date, while the Nasdaq has advanced about 37%, and both indexes are on track for their fifth straight month of gains. Corporate earnings so far are coming in pretty well, and Alphabet (Google), Microsoft, Visa, AT&T, Coca-Cola, Meta, Boeing, Procter & Gamble, Exxon Mobil, McDonald's, Ford, and Intel are among the companies scheduled to report quarterly results by the end of this trading week.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy. The International Monetary Fund raised its global economic outlook for 2023 due to strong activity in the services sector in the first quarter.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank May Raise Rates By 25 BPS; How Will This Impact Financial And Crypto Markets?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-may-raise-rates-by-25-bps-how-will-this-impact-financial-and-crypto-markets","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-27 16:27:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-27 06:27:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12726","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12610,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-19 15:44:42","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:42","post_content":"\n

Shares on Wall Street continue to be supported, led by gains in financial and technology stocks, with investors looking toward the next round of quarterly results as earnings season gets underway. The S&P 500 is up to nearly 19% year-to-date, while the Nasdaq has advanced about 37%, and both indexes are on track for their fifth straight month of gains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Some of the largest U.S. banks, including JPMorgan Chase and Wells Fargo, reported a profit boost from higher rates, pointing towards a resilient economy. This Tuesday, Bank of America posted a 20% surge in second-quarter profit, and it is also important to mention that Morgan Stanley's stock had today the most significant single-day gain since late 2020, after its second-quarter profit and revenue beat analyst expectations on a boost from its wealth management business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to Refinitiv data, of the 30 companies in the S&P 500 that reported earnings last week, 80% beat analyst expectations. Corporate profits are emerging as the big driver of what the market is likely to do in the near term, but if earnings results fall short of expectations, the stock market's reaction could be severe. Chris Zaccarelli, chief investment officer for Independent Advisor Alliance, added<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Investors are looking at the fact that the economy has been resilient, and corporate earnings so far are coming in pretty well. The tech-heavy Nasdaq led Wall Street higher, supported by mega-cap growth stocks including Apple and Tesla, ahead of quarterly results from industry heavyweights through the week.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Megacaps<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Goldman Sachs, International Business Machines (IBM), Netflix, Tesla, Blackstone (BX), Johnson & Johnson, Philip Morris International (PM), Newmont (NEM), and American Express are among the companies scheduled to report quarterly results by the end of this trading week. A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street even more, and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy and strong.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the days ahead, the U.S. stock market will also be hypersensitive to FED comments. However, prices and producer prices data provided evidence that inflation cooled more than expected, stoking hopes that the U.S. Federal Reserve will soon end its monetary policy tightening. However, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points on July 26. Still, there is also a great chance that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings.<\/p>\n","post_title":"U.S. Stocks Are Advancing At The Start Of The Earnings Season; Here's What To Expect","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"u-s-stocks-are-advancing-at-the-start-of-the-earnings-season-heres-what-to-expect","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-19 15:44:48","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12610","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12490,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-13 21:13:24","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:24","post_content":"\n

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released its June inflation report this Wednesday, and the report showed that the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which measures prices that urban consumers pay for a basket of goods and services, rose 0.2% in June compared with May's 0.1% growth, but landed below the 0.3% consensus. In the 12 months through June, the consumer prices (CPI) advanced only 3.0%, and it is important to say that this was the smallest year-on-year increase since March 2021 and followed a 4.0% rise in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Consumer<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The CPI reading has cooled considerably since peeking out around 9% in June 2022, which suggests that the Fed's campaign to quell inflation is working well. Another positive information is that a core measure that strips out volatile food and energy prices was 0.2% every month in June, halving from the 0.4% growth rate in each of the three months prior.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Fed may debate whether to hike the policy rate further based on the new inflation data. However, Ryan Sweet, the Chief US Economist at Oxford Economics, thinks that the cooler-than-expected inflation report will not stop the Federal Reserve from raising its policy rate by 25 basis points at its meeting this month. According to a survey from the CME Group, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points at the next Federal Reserve meeting scheduled for July 26.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Wall Street is in celebration mode after a sharper-than-expected deceleration of inflation, but it remains above Powell & Co's average annual 2% target. However, there is a great probability that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. Brian Jacobsen, chief economist at Annex Wealth Management, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"U.S. consumer prices rose modestly in June and logged their smallest annual increase in more than two years as inflation continued to subside. Even though the Federal Reserve has probably already talked itself into a corner needing to hike at the July meeting, it may be the last one for this hiking cycle.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Starting in March 2022, the U.S. Federal Reserve has enacted ten consecutive interest rate increases totaling five percentage points, and the next Federal Reserve policy meeting will be at the center of attention in July 2023. The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5% to 5.25%, which is the highest level since the 2006 year, and in the days ahead, stock and cryptocurrency markets will be hypersensitive to any FED comments.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Inflation Cooled More Than Expected In June. Does This Indicate That The Federal Reserve Is Near The End Of Its Rapid Interest Rate Hikes?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"inflation-cooled-more-than-expected-in-june-does-this-indicate-that-the-federal-reserve-is-near-the-end-of-its-rapid-interest-rate-hikes","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-13 21:13:36","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12490","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12354,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-05 22:47:04","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:04","post_content":"\n

Despite the high federal funds rate, durable goods orders exceeded expectations, which caused investors to remain unconcerned about a recession, surprising analysts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 12, the central bank's bank term funding program announcement reinforced faith in the banking system, and investors were content to see additional signs of decreased inflation. The stock market tracked with the economy in the first half of 2023, surprising the upside and leaving investors to wonder if the resilience can continue. The current rally in the cryptocurrency market is also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity. Bank of America U.S. economist Michael Gapen said<\/a> on Friday:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The economy has proven more resilient than we previously expected, owing largely to consumption. However, we do not expect such robust prints to continue. Momentum in the economy should slow as the lagged effects of tighter monetary policy and financial conditions start to take hold.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The jobs report on Friday is the next big test that could show if the economy is still resilient as higher rates crimp company credit lines. Companies must pay more to borrow when interest rates rise, causing them to decrease spending and job opportunities. According to analysts' estimates, the job report on Friday could show that the U.S. economy added 225,000 jobs in June 2023, with the unemployment rate set to fall to 3.6%, down from 3.7% in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Over the past twelve months, the U.S. job report has outperformed market expectations on 11 out of 12 occasions, and another set of better-than-expected readings may reinforce hopes of a soft landing (a possibility that the U.S. economy escaped a deep recession). The U.S. economy added 339,000 jobs in May 2023, and in the chart below, we can also see how the job market performed since June 2021.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Non-Farm<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

While sentiment-based indicators show that investors are no longer in panic, a recommendation is that you should continue to take a defensive investment approach in the upcoming days because another strong job report could also pressure the Fed to do more by anchoring a 25 bp hike this month and pushing back against the timeline for rate cuts. The next Federal Reserve meeting is on July 26. The CME Group survey shows a high probability of a 25 basis point rate increase.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Economy Has Proven More Resilient Than Analysts Previously Expected. The Focus Of Investors Is Switching To The U.S. Jobs Report","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-economy-has-proven-more-resilient-than-analysts-previously-expected-the-focus-of-investors-is-switching-to-the-u-s-jobs-report","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-05 22:47:08","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12354","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12237,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-29 06:44:16","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:16","post_content":"\n

The U.S. stock market recovered this Tuesday from recent losses as upbeat economic data cooled investor worries of a possible recession that could be triggered by the Federal Reserve's aggressive interest rate hikes. In May, the U.S. economy showed positive signs, with higher-than-expected orders for essential capital goods and a significant increase in sales of new single-family homes. Moreover, consumer confidence in the U.S. reached its highest level since January 2022.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Commerce Department's durable goods report brought good news for analysts in May. Commercial aircraft\/parts saw a significant rise of 32.5%, transportation equipment increased by 3.9%, and autos\/features grew by 2.2%, leading to new orders. Non-defense capital goods, excluding aircraft, grew by 0.7%. The report indicates greater confidence in future business conditions and job availability for six months. Oren Klachkin, lead U.S. economist at Oxford Economics (OE), said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The May durable goods orders and shipments data help to fend off fears that a recession is just around the corner. However, the economic backdrop is set to become more discouraging for manufacturers as tighter lending standards and elevated interest rates weaken demand for goods.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Durable<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. economy remains steady despite the federal funds rate reaching its peak since 2007. Investors should note that good economic data may lead to a 25 basis point increase in interest rates at the Federal Reserve's July meeting. Financial markets predict a 79.4% chance of this happening. This week's important economic data includes a crucial inflation measure that could provide valuable insight into the Federal Reserve's plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Experts recommend a cautious approach when interest rates exceed 5%. This involves taking calculated risks due to the current economic climate, which is unstable and unpredictable. As interest rates increase, companies face higher borrowing costs, causing them to decrease spending, especially on hiring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Investor Jeremy Grantham warns of potential losses in the U.S. stock market and advises cautiousness. It's important to note that cryptocurrencies could also face a significant decline. This is due to the high correlation between the crypto market and U.S. equities. If the stock market experiences a downturn, the crypto-sphere may follow suit. Investors must consider this possibility.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Upbeat Economic Data Lifted Investors' Mood, But Days Ahead Could Give Cues On The Next Federal Reserve's Steps","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"upbeat-economic-data-lifted-investors-mood-but-days-ahead-could-give-cues-on-the-next-federal-reserves-steps","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-29 06:44:23","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12237","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12127,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-21 15:38:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:34","post_content":"\n

According to the latest American Association of Individual Investors(AAII) survey, Investor confidence is at a peak reaching a 19-month high. American Association of Individual Investors also reported that bearish sentiment fell to a 23-month low, and there is general expectation that the stock prices would rise over the next several months. The crypto market displayed a high correlation with U.S. equities. If a positive trend is witnessed in the stock market, the same is usually replicated in the crypto-sphere as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Surveys<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers released data on Friday, showing that consumer sentiment in the U.S. improved to a four-month high in June. This is also positive news, and the improved view reflects greater optimism after signs of easing inflation, economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season in the U.S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recent inflation data signalled that the Fed's monetary tightening is cooling the world's largest economy, and according to many analysts, the Federal Reserve is near the end of its tightening cycle. The U.S. economy remains stable even though the federal funds rate remains at its highest since 2007; the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been substantial, and the unemployment rate has remained low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

THIS TUESDAY, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that groundbreaking new American homes jumped by 21.7% in May 2023 to 1.63 million units. Building permits, considered among the housing market's most forward-looking indicators, increased more than expected in May, rising 5.2% to 1.49 million units at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Kieran Clancy, Senior Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

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\n

The collapse of Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank earlier this year already sparked a crisis of confidence in U.S. lenders, and the negative information is that the CBOE Market Volatility Index VIX, Wall Street's fear gauge, hit this Tuesday a two-month high at 17.71. There are currently too much important things that could easily go wrong, and it would not surprise me to see a big sell-off in financial markets if something goes wrong. The upside potential for stocks and cryptocurrencies probably remains limited for the weeks ahead, and a recommendation is that investors should continue to take a defensive investment approach.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Wall Street's Main Indexes Tumbled As Financial Stocks Dropped After Moody's Cut Credit Ratings of Several U.S. Banks","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"wall-streets-main-indexes-tumbled-as-financial-stocks-dropped-after-moodys-cut-credit-ratings-of-several-u-s-banks","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-10 23:19:38","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-10 13:19:38","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=13011","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12726,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-27 16:26:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-27 06:26:53","post_content":"\n

Investors continue to observe comments from Federal Reserve officials that could give more insight into the path of interest rates, but it is important to say that the U.S. Central Bank is widely seen raising rates by 25 basis points at its meeting this Wednesday, although the consumer prices and producer prices data provided evidence that inflation cooled more than expected.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The US economy is doing better than expected, but inflation is still higher than the target of 2%. The latest economic data, corporate earnings, solid job market, and consumer sentiment cemented this expectation, and according to analysts, the U.S. economy still has some vibrancy, which gives the Fed cover to continue its rate hike policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points on July 26. Still, there is also a significant chance that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. The federal funds rate is at 5% to 5.25%, the highest since 2007, but financial and tech stock gains still supported Wall Street shares.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Fed.<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

With higher interest rates, companies need to spend more money to borrow money to invest in growth, but as long the U.S. economy is not in recession and the corporate profit remains healthy, there is no risk of a bigger sell-off on the stock market. The recent rally in the cryptocurrency market was also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The S&P 500 is up to nearly 20% year-to-date, while the Nasdaq has advanced about 37%, and both indexes are on track for their fifth straight month of gains. Corporate earnings so far are coming in pretty well, and Alphabet (Google), Microsoft, Visa, AT&T, Coca-Cola, Meta, Boeing, Procter & Gamble, Exxon Mobil, McDonald's, Ford, and Intel are among the companies scheduled to report quarterly results by the end of this trading week.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy. The International Monetary Fund raised its global economic outlook for 2023 due to strong activity in the services sector in the first quarter.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank May Raise Rates By 25 BPS; How Will This Impact Financial And Crypto Markets?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-may-raise-rates-by-25-bps-how-will-this-impact-financial-and-crypto-markets","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-27 16:27:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-27 06:27:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12726","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12610,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-19 15:44:42","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:42","post_content":"\n

Shares on Wall Street continue to be supported, led by gains in financial and technology stocks, with investors looking toward the next round of quarterly results as earnings season gets underway. The S&P 500 is up to nearly 19% year-to-date, while the Nasdaq has advanced about 37%, and both indexes are on track for their fifth straight month of gains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Some of the largest U.S. banks, including JPMorgan Chase and Wells Fargo, reported a profit boost from higher rates, pointing towards a resilient economy. This Tuesday, Bank of America posted a 20% surge in second-quarter profit, and it is also important to mention that Morgan Stanley's stock had today the most significant single-day gain since late 2020, after its second-quarter profit and revenue beat analyst expectations on a boost from its wealth management business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to Refinitiv data, of the 30 companies in the S&P 500 that reported earnings last week, 80% beat analyst expectations. Corporate profits are emerging as the big driver of what the market is likely to do in the near term, but if earnings results fall short of expectations, the stock market's reaction could be severe. Chris Zaccarelli, chief investment officer for Independent Advisor Alliance, added<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Investors are looking at the fact that the economy has been resilient, and corporate earnings so far are coming in pretty well. The tech-heavy Nasdaq led Wall Street higher, supported by mega-cap growth stocks including Apple and Tesla, ahead of quarterly results from industry heavyweights through the week.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Megacaps<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Goldman Sachs, International Business Machines (IBM), Netflix, Tesla, Blackstone (BX), Johnson & Johnson, Philip Morris International (PM), Newmont (NEM), and American Express are among the companies scheduled to report quarterly results by the end of this trading week. A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street even more, and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy and strong.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the days ahead, the U.S. stock market will also be hypersensitive to FED comments. However, prices and producer prices data provided evidence that inflation cooled more than expected, stoking hopes that the U.S. Federal Reserve will soon end its monetary policy tightening. However, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points on July 26. Still, there is also a great chance that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings.<\/p>\n","post_title":"U.S. Stocks Are Advancing At The Start Of The Earnings Season; Here's What To Expect","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"u-s-stocks-are-advancing-at-the-start-of-the-earnings-season-heres-what-to-expect","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-19 15:44:48","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12610","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12490,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-13 21:13:24","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:24","post_content":"\n

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released its June inflation report this Wednesday, and the report showed that the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which measures prices that urban consumers pay for a basket of goods and services, rose 0.2% in June compared with May's 0.1% growth, but landed below the 0.3% consensus. In the 12 months through June, the consumer prices (CPI) advanced only 3.0%, and it is important to say that this was the smallest year-on-year increase since March 2021 and followed a 4.0% rise in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Consumer<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The CPI reading has cooled considerably since peeking out around 9% in June 2022, which suggests that the Fed's campaign to quell inflation is working well. Another positive information is that a core measure that strips out volatile food and energy prices was 0.2% every month in June, halving from the 0.4% growth rate in each of the three months prior.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Fed may debate whether to hike the policy rate further based on the new inflation data. However, Ryan Sweet, the Chief US Economist at Oxford Economics, thinks that the cooler-than-expected inflation report will not stop the Federal Reserve from raising its policy rate by 25 basis points at its meeting this month. According to a survey from the CME Group, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points at the next Federal Reserve meeting scheduled for July 26.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Wall Street is in celebration mode after a sharper-than-expected deceleration of inflation, but it remains above Powell & Co's average annual 2% target. However, there is a great probability that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. Brian Jacobsen, chief economist at Annex Wealth Management, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"U.S. consumer prices rose modestly in June and logged their smallest annual increase in more than two years as inflation continued to subside. Even though the Federal Reserve has probably already talked itself into a corner needing to hike at the July meeting, it may be the last one for this hiking cycle.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Starting in March 2022, the U.S. Federal Reserve has enacted ten consecutive interest rate increases totaling five percentage points, and the next Federal Reserve policy meeting will be at the center of attention in July 2023. The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5% to 5.25%, which is the highest level since the 2006 year, and in the days ahead, stock and cryptocurrency markets will be hypersensitive to any FED comments.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Inflation Cooled More Than Expected In June. Does This Indicate That The Federal Reserve Is Near The End Of Its Rapid Interest Rate Hikes?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"inflation-cooled-more-than-expected-in-june-does-this-indicate-that-the-federal-reserve-is-near-the-end-of-its-rapid-interest-rate-hikes","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-13 21:13:36","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12490","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12354,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-05 22:47:04","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:04","post_content":"\n

Despite the high federal funds rate, durable goods orders exceeded expectations, which caused investors to remain unconcerned about a recession, surprising analysts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 12, the central bank's bank term funding program announcement reinforced faith in the banking system, and investors were content to see additional signs of decreased inflation. The stock market tracked with the economy in the first half of 2023, surprising the upside and leaving investors to wonder if the resilience can continue. The current rally in the cryptocurrency market is also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity. Bank of America U.S. economist Michael Gapen said<\/a> on Friday:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The economy has proven more resilient than we previously expected, owing largely to consumption. However, we do not expect such robust prints to continue. Momentum in the economy should slow as the lagged effects of tighter monetary policy and financial conditions start to take hold.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The jobs report on Friday is the next big test that could show if the economy is still resilient as higher rates crimp company credit lines. Companies must pay more to borrow when interest rates rise, causing them to decrease spending and job opportunities. According to analysts' estimates, the job report on Friday could show that the U.S. economy added 225,000 jobs in June 2023, with the unemployment rate set to fall to 3.6%, down from 3.7% in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Over the past twelve months, the U.S. job report has outperformed market expectations on 11 out of 12 occasions, and another set of better-than-expected readings may reinforce hopes of a soft landing (a possibility that the U.S. economy escaped a deep recession). The U.S. economy added 339,000 jobs in May 2023, and in the chart below, we can also see how the job market performed since June 2021.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Non-Farm<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

While sentiment-based indicators show that investors are no longer in panic, a recommendation is that you should continue to take a defensive investment approach in the upcoming days because another strong job report could also pressure the Fed to do more by anchoring a 25 bp hike this month and pushing back against the timeline for rate cuts. The next Federal Reserve meeting is on July 26. The CME Group survey shows a high probability of a 25 basis point rate increase.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Economy Has Proven More Resilient Than Analysts Previously Expected. The Focus Of Investors Is Switching To The U.S. Jobs Report","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-economy-has-proven-more-resilient-than-analysts-previously-expected-the-focus-of-investors-is-switching-to-the-u-s-jobs-report","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-05 22:47:08","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12354","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12237,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-29 06:44:16","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:16","post_content":"\n

The U.S. stock market recovered this Tuesday from recent losses as upbeat economic data cooled investor worries of a possible recession that could be triggered by the Federal Reserve's aggressive interest rate hikes. In May, the U.S. economy showed positive signs, with higher-than-expected orders for essential capital goods and a significant increase in sales of new single-family homes. Moreover, consumer confidence in the U.S. reached its highest level since January 2022.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Commerce Department's durable goods report brought good news for analysts in May. Commercial aircraft\/parts saw a significant rise of 32.5%, transportation equipment increased by 3.9%, and autos\/features grew by 2.2%, leading to new orders. Non-defense capital goods, excluding aircraft, grew by 0.7%. The report indicates greater confidence in future business conditions and job availability for six months. Oren Klachkin, lead U.S. economist at Oxford Economics (OE), said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The May durable goods orders and shipments data help to fend off fears that a recession is just around the corner. However, the economic backdrop is set to become more discouraging for manufacturers as tighter lending standards and elevated interest rates weaken demand for goods.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Durable<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. economy remains steady despite the federal funds rate reaching its peak since 2007. Investors should note that good economic data may lead to a 25 basis point increase in interest rates at the Federal Reserve's July meeting. Financial markets predict a 79.4% chance of this happening. This week's important economic data includes a crucial inflation measure that could provide valuable insight into the Federal Reserve's plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Experts recommend a cautious approach when interest rates exceed 5%. This involves taking calculated risks due to the current economic climate, which is unstable and unpredictable. As interest rates increase, companies face higher borrowing costs, causing them to decrease spending, especially on hiring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Investor Jeremy Grantham warns of potential losses in the U.S. stock market and advises cautiousness. It's important to note that cryptocurrencies could also face a significant decline. This is due to the high correlation between the crypto market and U.S. equities. If the stock market experiences a downturn, the crypto-sphere may follow suit. Investors must consider this possibility.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Upbeat Economic Data Lifted Investors' Mood, But Days Ahead Could Give Cues On The Next Federal Reserve's Steps","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"upbeat-economic-data-lifted-investors-mood-but-days-ahead-could-give-cues-on-the-next-federal-reserves-steps","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-29 06:44:23","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12237","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12127,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-21 15:38:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:34","post_content":"\n

According to the latest American Association of Individual Investors(AAII) survey, Investor confidence is at a peak reaching a 19-month high. American Association of Individual Investors also reported that bearish sentiment fell to a 23-month low, and there is general expectation that the stock prices would rise over the next several months. The crypto market displayed a high correlation with U.S. equities. If a positive trend is witnessed in the stock market, the same is usually replicated in the crypto-sphere as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Surveys<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers released data on Friday, showing that consumer sentiment in the U.S. improved to a four-month high in June. This is also positive news, and the improved view reflects greater optimism after signs of easing inflation, economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season in the U.S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recent inflation data signalled that the Fed's monetary tightening is cooling the world's largest economy, and according to many analysts, the Federal Reserve is near the end of its tightening cycle. The U.S. economy remains stable even though the federal funds rate remains at its highest since 2007; the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been substantial, and the unemployment rate has remained low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

THIS TUESDAY, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that groundbreaking new American homes jumped by 21.7% in May 2023 to 1.63 million units. Building permits, considered among the housing market's most forward-looking indicators, increased more than expected in May, rising 5.2% to 1.49 million units at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Kieran Clancy, Senior Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

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\n

\"Anytime you see the backbone of the U.S. financial system being under watch, that gives people a lot to pause. Markets are slowly digesting that maybe the U.S. financial system is not absolutely perfect, and maybe we are going to have higher rates for a much longer period of time.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The collapse of Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank earlier this year already sparked a crisis of confidence in U.S. lenders, and the negative information is that the CBOE Market Volatility Index VIX, Wall Street's fear gauge, hit this Tuesday a two-month high at 17.71. There are currently too much important things that could easily go wrong, and it would not surprise me to see a big sell-off in financial markets if something goes wrong. The upside potential for stocks and cryptocurrencies probably remains limited for the weeks ahead, and a recommendation is that investors should continue to take a defensive investment approach.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Wall Street's Main Indexes Tumbled As Financial Stocks Dropped After Moody's Cut Credit Ratings of Several U.S. Banks","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"wall-streets-main-indexes-tumbled-as-financial-stocks-dropped-after-moodys-cut-credit-ratings-of-several-u-s-banks","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-10 23:19:38","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-10 13:19:38","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=13011","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12726,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-27 16:26:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-27 06:26:53","post_content":"\n

Investors continue to observe comments from Federal Reserve officials that could give more insight into the path of interest rates, but it is important to say that the U.S. Central Bank is widely seen raising rates by 25 basis points at its meeting this Wednesday, although the consumer prices and producer prices data provided evidence that inflation cooled more than expected.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The US economy is doing better than expected, but inflation is still higher than the target of 2%. The latest economic data, corporate earnings, solid job market, and consumer sentiment cemented this expectation, and according to analysts, the U.S. economy still has some vibrancy, which gives the Fed cover to continue its rate hike policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points on July 26. Still, there is also a significant chance that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. The federal funds rate is at 5% to 5.25%, the highest since 2007, but financial and tech stock gains still supported Wall Street shares.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Fed.<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

With higher interest rates, companies need to spend more money to borrow money to invest in growth, but as long the U.S. economy is not in recession and the corporate profit remains healthy, there is no risk of a bigger sell-off on the stock market. The recent rally in the cryptocurrency market was also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The S&P 500 is up to nearly 20% year-to-date, while the Nasdaq has advanced about 37%, and both indexes are on track for their fifth straight month of gains. Corporate earnings so far are coming in pretty well, and Alphabet (Google), Microsoft, Visa, AT&T, Coca-Cola, Meta, Boeing, Procter & Gamble, Exxon Mobil, McDonald's, Ford, and Intel are among the companies scheduled to report quarterly results by the end of this trading week.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy. The International Monetary Fund raised its global economic outlook for 2023 due to strong activity in the services sector in the first quarter.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank May Raise Rates By 25 BPS; How Will This Impact Financial And Crypto Markets?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-may-raise-rates-by-25-bps-how-will-this-impact-financial-and-crypto-markets","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-27 16:27:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-27 06:27:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12726","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12610,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-19 15:44:42","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:42","post_content":"\n

Shares on Wall Street continue to be supported, led by gains in financial and technology stocks, with investors looking toward the next round of quarterly results as earnings season gets underway. The S&P 500 is up to nearly 19% year-to-date, while the Nasdaq has advanced about 37%, and both indexes are on track for their fifth straight month of gains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Some of the largest U.S. banks, including JPMorgan Chase and Wells Fargo, reported a profit boost from higher rates, pointing towards a resilient economy. This Tuesday, Bank of America posted a 20% surge in second-quarter profit, and it is also important to mention that Morgan Stanley's stock had today the most significant single-day gain since late 2020, after its second-quarter profit and revenue beat analyst expectations on a boost from its wealth management business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to Refinitiv data, of the 30 companies in the S&P 500 that reported earnings last week, 80% beat analyst expectations. Corporate profits are emerging as the big driver of what the market is likely to do in the near term, but if earnings results fall short of expectations, the stock market's reaction could be severe. Chris Zaccarelli, chief investment officer for Independent Advisor Alliance, added<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Investors are looking at the fact that the economy has been resilient, and corporate earnings so far are coming in pretty well. The tech-heavy Nasdaq led Wall Street higher, supported by mega-cap growth stocks including Apple and Tesla, ahead of quarterly results from industry heavyweights through the week.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Megacaps<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Goldman Sachs, International Business Machines (IBM), Netflix, Tesla, Blackstone (BX), Johnson & Johnson, Philip Morris International (PM), Newmont (NEM), and American Express are among the companies scheduled to report quarterly results by the end of this trading week. A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street even more, and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy and strong.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the days ahead, the U.S. stock market will also be hypersensitive to FED comments. However, prices and producer prices data provided evidence that inflation cooled more than expected, stoking hopes that the U.S. Federal Reserve will soon end its monetary policy tightening. However, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points on July 26. Still, there is also a great chance that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings.<\/p>\n","post_title":"U.S. Stocks Are Advancing At The Start Of The Earnings Season; Here's What To Expect","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"u-s-stocks-are-advancing-at-the-start-of-the-earnings-season-heres-what-to-expect","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-19 15:44:48","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12610","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12490,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-13 21:13:24","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:24","post_content":"\n

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released its June inflation report this Wednesday, and the report showed that the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which measures prices that urban consumers pay for a basket of goods and services, rose 0.2% in June compared with May's 0.1% growth, but landed below the 0.3% consensus. In the 12 months through June, the consumer prices (CPI) advanced only 3.0%, and it is important to say that this was the smallest year-on-year increase since March 2021 and followed a 4.0% rise in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Consumer<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The CPI reading has cooled considerably since peeking out around 9% in June 2022, which suggests that the Fed's campaign to quell inflation is working well. Another positive information is that a core measure that strips out volatile food and energy prices was 0.2% every month in June, halving from the 0.4% growth rate in each of the three months prior.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Fed may debate whether to hike the policy rate further based on the new inflation data. However, Ryan Sweet, the Chief US Economist at Oxford Economics, thinks that the cooler-than-expected inflation report will not stop the Federal Reserve from raising its policy rate by 25 basis points at its meeting this month. According to a survey from the CME Group, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points at the next Federal Reserve meeting scheduled for July 26.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Wall Street is in celebration mode after a sharper-than-expected deceleration of inflation, but it remains above Powell & Co's average annual 2% target. However, there is a great probability that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. Brian Jacobsen, chief economist at Annex Wealth Management, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"U.S. consumer prices rose modestly in June and logged their smallest annual increase in more than two years as inflation continued to subside. Even though the Federal Reserve has probably already talked itself into a corner needing to hike at the July meeting, it may be the last one for this hiking cycle.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Starting in March 2022, the U.S. Federal Reserve has enacted ten consecutive interest rate increases totaling five percentage points, and the next Federal Reserve policy meeting will be at the center of attention in July 2023. The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5% to 5.25%, which is the highest level since the 2006 year, and in the days ahead, stock and cryptocurrency markets will be hypersensitive to any FED comments.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Inflation Cooled More Than Expected In June. Does This Indicate That The Federal Reserve Is Near The End Of Its Rapid Interest Rate Hikes?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"inflation-cooled-more-than-expected-in-june-does-this-indicate-that-the-federal-reserve-is-near-the-end-of-its-rapid-interest-rate-hikes","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-13 21:13:36","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12490","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12354,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-05 22:47:04","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:04","post_content":"\n

Despite the high federal funds rate, durable goods orders exceeded expectations, which caused investors to remain unconcerned about a recession, surprising analysts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 12, the central bank's bank term funding program announcement reinforced faith in the banking system, and investors were content to see additional signs of decreased inflation. The stock market tracked with the economy in the first half of 2023, surprising the upside and leaving investors to wonder if the resilience can continue. The current rally in the cryptocurrency market is also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity. Bank of America U.S. economist Michael Gapen said<\/a> on Friday:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The economy has proven more resilient than we previously expected, owing largely to consumption. However, we do not expect such robust prints to continue. Momentum in the economy should slow as the lagged effects of tighter monetary policy and financial conditions start to take hold.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The jobs report on Friday is the next big test that could show if the economy is still resilient as higher rates crimp company credit lines. Companies must pay more to borrow when interest rates rise, causing them to decrease spending and job opportunities. According to analysts' estimates, the job report on Friday could show that the U.S. economy added 225,000 jobs in June 2023, with the unemployment rate set to fall to 3.6%, down from 3.7% in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Over the past twelve months, the U.S. job report has outperformed market expectations on 11 out of 12 occasions, and another set of better-than-expected readings may reinforce hopes of a soft landing (a possibility that the U.S. economy escaped a deep recession). The U.S. economy added 339,000 jobs in May 2023, and in the chart below, we can also see how the job market performed since June 2021.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Non-Farm<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

While sentiment-based indicators show that investors are no longer in panic, a recommendation is that you should continue to take a defensive investment approach in the upcoming days because another strong job report could also pressure the Fed to do more by anchoring a 25 bp hike this month and pushing back against the timeline for rate cuts. The next Federal Reserve meeting is on July 26. The CME Group survey shows a high probability of a 25 basis point rate increase.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Economy Has Proven More Resilient Than Analysts Previously Expected. The Focus Of Investors Is Switching To The U.S. Jobs Report","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-economy-has-proven-more-resilient-than-analysts-previously-expected-the-focus-of-investors-is-switching-to-the-u-s-jobs-report","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-05 22:47:08","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12354","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12237,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-29 06:44:16","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:16","post_content":"\n

The U.S. stock market recovered this Tuesday from recent losses as upbeat economic data cooled investor worries of a possible recession that could be triggered by the Federal Reserve's aggressive interest rate hikes. In May, the U.S. economy showed positive signs, with higher-than-expected orders for essential capital goods and a significant increase in sales of new single-family homes. Moreover, consumer confidence in the U.S. reached its highest level since January 2022.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Commerce Department's durable goods report brought good news for analysts in May. Commercial aircraft\/parts saw a significant rise of 32.5%, transportation equipment increased by 3.9%, and autos\/features grew by 2.2%, leading to new orders. Non-defense capital goods, excluding aircraft, grew by 0.7%. The report indicates greater confidence in future business conditions and job availability for six months. Oren Klachkin, lead U.S. economist at Oxford Economics (OE), said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The May durable goods orders and shipments data help to fend off fears that a recession is just around the corner. However, the economic backdrop is set to become more discouraging for manufacturers as tighter lending standards and elevated interest rates weaken demand for goods.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Durable<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. economy remains steady despite the federal funds rate reaching its peak since 2007. Investors should note that good economic data may lead to a 25 basis point increase in interest rates at the Federal Reserve's July meeting. Financial markets predict a 79.4% chance of this happening. This week's important economic data includes a crucial inflation measure that could provide valuable insight into the Federal Reserve's plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Experts recommend a cautious approach when interest rates exceed 5%. This involves taking calculated risks due to the current economic climate, which is unstable and unpredictable. As interest rates increase, companies face higher borrowing costs, causing them to decrease spending, especially on hiring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Investor Jeremy Grantham warns of potential losses in the U.S. stock market and advises cautiousness. It's important to note that cryptocurrencies could also face a significant decline. This is due to the high correlation between the crypto market and U.S. equities. If the stock market experiences a downturn, the crypto-sphere may follow suit. Investors must consider this possibility.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Upbeat Economic Data Lifted Investors' Mood, But Days Ahead Could Give Cues On The Next Federal Reserve's Steps","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"upbeat-economic-data-lifted-investors-mood-but-days-ahead-could-give-cues-on-the-next-federal-reserves-steps","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-29 06:44:23","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12237","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12127,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-21 15:38:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:34","post_content":"\n

According to the latest American Association of Individual Investors(AAII) survey, Investor confidence is at a peak reaching a 19-month high. American Association of Individual Investors also reported that bearish sentiment fell to a 23-month low, and there is general expectation that the stock prices would rise over the next several months. The crypto market displayed a high correlation with U.S. equities. If a positive trend is witnessed in the stock market, the same is usually replicated in the crypto-sphere as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Surveys<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers released data on Friday, showing that consumer sentiment in the U.S. improved to a four-month high in June. This is also positive news, and the improved view reflects greater optimism after signs of easing inflation, economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season in the U.S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recent inflation data signalled that the Fed's monetary tightening is cooling the world's largest economy, and according to many analysts, the Federal Reserve is near the end of its tightening cycle. The U.S. economy remains stable even though the federal funds rate remains at its highest since 2007; the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been substantial, and the unemployment rate has remained low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

THIS TUESDAY, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that groundbreaking new American homes jumped by 21.7% in May 2023 to 1.63 million units. Building permits, considered among the housing market's most forward-looking indicators, increased more than expected in May, rising 5.2% to 1.49 million units at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Kieran Clancy, Senior Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

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\n
\"\"
Brandon Pizzurro, director of public investments at Guidestone Capital Management said<\/a>:<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

\"Anytime you see the backbone of the U.S. financial system being under watch, that gives people a lot to pause. Markets are slowly digesting that maybe the U.S. financial system is not absolutely perfect, and maybe we are going to have higher rates for a much longer period of time.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The collapse of Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank earlier this year already sparked a crisis of confidence in U.S. lenders, and the negative information is that the CBOE Market Volatility Index VIX, Wall Street's fear gauge, hit this Tuesday a two-month high at 17.71. There are currently too much important things that could easily go wrong, and it would not surprise me to see a big sell-off in financial markets if something goes wrong. The upside potential for stocks and cryptocurrencies probably remains limited for the weeks ahead, and a recommendation is that investors should continue to take a defensive investment approach.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Wall Street's Main Indexes Tumbled As Financial Stocks Dropped After Moody's Cut Credit Ratings of Several U.S. Banks","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"wall-streets-main-indexes-tumbled-as-financial-stocks-dropped-after-moodys-cut-credit-ratings-of-several-u-s-banks","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-10 23:19:38","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-10 13:19:38","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=13011","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12726,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-27 16:26:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-27 06:26:53","post_content":"\n

Investors continue to observe comments from Federal Reserve officials that could give more insight into the path of interest rates, but it is important to say that the U.S. Central Bank is widely seen raising rates by 25 basis points at its meeting this Wednesday, although the consumer prices and producer prices data provided evidence that inflation cooled more than expected.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The US economy is doing better than expected, but inflation is still higher than the target of 2%. The latest economic data, corporate earnings, solid job market, and consumer sentiment cemented this expectation, and according to analysts, the U.S. economy still has some vibrancy, which gives the Fed cover to continue its rate hike policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points on July 26. Still, there is also a significant chance that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. The federal funds rate is at 5% to 5.25%, the highest since 2007, but financial and tech stock gains still supported Wall Street shares.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Fed.<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

With higher interest rates, companies need to spend more money to borrow money to invest in growth, but as long the U.S. economy is not in recession and the corporate profit remains healthy, there is no risk of a bigger sell-off on the stock market. The recent rally in the cryptocurrency market was also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The S&P 500 is up to nearly 20% year-to-date, while the Nasdaq has advanced about 37%, and both indexes are on track for their fifth straight month of gains. Corporate earnings so far are coming in pretty well, and Alphabet (Google), Microsoft, Visa, AT&T, Coca-Cola, Meta, Boeing, Procter & Gamble, Exxon Mobil, McDonald's, Ford, and Intel are among the companies scheduled to report quarterly results by the end of this trading week.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy. The International Monetary Fund raised its global economic outlook for 2023 due to strong activity in the services sector in the first quarter.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank May Raise Rates By 25 BPS; How Will This Impact Financial And Crypto Markets?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-may-raise-rates-by-25-bps-how-will-this-impact-financial-and-crypto-markets","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-27 16:27:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-27 06:27:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12726","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12610,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-19 15:44:42","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:42","post_content":"\n

Shares on Wall Street continue to be supported, led by gains in financial and technology stocks, with investors looking toward the next round of quarterly results as earnings season gets underway. The S&P 500 is up to nearly 19% year-to-date, while the Nasdaq has advanced about 37%, and both indexes are on track for their fifth straight month of gains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Some of the largest U.S. banks, including JPMorgan Chase and Wells Fargo, reported a profit boost from higher rates, pointing towards a resilient economy. This Tuesday, Bank of America posted a 20% surge in second-quarter profit, and it is also important to mention that Morgan Stanley's stock had today the most significant single-day gain since late 2020, after its second-quarter profit and revenue beat analyst expectations on a boost from its wealth management business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to Refinitiv data, of the 30 companies in the S&P 500 that reported earnings last week, 80% beat analyst expectations. Corporate profits are emerging as the big driver of what the market is likely to do in the near term, but if earnings results fall short of expectations, the stock market's reaction could be severe. Chris Zaccarelli, chief investment officer for Independent Advisor Alliance, added<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Investors are looking at the fact that the economy has been resilient, and corporate earnings so far are coming in pretty well. The tech-heavy Nasdaq led Wall Street higher, supported by mega-cap growth stocks including Apple and Tesla, ahead of quarterly results from industry heavyweights through the week.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Megacaps<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Goldman Sachs, International Business Machines (IBM), Netflix, Tesla, Blackstone (BX), Johnson & Johnson, Philip Morris International (PM), Newmont (NEM), and American Express are among the companies scheduled to report quarterly results by the end of this trading week. A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street even more, and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy and strong.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the days ahead, the U.S. stock market will also be hypersensitive to FED comments. However, prices and producer prices data provided evidence that inflation cooled more than expected, stoking hopes that the U.S. Federal Reserve will soon end its monetary policy tightening. However, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points on July 26. Still, there is also a great chance that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings.<\/p>\n","post_title":"U.S. Stocks Are Advancing At The Start Of The Earnings Season; Here's What To Expect","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"u-s-stocks-are-advancing-at-the-start-of-the-earnings-season-heres-what-to-expect","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-19 15:44:48","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12610","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12490,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-13 21:13:24","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:24","post_content":"\n

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released its June inflation report this Wednesday, and the report showed that the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which measures prices that urban consumers pay for a basket of goods and services, rose 0.2% in June compared with May's 0.1% growth, but landed below the 0.3% consensus. In the 12 months through June, the consumer prices (CPI) advanced only 3.0%, and it is important to say that this was the smallest year-on-year increase since March 2021 and followed a 4.0% rise in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Consumer<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The CPI reading has cooled considerably since peeking out around 9% in June 2022, which suggests that the Fed's campaign to quell inflation is working well. Another positive information is that a core measure that strips out volatile food and energy prices was 0.2% every month in June, halving from the 0.4% growth rate in each of the three months prior.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Fed may debate whether to hike the policy rate further based on the new inflation data. However, Ryan Sweet, the Chief US Economist at Oxford Economics, thinks that the cooler-than-expected inflation report will not stop the Federal Reserve from raising its policy rate by 25 basis points at its meeting this month. According to a survey from the CME Group, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points at the next Federal Reserve meeting scheduled for July 26.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Wall Street is in celebration mode after a sharper-than-expected deceleration of inflation, but it remains above Powell & Co's average annual 2% target. However, there is a great probability that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. Brian Jacobsen, chief economist at Annex Wealth Management, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"U.S. consumer prices rose modestly in June and logged their smallest annual increase in more than two years as inflation continued to subside. Even though the Federal Reserve has probably already talked itself into a corner needing to hike at the July meeting, it may be the last one for this hiking cycle.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Starting in March 2022, the U.S. Federal Reserve has enacted ten consecutive interest rate increases totaling five percentage points, and the next Federal Reserve policy meeting will be at the center of attention in July 2023. The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5% to 5.25%, which is the highest level since the 2006 year, and in the days ahead, stock and cryptocurrency markets will be hypersensitive to any FED comments.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Inflation Cooled More Than Expected In June. Does This Indicate That The Federal Reserve Is Near The End Of Its Rapid Interest Rate Hikes?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"inflation-cooled-more-than-expected-in-june-does-this-indicate-that-the-federal-reserve-is-near-the-end-of-its-rapid-interest-rate-hikes","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-13 21:13:36","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12490","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12354,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-05 22:47:04","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:04","post_content":"\n

Despite the high federal funds rate, durable goods orders exceeded expectations, which caused investors to remain unconcerned about a recession, surprising analysts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 12, the central bank's bank term funding program announcement reinforced faith in the banking system, and investors were content to see additional signs of decreased inflation. The stock market tracked with the economy in the first half of 2023, surprising the upside and leaving investors to wonder if the resilience can continue. The current rally in the cryptocurrency market is also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity. Bank of America U.S. economist Michael Gapen said<\/a> on Friday:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The economy has proven more resilient than we previously expected, owing largely to consumption. However, we do not expect such robust prints to continue. Momentum in the economy should slow as the lagged effects of tighter monetary policy and financial conditions start to take hold.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The jobs report on Friday is the next big test that could show if the economy is still resilient as higher rates crimp company credit lines. Companies must pay more to borrow when interest rates rise, causing them to decrease spending and job opportunities. According to analysts' estimates, the job report on Friday could show that the U.S. economy added 225,000 jobs in June 2023, with the unemployment rate set to fall to 3.6%, down from 3.7% in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Over the past twelve months, the U.S. job report has outperformed market expectations on 11 out of 12 occasions, and another set of better-than-expected readings may reinforce hopes of a soft landing (a possibility that the U.S. economy escaped a deep recession). The U.S. economy added 339,000 jobs in May 2023, and in the chart below, we can also see how the job market performed since June 2021.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Non-Farm<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

While sentiment-based indicators show that investors are no longer in panic, a recommendation is that you should continue to take a defensive investment approach in the upcoming days because another strong job report could also pressure the Fed to do more by anchoring a 25 bp hike this month and pushing back against the timeline for rate cuts. The next Federal Reserve meeting is on July 26. The CME Group survey shows a high probability of a 25 basis point rate increase.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Economy Has Proven More Resilient Than Analysts Previously Expected. The Focus Of Investors Is Switching To The U.S. Jobs Report","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-economy-has-proven-more-resilient-than-analysts-previously-expected-the-focus-of-investors-is-switching-to-the-u-s-jobs-report","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-05 22:47:08","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12354","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12237,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-29 06:44:16","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:16","post_content":"\n

The U.S. stock market recovered this Tuesday from recent losses as upbeat economic data cooled investor worries of a possible recession that could be triggered by the Federal Reserve's aggressive interest rate hikes. In May, the U.S. economy showed positive signs, with higher-than-expected orders for essential capital goods and a significant increase in sales of new single-family homes. Moreover, consumer confidence in the U.S. reached its highest level since January 2022.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Commerce Department's durable goods report brought good news for analysts in May. Commercial aircraft\/parts saw a significant rise of 32.5%, transportation equipment increased by 3.9%, and autos\/features grew by 2.2%, leading to new orders. Non-defense capital goods, excluding aircraft, grew by 0.7%. The report indicates greater confidence in future business conditions and job availability for six months. Oren Klachkin, lead U.S. economist at Oxford Economics (OE), said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The May durable goods orders and shipments data help to fend off fears that a recession is just around the corner. However, the economic backdrop is set to become more discouraging for manufacturers as tighter lending standards and elevated interest rates weaken demand for goods.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Durable<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. economy remains steady despite the federal funds rate reaching its peak since 2007. Investors should note that good economic data may lead to a 25 basis point increase in interest rates at the Federal Reserve's July meeting. Financial markets predict a 79.4% chance of this happening. This week's important economic data includes a crucial inflation measure that could provide valuable insight into the Federal Reserve's plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Experts recommend a cautious approach when interest rates exceed 5%. This involves taking calculated risks due to the current economic climate, which is unstable and unpredictable. As interest rates increase, companies face higher borrowing costs, causing them to decrease spending, especially on hiring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Investor Jeremy Grantham warns of potential losses in the U.S. stock market and advises cautiousness. It's important to note that cryptocurrencies could also face a significant decline. This is due to the high correlation between the crypto market and U.S. equities. If the stock market experiences a downturn, the crypto-sphere may follow suit. Investors must consider this possibility.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Upbeat Economic Data Lifted Investors' Mood, But Days Ahead Could Give Cues On The Next Federal Reserve's Steps","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"upbeat-economic-data-lifted-investors-mood-but-days-ahead-could-give-cues-on-the-next-federal-reserves-steps","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-29 06:44:23","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12237","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12127,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-21 15:38:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:34","post_content":"\n

According to the latest American Association of Individual Investors(AAII) survey, Investor confidence is at a peak reaching a 19-month high. American Association of Individual Investors also reported that bearish sentiment fell to a 23-month low, and there is general expectation that the stock prices would rise over the next several months. The crypto market displayed a high correlation with U.S. equities. If a positive trend is witnessed in the stock market, the same is usually replicated in the crypto-sphere as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Surveys<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers released data on Friday, showing that consumer sentiment in the U.S. improved to a four-month high in June. This is also positive news, and the improved view reflects greater optimism after signs of easing inflation, economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season in the U.S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recent inflation data signalled that the Fed's monetary tightening is cooling the world's largest economy, and according to many analysts, the Federal Reserve is near the end of its tightening cycle. The U.S. economy remains stable even though the federal funds rate remains at its highest since 2007; the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been substantial, and the unemployment rate has remained low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

THIS TUESDAY, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that groundbreaking new American homes jumped by 21.7% in May 2023 to 1.63 million units. Building permits, considered among the housing market's most forward-looking indicators, increased more than expected in May, rising 5.2% to 1.49 million units at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Kieran Clancy, Senior Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

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\n

Lenders have lost 4% so far this year, compared with a 17% rise in the benchmark S&P 500 index, while the broader S&P 500 banking sector is up just under 1% so far this year, as shares of the biggest banks like JPMorgan Chase (JPM) and Wells Fargo (WFC) have outperformed their smaller counterparts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"
Brandon Pizzurro, director of public investments at Guidestone Capital Management said<\/a>:<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

\"Anytime you see the backbone of the U.S. financial system being under watch, that gives people a lot to pause. Markets are slowly digesting that maybe the U.S. financial system is not absolutely perfect, and maybe we are going to have higher rates for a much longer period of time.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The collapse of Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank earlier this year already sparked a crisis of confidence in U.S. lenders, and the negative information is that the CBOE Market Volatility Index VIX, Wall Street's fear gauge, hit this Tuesday a two-month high at 17.71. There are currently too much important things that could easily go wrong, and it would not surprise me to see a big sell-off in financial markets if something goes wrong. The upside potential for stocks and cryptocurrencies probably remains limited for the weeks ahead, and a recommendation is that investors should continue to take a defensive investment approach.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Wall Street's Main Indexes Tumbled As Financial Stocks Dropped After Moody's Cut Credit Ratings of Several U.S. Banks","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"wall-streets-main-indexes-tumbled-as-financial-stocks-dropped-after-moodys-cut-credit-ratings-of-several-u-s-banks","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-10 23:19:38","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-10 13:19:38","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=13011","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12726,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-27 16:26:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-27 06:26:53","post_content":"\n

Investors continue to observe comments from Federal Reserve officials that could give more insight into the path of interest rates, but it is important to say that the U.S. Central Bank is widely seen raising rates by 25 basis points at its meeting this Wednesday, although the consumer prices and producer prices data provided evidence that inflation cooled more than expected.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The US economy is doing better than expected, but inflation is still higher than the target of 2%. The latest economic data, corporate earnings, solid job market, and consumer sentiment cemented this expectation, and according to analysts, the U.S. economy still has some vibrancy, which gives the Fed cover to continue its rate hike policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points on July 26. Still, there is also a significant chance that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. The federal funds rate is at 5% to 5.25%, the highest since 2007, but financial and tech stock gains still supported Wall Street shares.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Fed.<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

With higher interest rates, companies need to spend more money to borrow money to invest in growth, but as long the U.S. economy is not in recession and the corporate profit remains healthy, there is no risk of a bigger sell-off on the stock market. The recent rally in the cryptocurrency market was also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The S&P 500 is up to nearly 20% year-to-date, while the Nasdaq has advanced about 37%, and both indexes are on track for their fifth straight month of gains. Corporate earnings so far are coming in pretty well, and Alphabet (Google), Microsoft, Visa, AT&T, Coca-Cola, Meta, Boeing, Procter & Gamble, Exxon Mobil, McDonald's, Ford, and Intel are among the companies scheduled to report quarterly results by the end of this trading week.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy. The International Monetary Fund raised its global economic outlook for 2023 due to strong activity in the services sector in the first quarter.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank May Raise Rates By 25 BPS; How Will This Impact Financial And Crypto Markets?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-may-raise-rates-by-25-bps-how-will-this-impact-financial-and-crypto-markets","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-27 16:27:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-27 06:27:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12726","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12610,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-19 15:44:42","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:42","post_content":"\n

Shares on Wall Street continue to be supported, led by gains in financial and technology stocks, with investors looking toward the next round of quarterly results as earnings season gets underway. The S&P 500 is up to nearly 19% year-to-date, while the Nasdaq has advanced about 37%, and both indexes are on track for their fifth straight month of gains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Some of the largest U.S. banks, including JPMorgan Chase and Wells Fargo, reported a profit boost from higher rates, pointing towards a resilient economy. This Tuesday, Bank of America posted a 20% surge in second-quarter profit, and it is also important to mention that Morgan Stanley's stock had today the most significant single-day gain since late 2020, after its second-quarter profit and revenue beat analyst expectations on a boost from its wealth management business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to Refinitiv data, of the 30 companies in the S&P 500 that reported earnings last week, 80% beat analyst expectations. Corporate profits are emerging as the big driver of what the market is likely to do in the near term, but if earnings results fall short of expectations, the stock market's reaction could be severe. Chris Zaccarelli, chief investment officer for Independent Advisor Alliance, added<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Investors are looking at the fact that the economy has been resilient, and corporate earnings so far are coming in pretty well. The tech-heavy Nasdaq led Wall Street higher, supported by mega-cap growth stocks including Apple and Tesla, ahead of quarterly results from industry heavyweights through the week.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Megacaps<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Goldman Sachs, International Business Machines (IBM), Netflix, Tesla, Blackstone (BX), Johnson & Johnson, Philip Morris International (PM), Newmont (NEM), and American Express are among the companies scheduled to report quarterly results by the end of this trading week. A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street even more, and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy and strong.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the days ahead, the U.S. stock market will also be hypersensitive to FED comments. However, prices and producer prices data provided evidence that inflation cooled more than expected, stoking hopes that the U.S. Federal Reserve will soon end its monetary policy tightening. However, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points on July 26. Still, there is also a great chance that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings.<\/p>\n","post_title":"U.S. Stocks Are Advancing At The Start Of The Earnings Season; Here's What To Expect","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"u-s-stocks-are-advancing-at-the-start-of-the-earnings-season-heres-what-to-expect","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-19 15:44:48","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12610","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12490,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-13 21:13:24","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:24","post_content":"\n

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released its June inflation report this Wednesday, and the report showed that the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which measures prices that urban consumers pay for a basket of goods and services, rose 0.2% in June compared with May's 0.1% growth, but landed below the 0.3% consensus. In the 12 months through June, the consumer prices (CPI) advanced only 3.0%, and it is important to say that this was the smallest year-on-year increase since March 2021 and followed a 4.0% rise in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Consumer<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The CPI reading has cooled considerably since peeking out around 9% in June 2022, which suggests that the Fed's campaign to quell inflation is working well. Another positive information is that a core measure that strips out volatile food and energy prices was 0.2% every month in June, halving from the 0.4% growth rate in each of the three months prior.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Fed may debate whether to hike the policy rate further based on the new inflation data. However, Ryan Sweet, the Chief US Economist at Oxford Economics, thinks that the cooler-than-expected inflation report will not stop the Federal Reserve from raising its policy rate by 25 basis points at its meeting this month. According to a survey from the CME Group, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points at the next Federal Reserve meeting scheduled for July 26.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Wall Street is in celebration mode after a sharper-than-expected deceleration of inflation, but it remains above Powell & Co's average annual 2% target. However, there is a great probability that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. Brian Jacobsen, chief economist at Annex Wealth Management, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"U.S. consumer prices rose modestly in June and logged their smallest annual increase in more than two years as inflation continued to subside. Even though the Federal Reserve has probably already talked itself into a corner needing to hike at the July meeting, it may be the last one for this hiking cycle.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Starting in March 2022, the U.S. Federal Reserve has enacted ten consecutive interest rate increases totaling five percentage points, and the next Federal Reserve policy meeting will be at the center of attention in July 2023. The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5% to 5.25%, which is the highest level since the 2006 year, and in the days ahead, stock and cryptocurrency markets will be hypersensitive to any FED comments.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Inflation Cooled More Than Expected In June. Does This Indicate That The Federal Reserve Is Near The End Of Its Rapid Interest Rate Hikes?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"inflation-cooled-more-than-expected-in-june-does-this-indicate-that-the-federal-reserve-is-near-the-end-of-its-rapid-interest-rate-hikes","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-13 21:13:36","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12490","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12354,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-05 22:47:04","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:04","post_content":"\n

Despite the high federal funds rate, durable goods orders exceeded expectations, which caused investors to remain unconcerned about a recession, surprising analysts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 12, the central bank's bank term funding program announcement reinforced faith in the banking system, and investors were content to see additional signs of decreased inflation. The stock market tracked with the economy in the first half of 2023, surprising the upside and leaving investors to wonder if the resilience can continue. The current rally in the cryptocurrency market is also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity. Bank of America U.S. economist Michael Gapen said<\/a> on Friday:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The economy has proven more resilient than we previously expected, owing largely to consumption. However, we do not expect such robust prints to continue. Momentum in the economy should slow as the lagged effects of tighter monetary policy and financial conditions start to take hold.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The jobs report on Friday is the next big test that could show if the economy is still resilient as higher rates crimp company credit lines. Companies must pay more to borrow when interest rates rise, causing them to decrease spending and job opportunities. According to analysts' estimates, the job report on Friday could show that the U.S. economy added 225,000 jobs in June 2023, with the unemployment rate set to fall to 3.6%, down from 3.7% in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Over the past twelve months, the U.S. job report has outperformed market expectations on 11 out of 12 occasions, and another set of better-than-expected readings may reinforce hopes of a soft landing (a possibility that the U.S. economy escaped a deep recession). The U.S. economy added 339,000 jobs in May 2023, and in the chart below, we can also see how the job market performed since June 2021.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Non-Farm<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

While sentiment-based indicators show that investors are no longer in panic, a recommendation is that you should continue to take a defensive investment approach in the upcoming days because another strong job report could also pressure the Fed to do more by anchoring a 25 bp hike this month and pushing back against the timeline for rate cuts. The next Federal Reserve meeting is on July 26. The CME Group survey shows a high probability of a 25 basis point rate increase.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Economy Has Proven More Resilient Than Analysts Previously Expected. The Focus Of Investors Is Switching To The U.S. Jobs Report","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-economy-has-proven-more-resilient-than-analysts-previously-expected-the-focus-of-investors-is-switching-to-the-u-s-jobs-report","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-05 22:47:08","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12354","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12237,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-29 06:44:16","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:16","post_content":"\n

The U.S. stock market recovered this Tuesday from recent losses as upbeat economic data cooled investor worries of a possible recession that could be triggered by the Federal Reserve's aggressive interest rate hikes. In May, the U.S. economy showed positive signs, with higher-than-expected orders for essential capital goods and a significant increase in sales of new single-family homes. Moreover, consumer confidence in the U.S. reached its highest level since January 2022.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Commerce Department's durable goods report brought good news for analysts in May. Commercial aircraft\/parts saw a significant rise of 32.5%, transportation equipment increased by 3.9%, and autos\/features grew by 2.2%, leading to new orders. Non-defense capital goods, excluding aircraft, grew by 0.7%. The report indicates greater confidence in future business conditions and job availability for six months. Oren Klachkin, lead U.S. economist at Oxford Economics (OE), said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The May durable goods orders and shipments data help to fend off fears that a recession is just around the corner. However, the economic backdrop is set to become more discouraging for manufacturers as tighter lending standards and elevated interest rates weaken demand for goods.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Durable<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. economy remains steady despite the federal funds rate reaching its peak since 2007. Investors should note that good economic data may lead to a 25 basis point increase in interest rates at the Federal Reserve's July meeting. Financial markets predict a 79.4% chance of this happening. This week's important economic data includes a crucial inflation measure that could provide valuable insight into the Federal Reserve's plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Experts recommend a cautious approach when interest rates exceed 5%. This involves taking calculated risks due to the current economic climate, which is unstable and unpredictable. As interest rates increase, companies face higher borrowing costs, causing them to decrease spending, especially on hiring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Investor Jeremy Grantham warns of potential losses in the U.S. stock market and advises cautiousness. It's important to note that cryptocurrencies could also face a significant decline. This is due to the high correlation between the crypto market and U.S. equities. If the stock market experiences a downturn, the crypto-sphere may follow suit. Investors must consider this possibility.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Upbeat Economic Data Lifted Investors' Mood, But Days Ahead Could Give Cues On The Next Federal Reserve's Steps","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"upbeat-economic-data-lifted-investors-mood-but-days-ahead-could-give-cues-on-the-next-federal-reserves-steps","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-29 06:44:23","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12237","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12127,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-21 15:38:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:34","post_content":"\n

According to the latest American Association of Individual Investors(AAII) survey, Investor confidence is at a peak reaching a 19-month high. American Association of Individual Investors also reported that bearish sentiment fell to a 23-month low, and there is general expectation that the stock prices would rise over the next several months. The crypto market displayed a high correlation with U.S. equities. If a positive trend is witnessed in the stock market, the same is usually replicated in the crypto-sphere as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Surveys<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers released data on Friday, showing that consumer sentiment in the U.S. improved to a four-month high in June. This is also positive news, and the improved view reflects greater optimism after signs of easing inflation, economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season in the U.S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recent inflation data signalled that the Fed's monetary tightening is cooling the world's largest economy, and according to many analysts, the Federal Reserve is near the end of its tightening cycle. The U.S. economy remains stable even though the federal funds rate remains at its highest since 2007; the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been substantial, and the unemployment rate has remained low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

THIS TUESDAY, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that groundbreaking new American homes jumped by 21.7% in May 2023 to 1.63 million units. Building permits, considered among the housing market's most forward-looking indicators, increased more than expected in May, rising 5.2% to 1.49 million units at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Kieran Clancy, Senior Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

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\n

The news that scared investors, even more, is the fact that rating agency Moody's assigned a negative outlook to six top-tier lenders - U.S. Bancorp (USB), State Street Corp. (STT), Truist Financial Corp. (TFC), Bank of New York Mellon (BK), Northern Trust Corp. (NTRS), and Cullen\/Frost Bankers Inc. (CFR)\u2014placing them on review for a potential future downgrade.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lenders have lost 4% so far this year, compared with a 17% rise in the benchmark S&P 500 index, while the broader S&P 500 banking sector is up just under 1% so far this year, as shares of the biggest banks like JPMorgan Chase (JPM) and Wells Fargo (WFC) have outperformed their smaller counterparts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"
Brandon Pizzurro, director of public investments at Guidestone Capital Management said<\/a>:<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

\"Anytime you see the backbone of the U.S. financial system being under watch, that gives people a lot to pause. Markets are slowly digesting that maybe the U.S. financial system is not absolutely perfect, and maybe we are going to have higher rates for a much longer period of time.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The collapse of Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank earlier this year already sparked a crisis of confidence in U.S. lenders, and the negative information is that the CBOE Market Volatility Index VIX, Wall Street's fear gauge, hit this Tuesday a two-month high at 17.71. There are currently too much important things that could easily go wrong, and it would not surprise me to see a big sell-off in financial markets if something goes wrong. The upside potential for stocks and cryptocurrencies probably remains limited for the weeks ahead, and a recommendation is that investors should continue to take a defensive investment approach.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Wall Street's Main Indexes Tumbled As Financial Stocks Dropped After Moody's Cut Credit Ratings of Several U.S. Banks","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"wall-streets-main-indexes-tumbled-as-financial-stocks-dropped-after-moodys-cut-credit-ratings-of-several-u-s-banks","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-10 23:19:38","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-10 13:19:38","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=13011","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12726,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-27 16:26:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-27 06:26:53","post_content":"\n

Investors continue to observe comments from Federal Reserve officials that could give more insight into the path of interest rates, but it is important to say that the U.S. Central Bank is widely seen raising rates by 25 basis points at its meeting this Wednesday, although the consumer prices and producer prices data provided evidence that inflation cooled more than expected.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The US economy is doing better than expected, but inflation is still higher than the target of 2%. The latest economic data, corporate earnings, solid job market, and consumer sentiment cemented this expectation, and according to analysts, the U.S. economy still has some vibrancy, which gives the Fed cover to continue its rate hike policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points on July 26. Still, there is also a significant chance that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. The federal funds rate is at 5% to 5.25%, the highest since 2007, but financial and tech stock gains still supported Wall Street shares.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Fed.<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

With higher interest rates, companies need to spend more money to borrow money to invest in growth, but as long the U.S. economy is not in recession and the corporate profit remains healthy, there is no risk of a bigger sell-off on the stock market. The recent rally in the cryptocurrency market was also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The S&P 500 is up to nearly 20% year-to-date, while the Nasdaq has advanced about 37%, and both indexes are on track for their fifth straight month of gains. Corporate earnings so far are coming in pretty well, and Alphabet (Google), Microsoft, Visa, AT&T, Coca-Cola, Meta, Boeing, Procter & Gamble, Exxon Mobil, McDonald's, Ford, and Intel are among the companies scheduled to report quarterly results by the end of this trading week.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy. The International Monetary Fund raised its global economic outlook for 2023 due to strong activity in the services sector in the first quarter.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank May Raise Rates By 25 BPS; How Will This Impact Financial And Crypto Markets?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-may-raise-rates-by-25-bps-how-will-this-impact-financial-and-crypto-markets","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-27 16:27:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-27 06:27:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12726","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12610,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-19 15:44:42","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:42","post_content":"\n

Shares on Wall Street continue to be supported, led by gains in financial and technology stocks, with investors looking toward the next round of quarterly results as earnings season gets underway. The S&P 500 is up to nearly 19% year-to-date, while the Nasdaq has advanced about 37%, and both indexes are on track for their fifth straight month of gains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Some of the largest U.S. banks, including JPMorgan Chase and Wells Fargo, reported a profit boost from higher rates, pointing towards a resilient economy. This Tuesday, Bank of America posted a 20% surge in second-quarter profit, and it is also important to mention that Morgan Stanley's stock had today the most significant single-day gain since late 2020, after its second-quarter profit and revenue beat analyst expectations on a boost from its wealth management business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to Refinitiv data, of the 30 companies in the S&P 500 that reported earnings last week, 80% beat analyst expectations. Corporate profits are emerging as the big driver of what the market is likely to do in the near term, but if earnings results fall short of expectations, the stock market's reaction could be severe. Chris Zaccarelli, chief investment officer for Independent Advisor Alliance, added<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Investors are looking at the fact that the economy has been resilient, and corporate earnings so far are coming in pretty well. The tech-heavy Nasdaq led Wall Street higher, supported by mega-cap growth stocks including Apple and Tesla, ahead of quarterly results from industry heavyweights through the week.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Megacaps<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Goldman Sachs, International Business Machines (IBM), Netflix, Tesla, Blackstone (BX), Johnson & Johnson, Philip Morris International (PM), Newmont (NEM), and American Express are among the companies scheduled to report quarterly results by the end of this trading week. A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street even more, and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy and strong.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the days ahead, the U.S. stock market will also be hypersensitive to FED comments. However, prices and producer prices data provided evidence that inflation cooled more than expected, stoking hopes that the U.S. Federal Reserve will soon end its monetary policy tightening. However, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points on July 26. Still, there is also a great chance that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings.<\/p>\n","post_title":"U.S. Stocks Are Advancing At The Start Of The Earnings Season; Here's What To Expect","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"u-s-stocks-are-advancing-at-the-start-of-the-earnings-season-heres-what-to-expect","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-19 15:44:48","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12610","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12490,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-13 21:13:24","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:24","post_content":"\n

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released its June inflation report this Wednesday, and the report showed that the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which measures prices that urban consumers pay for a basket of goods and services, rose 0.2% in June compared with May's 0.1% growth, but landed below the 0.3% consensus. In the 12 months through June, the consumer prices (CPI) advanced only 3.0%, and it is important to say that this was the smallest year-on-year increase since March 2021 and followed a 4.0% rise in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Consumer<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The CPI reading has cooled considerably since peeking out around 9% in June 2022, which suggests that the Fed's campaign to quell inflation is working well. Another positive information is that a core measure that strips out volatile food and energy prices was 0.2% every month in June, halving from the 0.4% growth rate in each of the three months prior.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Fed may debate whether to hike the policy rate further based on the new inflation data. However, Ryan Sweet, the Chief US Economist at Oxford Economics, thinks that the cooler-than-expected inflation report will not stop the Federal Reserve from raising its policy rate by 25 basis points at its meeting this month. According to a survey from the CME Group, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points at the next Federal Reserve meeting scheduled for July 26.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Wall Street is in celebration mode after a sharper-than-expected deceleration of inflation, but it remains above Powell & Co's average annual 2% target. However, there is a great probability that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. Brian Jacobsen, chief economist at Annex Wealth Management, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"U.S. consumer prices rose modestly in June and logged their smallest annual increase in more than two years as inflation continued to subside. Even though the Federal Reserve has probably already talked itself into a corner needing to hike at the July meeting, it may be the last one for this hiking cycle.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Starting in March 2022, the U.S. Federal Reserve has enacted ten consecutive interest rate increases totaling five percentage points, and the next Federal Reserve policy meeting will be at the center of attention in July 2023. The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5% to 5.25%, which is the highest level since the 2006 year, and in the days ahead, stock and cryptocurrency markets will be hypersensitive to any FED comments.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Inflation Cooled More Than Expected In June. Does This Indicate That The Federal Reserve Is Near The End Of Its Rapid Interest Rate Hikes?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"inflation-cooled-more-than-expected-in-june-does-this-indicate-that-the-federal-reserve-is-near-the-end-of-its-rapid-interest-rate-hikes","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-13 21:13:36","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12490","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12354,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-05 22:47:04","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:04","post_content":"\n

Despite the high federal funds rate, durable goods orders exceeded expectations, which caused investors to remain unconcerned about a recession, surprising analysts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 12, the central bank's bank term funding program announcement reinforced faith in the banking system, and investors were content to see additional signs of decreased inflation. The stock market tracked with the economy in the first half of 2023, surprising the upside and leaving investors to wonder if the resilience can continue. The current rally in the cryptocurrency market is also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity. Bank of America U.S. economist Michael Gapen said<\/a> on Friday:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The economy has proven more resilient than we previously expected, owing largely to consumption. However, we do not expect such robust prints to continue. Momentum in the economy should slow as the lagged effects of tighter monetary policy and financial conditions start to take hold.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The jobs report on Friday is the next big test that could show if the economy is still resilient as higher rates crimp company credit lines. Companies must pay more to borrow when interest rates rise, causing them to decrease spending and job opportunities. According to analysts' estimates, the job report on Friday could show that the U.S. economy added 225,000 jobs in June 2023, with the unemployment rate set to fall to 3.6%, down from 3.7% in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Over the past twelve months, the U.S. job report has outperformed market expectations on 11 out of 12 occasions, and another set of better-than-expected readings may reinforce hopes of a soft landing (a possibility that the U.S. economy escaped a deep recession). The U.S. economy added 339,000 jobs in May 2023, and in the chart below, we can also see how the job market performed since June 2021.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Non-Farm<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

While sentiment-based indicators show that investors are no longer in panic, a recommendation is that you should continue to take a defensive investment approach in the upcoming days because another strong job report could also pressure the Fed to do more by anchoring a 25 bp hike this month and pushing back against the timeline for rate cuts. The next Federal Reserve meeting is on July 26. The CME Group survey shows a high probability of a 25 basis point rate increase.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Economy Has Proven More Resilient Than Analysts Previously Expected. The Focus Of Investors Is Switching To The U.S. Jobs Report","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-economy-has-proven-more-resilient-than-analysts-previously-expected-the-focus-of-investors-is-switching-to-the-u-s-jobs-report","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-05 22:47:08","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12354","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12237,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-29 06:44:16","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:16","post_content":"\n

The U.S. stock market recovered this Tuesday from recent losses as upbeat economic data cooled investor worries of a possible recession that could be triggered by the Federal Reserve's aggressive interest rate hikes. In May, the U.S. economy showed positive signs, with higher-than-expected orders for essential capital goods and a significant increase in sales of new single-family homes. Moreover, consumer confidence in the U.S. reached its highest level since January 2022.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Commerce Department's durable goods report brought good news for analysts in May. Commercial aircraft\/parts saw a significant rise of 32.5%, transportation equipment increased by 3.9%, and autos\/features grew by 2.2%, leading to new orders. Non-defense capital goods, excluding aircraft, grew by 0.7%. The report indicates greater confidence in future business conditions and job availability for six months. Oren Klachkin, lead U.S. economist at Oxford Economics (OE), said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The May durable goods orders and shipments data help to fend off fears that a recession is just around the corner. However, the economic backdrop is set to become more discouraging for manufacturers as tighter lending standards and elevated interest rates weaken demand for goods.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Durable<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. economy remains steady despite the federal funds rate reaching its peak since 2007. Investors should note that good economic data may lead to a 25 basis point increase in interest rates at the Federal Reserve's July meeting. Financial markets predict a 79.4% chance of this happening. This week's important economic data includes a crucial inflation measure that could provide valuable insight into the Federal Reserve's plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Experts recommend a cautious approach when interest rates exceed 5%. This involves taking calculated risks due to the current economic climate, which is unstable and unpredictable. As interest rates increase, companies face higher borrowing costs, causing them to decrease spending, especially on hiring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Investor Jeremy Grantham warns of potential losses in the U.S. stock market and advises cautiousness. It's important to note that cryptocurrencies could also face a significant decline. This is due to the high correlation between the crypto market and U.S. equities. If the stock market experiences a downturn, the crypto-sphere may follow suit. Investors must consider this possibility.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Upbeat Economic Data Lifted Investors' Mood, But Days Ahead Could Give Cues On The Next Federal Reserve's Steps","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"upbeat-economic-data-lifted-investors-mood-but-days-ahead-could-give-cues-on-the-next-federal-reserves-steps","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-29 06:44:23","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12237","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12127,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-21 15:38:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:34","post_content":"\n

According to the latest American Association of Individual Investors(AAII) survey, Investor confidence is at a peak reaching a 19-month high. American Association of Individual Investors also reported that bearish sentiment fell to a 23-month low, and there is general expectation that the stock prices would rise over the next several months. The crypto market displayed a high correlation with U.S. equities. If a positive trend is witnessed in the stock market, the same is usually replicated in the crypto-sphere as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Surveys<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers released data on Friday, showing that consumer sentiment in the U.S. improved to a four-month high in June. This is also positive news, and the improved view reflects greater optimism after signs of easing inflation, economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season in the U.S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recent inflation data signalled that the Fed's monetary tightening is cooling the world's largest economy, and according to many analysts, the Federal Reserve is near the end of its tightening cycle. The U.S. economy remains stable even though the federal funds rate remains at its highest since 2007; the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been substantial, and the unemployment rate has remained low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

THIS TUESDAY, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that groundbreaking new American homes jumped by 21.7% in May 2023 to 1.63 million units. Building permits, considered among the housing market's most forward-looking indicators, increased more than expected in May, rising 5.2% to 1.49 million units at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Kieran Clancy, Senior Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

Most Read

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

By subscribing, you agree with our privacy and terms.

Follow The Distributed

ADVERTISEMENT
\n

Rating agency Moody's cut credit ratings of Associated Banc-Corp. (ASB), Old National Bancorp (ONB), Pinnacle Financial Partners (PNFP), BOK Financial Corp. (BOKF), M&T Bank (MTB), Webster Bank (WBS), Amarillo National Bank, Commerce Bancshares (CBSH), Prosperity Bank (PB), and Fulton Financial Corp. (FULT).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The news that scared investors, even more, is the fact that rating agency Moody's assigned a negative outlook to six top-tier lenders - U.S. Bancorp (USB), State Street Corp. (STT), Truist Financial Corp. (TFC), Bank of New York Mellon (BK), Northern Trust Corp. (NTRS), and Cullen\/Frost Bankers Inc. (CFR)\u2014placing them on review for a potential future downgrade.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lenders have lost 4% so far this year, compared with a 17% rise in the benchmark S&P 500 index, while the broader S&P 500 banking sector is up just under 1% so far this year, as shares of the biggest banks like JPMorgan Chase (JPM) and Wells Fargo (WFC) have outperformed their smaller counterparts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"
Brandon Pizzurro, director of public investments at Guidestone Capital Management said<\/a>:<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

\"Anytime you see the backbone of the U.S. financial system being under watch, that gives people a lot to pause. Markets are slowly digesting that maybe the U.S. financial system is not absolutely perfect, and maybe we are going to have higher rates for a much longer period of time.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The collapse of Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank earlier this year already sparked a crisis of confidence in U.S. lenders, and the negative information is that the CBOE Market Volatility Index VIX, Wall Street's fear gauge, hit this Tuesday a two-month high at 17.71. There are currently too much important things that could easily go wrong, and it would not surprise me to see a big sell-off in financial markets if something goes wrong. The upside potential for stocks and cryptocurrencies probably remains limited for the weeks ahead, and a recommendation is that investors should continue to take a defensive investment approach.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Wall Street's Main Indexes Tumbled As Financial Stocks Dropped After Moody's Cut Credit Ratings of Several U.S. Banks","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"wall-streets-main-indexes-tumbled-as-financial-stocks-dropped-after-moodys-cut-credit-ratings-of-several-u-s-banks","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-10 23:19:38","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-10 13:19:38","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=13011","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12726,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-27 16:26:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-27 06:26:53","post_content":"\n

Investors continue to observe comments from Federal Reserve officials that could give more insight into the path of interest rates, but it is important to say that the U.S. Central Bank is widely seen raising rates by 25 basis points at its meeting this Wednesday, although the consumer prices and producer prices data provided evidence that inflation cooled more than expected.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The US economy is doing better than expected, but inflation is still higher than the target of 2%. The latest economic data, corporate earnings, solid job market, and consumer sentiment cemented this expectation, and according to analysts, the U.S. economy still has some vibrancy, which gives the Fed cover to continue its rate hike policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points on July 26. Still, there is also a significant chance that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. The federal funds rate is at 5% to 5.25%, the highest since 2007, but financial and tech stock gains still supported Wall Street shares.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Fed.<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

With higher interest rates, companies need to spend more money to borrow money to invest in growth, but as long the U.S. economy is not in recession and the corporate profit remains healthy, there is no risk of a bigger sell-off on the stock market. The recent rally in the cryptocurrency market was also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The S&P 500 is up to nearly 20% year-to-date, while the Nasdaq has advanced about 37%, and both indexes are on track for their fifth straight month of gains. Corporate earnings so far are coming in pretty well, and Alphabet (Google), Microsoft, Visa, AT&T, Coca-Cola, Meta, Boeing, Procter & Gamble, Exxon Mobil, McDonald's, Ford, and Intel are among the companies scheduled to report quarterly results by the end of this trading week.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy. The International Monetary Fund raised its global economic outlook for 2023 due to strong activity in the services sector in the first quarter.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank May Raise Rates By 25 BPS; How Will This Impact Financial And Crypto Markets?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-may-raise-rates-by-25-bps-how-will-this-impact-financial-and-crypto-markets","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-27 16:27:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-27 06:27:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12726","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12610,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-19 15:44:42","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:42","post_content":"\n

Shares on Wall Street continue to be supported, led by gains in financial and technology stocks, with investors looking toward the next round of quarterly results as earnings season gets underway. The S&P 500 is up to nearly 19% year-to-date, while the Nasdaq has advanced about 37%, and both indexes are on track for their fifth straight month of gains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Some of the largest U.S. banks, including JPMorgan Chase and Wells Fargo, reported a profit boost from higher rates, pointing towards a resilient economy. This Tuesday, Bank of America posted a 20% surge in second-quarter profit, and it is also important to mention that Morgan Stanley's stock had today the most significant single-day gain since late 2020, after its second-quarter profit and revenue beat analyst expectations on a boost from its wealth management business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to Refinitiv data, of the 30 companies in the S&P 500 that reported earnings last week, 80% beat analyst expectations. Corporate profits are emerging as the big driver of what the market is likely to do in the near term, but if earnings results fall short of expectations, the stock market's reaction could be severe. Chris Zaccarelli, chief investment officer for Independent Advisor Alliance, added<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Investors are looking at the fact that the economy has been resilient, and corporate earnings so far are coming in pretty well. The tech-heavy Nasdaq led Wall Street higher, supported by mega-cap growth stocks including Apple and Tesla, ahead of quarterly results from industry heavyweights through the week.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Megacaps<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Goldman Sachs, International Business Machines (IBM), Netflix, Tesla, Blackstone (BX), Johnson & Johnson, Philip Morris International (PM), Newmont (NEM), and American Express are among the companies scheduled to report quarterly results by the end of this trading week. A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street even more, and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy and strong.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the days ahead, the U.S. stock market will also be hypersensitive to FED comments. However, prices and producer prices data provided evidence that inflation cooled more than expected, stoking hopes that the U.S. Federal Reserve will soon end its monetary policy tightening. However, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points on July 26. Still, there is also a great chance that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings.<\/p>\n","post_title":"U.S. Stocks Are Advancing At The Start Of The Earnings Season; Here's What To Expect","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"u-s-stocks-are-advancing-at-the-start-of-the-earnings-season-heres-what-to-expect","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-19 15:44:48","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12610","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12490,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-13 21:13:24","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:24","post_content":"\n

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released its June inflation report this Wednesday, and the report showed that the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which measures prices that urban consumers pay for a basket of goods and services, rose 0.2% in June compared with May's 0.1% growth, but landed below the 0.3% consensus. In the 12 months through June, the consumer prices (CPI) advanced only 3.0%, and it is important to say that this was the smallest year-on-year increase since March 2021 and followed a 4.0% rise in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Consumer<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The CPI reading has cooled considerably since peeking out around 9% in June 2022, which suggests that the Fed's campaign to quell inflation is working well. Another positive information is that a core measure that strips out volatile food and energy prices was 0.2% every month in June, halving from the 0.4% growth rate in each of the three months prior.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Fed may debate whether to hike the policy rate further based on the new inflation data. However, Ryan Sweet, the Chief US Economist at Oxford Economics, thinks that the cooler-than-expected inflation report will not stop the Federal Reserve from raising its policy rate by 25 basis points at its meeting this month. According to a survey from the CME Group, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points at the next Federal Reserve meeting scheduled for July 26.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Wall Street is in celebration mode after a sharper-than-expected deceleration of inflation, but it remains above Powell & Co's average annual 2% target. However, there is a great probability that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. Brian Jacobsen, chief economist at Annex Wealth Management, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"U.S. consumer prices rose modestly in June and logged their smallest annual increase in more than two years as inflation continued to subside. Even though the Federal Reserve has probably already talked itself into a corner needing to hike at the July meeting, it may be the last one for this hiking cycle.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Starting in March 2022, the U.S. Federal Reserve has enacted ten consecutive interest rate increases totaling five percentage points, and the next Federal Reserve policy meeting will be at the center of attention in July 2023. The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5% to 5.25%, which is the highest level since the 2006 year, and in the days ahead, stock and cryptocurrency markets will be hypersensitive to any FED comments.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Inflation Cooled More Than Expected In June. Does This Indicate That The Federal Reserve Is Near The End Of Its Rapid Interest Rate Hikes?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"inflation-cooled-more-than-expected-in-june-does-this-indicate-that-the-federal-reserve-is-near-the-end-of-its-rapid-interest-rate-hikes","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-13 21:13:36","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12490","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12354,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-05 22:47:04","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:04","post_content":"\n

Despite the high federal funds rate, durable goods orders exceeded expectations, which caused investors to remain unconcerned about a recession, surprising analysts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 12, the central bank's bank term funding program announcement reinforced faith in the banking system, and investors were content to see additional signs of decreased inflation. The stock market tracked with the economy in the first half of 2023, surprising the upside and leaving investors to wonder if the resilience can continue. The current rally in the cryptocurrency market is also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity. Bank of America U.S. economist Michael Gapen said<\/a> on Friday:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The economy has proven more resilient than we previously expected, owing largely to consumption. However, we do not expect such robust prints to continue. Momentum in the economy should slow as the lagged effects of tighter monetary policy and financial conditions start to take hold.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The jobs report on Friday is the next big test that could show if the economy is still resilient as higher rates crimp company credit lines. Companies must pay more to borrow when interest rates rise, causing them to decrease spending and job opportunities. According to analysts' estimates, the job report on Friday could show that the U.S. economy added 225,000 jobs in June 2023, with the unemployment rate set to fall to 3.6%, down from 3.7% in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Over the past twelve months, the U.S. job report has outperformed market expectations on 11 out of 12 occasions, and another set of better-than-expected readings may reinforce hopes of a soft landing (a possibility that the U.S. economy escaped a deep recession). The U.S. economy added 339,000 jobs in May 2023, and in the chart below, we can also see how the job market performed since June 2021.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Non-Farm<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

While sentiment-based indicators show that investors are no longer in panic, a recommendation is that you should continue to take a defensive investment approach in the upcoming days because another strong job report could also pressure the Fed to do more by anchoring a 25 bp hike this month and pushing back against the timeline for rate cuts. The next Federal Reserve meeting is on July 26. The CME Group survey shows a high probability of a 25 basis point rate increase.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Economy Has Proven More Resilient Than Analysts Previously Expected. The Focus Of Investors Is Switching To The U.S. Jobs Report","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-economy-has-proven-more-resilient-than-analysts-previously-expected-the-focus-of-investors-is-switching-to-the-u-s-jobs-report","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-05 22:47:08","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12354","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12237,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-29 06:44:16","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:16","post_content":"\n

The U.S. stock market recovered this Tuesday from recent losses as upbeat economic data cooled investor worries of a possible recession that could be triggered by the Federal Reserve's aggressive interest rate hikes. In May, the U.S. economy showed positive signs, with higher-than-expected orders for essential capital goods and a significant increase in sales of new single-family homes. Moreover, consumer confidence in the U.S. reached its highest level since January 2022.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Commerce Department's durable goods report brought good news for analysts in May. Commercial aircraft\/parts saw a significant rise of 32.5%, transportation equipment increased by 3.9%, and autos\/features grew by 2.2%, leading to new orders. Non-defense capital goods, excluding aircraft, grew by 0.7%. The report indicates greater confidence in future business conditions and job availability for six months. Oren Klachkin, lead U.S. economist at Oxford Economics (OE), said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The May durable goods orders and shipments data help to fend off fears that a recession is just around the corner. However, the economic backdrop is set to become more discouraging for manufacturers as tighter lending standards and elevated interest rates weaken demand for goods.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Durable<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. economy remains steady despite the federal funds rate reaching its peak since 2007. Investors should note that good economic data may lead to a 25 basis point increase in interest rates at the Federal Reserve's July meeting. Financial markets predict a 79.4% chance of this happening. This week's important economic data includes a crucial inflation measure that could provide valuable insight into the Federal Reserve's plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Experts recommend a cautious approach when interest rates exceed 5%. This involves taking calculated risks due to the current economic climate, which is unstable and unpredictable. As interest rates increase, companies face higher borrowing costs, causing them to decrease spending, especially on hiring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Investor Jeremy Grantham warns of potential losses in the U.S. stock market and advises cautiousness. It's important to note that cryptocurrencies could also face a significant decline. This is due to the high correlation between the crypto market and U.S. equities. If the stock market experiences a downturn, the crypto-sphere may follow suit. Investors must consider this possibility.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Upbeat Economic Data Lifted Investors' Mood, But Days Ahead Could Give Cues On The Next Federal Reserve's Steps","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"upbeat-economic-data-lifted-investors-mood-but-days-ahead-could-give-cues-on-the-next-federal-reserves-steps","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-29 06:44:23","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12237","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12127,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-21 15:38:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:34","post_content":"\n

According to the latest American Association of Individual Investors(AAII) survey, Investor confidence is at a peak reaching a 19-month high. American Association of Individual Investors also reported that bearish sentiment fell to a 23-month low, and there is general expectation that the stock prices would rise over the next several months. The crypto market displayed a high correlation with U.S. equities. If a positive trend is witnessed in the stock market, the same is usually replicated in the crypto-sphere as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Surveys<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers released data on Friday, showing that consumer sentiment in the U.S. improved to a four-month high in June. This is also positive news, and the improved view reflects greater optimism after signs of easing inflation, economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season in the U.S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recent inflation data signalled that the Fed's monetary tightening is cooling the world's largest economy, and according to many analysts, the Federal Reserve is near the end of its tightening cycle. The U.S. economy remains stable even though the federal funds rate remains at its highest since 2007; the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been substantial, and the unemployment rate has remained low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

THIS TUESDAY, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that groundbreaking new American homes jumped by 21.7% in May 2023 to 1.63 million units. Building permits, considered among the housing market's most forward-looking indicators, increased more than expected in May, rising 5.2% to 1.49 million units at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Kieran Clancy, Senior Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

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\n

Wall Street's three main indexes tumbled this Tuesday as financial stocks dropped after rating agency Moody's cut credit ratings of several small- to mid-sized U.S. banks and said it could downgrade some of the country's biggest lenders. The agency cited higher funding costs, profitability pressures, and slowing loan growth as a common theme in banks' second-quarter earnings and said the Fed's rate hikes will lower profitability as consumers take out fewer loans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rating agency Moody's cut credit ratings of Associated Banc-Corp. (ASB), Old National Bancorp (ONB), Pinnacle Financial Partners (PNFP), BOK Financial Corp. (BOKF), M&T Bank (MTB), Webster Bank (WBS), Amarillo National Bank, Commerce Bancshares (CBSH), Prosperity Bank (PB), and Fulton Financial Corp. (FULT).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The news that scared investors, even more, is the fact that rating agency Moody's assigned a negative outlook to six top-tier lenders - U.S. Bancorp (USB), State Street Corp. (STT), Truist Financial Corp. (TFC), Bank of New York Mellon (BK), Northern Trust Corp. (NTRS), and Cullen\/Frost Bankers Inc. (CFR)\u2014placing them on review for a potential future downgrade.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lenders have lost 4% so far this year, compared with a 17% rise in the benchmark S&P 500 index, while the broader S&P 500 banking sector is up just under 1% so far this year, as shares of the biggest banks like JPMorgan Chase (JPM) and Wells Fargo (WFC) have outperformed their smaller counterparts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"
Brandon Pizzurro, director of public investments at Guidestone Capital Management said<\/a>:<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

\"Anytime you see the backbone of the U.S. financial system being under watch, that gives people a lot to pause. Markets are slowly digesting that maybe the U.S. financial system is not absolutely perfect, and maybe we are going to have higher rates for a much longer period of time.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The collapse of Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank earlier this year already sparked a crisis of confidence in U.S. lenders, and the negative information is that the CBOE Market Volatility Index VIX, Wall Street's fear gauge, hit this Tuesday a two-month high at 17.71. There are currently too much important things that could easily go wrong, and it would not surprise me to see a big sell-off in financial markets if something goes wrong. The upside potential for stocks and cryptocurrencies probably remains limited for the weeks ahead, and a recommendation is that investors should continue to take a defensive investment approach.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Wall Street's Main Indexes Tumbled As Financial Stocks Dropped After Moody's Cut Credit Ratings of Several U.S. Banks","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"wall-streets-main-indexes-tumbled-as-financial-stocks-dropped-after-moodys-cut-credit-ratings-of-several-u-s-banks","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-10 23:19:38","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-10 13:19:38","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=13011","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12726,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-27 16:26:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-27 06:26:53","post_content":"\n

Investors continue to observe comments from Federal Reserve officials that could give more insight into the path of interest rates, but it is important to say that the U.S. Central Bank is widely seen raising rates by 25 basis points at its meeting this Wednesday, although the consumer prices and producer prices data provided evidence that inflation cooled more than expected.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The US economy is doing better than expected, but inflation is still higher than the target of 2%. The latest economic data, corporate earnings, solid job market, and consumer sentiment cemented this expectation, and according to analysts, the U.S. economy still has some vibrancy, which gives the Fed cover to continue its rate hike policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points on July 26. Still, there is also a significant chance that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. The federal funds rate is at 5% to 5.25%, the highest since 2007, but financial and tech stock gains still supported Wall Street shares.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Fed.<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

With higher interest rates, companies need to spend more money to borrow money to invest in growth, but as long the U.S. economy is not in recession and the corporate profit remains healthy, there is no risk of a bigger sell-off on the stock market. The recent rally in the cryptocurrency market was also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The S&P 500 is up to nearly 20% year-to-date, while the Nasdaq has advanced about 37%, and both indexes are on track for their fifth straight month of gains. Corporate earnings so far are coming in pretty well, and Alphabet (Google), Microsoft, Visa, AT&T, Coca-Cola, Meta, Boeing, Procter & Gamble, Exxon Mobil, McDonald's, Ford, and Intel are among the companies scheduled to report quarterly results by the end of this trading week.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy. The International Monetary Fund raised its global economic outlook for 2023 due to strong activity in the services sector in the first quarter.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank May Raise Rates By 25 BPS; How Will This Impact Financial And Crypto Markets?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-may-raise-rates-by-25-bps-how-will-this-impact-financial-and-crypto-markets","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-27 16:27:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-27 06:27:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12726","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12610,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-19 15:44:42","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:42","post_content":"\n

Shares on Wall Street continue to be supported, led by gains in financial and technology stocks, with investors looking toward the next round of quarterly results as earnings season gets underway. The S&P 500 is up to nearly 19% year-to-date, while the Nasdaq has advanced about 37%, and both indexes are on track for their fifth straight month of gains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Some of the largest U.S. banks, including JPMorgan Chase and Wells Fargo, reported a profit boost from higher rates, pointing towards a resilient economy. This Tuesday, Bank of America posted a 20% surge in second-quarter profit, and it is also important to mention that Morgan Stanley's stock had today the most significant single-day gain since late 2020, after its second-quarter profit and revenue beat analyst expectations on a boost from its wealth management business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to Refinitiv data, of the 30 companies in the S&P 500 that reported earnings last week, 80% beat analyst expectations. Corporate profits are emerging as the big driver of what the market is likely to do in the near term, but if earnings results fall short of expectations, the stock market's reaction could be severe. Chris Zaccarelli, chief investment officer for Independent Advisor Alliance, added<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Investors are looking at the fact that the economy has been resilient, and corporate earnings so far are coming in pretty well. The tech-heavy Nasdaq led Wall Street higher, supported by mega-cap growth stocks including Apple and Tesla, ahead of quarterly results from industry heavyweights through the week.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Megacaps<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Goldman Sachs, International Business Machines (IBM), Netflix, Tesla, Blackstone (BX), Johnson & Johnson, Philip Morris International (PM), Newmont (NEM), and American Express are among the companies scheduled to report quarterly results by the end of this trading week. A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street even more, and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy and strong.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the days ahead, the U.S. stock market will also be hypersensitive to FED comments. However, prices and producer prices data provided evidence that inflation cooled more than expected, stoking hopes that the U.S. Federal Reserve will soon end its monetary policy tightening. However, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points on July 26. Still, there is also a great chance that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings.<\/p>\n","post_title":"U.S. Stocks Are Advancing At The Start Of The Earnings Season; Here's What To Expect","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"u-s-stocks-are-advancing-at-the-start-of-the-earnings-season-heres-what-to-expect","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-19 15:44:48","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12610","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12490,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-13 21:13:24","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:24","post_content":"\n

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released its June inflation report this Wednesday, and the report showed that the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which measures prices that urban consumers pay for a basket of goods and services, rose 0.2% in June compared with May's 0.1% growth, but landed below the 0.3% consensus. In the 12 months through June, the consumer prices (CPI) advanced only 3.0%, and it is important to say that this was the smallest year-on-year increase since March 2021 and followed a 4.0% rise in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Consumer<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The CPI reading has cooled considerably since peeking out around 9% in June 2022, which suggests that the Fed's campaign to quell inflation is working well. Another positive information is that a core measure that strips out volatile food and energy prices was 0.2% every month in June, halving from the 0.4% growth rate in each of the three months prior.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Fed may debate whether to hike the policy rate further based on the new inflation data. However, Ryan Sweet, the Chief US Economist at Oxford Economics, thinks that the cooler-than-expected inflation report will not stop the Federal Reserve from raising its policy rate by 25 basis points at its meeting this month. According to a survey from the CME Group, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points at the next Federal Reserve meeting scheduled for July 26.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Wall Street is in celebration mode after a sharper-than-expected deceleration of inflation, but it remains above Powell & Co's average annual 2% target. However, there is a great probability that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. Brian Jacobsen, chief economist at Annex Wealth Management, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"U.S. consumer prices rose modestly in June and logged their smallest annual increase in more than two years as inflation continued to subside. Even though the Federal Reserve has probably already talked itself into a corner needing to hike at the July meeting, it may be the last one for this hiking cycle.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Starting in March 2022, the U.S. Federal Reserve has enacted ten consecutive interest rate increases totaling five percentage points, and the next Federal Reserve policy meeting will be at the center of attention in July 2023. The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5% to 5.25%, which is the highest level since the 2006 year, and in the days ahead, stock and cryptocurrency markets will be hypersensitive to any FED comments.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Inflation Cooled More Than Expected In June. Does This Indicate That The Federal Reserve Is Near The End Of Its Rapid Interest Rate Hikes?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"inflation-cooled-more-than-expected-in-june-does-this-indicate-that-the-federal-reserve-is-near-the-end-of-its-rapid-interest-rate-hikes","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-13 21:13:36","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12490","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12354,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-05 22:47:04","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:04","post_content":"\n

Despite the high federal funds rate, durable goods orders exceeded expectations, which caused investors to remain unconcerned about a recession, surprising analysts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 12, the central bank's bank term funding program announcement reinforced faith in the banking system, and investors were content to see additional signs of decreased inflation. The stock market tracked with the economy in the first half of 2023, surprising the upside and leaving investors to wonder if the resilience can continue. The current rally in the cryptocurrency market is also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity. Bank of America U.S. economist Michael Gapen said<\/a> on Friday:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The economy has proven more resilient than we previously expected, owing largely to consumption. However, we do not expect such robust prints to continue. Momentum in the economy should slow as the lagged effects of tighter monetary policy and financial conditions start to take hold.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The jobs report on Friday is the next big test that could show if the economy is still resilient as higher rates crimp company credit lines. Companies must pay more to borrow when interest rates rise, causing them to decrease spending and job opportunities. According to analysts' estimates, the job report on Friday could show that the U.S. economy added 225,000 jobs in June 2023, with the unemployment rate set to fall to 3.6%, down from 3.7% in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Over the past twelve months, the U.S. job report has outperformed market expectations on 11 out of 12 occasions, and another set of better-than-expected readings may reinforce hopes of a soft landing (a possibility that the U.S. economy escaped a deep recession). The U.S. economy added 339,000 jobs in May 2023, and in the chart below, we can also see how the job market performed since June 2021.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Non-Farm<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

While sentiment-based indicators show that investors are no longer in panic, a recommendation is that you should continue to take a defensive investment approach in the upcoming days because another strong job report could also pressure the Fed to do more by anchoring a 25 bp hike this month and pushing back against the timeline for rate cuts. The next Federal Reserve meeting is on July 26. The CME Group survey shows a high probability of a 25 basis point rate increase.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Economy Has Proven More Resilient Than Analysts Previously Expected. The Focus Of Investors Is Switching To The U.S. Jobs Report","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-economy-has-proven-more-resilient-than-analysts-previously-expected-the-focus-of-investors-is-switching-to-the-u-s-jobs-report","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-05 22:47:08","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12354","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12237,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-29 06:44:16","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:16","post_content":"\n

The U.S. stock market recovered this Tuesday from recent losses as upbeat economic data cooled investor worries of a possible recession that could be triggered by the Federal Reserve's aggressive interest rate hikes. In May, the U.S. economy showed positive signs, with higher-than-expected orders for essential capital goods and a significant increase in sales of new single-family homes. Moreover, consumer confidence in the U.S. reached its highest level since January 2022.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Commerce Department's durable goods report brought good news for analysts in May. Commercial aircraft\/parts saw a significant rise of 32.5%, transportation equipment increased by 3.9%, and autos\/features grew by 2.2%, leading to new orders. Non-defense capital goods, excluding aircraft, grew by 0.7%. The report indicates greater confidence in future business conditions and job availability for six months. Oren Klachkin, lead U.S. economist at Oxford Economics (OE), said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The May durable goods orders and shipments data help to fend off fears that a recession is just around the corner. However, the economic backdrop is set to become more discouraging for manufacturers as tighter lending standards and elevated interest rates weaken demand for goods.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Durable<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. economy remains steady despite the federal funds rate reaching its peak since 2007. Investors should note that good economic data may lead to a 25 basis point increase in interest rates at the Federal Reserve's July meeting. Financial markets predict a 79.4% chance of this happening. This week's important economic data includes a crucial inflation measure that could provide valuable insight into the Federal Reserve's plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Experts recommend a cautious approach when interest rates exceed 5%. This involves taking calculated risks due to the current economic climate, which is unstable and unpredictable. As interest rates increase, companies face higher borrowing costs, causing them to decrease spending, especially on hiring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Investor Jeremy Grantham warns of potential losses in the U.S. stock market and advises cautiousness. It's important to note that cryptocurrencies could also face a significant decline. This is due to the high correlation between the crypto market and U.S. equities. If the stock market experiences a downturn, the crypto-sphere may follow suit. Investors must consider this possibility.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Upbeat Economic Data Lifted Investors' Mood, But Days Ahead Could Give Cues On The Next Federal Reserve's Steps","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"upbeat-economic-data-lifted-investors-mood-but-days-ahead-could-give-cues-on-the-next-federal-reserves-steps","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-29 06:44:23","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12237","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12127,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-21 15:38:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:34","post_content":"\n

According to the latest American Association of Individual Investors(AAII) survey, Investor confidence is at a peak reaching a 19-month high. American Association of Individual Investors also reported that bearish sentiment fell to a 23-month low, and there is general expectation that the stock prices would rise over the next several months. The crypto market displayed a high correlation with U.S. equities. If a positive trend is witnessed in the stock market, the same is usually replicated in the crypto-sphere as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Surveys<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers released data on Friday, showing that consumer sentiment in the U.S. improved to a four-month high in June. This is also positive news, and the improved view reflects greater optimism after signs of easing inflation, economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season in the U.S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recent inflation data signalled that the Fed's monetary tightening is cooling the world's largest economy, and according to many analysts, the Federal Reserve is near the end of its tightening cycle. The U.S. economy remains stable even though the federal funds rate remains at its highest since 2007; the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been substantial, and the unemployment rate has remained low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

THIS TUESDAY, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that groundbreaking new American homes jumped by 21.7% in May 2023 to 1.63 million units. Building permits, considered among the housing market's most forward-looking indicators, increased more than expected in May, rising 5.2% to 1.49 million units at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Kieran Clancy, Senior Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

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\n

To be sure, there's little guarantee that Powell's message will be a starkly hawkish one, but investors should keep in mind that inflation remains above Powell & Co's average annual 2% target. Fed officials repeated several times this month that they will continue with the effort to bring inflation down closer to their 2% annual target. The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5.25% to 5.5%, which is the highest level in 22 years, and in the days ahead, stock and cryptocurrency markets will be hypersensitive to any FED comments.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Wall Street's Main Indexes Remain Under Pressure On Fears That The Fed Is Likely Going To Keep High Rates For Longer","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"wall-streets-main-indexes-remain-under-pressure-on-fears-that-the-fed-is-likely-going-to-keep-high-rates-for-longer","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-27 20:19:49","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-27 10:19:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=13092","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":13011,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-08-10 23:19:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-08-10 13:19:34","post_content":"\n

Wall Street's three main indexes tumbled this Tuesday as financial stocks dropped after rating agency Moody's cut credit ratings of several small- to mid-sized U.S. banks and said it could downgrade some of the country's biggest lenders. The agency cited higher funding costs, profitability pressures, and slowing loan growth as a common theme in banks' second-quarter earnings and said the Fed's rate hikes will lower profitability as consumers take out fewer loans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rating agency Moody's cut credit ratings of Associated Banc-Corp. (ASB), Old National Bancorp (ONB), Pinnacle Financial Partners (PNFP), BOK Financial Corp. (BOKF), M&T Bank (MTB), Webster Bank (WBS), Amarillo National Bank, Commerce Bancshares (CBSH), Prosperity Bank (PB), and Fulton Financial Corp. (FULT).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The news that scared investors, even more, is the fact that rating agency Moody's assigned a negative outlook to six top-tier lenders - U.S. Bancorp (USB), State Street Corp. (STT), Truist Financial Corp. (TFC), Bank of New York Mellon (BK), Northern Trust Corp. (NTRS), and Cullen\/Frost Bankers Inc. (CFR)\u2014placing them on review for a potential future downgrade.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lenders have lost 4% so far this year, compared with a 17% rise in the benchmark S&P 500 index, while the broader S&P 500 banking sector is up just under 1% so far this year, as shares of the biggest banks like JPMorgan Chase (JPM) and Wells Fargo (WFC) have outperformed their smaller counterparts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"
Brandon Pizzurro, director of public investments at Guidestone Capital Management said<\/a>:<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

\"Anytime you see the backbone of the U.S. financial system being under watch, that gives people a lot to pause. Markets are slowly digesting that maybe the U.S. financial system is not absolutely perfect, and maybe we are going to have higher rates for a much longer period of time.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The collapse of Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank earlier this year already sparked a crisis of confidence in U.S. lenders, and the negative information is that the CBOE Market Volatility Index VIX, Wall Street's fear gauge, hit this Tuesday a two-month high at 17.71. There are currently too much important things that could easily go wrong, and it would not surprise me to see a big sell-off in financial markets if something goes wrong. The upside potential for stocks and cryptocurrencies probably remains limited for the weeks ahead, and a recommendation is that investors should continue to take a defensive investment approach.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Wall Street's Main Indexes Tumbled As Financial Stocks Dropped After Moody's Cut Credit Ratings of Several U.S. Banks","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"wall-streets-main-indexes-tumbled-as-financial-stocks-dropped-after-moodys-cut-credit-ratings-of-several-u-s-banks","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-10 23:19:38","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-10 13:19:38","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=13011","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12726,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-27 16:26:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-27 06:26:53","post_content":"\n

Investors continue to observe comments from Federal Reserve officials that could give more insight into the path of interest rates, but it is important to say that the U.S. Central Bank is widely seen raising rates by 25 basis points at its meeting this Wednesday, although the consumer prices and producer prices data provided evidence that inflation cooled more than expected.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The US economy is doing better than expected, but inflation is still higher than the target of 2%. The latest economic data, corporate earnings, solid job market, and consumer sentiment cemented this expectation, and according to analysts, the U.S. economy still has some vibrancy, which gives the Fed cover to continue its rate hike policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points on July 26. Still, there is also a significant chance that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. The federal funds rate is at 5% to 5.25%, the highest since 2007, but financial and tech stock gains still supported Wall Street shares.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Fed.<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

With higher interest rates, companies need to spend more money to borrow money to invest in growth, but as long the U.S. economy is not in recession and the corporate profit remains healthy, there is no risk of a bigger sell-off on the stock market. The recent rally in the cryptocurrency market was also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The S&P 500 is up to nearly 20% year-to-date, while the Nasdaq has advanced about 37%, and both indexes are on track for their fifth straight month of gains. Corporate earnings so far are coming in pretty well, and Alphabet (Google), Microsoft, Visa, AT&T, Coca-Cola, Meta, Boeing, Procter & Gamble, Exxon Mobil, McDonald's, Ford, and Intel are among the companies scheduled to report quarterly results by the end of this trading week.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy. The International Monetary Fund raised its global economic outlook for 2023 due to strong activity in the services sector in the first quarter.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank May Raise Rates By 25 BPS; How Will This Impact Financial And Crypto Markets?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-may-raise-rates-by-25-bps-how-will-this-impact-financial-and-crypto-markets","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-27 16:27:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-27 06:27:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12726","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12610,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-19 15:44:42","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:42","post_content":"\n

Shares on Wall Street continue to be supported, led by gains in financial and technology stocks, with investors looking toward the next round of quarterly results as earnings season gets underway. The S&P 500 is up to nearly 19% year-to-date, while the Nasdaq has advanced about 37%, and both indexes are on track for their fifth straight month of gains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Some of the largest U.S. banks, including JPMorgan Chase and Wells Fargo, reported a profit boost from higher rates, pointing towards a resilient economy. This Tuesday, Bank of America posted a 20% surge in second-quarter profit, and it is also important to mention that Morgan Stanley's stock had today the most significant single-day gain since late 2020, after its second-quarter profit and revenue beat analyst expectations on a boost from its wealth management business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to Refinitiv data, of the 30 companies in the S&P 500 that reported earnings last week, 80% beat analyst expectations. Corporate profits are emerging as the big driver of what the market is likely to do in the near term, but if earnings results fall short of expectations, the stock market's reaction could be severe. Chris Zaccarelli, chief investment officer for Independent Advisor Alliance, added<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Investors are looking at the fact that the economy has been resilient, and corporate earnings so far are coming in pretty well. The tech-heavy Nasdaq led Wall Street higher, supported by mega-cap growth stocks including Apple and Tesla, ahead of quarterly results from industry heavyweights through the week.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Megacaps<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Goldman Sachs, International Business Machines (IBM), Netflix, Tesla, Blackstone (BX), Johnson & Johnson, Philip Morris International (PM), Newmont (NEM), and American Express are among the companies scheduled to report quarterly results by the end of this trading week. A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street even more, and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy and strong.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the days ahead, the U.S. stock market will also be hypersensitive to FED comments. However, prices and producer prices data provided evidence that inflation cooled more than expected, stoking hopes that the U.S. Federal Reserve will soon end its monetary policy tightening. However, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points on July 26. Still, there is also a great chance that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings.<\/p>\n","post_title":"U.S. Stocks Are Advancing At The Start Of The Earnings Season; Here's What To Expect","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"u-s-stocks-are-advancing-at-the-start-of-the-earnings-season-heres-what-to-expect","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-19 15:44:48","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12610","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12490,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-13 21:13:24","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:24","post_content":"\n

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released its June inflation report this Wednesday, and the report showed that the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which measures prices that urban consumers pay for a basket of goods and services, rose 0.2% in June compared with May's 0.1% growth, but landed below the 0.3% consensus. In the 12 months through June, the consumer prices (CPI) advanced only 3.0%, and it is important to say that this was the smallest year-on-year increase since March 2021 and followed a 4.0% rise in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Consumer<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The CPI reading has cooled considerably since peeking out around 9% in June 2022, which suggests that the Fed's campaign to quell inflation is working well. Another positive information is that a core measure that strips out volatile food and energy prices was 0.2% every month in June, halving from the 0.4% growth rate in each of the three months prior.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Fed may debate whether to hike the policy rate further based on the new inflation data. However, Ryan Sweet, the Chief US Economist at Oxford Economics, thinks that the cooler-than-expected inflation report will not stop the Federal Reserve from raising its policy rate by 25 basis points at its meeting this month. According to a survey from the CME Group, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points at the next Federal Reserve meeting scheduled for July 26.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Wall Street is in celebration mode after a sharper-than-expected deceleration of inflation, but it remains above Powell & Co's average annual 2% target. However, there is a great probability that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. Brian Jacobsen, chief economist at Annex Wealth Management, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"U.S. consumer prices rose modestly in June and logged their smallest annual increase in more than two years as inflation continued to subside. Even though the Federal Reserve has probably already talked itself into a corner needing to hike at the July meeting, it may be the last one for this hiking cycle.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Starting in March 2022, the U.S. Federal Reserve has enacted ten consecutive interest rate increases totaling five percentage points, and the next Federal Reserve policy meeting will be at the center of attention in July 2023. The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5% to 5.25%, which is the highest level since the 2006 year, and in the days ahead, stock and cryptocurrency markets will be hypersensitive to any FED comments.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Inflation Cooled More Than Expected In June. Does This Indicate That The Federal Reserve Is Near The End Of Its Rapid Interest Rate Hikes?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"inflation-cooled-more-than-expected-in-june-does-this-indicate-that-the-federal-reserve-is-near-the-end-of-its-rapid-interest-rate-hikes","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-13 21:13:36","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12490","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12354,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-05 22:47:04","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:04","post_content":"\n

Despite the high federal funds rate, durable goods orders exceeded expectations, which caused investors to remain unconcerned about a recession, surprising analysts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 12, the central bank's bank term funding program announcement reinforced faith in the banking system, and investors were content to see additional signs of decreased inflation. The stock market tracked with the economy in the first half of 2023, surprising the upside and leaving investors to wonder if the resilience can continue. The current rally in the cryptocurrency market is also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity. Bank of America U.S. economist Michael Gapen said<\/a> on Friday:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The economy has proven more resilient than we previously expected, owing largely to consumption. However, we do not expect such robust prints to continue. Momentum in the economy should slow as the lagged effects of tighter monetary policy and financial conditions start to take hold.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The jobs report on Friday is the next big test that could show if the economy is still resilient as higher rates crimp company credit lines. Companies must pay more to borrow when interest rates rise, causing them to decrease spending and job opportunities. According to analysts' estimates, the job report on Friday could show that the U.S. economy added 225,000 jobs in June 2023, with the unemployment rate set to fall to 3.6%, down from 3.7% in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Over the past twelve months, the U.S. job report has outperformed market expectations on 11 out of 12 occasions, and another set of better-than-expected readings may reinforce hopes of a soft landing (a possibility that the U.S. economy escaped a deep recession). The U.S. economy added 339,000 jobs in May 2023, and in the chart below, we can also see how the job market performed since June 2021.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Non-Farm<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

While sentiment-based indicators show that investors are no longer in panic, a recommendation is that you should continue to take a defensive investment approach in the upcoming days because another strong job report could also pressure the Fed to do more by anchoring a 25 bp hike this month and pushing back against the timeline for rate cuts. The next Federal Reserve meeting is on July 26. The CME Group survey shows a high probability of a 25 basis point rate increase.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Economy Has Proven More Resilient Than Analysts Previously Expected. The Focus Of Investors Is Switching To The U.S. Jobs Report","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-economy-has-proven-more-resilient-than-analysts-previously-expected-the-focus-of-investors-is-switching-to-the-u-s-jobs-report","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-05 22:47:08","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12354","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12237,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-29 06:44:16","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:16","post_content":"\n

The U.S. stock market recovered this Tuesday from recent losses as upbeat economic data cooled investor worries of a possible recession that could be triggered by the Federal Reserve's aggressive interest rate hikes. In May, the U.S. economy showed positive signs, with higher-than-expected orders for essential capital goods and a significant increase in sales of new single-family homes. Moreover, consumer confidence in the U.S. reached its highest level since January 2022.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Commerce Department's durable goods report brought good news for analysts in May. Commercial aircraft\/parts saw a significant rise of 32.5%, transportation equipment increased by 3.9%, and autos\/features grew by 2.2%, leading to new orders. Non-defense capital goods, excluding aircraft, grew by 0.7%. The report indicates greater confidence in future business conditions and job availability for six months. Oren Klachkin, lead U.S. economist at Oxford Economics (OE), said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The May durable goods orders and shipments data help to fend off fears that a recession is just around the corner. However, the economic backdrop is set to become more discouraging for manufacturers as tighter lending standards and elevated interest rates weaken demand for goods.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Durable<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. economy remains steady despite the federal funds rate reaching its peak since 2007. Investors should note that good economic data may lead to a 25 basis point increase in interest rates at the Federal Reserve's July meeting. Financial markets predict a 79.4% chance of this happening. This week's important economic data includes a crucial inflation measure that could provide valuable insight into the Federal Reserve's plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Experts recommend a cautious approach when interest rates exceed 5%. This involves taking calculated risks due to the current economic climate, which is unstable and unpredictable. As interest rates increase, companies face higher borrowing costs, causing them to decrease spending, especially on hiring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Investor Jeremy Grantham warns of potential losses in the U.S. stock market and advises cautiousness. It's important to note that cryptocurrencies could also face a significant decline. This is due to the high correlation between the crypto market and U.S. equities. If the stock market experiences a downturn, the crypto-sphere may follow suit. Investors must consider this possibility.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Upbeat Economic Data Lifted Investors' Mood, But Days Ahead Could Give Cues On The Next Federal Reserve's Steps","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"upbeat-economic-data-lifted-investors-mood-but-days-ahead-could-give-cues-on-the-next-federal-reserves-steps","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-29 06:44:23","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12237","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12127,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-21 15:38:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:34","post_content":"\n

According to the latest American Association of Individual Investors(AAII) survey, Investor confidence is at a peak reaching a 19-month high. American Association of Individual Investors also reported that bearish sentiment fell to a 23-month low, and there is general expectation that the stock prices would rise over the next several months. The crypto market displayed a high correlation with U.S. equities. If a positive trend is witnessed in the stock market, the same is usually replicated in the crypto-sphere as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Surveys<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers released data on Friday, showing that consumer sentiment in the U.S. improved to a four-month high in June. This is also positive news, and the improved view reflects greater optimism after signs of easing inflation, economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season in the U.S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recent inflation data signalled that the Fed's monetary tightening is cooling the world's largest economy, and according to many analysts, the Federal Reserve is near the end of its tightening cycle. The U.S. economy remains stable even though the federal funds rate remains at its highest since 2007; the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been substantial, and the unemployment rate has remained low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

THIS TUESDAY, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that groundbreaking new American homes jumped by 21.7% in May 2023 to 1.63 million units. Building permits, considered among the housing market's most forward-looking indicators, increased more than expected in May, rising 5.2% to 1.49 million units at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Kieran Clancy, Senior Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

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\n

\"Fading expectations of recession have brought the focus back to inflation and a potential tight Fed \u2026 and risk assets have started showing more signs of weakness than at any other point this year. We therefore think equities are more at risk of a macro-driven shock than the market is pricing in.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

To be sure, there's little guarantee that Powell's message will be a starkly hawkish one, but investors should keep in mind that inflation remains above Powell & Co's average annual 2% target. Fed officials repeated several times this month that they will continue with the effort to bring inflation down closer to their 2% annual target. The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5.25% to 5.5%, which is the highest level in 22 years, and in the days ahead, stock and cryptocurrency markets will be hypersensitive to any FED comments.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Wall Street's Main Indexes Remain Under Pressure On Fears That The Fed Is Likely Going To Keep High Rates For Longer","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"wall-streets-main-indexes-remain-under-pressure-on-fears-that-the-fed-is-likely-going-to-keep-high-rates-for-longer","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-27 20:19:49","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-27 10:19:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=13092","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":13011,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-08-10 23:19:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-08-10 13:19:34","post_content":"\n

Wall Street's three main indexes tumbled this Tuesday as financial stocks dropped after rating agency Moody's cut credit ratings of several small- to mid-sized U.S. banks and said it could downgrade some of the country's biggest lenders. The agency cited higher funding costs, profitability pressures, and slowing loan growth as a common theme in banks' second-quarter earnings and said the Fed's rate hikes will lower profitability as consumers take out fewer loans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rating agency Moody's cut credit ratings of Associated Banc-Corp. (ASB), Old National Bancorp (ONB), Pinnacle Financial Partners (PNFP), BOK Financial Corp. (BOKF), M&T Bank (MTB), Webster Bank (WBS), Amarillo National Bank, Commerce Bancshares (CBSH), Prosperity Bank (PB), and Fulton Financial Corp. (FULT).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The news that scared investors, even more, is the fact that rating agency Moody's assigned a negative outlook to six top-tier lenders - U.S. Bancorp (USB), State Street Corp. (STT), Truist Financial Corp. (TFC), Bank of New York Mellon (BK), Northern Trust Corp. (NTRS), and Cullen\/Frost Bankers Inc. (CFR)\u2014placing them on review for a potential future downgrade.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lenders have lost 4% so far this year, compared with a 17% rise in the benchmark S&P 500 index, while the broader S&P 500 banking sector is up just under 1% so far this year, as shares of the biggest banks like JPMorgan Chase (JPM) and Wells Fargo (WFC) have outperformed their smaller counterparts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"
Brandon Pizzurro, director of public investments at Guidestone Capital Management said<\/a>:<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

\"Anytime you see the backbone of the U.S. financial system being under watch, that gives people a lot to pause. Markets are slowly digesting that maybe the U.S. financial system is not absolutely perfect, and maybe we are going to have higher rates for a much longer period of time.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The collapse of Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank earlier this year already sparked a crisis of confidence in U.S. lenders, and the negative information is that the CBOE Market Volatility Index VIX, Wall Street's fear gauge, hit this Tuesday a two-month high at 17.71. There are currently too much important things that could easily go wrong, and it would not surprise me to see a big sell-off in financial markets if something goes wrong. The upside potential for stocks and cryptocurrencies probably remains limited for the weeks ahead, and a recommendation is that investors should continue to take a defensive investment approach.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Wall Street's Main Indexes Tumbled As Financial Stocks Dropped After Moody's Cut Credit Ratings of Several U.S. Banks","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"wall-streets-main-indexes-tumbled-as-financial-stocks-dropped-after-moodys-cut-credit-ratings-of-several-u-s-banks","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-10 23:19:38","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-10 13:19:38","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=13011","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12726,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-27 16:26:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-27 06:26:53","post_content":"\n

Investors continue to observe comments from Federal Reserve officials that could give more insight into the path of interest rates, but it is important to say that the U.S. Central Bank is widely seen raising rates by 25 basis points at its meeting this Wednesday, although the consumer prices and producer prices data provided evidence that inflation cooled more than expected.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The US economy is doing better than expected, but inflation is still higher than the target of 2%. The latest economic data, corporate earnings, solid job market, and consumer sentiment cemented this expectation, and according to analysts, the U.S. economy still has some vibrancy, which gives the Fed cover to continue its rate hike policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points on July 26. Still, there is also a significant chance that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. The federal funds rate is at 5% to 5.25%, the highest since 2007, but financial and tech stock gains still supported Wall Street shares.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Fed.<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

With higher interest rates, companies need to spend more money to borrow money to invest in growth, but as long the U.S. economy is not in recession and the corporate profit remains healthy, there is no risk of a bigger sell-off on the stock market. The recent rally in the cryptocurrency market was also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The S&P 500 is up to nearly 20% year-to-date, while the Nasdaq has advanced about 37%, and both indexes are on track for their fifth straight month of gains. Corporate earnings so far are coming in pretty well, and Alphabet (Google), Microsoft, Visa, AT&T, Coca-Cola, Meta, Boeing, Procter & Gamble, Exxon Mobil, McDonald's, Ford, and Intel are among the companies scheduled to report quarterly results by the end of this trading week.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy. The International Monetary Fund raised its global economic outlook for 2023 due to strong activity in the services sector in the first quarter.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank May Raise Rates By 25 BPS; How Will This Impact Financial And Crypto Markets?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-may-raise-rates-by-25-bps-how-will-this-impact-financial-and-crypto-markets","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-27 16:27:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-27 06:27:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12726","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12610,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-19 15:44:42","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:42","post_content":"\n

Shares on Wall Street continue to be supported, led by gains in financial and technology stocks, with investors looking toward the next round of quarterly results as earnings season gets underway. The S&P 500 is up to nearly 19% year-to-date, while the Nasdaq has advanced about 37%, and both indexes are on track for their fifth straight month of gains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Some of the largest U.S. banks, including JPMorgan Chase and Wells Fargo, reported a profit boost from higher rates, pointing towards a resilient economy. This Tuesday, Bank of America posted a 20% surge in second-quarter profit, and it is also important to mention that Morgan Stanley's stock had today the most significant single-day gain since late 2020, after its second-quarter profit and revenue beat analyst expectations on a boost from its wealth management business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to Refinitiv data, of the 30 companies in the S&P 500 that reported earnings last week, 80% beat analyst expectations. Corporate profits are emerging as the big driver of what the market is likely to do in the near term, but if earnings results fall short of expectations, the stock market's reaction could be severe. Chris Zaccarelli, chief investment officer for Independent Advisor Alliance, added<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Investors are looking at the fact that the economy has been resilient, and corporate earnings so far are coming in pretty well. The tech-heavy Nasdaq led Wall Street higher, supported by mega-cap growth stocks including Apple and Tesla, ahead of quarterly results from industry heavyweights through the week.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Megacaps<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Goldman Sachs, International Business Machines (IBM), Netflix, Tesla, Blackstone (BX), Johnson & Johnson, Philip Morris International (PM), Newmont (NEM), and American Express are among the companies scheduled to report quarterly results by the end of this trading week. A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street even more, and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy and strong.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the days ahead, the U.S. stock market will also be hypersensitive to FED comments. However, prices and producer prices data provided evidence that inflation cooled more than expected, stoking hopes that the U.S. Federal Reserve will soon end its monetary policy tightening. However, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points on July 26. Still, there is also a great chance that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings.<\/p>\n","post_title":"U.S. Stocks Are Advancing At The Start Of The Earnings Season; Here's What To Expect","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"u-s-stocks-are-advancing-at-the-start-of-the-earnings-season-heres-what-to-expect","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-19 15:44:48","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12610","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12490,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-13 21:13:24","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:24","post_content":"\n

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released its June inflation report this Wednesday, and the report showed that the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which measures prices that urban consumers pay for a basket of goods and services, rose 0.2% in June compared with May's 0.1% growth, but landed below the 0.3% consensus. In the 12 months through June, the consumer prices (CPI) advanced only 3.0%, and it is important to say that this was the smallest year-on-year increase since March 2021 and followed a 4.0% rise in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Consumer<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The CPI reading has cooled considerably since peeking out around 9% in June 2022, which suggests that the Fed's campaign to quell inflation is working well. Another positive information is that a core measure that strips out volatile food and energy prices was 0.2% every month in June, halving from the 0.4% growth rate in each of the three months prior.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Fed may debate whether to hike the policy rate further based on the new inflation data. However, Ryan Sweet, the Chief US Economist at Oxford Economics, thinks that the cooler-than-expected inflation report will not stop the Federal Reserve from raising its policy rate by 25 basis points at its meeting this month. According to a survey from the CME Group, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points at the next Federal Reserve meeting scheduled for July 26.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Wall Street is in celebration mode after a sharper-than-expected deceleration of inflation, but it remains above Powell & Co's average annual 2% target. However, there is a great probability that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. Brian Jacobsen, chief economist at Annex Wealth Management, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"U.S. consumer prices rose modestly in June and logged their smallest annual increase in more than two years as inflation continued to subside. Even though the Federal Reserve has probably already talked itself into a corner needing to hike at the July meeting, it may be the last one for this hiking cycle.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Starting in March 2022, the U.S. Federal Reserve has enacted ten consecutive interest rate increases totaling five percentage points, and the next Federal Reserve policy meeting will be at the center of attention in July 2023. The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5% to 5.25%, which is the highest level since the 2006 year, and in the days ahead, stock and cryptocurrency markets will be hypersensitive to any FED comments.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Inflation Cooled More Than Expected In June. Does This Indicate That The Federal Reserve Is Near The End Of Its Rapid Interest Rate Hikes?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"inflation-cooled-more-than-expected-in-june-does-this-indicate-that-the-federal-reserve-is-near-the-end-of-its-rapid-interest-rate-hikes","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-13 21:13:36","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12490","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12354,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-05 22:47:04","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:04","post_content":"\n

Despite the high federal funds rate, durable goods orders exceeded expectations, which caused investors to remain unconcerned about a recession, surprising analysts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 12, the central bank's bank term funding program announcement reinforced faith in the banking system, and investors were content to see additional signs of decreased inflation. The stock market tracked with the economy in the first half of 2023, surprising the upside and leaving investors to wonder if the resilience can continue. The current rally in the cryptocurrency market is also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity. Bank of America U.S. economist Michael Gapen said<\/a> on Friday:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The economy has proven more resilient than we previously expected, owing largely to consumption. However, we do not expect such robust prints to continue. Momentum in the economy should slow as the lagged effects of tighter monetary policy and financial conditions start to take hold.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The jobs report on Friday is the next big test that could show if the economy is still resilient as higher rates crimp company credit lines. Companies must pay more to borrow when interest rates rise, causing them to decrease spending and job opportunities. According to analysts' estimates, the job report on Friday could show that the U.S. economy added 225,000 jobs in June 2023, with the unemployment rate set to fall to 3.6%, down from 3.7% in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Over the past twelve months, the U.S. job report has outperformed market expectations on 11 out of 12 occasions, and another set of better-than-expected readings may reinforce hopes of a soft landing (a possibility that the U.S. economy escaped a deep recession). The U.S. economy added 339,000 jobs in May 2023, and in the chart below, we can also see how the job market performed since June 2021.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Non-Farm<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

While sentiment-based indicators show that investors are no longer in panic, a recommendation is that you should continue to take a defensive investment approach in the upcoming days because another strong job report could also pressure the Fed to do more by anchoring a 25 bp hike this month and pushing back against the timeline for rate cuts. The next Federal Reserve meeting is on July 26. The CME Group survey shows a high probability of a 25 basis point rate increase.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Economy Has Proven More Resilient Than Analysts Previously Expected. The Focus Of Investors Is Switching To The U.S. Jobs Report","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-economy-has-proven-more-resilient-than-analysts-previously-expected-the-focus-of-investors-is-switching-to-the-u-s-jobs-report","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-05 22:47:08","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12354","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12237,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-29 06:44:16","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:16","post_content":"\n

The U.S. stock market recovered this Tuesday from recent losses as upbeat economic data cooled investor worries of a possible recession that could be triggered by the Federal Reserve's aggressive interest rate hikes. In May, the U.S. economy showed positive signs, with higher-than-expected orders for essential capital goods and a significant increase in sales of new single-family homes. Moreover, consumer confidence in the U.S. reached its highest level since January 2022.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Commerce Department's durable goods report brought good news for analysts in May. Commercial aircraft\/parts saw a significant rise of 32.5%, transportation equipment increased by 3.9%, and autos\/features grew by 2.2%, leading to new orders. Non-defense capital goods, excluding aircraft, grew by 0.7%. The report indicates greater confidence in future business conditions and job availability for six months. Oren Klachkin, lead U.S. economist at Oxford Economics (OE), said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The May durable goods orders and shipments data help to fend off fears that a recession is just around the corner. However, the economic backdrop is set to become more discouraging for manufacturers as tighter lending standards and elevated interest rates weaken demand for goods.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Durable<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. economy remains steady despite the federal funds rate reaching its peak since 2007. Investors should note that good economic data may lead to a 25 basis point increase in interest rates at the Federal Reserve's July meeting. Financial markets predict a 79.4% chance of this happening. This week's important economic data includes a crucial inflation measure that could provide valuable insight into the Federal Reserve's plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Experts recommend a cautious approach when interest rates exceed 5%. This involves taking calculated risks due to the current economic climate, which is unstable and unpredictable. As interest rates increase, companies face higher borrowing costs, causing them to decrease spending, especially on hiring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Investor Jeremy Grantham warns of potential losses in the U.S. stock market and advises cautiousness. It's important to note that cryptocurrencies could also face a significant decline. This is due to the high correlation between the crypto market and U.S. equities. If the stock market experiences a downturn, the crypto-sphere may follow suit. Investors must consider this possibility.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Upbeat Economic Data Lifted Investors' Mood, But Days Ahead Could Give Cues On The Next Federal Reserve's Steps","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"upbeat-economic-data-lifted-investors-mood-but-days-ahead-could-give-cues-on-the-next-federal-reserves-steps","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-29 06:44:23","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12237","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12127,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-21 15:38:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:34","post_content":"\n

According to the latest American Association of Individual Investors(AAII) survey, Investor confidence is at a peak reaching a 19-month high. American Association of Individual Investors also reported that bearish sentiment fell to a 23-month low, and there is general expectation that the stock prices would rise over the next several months. The crypto market displayed a high correlation with U.S. equities. If a positive trend is witnessed in the stock market, the same is usually replicated in the crypto-sphere as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Surveys<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers released data on Friday, showing that consumer sentiment in the U.S. improved to a four-month high in June. This is also positive news, and the improved view reflects greater optimism after signs of easing inflation, economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season in the U.S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recent inflation data signalled that the Fed's monetary tightening is cooling the world's largest economy, and according to many analysts, the Federal Reserve is near the end of its tightening cycle. The U.S. economy remains stable even though the federal funds rate remains at its highest since 2007; the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been substantial, and the unemployment rate has remained low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

THIS TUESDAY, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that groundbreaking new American homes jumped by 21.7% in May 2023 to 1.63 million units. Building permits, considered among the housing market's most forward-looking indicators, increased more than expected in May, rising 5.2% to 1.49 million units at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Kieran Clancy, Senior Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

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\n

Barring the market drop in August 2022 and a 2019 tumble, Fed chairs' Jackson Hole speeches have not been big market movers in recent years, but there may be greater scope for market gyrations this time around. Analysts at Bank of America reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Fading expectations of recession have brought the focus back to inflation and a potential tight Fed \u2026 and risk assets have started showing more signs of weakness than at any other point this year. We therefore think equities are more at risk of a macro-driven shock than the market is pricing in.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

To be sure, there's little guarantee that Powell's message will be a starkly hawkish one, but investors should keep in mind that inflation remains above Powell & Co's average annual 2% target. Fed officials repeated several times this month that they will continue with the effort to bring inflation down closer to their 2% annual target. The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5.25% to 5.5%, which is the highest level in 22 years, and in the days ahead, stock and cryptocurrency markets will be hypersensitive to any FED comments.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Wall Street's Main Indexes Remain Under Pressure On Fears That The Fed Is Likely Going To Keep High Rates For Longer","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"wall-streets-main-indexes-remain-under-pressure-on-fears-that-the-fed-is-likely-going-to-keep-high-rates-for-longer","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-27 20:19:49","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-27 10:19:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=13092","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":13011,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-08-10 23:19:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-08-10 13:19:34","post_content":"\n

Wall Street's three main indexes tumbled this Tuesday as financial stocks dropped after rating agency Moody's cut credit ratings of several small- to mid-sized U.S. banks and said it could downgrade some of the country's biggest lenders. The agency cited higher funding costs, profitability pressures, and slowing loan growth as a common theme in banks' second-quarter earnings and said the Fed's rate hikes will lower profitability as consumers take out fewer loans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rating agency Moody's cut credit ratings of Associated Banc-Corp. (ASB), Old National Bancorp (ONB), Pinnacle Financial Partners (PNFP), BOK Financial Corp. (BOKF), M&T Bank (MTB), Webster Bank (WBS), Amarillo National Bank, Commerce Bancshares (CBSH), Prosperity Bank (PB), and Fulton Financial Corp. (FULT).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The news that scared investors, even more, is the fact that rating agency Moody's assigned a negative outlook to six top-tier lenders - U.S. Bancorp (USB), State Street Corp. (STT), Truist Financial Corp. (TFC), Bank of New York Mellon (BK), Northern Trust Corp. (NTRS), and Cullen\/Frost Bankers Inc. (CFR)\u2014placing them on review for a potential future downgrade.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lenders have lost 4% so far this year, compared with a 17% rise in the benchmark S&P 500 index, while the broader S&P 500 banking sector is up just under 1% so far this year, as shares of the biggest banks like JPMorgan Chase (JPM) and Wells Fargo (WFC) have outperformed their smaller counterparts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"
Brandon Pizzurro, director of public investments at Guidestone Capital Management said<\/a>:<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

\"Anytime you see the backbone of the U.S. financial system being under watch, that gives people a lot to pause. Markets are slowly digesting that maybe the U.S. financial system is not absolutely perfect, and maybe we are going to have higher rates for a much longer period of time.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The collapse of Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank earlier this year already sparked a crisis of confidence in U.S. lenders, and the negative information is that the CBOE Market Volatility Index VIX, Wall Street's fear gauge, hit this Tuesday a two-month high at 17.71. There are currently too much important things that could easily go wrong, and it would not surprise me to see a big sell-off in financial markets if something goes wrong. The upside potential for stocks and cryptocurrencies probably remains limited for the weeks ahead, and a recommendation is that investors should continue to take a defensive investment approach.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Wall Street's Main Indexes Tumbled As Financial Stocks Dropped After Moody's Cut Credit Ratings of Several U.S. Banks","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"wall-streets-main-indexes-tumbled-as-financial-stocks-dropped-after-moodys-cut-credit-ratings-of-several-u-s-banks","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-10 23:19:38","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-10 13:19:38","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=13011","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12726,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-27 16:26:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-27 06:26:53","post_content":"\n

Investors continue to observe comments from Federal Reserve officials that could give more insight into the path of interest rates, but it is important to say that the U.S. Central Bank is widely seen raising rates by 25 basis points at its meeting this Wednesday, although the consumer prices and producer prices data provided evidence that inflation cooled more than expected.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The US economy is doing better than expected, but inflation is still higher than the target of 2%. The latest economic data, corporate earnings, solid job market, and consumer sentiment cemented this expectation, and according to analysts, the U.S. economy still has some vibrancy, which gives the Fed cover to continue its rate hike policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points on July 26. Still, there is also a significant chance that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. The federal funds rate is at 5% to 5.25%, the highest since 2007, but financial and tech stock gains still supported Wall Street shares.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Fed.<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

With higher interest rates, companies need to spend more money to borrow money to invest in growth, but as long the U.S. economy is not in recession and the corporate profit remains healthy, there is no risk of a bigger sell-off on the stock market. The recent rally in the cryptocurrency market was also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The S&P 500 is up to nearly 20% year-to-date, while the Nasdaq has advanced about 37%, and both indexes are on track for their fifth straight month of gains. Corporate earnings so far are coming in pretty well, and Alphabet (Google), Microsoft, Visa, AT&T, Coca-Cola, Meta, Boeing, Procter & Gamble, Exxon Mobil, McDonald's, Ford, and Intel are among the companies scheduled to report quarterly results by the end of this trading week.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy. The International Monetary Fund raised its global economic outlook for 2023 due to strong activity in the services sector in the first quarter.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank May Raise Rates By 25 BPS; How Will This Impact Financial And Crypto Markets?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-may-raise-rates-by-25-bps-how-will-this-impact-financial-and-crypto-markets","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-27 16:27:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-27 06:27:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12726","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12610,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-19 15:44:42","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:42","post_content":"\n

Shares on Wall Street continue to be supported, led by gains in financial and technology stocks, with investors looking toward the next round of quarterly results as earnings season gets underway. The S&P 500 is up to nearly 19% year-to-date, while the Nasdaq has advanced about 37%, and both indexes are on track for their fifth straight month of gains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Some of the largest U.S. banks, including JPMorgan Chase and Wells Fargo, reported a profit boost from higher rates, pointing towards a resilient economy. This Tuesday, Bank of America posted a 20% surge in second-quarter profit, and it is also important to mention that Morgan Stanley's stock had today the most significant single-day gain since late 2020, after its second-quarter profit and revenue beat analyst expectations on a boost from its wealth management business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to Refinitiv data, of the 30 companies in the S&P 500 that reported earnings last week, 80% beat analyst expectations. Corporate profits are emerging as the big driver of what the market is likely to do in the near term, but if earnings results fall short of expectations, the stock market's reaction could be severe. Chris Zaccarelli, chief investment officer for Independent Advisor Alliance, added<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Investors are looking at the fact that the economy has been resilient, and corporate earnings so far are coming in pretty well. The tech-heavy Nasdaq led Wall Street higher, supported by mega-cap growth stocks including Apple and Tesla, ahead of quarterly results from industry heavyweights through the week.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Megacaps<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Goldman Sachs, International Business Machines (IBM), Netflix, Tesla, Blackstone (BX), Johnson & Johnson, Philip Morris International (PM), Newmont (NEM), and American Express are among the companies scheduled to report quarterly results by the end of this trading week. A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street even more, and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy and strong.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the days ahead, the U.S. stock market will also be hypersensitive to FED comments. However, prices and producer prices data provided evidence that inflation cooled more than expected, stoking hopes that the U.S. Federal Reserve will soon end its monetary policy tightening. However, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points on July 26. Still, there is also a great chance that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings.<\/p>\n","post_title":"U.S. Stocks Are Advancing At The Start Of The Earnings Season; Here's What To Expect","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"u-s-stocks-are-advancing-at-the-start-of-the-earnings-season-heres-what-to-expect","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-19 15:44:48","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12610","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12490,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-13 21:13:24","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:24","post_content":"\n

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released its June inflation report this Wednesday, and the report showed that the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which measures prices that urban consumers pay for a basket of goods and services, rose 0.2% in June compared with May's 0.1% growth, but landed below the 0.3% consensus. In the 12 months through June, the consumer prices (CPI) advanced only 3.0%, and it is important to say that this was the smallest year-on-year increase since March 2021 and followed a 4.0% rise in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Consumer<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The CPI reading has cooled considerably since peeking out around 9% in June 2022, which suggests that the Fed's campaign to quell inflation is working well. Another positive information is that a core measure that strips out volatile food and energy prices was 0.2% every month in June, halving from the 0.4% growth rate in each of the three months prior.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Fed may debate whether to hike the policy rate further based on the new inflation data. However, Ryan Sweet, the Chief US Economist at Oxford Economics, thinks that the cooler-than-expected inflation report will not stop the Federal Reserve from raising its policy rate by 25 basis points at its meeting this month. According to a survey from the CME Group, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points at the next Federal Reserve meeting scheduled for July 26.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Wall Street is in celebration mode after a sharper-than-expected deceleration of inflation, but it remains above Powell & Co's average annual 2% target. However, there is a great probability that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. Brian Jacobsen, chief economist at Annex Wealth Management, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"U.S. consumer prices rose modestly in June and logged their smallest annual increase in more than two years as inflation continued to subside. Even though the Federal Reserve has probably already talked itself into a corner needing to hike at the July meeting, it may be the last one for this hiking cycle.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Starting in March 2022, the U.S. Federal Reserve has enacted ten consecutive interest rate increases totaling five percentage points, and the next Federal Reserve policy meeting will be at the center of attention in July 2023. The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5% to 5.25%, which is the highest level since the 2006 year, and in the days ahead, stock and cryptocurrency markets will be hypersensitive to any FED comments.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Inflation Cooled More Than Expected In June. Does This Indicate That The Federal Reserve Is Near The End Of Its Rapid Interest Rate Hikes?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"inflation-cooled-more-than-expected-in-june-does-this-indicate-that-the-federal-reserve-is-near-the-end-of-its-rapid-interest-rate-hikes","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-13 21:13:36","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12490","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12354,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-05 22:47:04","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:04","post_content":"\n

Despite the high federal funds rate, durable goods orders exceeded expectations, which caused investors to remain unconcerned about a recession, surprising analysts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 12, the central bank's bank term funding program announcement reinforced faith in the banking system, and investors were content to see additional signs of decreased inflation. The stock market tracked with the economy in the first half of 2023, surprising the upside and leaving investors to wonder if the resilience can continue. The current rally in the cryptocurrency market is also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity. Bank of America U.S. economist Michael Gapen said<\/a> on Friday:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The economy has proven more resilient than we previously expected, owing largely to consumption. However, we do not expect such robust prints to continue. Momentum in the economy should slow as the lagged effects of tighter monetary policy and financial conditions start to take hold.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The jobs report on Friday is the next big test that could show if the economy is still resilient as higher rates crimp company credit lines. Companies must pay more to borrow when interest rates rise, causing them to decrease spending and job opportunities. According to analysts' estimates, the job report on Friday could show that the U.S. economy added 225,000 jobs in June 2023, with the unemployment rate set to fall to 3.6%, down from 3.7% in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Over the past twelve months, the U.S. job report has outperformed market expectations on 11 out of 12 occasions, and another set of better-than-expected readings may reinforce hopes of a soft landing (a possibility that the U.S. economy escaped a deep recession). The U.S. economy added 339,000 jobs in May 2023, and in the chart below, we can also see how the job market performed since June 2021.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Non-Farm<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

While sentiment-based indicators show that investors are no longer in panic, a recommendation is that you should continue to take a defensive investment approach in the upcoming days because another strong job report could also pressure the Fed to do more by anchoring a 25 bp hike this month and pushing back against the timeline for rate cuts. The next Federal Reserve meeting is on July 26. The CME Group survey shows a high probability of a 25 basis point rate increase.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Economy Has Proven More Resilient Than Analysts Previously Expected. The Focus Of Investors Is Switching To The U.S. Jobs Report","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-economy-has-proven-more-resilient-than-analysts-previously-expected-the-focus-of-investors-is-switching-to-the-u-s-jobs-report","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-05 22:47:08","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12354","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12237,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-29 06:44:16","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:16","post_content":"\n

The U.S. stock market recovered this Tuesday from recent losses as upbeat economic data cooled investor worries of a possible recession that could be triggered by the Federal Reserve's aggressive interest rate hikes. In May, the U.S. economy showed positive signs, with higher-than-expected orders for essential capital goods and a significant increase in sales of new single-family homes. Moreover, consumer confidence in the U.S. reached its highest level since January 2022.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Commerce Department's durable goods report brought good news for analysts in May. Commercial aircraft\/parts saw a significant rise of 32.5%, transportation equipment increased by 3.9%, and autos\/features grew by 2.2%, leading to new orders. Non-defense capital goods, excluding aircraft, grew by 0.7%. The report indicates greater confidence in future business conditions and job availability for six months. Oren Klachkin, lead U.S. economist at Oxford Economics (OE), said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The May durable goods orders and shipments data help to fend off fears that a recession is just around the corner. However, the economic backdrop is set to become more discouraging for manufacturers as tighter lending standards and elevated interest rates weaken demand for goods.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Durable<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. economy remains steady despite the federal funds rate reaching its peak since 2007. Investors should note that good economic data may lead to a 25 basis point increase in interest rates at the Federal Reserve's July meeting. Financial markets predict a 79.4% chance of this happening. This week's important economic data includes a crucial inflation measure that could provide valuable insight into the Federal Reserve's plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Experts recommend a cautious approach when interest rates exceed 5%. This involves taking calculated risks due to the current economic climate, which is unstable and unpredictable. As interest rates increase, companies face higher borrowing costs, causing them to decrease spending, especially on hiring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Investor Jeremy Grantham warns of potential losses in the U.S. stock market and advises cautiousness. It's important to note that cryptocurrencies could also face a significant decline. This is due to the high correlation between the crypto market and U.S. equities. If the stock market experiences a downturn, the crypto-sphere may follow suit. Investors must consider this possibility.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Upbeat Economic Data Lifted Investors' Mood, But Days Ahead Could Give Cues On The Next Federal Reserve's Steps","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"upbeat-economic-data-lifted-investors-mood-but-days-ahead-could-give-cues-on-the-next-federal-reserves-steps","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-29 06:44:23","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12237","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12127,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-21 15:38:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:34","post_content":"\n

According to the latest American Association of Individual Investors(AAII) survey, Investor confidence is at a peak reaching a 19-month high. American Association of Individual Investors also reported that bearish sentiment fell to a 23-month low, and there is general expectation that the stock prices would rise over the next several months. The crypto market displayed a high correlation with U.S. equities. If a positive trend is witnessed in the stock market, the same is usually replicated in the crypto-sphere as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Surveys<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers released data on Friday, showing that consumer sentiment in the U.S. improved to a four-month high in June. This is also positive news, and the improved view reflects greater optimism after signs of easing inflation, economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season in the U.S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recent inflation data signalled that the Fed's monetary tightening is cooling the world's largest economy, and according to many analysts, the Federal Reserve is near the end of its tightening cycle. The U.S. economy remains stable even though the federal funds rate remains at its highest since 2007; the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been substantial, and the unemployment rate has remained low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

THIS TUESDAY, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that groundbreaking new American homes jumped by 21.7% in May 2023 to 1.63 million units. Building permits, considered among the housing market's most forward-looking indicators, increased more than expected in May, rising 5.2% to 1.49 million units at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Kieran Clancy, Senior Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

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\n
\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Barring the market drop in August 2022 and a 2019 tumble, Fed chairs' Jackson Hole speeches have not been big market movers in recent years, but there may be greater scope for market gyrations this time around. Analysts at Bank of America reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Fading expectations of recession have brought the focus back to inflation and a potential tight Fed \u2026 and risk assets have started showing more signs of weakness than at any other point this year. We therefore think equities are more at risk of a macro-driven shock than the market is pricing in.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

To be sure, there's little guarantee that Powell's message will be a starkly hawkish one, but investors should keep in mind that inflation remains above Powell & Co's average annual 2% target. Fed officials repeated several times this month that they will continue with the effort to bring inflation down closer to their 2% annual target. The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5.25% to 5.5%, which is the highest level in 22 years, and in the days ahead, stock and cryptocurrency markets will be hypersensitive to any FED comments.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Wall Street's Main Indexes Remain Under Pressure On Fears That The Fed Is Likely Going To Keep High Rates For Longer","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"wall-streets-main-indexes-remain-under-pressure-on-fears-that-the-fed-is-likely-going-to-keep-high-rates-for-longer","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-27 20:19:49","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-27 10:19:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=13092","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":13011,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-08-10 23:19:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-08-10 13:19:34","post_content":"\n

Wall Street's three main indexes tumbled this Tuesday as financial stocks dropped after rating agency Moody's cut credit ratings of several small- to mid-sized U.S. banks and said it could downgrade some of the country's biggest lenders. The agency cited higher funding costs, profitability pressures, and slowing loan growth as a common theme in banks' second-quarter earnings and said the Fed's rate hikes will lower profitability as consumers take out fewer loans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rating agency Moody's cut credit ratings of Associated Banc-Corp. (ASB), Old National Bancorp (ONB), Pinnacle Financial Partners (PNFP), BOK Financial Corp. (BOKF), M&T Bank (MTB), Webster Bank (WBS), Amarillo National Bank, Commerce Bancshares (CBSH), Prosperity Bank (PB), and Fulton Financial Corp. (FULT).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The news that scared investors, even more, is the fact that rating agency Moody's assigned a negative outlook to six top-tier lenders - U.S. Bancorp (USB), State Street Corp. (STT), Truist Financial Corp. (TFC), Bank of New York Mellon (BK), Northern Trust Corp. (NTRS), and Cullen\/Frost Bankers Inc. (CFR)\u2014placing them on review for a potential future downgrade.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lenders have lost 4% so far this year, compared with a 17% rise in the benchmark S&P 500 index, while the broader S&P 500 banking sector is up just under 1% so far this year, as shares of the biggest banks like JPMorgan Chase (JPM) and Wells Fargo (WFC) have outperformed their smaller counterparts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"
Brandon Pizzurro, director of public investments at Guidestone Capital Management said<\/a>:<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

\"Anytime you see the backbone of the U.S. financial system being under watch, that gives people a lot to pause. Markets are slowly digesting that maybe the U.S. financial system is not absolutely perfect, and maybe we are going to have higher rates for a much longer period of time.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The collapse of Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank earlier this year already sparked a crisis of confidence in U.S. lenders, and the negative information is that the CBOE Market Volatility Index VIX, Wall Street's fear gauge, hit this Tuesday a two-month high at 17.71. There are currently too much important things that could easily go wrong, and it would not surprise me to see a big sell-off in financial markets if something goes wrong. The upside potential for stocks and cryptocurrencies probably remains limited for the weeks ahead, and a recommendation is that investors should continue to take a defensive investment approach.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Wall Street's Main Indexes Tumbled As Financial Stocks Dropped After Moody's Cut Credit Ratings of Several U.S. Banks","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"wall-streets-main-indexes-tumbled-as-financial-stocks-dropped-after-moodys-cut-credit-ratings-of-several-u-s-banks","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-10 23:19:38","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-10 13:19:38","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=13011","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12726,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-27 16:26:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-27 06:26:53","post_content":"\n

Investors continue to observe comments from Federal Reserve officials that could give more insight into the path of interest rates, but it is important to say that the U.S. Central Bank is widely seen raising rates by 25 basis points at its meeting this Wednesday, although the consumer prices and producer prices data provided evidence that inflation cooled more than expected.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The US economy is doing better than expected, but inflation is still higher than the target of 2%. The latest economic data, corporate earnings, solid job market, and consumer sentiment cemented this expectation, and according to analysts, the U.S. economy still has some vibrancy, which gives the Fed cover to continue its rate hike policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points on July 26. Still, there is also a significant chance that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. The federal funds rate is at 5% to 5.25%, the highest since 2007, but financial and tech stock gains still supported Wall Street shares.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Fed.<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

With higher interest rates, companies need to spend more money to borrow money to invest in growth, but as long the U.S. economy is not in recession and the corporate profit remains healthy, there is no risk of a bigger sell-off on the stock market. The recent rally in the cryptocurrency market was also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The S&P 500 is up to nearly 20% year-to-date, while the Nasdaq has advanced about 37%, and both indexes are on track for their fifth straight month of gains. Corporate earnings so far are coming in pretty well, and Alphabet (Google), Microsoft, Visa, AT&T, Coca-Cola, Meta, Boeing, Procter & Gamble, Exxon Mobil, McDonald's, Ford, and Intel are among the companies scheduled to report quarterly results by the end of this trading week.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy. The International Monetary Fund raised its global economic outlook for 2023 due to strong activity in the services sector in the first quarter.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank May Raise Rates By 25 BPS; How Will This Impact Financial And Crypto Markets?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-may-raise-rates-by-25-bps-how-will-this-impact-financial-and-crypto-markets","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-27 16:27:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-27 06:27:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12726","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12610,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-19 15:44:42","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:42","post_content":"\n

Shares on Wall Street continue to be supported, led by gains in financial and technology stocks, with investors looking toward the next round of quarterly results as earnings season gets underway. The S&P 500 is up to nearly 19% year-to-date, while the Nasdaq has advanced about 37%, and both indexes are on track for their fifth straight month of gains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Some of the largest U.S. banks, including JPMorgan Chase and Wells Fargo, reported a profit boost from higher rates, pointing towards a resilient economy. This Tuesday, Bank of America posted a 20% surge in second-quarter profit, and it is also important to mention that Morgan Stanley's stock had today the most significant single-day gain since late 2020, after its second-quarter profit and revenue beat analyst expectations on a boost from its wealth management business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to Refinitiv data, of the 30 companies in the S&P 500 that reported earnings last week, 80% beat analyst expectations. Corporate profits are emerging as the big driver of what the market is likely to do in the near term, but if earnings results fall short of expectations, the stock market's reaction could be severe. Chris Zaccarelli, chief investment officer for Independent Advisor Alliance, added<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Investors are looking at the fact that the economy has been resilient, and corporate earnings so far are coming in pretty well. The tech-heavy Nasdaq led Wall Street higher, supported by mega-cap growth stocks including Apple and Tesla, ahead of quarterly results from industry heavyweights through the week.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Megacaps<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Goldman Sachs, International Business Machines (IBM), Netflix, Tesla, Blackstone (BX), Johnson & Johnson, Philip Morris International (PM), Newmont (NEM), and American Express are among the companies scheduled to report quarterly results by the end of this trading week. A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street even more, and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy and strong.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the days ahead, the U.S. stock market will also be hypersensitive to FED comments. However, prices and producer prices data provided evidence that inflation cooled more than expected, stoking hopes that the U.S. Federal Reserve will soon end its monetary policy tightening. However, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points on July 26. Still, there is also a great chance that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings.<\/p>\n","post_title":"U.S. Stocks Are Advancing At The Start Of The Earnings Season; Here's What To Expect","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"u-s-stocks-are-advancing-at-the-start-of-the-earnings-season-heres-what-to-expect","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-19 15:44:48","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12610","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12490,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-13 21:13:24","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:24","post_content":"\n

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released its June inflation report this Wednesday, and the report showed that the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which measures prices that urban consumers pay for a basket of goods and services, rose 0.2% in June compared with May's 0.1% growth, but landed below the 0.3% consensus. In the 12 months through June, the consumer prices (CPI) advanced only 3.0%, and it is important to say that this was the smallest year-on-year increase since March 2021 and followed a 4.0% rise in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Consumer<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The CPI reading has cooled considerably since peeking out around 9% in June 2022, which suggests that the Fed's campaign to quell inflation is working well. Another positive information is that a core measure that strips out volatile food and energy prices was 0.2% every month in June, halving from the 0.4% growth rate in each of the three months prior.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Fed may debate whether to hike the policy rate further based on the new inflation data. However, Ryan Sweet, the Chief US Economist at Oxford Economics, thinks that the cooler-than-expected inflation report will not stop the Federal Reserve from raising its policy rate by 25 basis points at its meeting this month. According to a survey from the CME Group, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points at the next Federal Reserve meeting scheduled for July 26.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Wall Street is in celebration mode after a sharper-than-expected deceleration of inflation, but it remains above Powell & Co's average annual 2% target. However, there is a great probability that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. Brian Jacobsen, chief economist at Annex Wealth Management, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"U.S. consumer prices rose modestly in June and logged their smallest annual increase in more than two years as inflation continued to subside. Even though the Federal Reserve has probably already talked itself into a corner needing to hike at the July meeting, it may be the last one for this hiking cycle.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Starting in March 2022, the U.S. Federal Reserve has enacted ten consecutive interest rate increases totaling five percentage points, and the next Federal Reserve policy meeting will be at the center of attention in July 2023. The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5% to 5.25%, which is the highest level since the 2006 year, and in the days ahead, stock and cryptocurrency markets will be hypersensitive to any FED comments.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Inflation Cooled More Than Expected In June. Does This Indicate That The Federal Reserve Is Near The End Of Its Rapid Interest Rate Hikes?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"inflation-cooled-more-than-expected-in-june-does-this-indicate-that-the-federal-reserve-is-near-the-end-of-its-rapid-interest-rate-hikes","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-13 21:13:36","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12490","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12354,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-05 22:47:04","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:04","post_content":"\n

Despite the high federal funds rate, durable goods orders exceeded expectations, which caused investors to remain unconcerned about a recession, surprising analysts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 12, the central bank's bank term funding program announcement reinforced faith in the banking system, and investors were content to see additional signs of decreased inflation. The stock market tracked with the economy in the first half of 2023, surprising the upside and leaving investors to wonder if the resilience can continue. The current rally in the cryptocurrency market is also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity. Bank of America U.S. economist Michael Gapen said<\/a> on Friday:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The economy has proven more resilient than we previously expected, owing largely to consumption. However, we do not expect such robust prints to continue. Momentum in the economy should slow as the lagged effects of tighter monetary policy and financial conditions start to take hold.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The jobs report on Friday is the next big test that could show if the economy is still resilient as higher rates crimp company credit lines. Companies must pay more to borrow when interest rates rise, causing them to decrease spending and job opportunities. According to analysts' estimates, the job report on Friday could show that the U.S. economy added 225,000 jobs in June 2023, with the unemployment rate set to fall to 3.6%, down from 3.7% in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Over the past twelve months, the U.S. job report has outperformed market expectations on 11 out of 12 occasions, and another set of better-than-expected readings may reinforce hopes of a soft landing (a possibility that the U.S. economy escaped a deep recession). The U.S. economy added 339,000 jobs in May 2023, and in the chart below, we can also see how the job market performed since June 2021.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Non-Farm<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

While sentiment-based indicators show that investors are no longer in panic, a recommendation is that you should continue to take a defensive investment approach in the upcoming days because another strong job report could also pressure the Fed to do more by anchoring a 25 bp hike this month and pushing back against the timeline for rate cuts. The next Federal Reserve meeting is on July 26. The CME Group survey shows a high probability of a 25 basis point rate increase.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Economy Has Proven More Resilient Than Analysts Previously Expected. The Focus Of Investors Is Switching To The U.S. Jobs Report","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-economy-has-proven-more-resilient-than-analysts-previously-expected-the-focus-of-investors-is-switching-to-the-u-s-jobs-report","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-05 22:47:08","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12354","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12237,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-29 06:44:16","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:16","post_content":"\n

The U.S. stock market recovered this Tuesday from recent losses as upbeat economic data cooled investor worries of a possible recession that could be triggered by the Federal Reserve's aggressive interest rate hikes. In May, the U.S. economy showed positive signs, with higher-than-expected orders for essential capital goods and a significant increase in sales of new single-family homes. Moreover, consumer confidence in the U.S. reached its highest level since January 2022.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Commerce Department's durable goods report brought good news for analysts in May. Commercial aircraft\/parts saw a significant rise of 32.5%, transportation equipment increased by 3.9%, and autos\/features grew by 2.2%, leading to new orders. Non-defense capital goods, excluding aircraft, grew by 0.7%. The report indicates greater confidence in future business conditions and job availability for six months. Oren Klachkin, lead U.S. economist at Oxford Economics (OE), said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The May durable goods orders and shipments data help to fend off fears that a recession is just around the corner. However, the economic backdrop is set to become more discouraging for manufacturers as tighter lending standards and elevated interest rates weaken demand for goods.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Durable<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. economy remains steady despite the federal funds rate reaching its peak since 2007. Investors should note that good economic data may lead to a 25 basis point increase in interest rates at the Federal Reserve's July meeting. Financial markets predict a 79.4% chance of this happening. This week's important economic data includes a crucial inflation measure that could provide valuable insight into the Federal Reserve's plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Experts recommend a cautious approach when interest rates exceed 5%. This involves taking calculated risks due to the current economic climate, which is unstable and unpredictable. As interest rates increase, companies face higher borrowing costs, causing them to decrease spending, especially on hiring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Investor Jeremy Grantham warns of potential losses in the U.S. stock market and advises cautiousness. It's important to note that cryptocurrencies could also face a significant decline. This is due to the high correlation between the crypto market and U.S. equities. If the stock market experiences a downturn, the crypto-sphere may follow suit. Investors must consider this possibility.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Upbeat Economic Data Lifted Investors' Mood, But Days Ahead Could Give Cues On The Next Federal Reserve's Steps","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"upbeat-economic-data-lifted-investors-mood-but-days-ahead-could-give-cues-on-the-next-federal-reserves-steps","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-29 06:44:23","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12237","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12127,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-21 15:38:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:34","post_content":"\n

According to the latest American Association of Individual Investors(AAII) survey, Investor confidence is at a peak reaching a 19-month high. American Association of Individual Investors also reported that bearish sentiment fell to a 23-month low, and there is general expectation that the stock prices would rise over the next several months. The crypto market displayed a high correlation with U.S. equities. If a positive trend is witnessed in the stock market, the same is usually replicated in the crypto-sphere as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Surveys<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers released data on Friday, showing that consumer sentiment in the U.S. improved to a four-month high in June. This is also positive news, and the improved view reflects greater optimism after signs of easing inflation, economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season in the U.S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recent inflation data signalled that the Fed's monetary tightening is cooling the world's largest economy, and according to many analysts, the Federal Reserve is near the end of its tightening cycle. The U.S. economy remains stable even though the federal funds rate remains at its highest since 2007; the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been substantial, and the unemployment rate has remained low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

THIS TUESDAY, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that groundbreaking new American homes jumped by 21.7% in May 2023 to 1.63 million units. Building permits, considered among the housing market's most forward-looking indicators, increased more than expected in May, rising 5.2% to 1.49 million units at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Kieran Clancy, Senior Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

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\n

This week's main event will be the Federal Reserve's economic symposium at Jackson Hole this Friday, and Fed Chair Jerome Powell is expected to give his address on monetary policy at 10:05 a.m. ET (14:05 GMT). It is important to say that a more hawkish-than-expected message from Fed Chair Jerome Powell at Jackson Hole last August sank the S&P 500 by -3.4%, and analysts at Bank of America believe that the U.S. stock market is probably not prepared for a hawkish message from Powell again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Barring the market drop in August 2022 and a 2019 tumble, Fed chairs' Jackson Hole speeches have not been big market movers in recent years, but there may be greater scope for market gyrations this time around. Analysts at Bank of America reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Fading expectations of recession have brought the focus back to inflation and a potential tight Fed \u2026 and risk assets have started showing more signs of weakness than at any other point this year. We therefore think equities are more at risk of a macro-driven shock than the market is pricing in.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

To be sure, there's little guarantee that Powell's message will be a starkly hawkish one, but investors should keep in mind that inflation remains above Powell & Co's average annual 2% target. Fed officials repeated several times this month that they will continue with the effort to bring inflation down closer to their 2% annual target. The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5.25% to 5.5%, which is the highest level in 22 years, and in the days ahead, stock and cryptocurrency markets will be hypersensitive to any FED comments.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Wall Street's Main Indexes Remain Under Pressure On Fears That The Fed Is Likely Going To Keep High Rates For Longer","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"wall-streets-main-indexes-remain-under-pressure-on-fears-that-the-fed-is-likely-going-to-keep-high-rates-for-longer","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-27 20:19:49","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-27 10:19:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=13092","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":13011,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-08-10 23:19:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-08-10 13:19:34","post_content":"\n

Wall Street's three main indexes tumbled this Tuesday as financial stocks dropped after rating agency Moody's cut credit ratings of several small- to mid-sized U.S. banks and said it could downgrade some of the country's biggest lenders. The agency cited higher funding costs, profitability pressures, and slowing loan growth as a common theme in banks' second-quarter earnings and said the Fed's rate hikes will lower profitability as consumers take out fewer loans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rating agency Moody's cut credit ratings of Associated Banc-Corp. (ASB), Old National Bancorp (ONB), Pinnacle Financial Partners (PNFP), BOK Financial Corp. (BOKF), M&T Bank (MTB), Webster Bank (WBS), Amarillo National Bank, Commerce Bancshares (CBSH), Prosperity Bank (PB), and Fulton Financial Corp. (FULT).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The news that scared investors, even more, is the fact that rating agency Moody's assigned a negative outlook to six top-tier lenders - U.S. Bancorp (USB), State Street Corp. (STT), Truist Financial Corp. (TFC), Bank of New York Mellon (BK), Northern Trust Corp. (NTRS), and Cullen\/Frost Bankers Inc. (CFR)\u2014placing them on review for a potential future downgrade.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lenders have lost 4% so far this year, compared with a 17% rise in the benchmark S&P 500 index, while the broader S&P 500 banking sector is up just under 1% so far this year, as shares of the biggest banks like JPMorgan Chase (JPM) and Wells Fargo (WFC) have outperformed their smaller counterparts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"
Brandon Pizzurro, director of public investments at Guidestone Capital Management said<\/a>:<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

\"Anytime you see the backbone of the U.S. financial system being under watch, that gives people a lot to pause. Markets are slowly digesting that maybe the U.S. financial system is not absolutely perfect, and maybe we are going to have higher rates for a much longer period of time.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The collapse of Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank earlier this year already sparked a crisis of confidence in U.S. lenders, and the negative information is that the CBOE Market Volatility Index VIX, Wall Street's fear gauge, hit this Tuesday a two-month high at 17.71. There are currently too much important things that could easily go wrong, and it would not surprise me to see a big sell-off in financial markets if something goes wrong. The upside potential for stocks and cryptocurrencies probably remains limited for the weeks ahead, and a recommendation is that investors should continue to take a defensive investment approach.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Wall Street's Main Indexes Tumbled As Financial Stocks Dropped After Moody's Cut Credit Ratings of Several U.S. Banks","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"wall-streets-main-indexes-tumbled-as-financial-stocks-dropped-after-moodys-cut-credit-ratings-of-several-u-s-banks","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-10 23:19:38","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-10 13:19:38","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=13011","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12726,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-27 16:26:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-27 06:26:53","post_content":"\n

Investors continue to observe comments from Federal Reserve officials that could give more insight into the path of interest rates, but it is important to say that the U.S. Central Bank is widely seen raising rates by 25 basis points at its meeting this Wednesday, although the consumer prices and producer prices data provided evidence that inflation cooled more than expected.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The US economy is doing better than expected, but inflation is still higher than the target of 2%. The latest economic data, corporate earnings, solid job market, and consumer sentiment cemented this expectation, and according to analysts, the U.S. economy still has some vibrancy, which gives the Fed cover to continue its rate hike policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points on July 26. Still, there is also a significant chance that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. The federal funds rate is at 5% to 5.25%, the highest since 2007, but financial and tech stock gains still supported Wall Street shares.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Fed.<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

With higher interest rates, companies need to spend more money to borrow money to invest in growth, but as long the U.S. economy is not in recession and the corporate profit remains healthy, there is no risk of a bigger sell-off on the stock market. The recent rally in the cryptocurrency market was also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The S&P 500 is up to nearly 20% year-to-date, while the Nasdaq has advanced about 37%, and both indexes are on track for their fifth straight month of gains. Corporate earnings so far are coming in pretty well, and Alphabet (Google), Microsoft, Visa, AT&T, Coca-Cola, Meta, Boeing, Procter & Gamble, Exxon Mobil, McDonald's, Ford, and Intel are among the companies scheduled to report quarterly results by the end of this trading week.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy. The International Monetary Fund raised its global economic outlook for 2023 due to strong activity in the services sector in the first quarter.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank May Raise Rates By 25 BPS; How Will This Impact Financial And Crypto Markets?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-may-raise-rates-by-25-bps-how-will-this-impact-financial-and-crypto-markets","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-27 16:27:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-27 06:27:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12726","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12610,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-19 15:44:42","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:42","post_content":"\n

Shares on Wall Street continue to be supported, led by gains in financial and technology stocks, with investors looking toward the next round of quarterly results as earnings season gets underway. The S&P 500 is up to nearly 19% year-to-date, while the Nasdaq has advanced about 37%, and both indexes are on track for their fifth straight month of gains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Some of the largest U.S. banks, including JPMorgan Chase and Wells Fargo, reported a profit boost from higher rates, pointing towards a resilient economy. This Tuesday, Bank of America posted a 20% surge in second-quarter profit, and it is also important to mention that Morgan Stanley's stock had today the most significant single-day gain since late 2020, after its second-quarter profit and revenue beat analyst expectations on a boost from its wealth management business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to Refinitiv data, of the 30 companies in the S&P 500 that reported earnings last week, 80% beat analyst expectations. Corporate profits are emerging as the big driver of what the market is likely to do in the near term, but if earnings results fall short of expectations, the stock market's reaction could be severe. Chris Zaccarelli, chief investment officer for Independent Advisor Alliance, added<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Investors are looking at the fact that the economy has been resilient, and corporate earnings so far are coming in pretty well. The tech-heavy Nasdaq led Wall Street higher, supported by mega-cap growth stocks including Apple and Tesla, ahead of quarterly results from industry heavyweights through the week.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Megacaps<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Goldman Sachs, International Business Machines (IBM), Netflix, Tesla, Blackstone (BX), Johnson & Johnson, Philip Morris International (PM), Newmont (NEM), and American Express are among the companies scheduled to report quarterly results by the end of this trading week. A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street even more, and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy and strong.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the days ahead, the U.S. stock market will also be hypersensitive to FED comments. However, prices and producer prices data provided evidence that inflation cooled more than expected, stoking hopes that the U.S. Federal Reserve will soon end its monetary policy tightening. However, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points on July 26. Still, there is also a great chance that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings.<\/p>\n","post_title":"U.S. Stocks Are Advancing At The Start Of The Earnings Season; Here's What To Expect","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"u-s-stocks-are-advancing-at-the-start-of-the-earnings-season-heres-what-to-expect","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-19 15:44:48","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12610","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12490,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-13 21:13:24","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:24","post_content":"\n

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released its June inflation report this Wednesday, and the report showed that the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which measures prices that urban consumers pay for a basket of goods and services, rose 0.2% in June compared with May's 0.1% growth, but landed below the 0.3% consensus. In the 12 months through June, the consumer prices (CPI) advanced only 3.0%, and it is important to say that this was the smallest year-on-year increase since March 2021 and followed a 4.0% rise in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Consumer<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The CPI reading has cooled considerably since peeking out around 9% in June 2022, which suggests that the Fed's campaign to quell inflation is working well. Another positive information is that a core measure that strips out volatile food and energy prices was 0.2% every month in June, halving from the 0.4% growth rate in each of the three months prior.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Fed may debate whether to hike the policy rate further based on the new inflation data. However, Ryan Sweet, the Chief US Economist at Oxford Economics, thinks that the cooler-than-expected inflation report will not stop the Federal Reserve from raising its policy rate by 25 basis points at its meeting this month. According to a survey from the CME Group, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points at the next Federal Reserve meeting scheduled for July 26.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Wall Street is in celebration mode after a sharper-than-expected deceleration of inflation, but it remains above Powell & Co's average annual 2% target. However, there is a great probability that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. Brian Jacobsen, chief economist at Annex Wealth Management, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"U.S. consumer prices rose modestly in June and logged their smallest annual increase in more than two years as inflation continued to subside. Even though the Federal Reserve has probably already talked itself into a corner needing to hike at the July meeting, it may be the last one for this hiking cycle.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Starting in March 2022, the U.S. Federal Reserve has enacted ten consecutive interest rate increases totaling five percentage points, and the next Federal Reserve policy meeting will be at the center of attention in July 2023. The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5% to 5.25%, which is the highest level since the 2006 year, and in the days ahead, stock and cryptocurrency markets will be hypersensitive to any FED comments.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Inflation Cooled More Than Expected In June. Does This Indicate That The Federal Reserve Is Near The End Of Its Rapid Interest Rate Hikes?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"inflation-cooled-more-than-expected-in-june-does-this-indicate-that-the-federal-reserve-is-near-the-end-of-its-rapid-interest-rate-hikes","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-13 21:13:36","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12490","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12354,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-05 22:47:04","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:04","post_content":"\n

Despite the high federal funds rate, durable goods orders exceeded expectations, which caused investors to remain unconcerned about a recession, surprising analysts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 12, the central bank's bank term funding program announcement reinforced faith in the banking system, and investors were content to see additional signs of decreased inflation. The stock market tracked with the economy in the first half of 2023, surprising the upside and leaving investors to wonder if the resilience can continue. The current rally in the cryptocurrency market is also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity. Bank of America U.S. economist Michael Gapen said<\/a> on Friday:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The economy has proven more resilient than we previously expected, owing largely to consumption. However, we do not expect such robust prints to continue. Momentum in the economy should slow as the lagged effects of tighter monetary policy and financial conditions start to take hold.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The jobs report on Friday is the next big test that could show if the economy is still resilient as higher rates crimp company credit lines. Companies must pay more to borrow when interest rates rise, causing them to decrease spending and job opportunities. According to analysts' estimates, the job report on Friday could show that the U.S. economy added 225,000 jobs in June 2023, with the unemployment rate set to fall to 3.6%, down from 3.7% in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Over the past twelve months, the U.S. job report has outperformed market expectations on 11 out of 12 occasions, and another set of better-than-expected readings may reinforce hopes of a soft landing (a possibility that the U.S. economy escaped a deep recession). The U.S. economy added 339,000 jobs in May 2023, and in the chart below, we can also see how the job market performed since June 2021.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Non-Farm<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

While sentiment-based indicators show that investors are no longer in panic, a recommendation is that you should continue to take a defensive investment approach in the upcoming days because another strong job report could also pressure the Fed to do more by anchoring a 25 bp hike this month and pushing back against the timeline for rate cuts. The next Federal Reserve meeting is on July 26. The CME Group survey shows a high probability of a 25 basis point rate increase.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Economy Has Proven More Resilient Than Analysts Previously Expected. The Focus Of Investors Is Switching To The U.S. Jobs Report","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-economy-has-proven-more-resilient-than-analysts-previously-expected-the-focus-of-investors-is-switching-to-the-u-s-jobs-report","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-05 22:47:08","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12354","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12237,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-29 06:44:16","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:16","post_content":"\n

The U.S. stock market recovered this Tuesday from recent losses as upbeat economic data cooled investor worries of a possible recession that could be triggered by the Federal Reserve's aggressive interest rate hikes. In May, the U.S. economy showed positive signs, with higher-than-expected orders for essential capital goods and a significant increase in sales of new single-family homes. Moreover, consumer confidence in the U.S. reached its highest level since January 2022.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Commerce Department's durable goods report brought good news for analysts in May. Commercial aircraft\/parts saw a significant rise of 32.5%, transportation equipment increased by 3.9%, and autos\/features grew by 2.2%, leading to new orders. Non-defense capital goods, excluding aircraft, grew by 0.7%. The report indicates greater confidence in future business conditions and job availability for six months. Oren Klachkin, lead U.S. economist at Oxford Economics (OE), said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The May durable goods orders and shipments data help to fend off fears that a recession is just around the corner. However, the economic backdrop is set to become more discouraging for manufacturers as tighter lending standards and elevated interest rates weaken demand for goods.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Durable<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. economy remains steady despite the federal funds rate reaching its peak since 2007. Investors should note that good economic data may lead to a 25 basis point increase in interest rates at the Federal Reserve's July meeting. Financial markets predict a 79.4% chance of this happening. This week's important economic data includes a crucial inflation measure that could provide valuable insight into the Federal Reserve's plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Experts recommend a cautious approach when interest rates exceed 5%. This involves taking calculated risks due to the current economic climate, which is unstable and unpredictable. As interest rates increase, companies face higher borrowing costs, causing them to decrease spending, especially on hiring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Investor Jeremy Grantham warns of potential losses in the U.S. stock market and advises cautiousness. It's important to note that cryptocurrencies could also face a significant decline. This is due to the high correlation between the crypto market and U.S. equities. If the stock market experiences a downturn, the crypto-sphere may follow suit. Investors must consider this possibility.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Upbeat Economic Data Lifted Investors' Mood, But Days Ahead Could Give Cues On The Next Federal Reserve's Steps","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"upbeat-economic-data-lifted-investors-mood-but-days-ahead-could-give-cues-on-the-next-federal-reserves-steps","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-29 06:44:23","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12237","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12127,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-21 15:38:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:34","post_content":"\n

According to the latest American Association of Individual Investors(AAII) survey, Investor confidence is at a peak reaching a 19-month high. American Association of Individual Investors also reported that bearish sentiment fell to a 23-month low, and there is general expectation that the stock prices would rise over the next several months. The crypto market displayed a high correlation with U.S. equities. If a positive trend is witnessed in the stock market, the same is usually replicated in the crypto-sphere as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Surveys<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers released data on Friday, showing that consumer sentiment in the U.S. improved to a four-month high in June. This is also positive news, and the improved view reflects greater optimism after signs of easing inflation, economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season in the U.S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recent inflation data signalled that the Fed's monetary tightening is cooling the world's largest economy, and according to many analysts, the Federal Reserve is near the end of its tightening cycle. The U.S. economy remains stable even though the federal funds rate remains at its highest since 2007; the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been substantial, and the unemployment rate has remained low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

THIS TUESDAY, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that groundbreaking new American homes jumped by 21.7% in May 2023 to 1.63 million units. Building permits, considered among the housing market's most forward-looking indicators, increased more than expected in May, rising 5.2% to 1.49 million units at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Kieran Clancy, Senior Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

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\n

Because of this, the GDPNow estimate for real GDP growth that the Atlanta Fed produces rose to 5.8% for Q3 last Wednesday, up from 5.0% the prior day and 3.9% on Aug. 1. This is more than double the pace the Commerce Department first projected for the second quarter, however; many analysts see this like bad news for a stock market that is expecting the Fed to cease its tightening.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This week's main event will be the Federal Reserve's economic symposium at Jackson Hole this Friday, and Fed Chair Jerome Powell is expected to give his address on monetary policy at 10:05 a.m. ET (14:05 GMT). It is important to say that a more hawkish-than-expected message from Fed Chair Jerome Powell at Jackson Hole last August sank the S&P 500 by -3.4%, and analysts at Bank of America believe that the U.S. stock market is probably not prepared for a hawkish message from Powell again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Barring the market drop in August 2022 and a 2019 tumble, Fed chairs' Jackson Hole speeches have not been big market movers in recent years, but there may be greater scope for market gyrations this time around. Analysts at Bank of America reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Fading expectations of recession have brought the focus back to inflation and a potential tight Fed \u2026 and risk assets have started showing more signs of weakness than at any other point this year. We therefore think equities are more at risk of a macro-driven shock than the market is pricing in.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

To be sure, there's little guarantee that Powell's message will be a starkly hawkish one, but investors should keep in mind that inflation remains above Powell & Co's average annual 2% target. Fed officials repeated several times this month that they will continue with the effort to bring inflation down closer to their 2% annual target. The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5.25% to 5.5%, which is the highest level in 22 years, and in the days ahead, stock and cryptocurrency markets will be hypersensitive to any FED comments.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Wall Street's Main Indexes Remain Under Pressure On Fears That The Fed Is Likely Going To Keep High Rates For Longer","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"wall-streets-main-indexes-remain-under-pressure-on-fears-that-the-fed-is-likely-going-to-keep-high-rates-for-longer","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-27 20:19:49","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-27 10:19:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=13092","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":13011,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-08-10 23:19:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-08-10 13:19:34","post_content":"\n

Wall Street's three main indexes tumbled this Tuesday as financial stocks dropped after rating agency Moody's cut credit ratings of several small- to mid-sized U.S. banks and said it could downgrade some of the country's biggest lenders. The agency cited higher funding costs, profitability pressures, and slowing loan growth as a common theme in banks' second-quarter earnings and said the Fed's rate hikes will lower profitability as consumers take out fewer loans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rating agency Moody's cut credit ratings of Associated Banc-Corp. (ASB), Old National Bancorp (ONB), Pinnacle Financial Partners (PNFP), BOK Financial Corp. (BOKF), M&T Bank (MTB), Webster Bank (WBS), Amarillo National Bank, Commerce Bancshares (CBSH), Prosperity Bank (PB), and Fulton Financial Corp. (FULT).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The news that scared investors, even more, is the fact that rating agency Moody's assigned a negative outlook to six top-tier lenders - U.S. Bancorp (USB), State Street Corp. (STT), Truist Financial Corp. (TFC), Bank of New York Mellon (BK), Northern Trust Corp. (NTRS), and Cullen\/Frost Bankers Inc. (CFR)\u2014placing them on review for a potential future downgrade.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lenders have lost 4% so far this year, compared with a 17% rise in the benchmark S&P 500 index, while the broader S&P 500 banking sector is up just under 1% so far this year, as shares of the biggest banks like JPMorgan Chase (JPM) and Wells Fargo (WFC) have outperformed their smaller counterparts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"
Brandon Pizzurro, director of public investments at Guidestone Capital Management said<\/a>:<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

\"Anytime you see the backbone of the U.S. financial system being under watch, that gives people a lot to pause. Markets are slowly digesting that maybe the U.S. financial system is not absolutely perfect, and maybe we are going to have higher rates for a much longer period of time.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The collapse of Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank earlier this year already sparked a crisis of confidence in U.S. lenders, and the negative information is that the CBOE Market Volatility Index VIX, Wall Street's fear gauge, hit this Tuesday a two-month high at 17.71. There are currently too much important things that could easily go wrong, and it would not surprise me to see a big sell-off in financial markets if something goes wrong. The upside potential for stocks and cryptocurrencies probably remains limited for the weeks ahead, and a recommendation is that investors should continue to take a defensive investment approach.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Wall Street's Main Indexes Tumbled As Financial Stocks Dropped After Moody's Cut Credit Ratings of Several U.S. Banks","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"wall-streets-main-indexes-tumbled-as-financial-stocks-dropped-after-moodys-cut-credit-ratings-of-several-u-s-banks","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-10 23:19:38","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-10 13:19:38","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=13011","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12726,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-27 16:26:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-27 06:26:53","post_content":"\n

Investors continue to observe comments from Federal Reserve officials that could give more insight into the path of interest rates, but it is important to say that the U.S. Central Bank is widely seen raising rates by 25 basis points at its meeting this Wednesday, although the consumer prices and producer prices data provided evidence that inflation cooled more than expected.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The US economy is doing better than expected, but inflation is still higher than the target of 2%. The latest economic data, corporate earnings, solid job market, and consumer sentiment cemented this expectation, and according to analysts, the U.S. economy still has some vibrancy, which gives the Fed cover to continue its rate hike policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points on July 26. Still, there is also a significant chance that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. The federal funds rate is at 5% to 5.25%, the highest since 2007, but financial and tech stock gains still supported Wall Street shares.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Fed.<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

With higher interest rates, companies need to spend more money to borrow money to invest in growth, but as long the U.S. economy is not in recession and the corporate profit remains healthy, there is no risk of a bigger sell-off on the stock market. The recent rally in the cryptocurrency market was also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The S&P 500 is up to nearly 20% year-to-date, while the Nasdaq has advanced about 37%, and both indexes are on track for their fifth straight month of gains. Corporate earnings so far are coming in pretty well, and Alphabet (Google), Microsoft, Visa, AT&T, Coca-Cola, Meta, Boeing, Procter & Gamble, Exxon Mobil, McDonald's, Ford, and Intel are among the companies scheduled to report quarterly results by the end of this trading week.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy. The International Monetary Fund raised its global economic outlook for 2023 due to strong activity in the services sector in the first quarter.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank May Raise Rates By 25 BPS; How Will This Impact Financial And Crypto Markets?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-may-raise-rates-by-25-bps-how-will-this-impact-financial-and-crypto-markets","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-27 16:27:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-27 06:27:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12726","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12610,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-19 15:44:42","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:42","post_content":"\n

Shares on Wall Street continue to be supported, led by gains in financial and technology stocks, with investors looking toward the next round of quarterly results as earnings season gets underway. The S&P 500 is up to nearly 19% year-to-date, while the Nasdaq has advanced about 37%, and both indexes are on track for their fifth straight month of gains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Some of the largest U.S. banks, including JPMorgan Chase and Wells Fargo, reported a profit boost from higher rates, pointing towards a resilient economy. This Tuesday, Bank of America posted a 20% surge in second-quarter profit, and it is also important to mention that Morgan Stanley's stock had today the most significant single-day gain since late 2020, after its second-quarter profit and revenue beat analyst expectations on a boost from its wealth management business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to Refinitiv data, of the 30 companies in the S&P 500 that reported earnings last week, 80% beat analyst expectations. Corporate profits are emerging as the big driver of what the market is likely to do in the near term, but if earnings results fall short of expectations, the stock market's reaction could be severe. Chris Zaccarelli, chief investment officer for Independent Advisor Alliance, added<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Investors are looking at the fact that the economy has been resilient, and corporate earnings so far are coming in pretty well. The tech-heavy Nasdaq led Wall Street higher, supported by mega-cap growth stocks including Apple and Tesla, ahead of quarterly results from industry heavyweights through the week.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Megacaps<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Goldman Sachs, International Business Machines (IBM), Netflix, Tesla, Blackstone (BX), Johnson & Johnson, Philip Morris International (PM), Newmont (NEM), and American Express are among the companies scheduled to report quarterly results by the end of this trading week. A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street even more, and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy and strong.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the days ahead, the U.S. stock market will also be hypersensitive to FED comments. However, prices and producer prices data provided evidence that inflation cooled more than expected, stoking hopes that the U.S. Federal Reserve will soon end its monetary policy tightening. However, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points on July 26. Still, there is also a great chance that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings.<\/p>\n","post_title":"U.S. Stocks Are Advancing At The Start Of The Earnings Season; Here's What To Expect","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"u-s-stocks-are-advancing-at-the-start-of-the-earnings-season-heres-what-to-expect","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-19 15:44:48","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12610","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12490,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-13 21:13:24","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:24","post_content":"\n

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released its June inflation report this Wednesday, and the report showed that the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which measures prices that urban consumers pay for a basket of goods and services, rose 0.2% in June compared with May's 0.1% growth, but landed below the 0.3% consensus. In the 12 months through June, the consumer prices (CPI) advanced only 3.0%, and it is important to say that this was the smallest year-on-year increase since March 2021 and followed a 4.0% rise in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Consumer<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The CPI reading has cooled considerably since peeking out around 9% in June 2022, which suggests that the Fed's campaign to quell inflation is working well. Another positive information is that a core measure that strips out volatile food and energy prices was 0.2% every month in June, halving from the 0.4% growth rate in each of the three months prior.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Fed may debate whether to hike the policy rate further based on the new inflation data. However, Ryan Sweet, the Chief US Economist at Oxford Economics, thinks that the cooler-than-expected inflation report will not stop the Federal Reserve from raising its policy rate by 25 basis points at its meeting this month. According to a survey from the CME Group, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points at the next Federal Reserve meeting scheduled for July 26.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Wall Street is in celebration mode after a sharper-than-expected deceleration of inflation, but it remains above Powell & Co's average annual 2% target. However, there is a great probability that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. Brian Jacobsen, chief economist at Annex Wealth Management, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"U.S. consumer prices rose modestly in June and logged their smallest annual increase in more than two years as inflation continued to subside. Even though the Federal Reserve has probably already talked itself into a corner needing to hike at the July meeting, it may be the last one for this hiking cycle.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Starting in March 2022, the U.S. Federal Reserve has enacted ten consecutive interest rate increases totaling five percentage points, and the next Federal Reserve policy meeting will be at the center of attention in July 2023. The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5% to 5.25%, which is the highest level since the 2006 year, and in the days ahead, stock and cryptocurrency markets will be hypersensitive to any FED comments.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Inflation Cooled More Than Expected In June. Does This Indicate That The Federal Reserve Is Near The End Of Its Rapid Interest Rate Hikes?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"inflation-cooled-more-than-expected-in-june-does-this-indicate-that-the-federal-reserve-is-near-the-end-of-its-rapid-interest-rate-hikes","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-13 21:13:36","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12490","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12354,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-05 22:47:04","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:04","post_content":"\n

Despite the high federal funds rate, durable goods orders exceeded expectations, which caused investors to remain unconcerned about a recession, surprising analysts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 12, the central bank's bank term funding program announcement reinforced faith in the banking system, and investors were content to see additional signs of decreased inflation. The stock market tracked with the economy in the first half of 2023, surprising the upside and leaving investors to wonder if the resilience can continue. The current rally in the cryptocurrency market is also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity. Bank of America U.S. economist Michael Gapen said<\/a> on Friday:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The economy has proven more resilient than we previously expected, owing largely to consumption. However, we do not expect such robust prints to continue. Momentum in the economy should slow as the lagged effects of tighter monetary policy and financial conditions start to take hold.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The jobs report on Friday is the next big test that could show if the economy is still resilient as higher rates crimp company credit lines. Companies must pay more to borrow when interest rates rise, causing them to decrease spending and job opportunities. According to analysts' estimates, the job report on Friday could show that the U.S. economy added 225,000 jobs in June 2023, with the unemployment rate set to fall to 3.6%, down from 3.7% in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Over the past twelve months, the U.S. job report has outperformed market expectations on 11 out of 12 occasions, and another set of better-than-expected readings may reinforce hopes of a soft landing (a possibility that the U.S. economy escaped a deep recession). The U.S. economy added 339,000 jobs in May 2023, and in the chart below, we can also see how the job market performed since June 2021.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Non-Farm<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

While sentiment-based indicators show that investors are no longer in panic, a recommendation is that you should continue to take a defensive investment approach in the upcoming days because another strong job report could also pressure the Fed to do more by anchoring a 25 bp hike this month and pushing back against the timeline for rate cuts. The next Federal Reserve meeting is on July 26. The CME Group survey shows a high probability of a 25 basis point rate increase.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Economy Has Proven More Resilient Than Analysts Previously Expected. The Focus Of Investors Is Switching To The U.S. Jobs Report","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-economy-has-proven-more-resilient-than-analysts-previously-expected-the-focus-of-investors-is-switching-to-the-u-s-jobs-report","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-05 22:47:08","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12354","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12237,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-29 06:44:16","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:16","post_content":"\n

The U.S. stock market recovered this Tuesday from recent losses as upbeat economic data cooled investor worries of a possible recession that could be triggered by the Federal Reserve's aggressive interest rate hikes. In May, the U.S. economy showed positive signs, with higher-than-expected orders for essential capital goods and a significant increase in sales of new single-family homes. Moreover, consumer confidence in the U.S. reached its highest level since January 2022.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Commerce Department's durable goods report brought good news for analysts in May. Commercial aircraft\/parts saw a significant rise of 32.5%, transportation equipment increased by 3.9%, and autos\/features grew by 2.2%, leading to new orders. Non-defense capital goods, excluding aircraft, grew by 0.7%. The report indicates greater confidence in future business conditions and job availability for six months. Oren Klachkin, lead U.S. economist at Oxford Economics (OE), said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The May durable goods orders and shipments data help to fend off fears that a recession is just around the corner. However, the economic backdrop is set to become more discouraging for manufacturers as tighter lending standards and elevated interest rates weaken demand for goods.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Durable<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. economy remains steady despite the federal funds rate reaching its peak since 2007. Investors should note that good economic data may lead to a 25 basis point increase in interest rates at the Federal Reserve's July meeting. Financial markets predict a 79.4% chance of this happening. This week's important economic data includes a crucial inflation measure that could provide valuable insight into the Federal Reserve's plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Experts recommend a cautious approach when interest rates exceed 5%. This involves taking calculated risks due to the current economic climate, which is unstable and unpredictable. As interest rates increase, companies face higher borrowing costs, causing them to decrease spending, especially on hiring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Investor Jeremy Grantham warns of potential losses in the U.S. stock market and advises cautiousness. It's important to note that cryptocurrencies could also face a significant decline. This is due to the high correlation between the crypto market and U.S. equities. If the stock market experiences a downturn, the crypto-sphere may follow suit. Investors must consider this possibility.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Upbeat Economic Data Lifted Investors' Mood, But Days Ahead Could Give Cues On The Next Federal Reserve's Steps","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"upbeat-economic-data-lifted-investors-mood-but-days-ahead-could-give-cues-on-the-next-federal-reserves-steps","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-29 06:44:23","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12237","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12127,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-21 15:38:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:34","post_content":"\n

According to the latest American Association of Individual Investors(AAII) survey, Investor confidence is at a peak reaching a 19-month high. American Association of Individual Investors also reported that bearish sentiment fell to a 23-month low, and there is general expectation that the stock prices would rise over the next several months. The crypto market displayed a high correlation with U.S. equities. If a positive trend is witnessed in the stock market, the same is usually replicated in the crypto-sphere as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Surveys<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers released data on Friday, showing that consumer sentiment in the U.S. improved to a four-month high in June. This is also positive news, and the improved view reflects greater optimism after signs of easing inflation, economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season in the U.S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recent inflation data signalled that the Fed's monetary tightening is cooling the world's largest economy, and according to many analysts, the Federal Reserve is near the end of its tightening cycle. The U.S. economy remains stable even though the federal funds rate remains at its highest since 2007; the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been substantial, and the unemployment rate has remained low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

THIS TUESDAY, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that groundbreaking new American homes jumped by 21.7% in May 2023 to 1.63 million units. Building permits, considered among the housing market's most forward-looking indicators, increased more than expected in May, rising 5.2% to 1.49 million units at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Kieran Clancy, Senior Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

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\n

The latest economic data showed that industrial production in the U.S. rose more than expected in July, and the Federal Reserve announced that industrial output increased by 1% in July from June's downwardly revised decline of 0.8%. The pace of growth was above the expectation for an increase of 0.3%, while strong retail sales numbers that were released this week also confirmed the U.S. economy's resilience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, the GDPNow estimate for real GDP growth that the Atlanta Fed produces rose to 5.8% for Q3 last Wednesday, up from 5.0% the prior day and 3.9% on Aug. 1. This is more than double the pace the Commerce Department first projected for the second quarter, however; many analysts see this like bad news for a stock market that is expecting the Fed to cease its tightening.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This week's main event will be the Federal Reserve's economic symposium at Jackson Hole this Friday, and Fed Chair Jerome Powell is expected to give his address on monetary policy at 10:05 a.m. ET (14:05 GMT). It is important to say that a more hawkish-than-expected message from Fed Chair Jerome Powell at Jackson Hole last August sank the S&P 500 by -3.4%, and analysts at Bank of America believe that the U.S. stock market is probably not prepared for a hawkish message from Powell again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Barring the market drop in August 2022 and a 2019 tumble, Fed chairs' Jackson Hole speeches have not been big market movers in recent years, but there may be greater scope for market gyrations this time around. Analysts at Bank of America reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Fading expectations of recession have brought the focus back to inflation and a potential tight Fed \u2026 and risk assets have started showing more signs of weakness than at any other point this year. We therefore think equities are more at risk of a macro-driven shock than the market is pricing in.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

To be sure, there's little guarantee that Powell's message will be a starkly hawkish one, but investors should keep in mind that inflation remains above Powell & Co's average annual 2% target. Fed officials repeated several times this month that they will continue with the effort to bring inflation down closer to their 2% annual target. The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5.25% to 5.5%, which is the highest level in 22 years, and in the days ahead, stock and cryptocurrency markets will be hypersensitive to any FED comments.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Wall Street's Main Indexes Remain Under Pressure On Fears That The Fed Is Likely Going To Keep High Rates For Longer","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"wall-streets-main-indexes-remain-under-pressure-on-fears-that-the-fed-is-likely-going-to-keep-high-rates-for-longer","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-27 20:19:49","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-27 10:19:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=13092","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":13011,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-08-10 23:19:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-08-10 13:19:34","post_content":"\n

Wall Street's three main indexes tumbled this Tuesday as financial stocks dropped after rating agency Moody's cut credit ratings of several small- to mid-sized U.S. banks and said it could downgrade some of the country's biggest lenders. The agency cited higher funding costs, profitability pressures, and slowing loan growth as a common theme in banks' second-quarter earnings and said the Fed's rate hikes will lower profitability as consumers take out fewer loans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rating agency Moody's cut credit ratings of Associated Banc-Corp. (ASB), Old National Bancorp (ONB), Pinnacle Financial Partners (PNFP), BOK Financial Corp. (BOKF), M&T Bank (MTB), Webster Bank (WBS), Amarillo National Bank, Commerce Bancshares (CBSH), Prosperity Bank (PB), and Fulton Financial Corp. (FULT).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The news that scared investors, even more, is the fact that rating agency Moody's assigned a negative outlook to six top-tier lenders - U.S. Bancorp (USB), State Street Corp. (STT), Truist Financial Corp. (TFC), Bank of New York Mellon (BK), Northern Trust Corp. (NTRS), and Cullen\/Frost Bankers Inc. (CFR)\u2014placing them on review for a potential future downgrade.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lenders have lost 4% so far this year, compared with a 17% rise in the benchmark S&P 500 index, while the broader S&P 500 banking sector is up just under 1% so far this year, as shares of the biggest banks like JPMorgan Chase (JPM) and Wells Fargo (WFC) have outperformed their smaller counterparts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"
Brandon Pizzurro, director of public investments at Guidestone Capital Management said<\/a>:<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

\"Anytime you see the backbone of the U.S. financial system being under watch, that gives people a lot to pause. Markets are slowly digesting that maybe the U.S. financial system is not absolutely perfect, and maybe we are going to have higher rates for a much longer period of time.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The collapse of Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank earlier this year already sparked a crisis of confidence in U.S. lenders, and the negative information is that the CBOE Market Volatility Index VIX, Wall Street's fear gauge, hit this Tuesday a two-month high at 17.71. There are currently too much important things that could easily go wrong, and it would not surprise me to see a big sell-off in financial markets if something goes wrong. The upside potential for stocks and cryptocurrencies probably remains limited for the weeks ahead, and a recommendation is that investors should continue to take a defensive investment approach.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Wall Street's Main Indexes Tumbled As Financial Stocks Dropped After Moody's Cut Credit Ratings of Several U.S. Banks","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"wall-streets-main-indexes-tumbled-as-financial-stocks-dropped-after-moodys-cut-credit-ratings-of-several-u-s-banks","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-10 23:19:38","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-10 13:19:38","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=13011","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12726,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-27 16:26:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-27 06:26:53","post_content":"\n

Investors continue to observe comments from Federal Reserve officials that could give more insight into the path of interest rates, but it is important to say that the U.S. Central Bank is widely seen raising rates by 25 basis points at its meeting this Wednesday, although the consumer prices and producer prices data provided evidence that inflation cooled more than expected.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The US economy is doing better than expected, but inflation is still higher than the target of 2%. The latest economic data, corporate earnings, solid job market, and consumer sentiment cemented this expectation, and according to analysts, the U.S. economy still has some vibrancy, which gives the Fed cover to continue its rate hike policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points on July 26. Still, there is also a significant chance that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. The federal funds rate is at 5% to 5.25%, the highest since 2007, but financial and tech stock gains still supported Wall Street shares.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Fed.<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

With higher interest rates, companies need to spend more money to borrow money to invest in growth, but as long the U.S. economy is not in recession and the corporate profit remains healthy, there is no risk of a bigger sell-off on the stock market. The recent rally in the cryptocurrency market was also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The S&P 500 is up to nearly 20% year-to-date, while the Nasdaq has advanced about 37%, and both indexes are on track for their fifth straight month of gains. Corporate earnings so far are coming in pretty well, and Alphabet (Google), Microsoft, Visa, AT&T, Coca-Cola, Meta, Boeing, Procter & Gamble, Exxon Mobil, McDonald's, Ford, and Intel are among the companies scheduled to report quarterly results by the end of this trading week.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy. The International Monetary Fund raised its global economic outlook for 2023 due to strong activity in the services sector in the first quarter.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank May Raise Rates By 25 BPS; How Will This Impact Financial And Crypto Markets?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-may-raise-rates-by-25-bps-how-will-this-impact-financial-and-crypto-markets","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-27 16:27:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-27 06:27:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12726","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12610,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-19 15:44:42","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:42","post_content":"\n

Shares on Wall Street continue to be supported, led by gains in financial and technology stocks, with investors looking toward the next round of quarterly results as earnings season gets underway. The S&P 500 is up to nearly 19% year-to-date, while the Nasdaq has advanced about 37%, and both indexes are on track for their fifth straight month of gains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Some of the largest U.S. banks, including JPMorgan Chase and Wells Fargo, reported a profit boost from higher rates, pointing towards a resilient economy. This Tuesday, Bank of America posted a 20% surge in second-quarter profit, and it is also important to mention that Morgan Stanley's stock had today the most significant single-day gain since late 2020, after its second-quarter profit and revenue beat analyst expectations on a boost from its wealth management business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to Refinitiv data, of the 30 companies in the S&P 500 that reported earnings last week, 80% beat analyst expectations. Corporate profits are emerging as the big driver of what the market is likely to do in the near term, but if earnings results fall short of expectations, the stock market's reaction could be severe. Chris Zaccarelli, chief investment officer for Independent Advisor Alliance, added<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Investors are looking at the fact that the economy has been resilient, and corporate earnings so far are coming in pretty well. The tech-heavy Nasdaq led Wall Street higher, supported by mega-cap growth stocks including Apple and Tesla, ahead of quarterly results from industry heavyweights through the week.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Megacaps<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Goldman Sachs, International Business Machines (IBM), Netflix, Tesla, Blackstone (BX), Johnson & Johnson, Philip Morris International (PM), Newmont (NEM), and American Express are among the companies scheduled to report quarterly results by the end of this trading week. A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street even more, and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy and strong.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the days ahead, the U.S. stock market will also be hypersensitive to FED comments. However, prices and producer prices data provided evidence that inflation cooled more than expected, stoking hopes that the U.S. Federal Reserve will soon end its monetary policy tightening. However, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points on July 26. Still, there is also a great chance that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings.<\/p>\n","post_title":"U.S. Stocks Are Advancing At The Start Of The Earnings Season; Here's What To Expect","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"u-s-stocks-are-advancing-at-the-start-of-the-earnings-season-heres-what-to-expect","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-19 15:44:48","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12610","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12490,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-13 21:13:24","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:24","post_content":"\n

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released its June inflation report this Wednesday, and the report showed that the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which measures prices that urban consumers pay for a basket of goods and services, rose 0.2% in June compared with May's 0.1% growth, but landed below the 0.3% consensus. In the 12 months through June, the consumer prices (CPI) advanced only 3.0%, and it is important to say that this was the smallest year-on-year increase since March 2021 and followed a 4.0% rise in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Consumer<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The CPI reading has cooled considerably since peeking out around 9% in June 2022, which suggests that the Fed's campaign to quell inflation is working well. Another positive information is that a core measure that strips out volatile food and energy prices was 0.2% every month in June, halving from the 0.4% growth rate in each of the three months prior.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Fed may debate whether to hike the policy rate further based on the new inflation data. However, Ryan Sweet, the Chief US Economist at Oxford Economics, thinks that the cooler-than-expected inflation report will not stop the Federal Reserve from raising its policy rate by 25 basis points at its meeting this month. According to a survey from the CME Group, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points at the next Federal Reserve meeting scheduled for July 26.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Wall Street is in celebration mode after a sharper-than-expected deceleration of inflation, but it remains above Powell & Co's average annual 2% target. However, there is a great probability that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. Brian Jacobsen, chief economist at Annex Wealth Management, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"U.S. consumer prices rose modestly in June and logged their smallest annual increase in more than two years as inflation continued to subside. Even though the Federal Reserve has probably already talked itself into a corner needing to hike at the July meeting, it may be the last one for this hiking cycle.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Starting in March 2022, the U.S. Federal Reserve has enacted ten consecutive interest rate increases totaling five percentage points, and the next Federal Reserve policy meeting will be at the center of attention in July 2023. The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5% to 5.25%, which is the highest level since the 2006 year, and in the days ahead, stock and cryptocurrency markets will be hypersensitive to any FED comments.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Inflation Cooled More Than Expected In June. Does This Indicate That The Federal Reserve Is Near The End Of Its Rapid Interest Rate Hikes?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"inflation-cooled-more-than-expected-in-june-does-this-indicate-that-the-federal-reserve-is-near-the-end-of-its-rapid-interest-rate-hikes","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-13 21:13:36","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12490","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12354,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-05 22:47:04","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:04","post_content":"\n

Despite the high federal funds rate, durable goods orders exceeded expectations, which caused investors to remain unconcerned about a recession, surprising analysts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 12, the central bank's bank term funding program announcement reinforced faith in the banking system, and investors were content to see additional signs of decreased inflation. The stock market tracked with the economy in the first half of 2023, surprising the upside and leaving investors to wonder if the resilience can continue. The current rally in the cryptocurrency market is also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity. Bank of America U.S. economist Michael Gapen said<\/a> on Friday:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The economy has proven more resilient than we previously expected, owing largely to consumption. However, we do not expect such robust prints to continue. Momentum in the economy should slow as the lagged effects of tighter monetary policy and financial conditions start to take hold.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The jobs report on Friday is the next big test that could show if the economy is still resilient as higher rates crimp company credit lines. Companies must pay more to borrow when interest rates rise, causing them to decrease spending and job opportunities. According to analysts' estimates, the job report on Friday could show that the U.S. economy added 225,000 jobs in June 2023, with the unemployment rate set to fall to 3.6%, down from 3.7% in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Over the past twelve months, the U.S. job report has outperformed market expectations on 11 out of 12 occasions, and another set of better-than-expected readings may reinforce hopes of a soft landing (a possibility that the U.S. economy escaped a deep recession). The U.S. economy added 339,000 jobs in May 2023, and in the chart below, we can also see how the job market performed since June 2021.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Non-Farm<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

While sentiment-based indicators show that investors are no longer in panic, a recommendation is that you should continue to take a defensive investment approach in the upcoming days because another strong job report could also pressure the Fed to do more by anchoring a 25 bp hike this month and pushing back against the timeline for rate cuts. The next Federal Reserve meeting is on July 26. The CME Group survey shows a high probability of a 25 basis point rate increase.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Economy Has Proven More Resilient Than Analysts Previously Expected. The Focus Of Investors Is Switching To The U.S. Jobs Report","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-economy-has-proven-more-resilient-than-analysts-previously-expected-the-focus-of-investors-is-switching-to-the-u-s-jobs-report","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-05 22:47:08","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12354","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12237,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-29 06:44:16","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:16","post_content":"\n

The U.S. stock market recovered this Tuesday from recent losses as upbeat economic data cooled investor worries of a possible recession that could be triggered by the Federal Reserve's aggressive interest rate hikes. In May, the U.S. economy showed positive signs, with higher-than-expected orders for essential capital goods and a significant increase in sales of new single-family homes. Moreover, consumer confidence in the U.S. reached its highest level since January 2022.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Commerce Department's durable goods report brought good news for analysts in May. Commercial aircraft\/parts saw a significant rise of 32.5%, transportation equipment increased by 3.9%, and autos\/features grew by 2.2%, leading to new orders. Non-defense capital goods, excluding aircraft, grew by 0.7%. The report indicates greater confidence in future business conditions and job availability for six months. Oren Klachkin, lead U.S. economist at Oxford Economics (OE), said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The May durable goods orders and shipments data help to fend off fears that a recession is just around the corner. However, the economic backdrop is set to become more discouraging for manufacturers as tighter lending standards and elevated interest rates weaken demand for goods.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Durable<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. economy remains steady despite the federal funds rate reaching its peak since 2007. Investors should note that good economic data may lead to a 25 basis point increase in interest rates at the Federal Reserve's July meeting. Financial markets predict a 79.4% chance of this happening. This week's important economic data includes a crucial inflation measure that could provide valuable insight into the Federal Reserve's plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Experts recommend a cautious approach when interest rates exceed 5%. This involves taking calculated risks due to the current economic climate, which is unstable and unpredictable. As interest rates increase, companies face higher borrowing costs, causing them to decrease spending, especially on hiring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Investor Jeremy Grantham warns of potential losses in the U.S. stock market and advises cautiousness. It's important to note that cryptocurrencies could also face a significant decline. This is due to the high correlation between the crypto market and U.S. equities. If the stock market experiences a downturn, the crypto-sphere may follow suit. Investors must consider this possibility.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Upbeat Economic Data Lifted Investors' Mood, But Days Ahead Could Give Cues On The Next Federal Reserve's Steps","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"upbeat-economic-data-lifted-investors-mood-but-days-ahead-could-give-cues-on-the-next-federal-reserves-steps","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-29 06:44:23","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12237","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12127,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-21 15:38:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:34","post_content":"\n

According to the latest American Association of Individual Investors(AAII) survey, Investor confidence is at a peak reaching a 19-month high. American Association of Individual Investors also reported that bearish sentiment fell to a 23-month low, and there is general expectation that the stock prices would rise over the next several months. The crypto market displayed a high correlation with U.S. equities. If a positive trend is witnessed in the stock market, the same is usually replicated in the crypto-sphere as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Surveys<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers released data on Friday, showing that consumer sentiment in the U.S. improved to a four-month high in June. This is also positive news, and the improved view reflects greater optimism after signs of easing inflation, economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season in the U.S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recent inflation data signalled that the Fed's monetary tightening is cooling the world's largest economy, and according to many analysts, the Federal Reserve is near the end of its tightening cycle. The U.S. economy remains stable even though the federal funds rate remains at its highest since 2007; the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been substantial, and the unemployment rate has remained low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

THIS TUESDAY, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that groundbreaking new American homes jumped by 21.7% in May 2023 to 1.63 million units. Building permits, considered among the housing market's most forward-looking indicators, increased more than expected in May, rising 5.2% to 1.49 million units at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Kieran Clancy, Senior Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

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\n

The U.S. stock market's weakness in recent days is connected with robust U.S. economic growth, which suggests that the Fed will probably keep high interest rates for a longer period. Strong economic data caused investors to dial back expectations of rate cuts, although the Fed has made significant progress in cooling consumer prices.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The latest economic data showed that industrial production in the U.S. rose more than expected in July, and the Federal Reserve announced that industrial output increased by 1% in July from June's downwardly revised decline of 0.8%. The pace of growth was above the expectation for an increase of 0.3%, while strong retail sales numbers that were released this week also confirmed the U.S. economy's resilience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, the GDPNow estimate for real GDP growth that the Atlanta Fed produces rose to 5.8% for Q3 last Wednesday, up from 5.0% the prior day and 3.9% on Aug. 1. This is more than double the pace the Commerce Department first projected for the second quarter, however; many analysts see this like bad news for a stock market that is expecting the Fed to cease its tightening.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This week's main event will be the Federal Reserve's economic symposium at Jackson Hole this Friday, and Fed Chair Jerome Powell is expected to give his address on monetary policy at 10:05 a.m. ET (14:05 GMT). It is important to say that a more hawkish-than-expected message from Fed Chair Jerome Powell at Jackson Hole last August sank the S&P 500 by -3.4%, and analysts at Bank of America believe that the U.S. stock market is probably not prepared for a hawkish message from Powell again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Barring the market drop in August 2022 and a 2019 tumble, Fed chairs' Jackson Hole speeches have not been big market movers in recent years, but there may be greater scope for market gyrations this time around. Analysts at Bank of America reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Fading expectations of recession have brought the focus back to inflation and a potential tight Fed \u2026 and risk assets have started showing more signs of weakness than at any other point this year. We therefore think equities are more at risk of a macro-driven shock than the market is pricing in.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

To be sure, there's little guarantee that Powell's message will be a starkly hawkish one, but investors should keep in mind that inflation remains above Powell & Co's average annual 2% target. Fed officials repeated several times this month that they will continue with the effort to bring inflation down closer to their 2% annual target. The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5.25% to 5.5%, which is the highest level in 22 years, and in the days ahead, stock and cryptocurrency markets will be hypersensitive to any FED comments.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Wall Street's Main Indexes Remain Under Pressure On Fears That The Fed Is Likely Going To Keep High Rates For Longer","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"wall-streets-main-indexes-remain-under-pressure-on-fears-that-the-fed-is-likely-going-to-keep-high-rates-for-longer","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-27 20:19:49","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-27 10:19:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=13092","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":13011,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-08-10 23:19:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-08-10 13:19:34","post_content":"\n

Wall Street's three main indexes tumbled this Tuesday as financial stocks dropped after rating agency Moody's cut credit ratings of several small- to mid-sized U.S. banks and said it could downgrade some of the country's biggest lenders. The agency cited higher funding costs, profitability pressures, and slowing loan growth as a common theme in banks' second-quarter earnings and said the Fed's rate hikes will lower profitability as consumers take out fewer loans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rating agency Moody's cut credit ratings of Associated Banc-Corp. (ASB), Old National Bancorp (ONB), Pinnacle Financial Partners (PNFP), BOK Financial Corp. (BOKF), M&T Bank (MTB), Webster Bank (WBS), Amarillo National Bank, Commerce Bancshares (CBSH), Prosperity Bank (PB), and Fulton Financial Corp. (FULT).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The news that scared investors, even more, is the fact that rating agency Moody's assigned a negative outlook to six top-tier lenders - U.S. Bancorp (USB), State Street Corp. (STT), Truist Financial Corp. (TFC), Bank of New York Mellon (BK), Northern Trust Corp. (NTRS), and Cullen\/Frost Bankers Inc. (CFR)\u2014placing them on review for a potential future downgrade.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lenders have lost 4% so far this year, compared with a 17% rise in the benchmark S&P 500 index, while the broader S&P 500 banking sector is up just under 1% so far this year, as shares of the biggest banks like JPMorgan Chase (JPM) and Wells Fargo (WFC) have outperformed their smaller counterparts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"
Brandon Pizzurro, director of public investments at Guidestone Capital Management said<\/a>:<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

\"Anytime you see the backbone of the U.S. financial system being under watch, that gives people a lot to pause. Markets are slowly digesting that maybe the U.S. financial system is not absolutely perfect, and maybe we are going to have higher rates for a much longer period of time.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The collapse of Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank earlier this year already sparked a crisis of confidence in U.S. lenders, and the negative information is that the CBOE Market Volatility Index VIX, Wall Street's fear gauge, hit this Tuesday a two-month high at 17.71. There are currently too much important things that could easily go wrong, and it would not surprise me to see a big sell-off in financial markets if something goes wrong. The upside potential for stocks and cryptocurrencies probably remains limited for the weeks ahead, and a recommendation is that investors should continue to take a defensive investment approach.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Wall Street's Main Indexes Tumbled As Financial Stocks Dropped After Moody's Cut Credit Ratings of Several U.S. Banks","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"wall-streets-main-indexes-tumbled-as-financial-stocks-dropped-after-moodys-cut-credit-ratings-of-several-u-s-banks","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-10 23:19:38","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-10 13:19:38","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=13011","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12726,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-27 16:26:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-27 06:26:53","post_content":"\n

Investors continue to observe comments from Federal Reserve officials that could give more insight into the path of interest rates, but it is important to say that the U.S. Central Bank is widely seen raising rates by 25 basis points at its meeting this Wednesday, although the consumer prices and producer prices data provided evidence that inflation cooled more than expected.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The US economy is doing better than expected, but inflation is still higher than the target of 2%. The latest economic data, corporate earnings, solid job market, and consumer sentiment cemented this expectation, and according to analysts, the U.S. economy still has some vibrancy, which gives the Fed cover to continue its rate hike policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points on July 26. Still, there is also a significant chance that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. The federal funds rate is at 5% to 5.25%, the highest since 2007, but financial and tech stock gains still supported Wall Street shares.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Fed.<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

With higher interest rates, companies need to spend more money to borrow money to invest in growth, but as long the U.S. economy is not in recession and the corporate profit remains healthy, there is no risk of a bigger sell-off on the stock market. The recent rally in the cryptocurrency market was also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The S&P 500 is up to nearly 20% year-to-date, while the Nasdaq has advanced about 37%, and both indexes are on track for their fifth straight month of gains. Corporate earnings so far are coming in pretty well, and Alphabet (Google), Microsoft, Visa, AT&T, Coca-Cola, Meta, Boeing, Procter & Gamble, Exxon Mobil, McDonald's, Ford, and Intel are among the companies scheduled to report quarterly results by the end of this trading week.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy. The International Monetary Fund raised its global economic outlook for 2023 due to strong activity in the services sector in the first quarter.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank May Raise Rates By 25 BPS; How Will This Impact Financial And Crypto Markets?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-may-raise-rates-by-25-bps-how-will-this-impact-financial-and-crypto-markets","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-27 16:27:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-27 06:27:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12726","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12610,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-19 15:44:42","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:42","post_content":"\n

Shares on Wall Street continue to be supported, led by gains in financial and technology stocks, with investors looking toward the next round of quarterly results as earnings season gets underway. The S&P 500 is up to nearly 19% year-to-date, while the Nasdaq has advanced about 37%, and both indexes are on track for their fifth straight month of gains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Some of the largest U.S. banks, including JPMorgan Chase and Wells Fargo, reported a profit boost from higher rates, pointing towards a resilient economy. This Tuesday, Bank of America posted a 20% surge in second-quarter profit, and it is also important to mention that Morgan Stanley's stock had today the most significant single-day gain since late 2020, after its second-quarter profit and revenue beat analyst expectations on a boost from its wealth management business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to Refinitiv data, of the 30 companies in the S&P 500 that reported earnings last week, 80% beat analyst expectations. Corporate profits are emerging as the big driver of what the market is likely to do in the near term, but if earnings results fall short of expectations, the stock market's reaction could be severe. Chris Zaccarelli, chief investment officer for Independent Advisor Alliance, added<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Investors are looking at the fact that the economy has been resilient, and corporate earnings so far are coming in pretty well. The tech-heavy Nasdaq led Wall Street higher, supported by mega-cap growth stocks including Apple and Tesla, ahead of quarterly results from industry heavyweights through the week.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Megacaps<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Goldman Sachs, International Business Machines (IBM), Netflix, Tesla, Blackstone (BX), Johnson & Johnson, Philip Morris International (PM), Newmont (NEM), and American Express are among the companies scheduled to report quarterly results by the end of this trading week. A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street even more, and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy and strong.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the days ahead, the U.S. stock market will also be hypersensitive to FED comments. However, prices and producer prices data provided evidence that inflation cooled more than expected, stoking hopes that the U.S. Federal Reserve will soon end its monetary policy tightening. However, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points on July 26. Still, there is also a great chance that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings.<\/p>\n","post_title":"U.S. Stocks Are Advancing At The Start Of The Earnings Season; Here's What To Expect","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"u-s-stocks-are-advancing-at-the-start-of-the-earnings-season-heres-what-to-expect","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-19 15:44:48","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12610","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12490,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-13 21:13:24","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:24","post_content":"\n

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released its June inflation report this Wednesday, and the report showed that the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which measures prices that urban consumers pay for a basket of goods and services, rose 0.2% in June compared with May's 0.1% growth, but landed below the 0.3% consensus. In the 12 months through June, the consumer prices (CPI) advanced only 3.0%, and it is important to say that this was the smallest year-on-year increase since March 2021 and followed a 4.0% rise in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Consumer<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The CPI reading has cooled considerably since peeking out around 9% in June 2022, which suggests that the Fed's campaign to quell inflation is working well. Another positive information is that a core measure that strips out volatile food and energy prices was 0.2% every month in June, halving from the 0.4% growth rate in each of the three months prior.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Fed may debate whether to hike the policy rate further based on the new inflation data. However, Ryan Sweet, the Chief US Economist at Oxford Economics, thinks that the cooler-than-expected inflation report will not stop the Federal Reserve from raising its policy rate by 25 basis points at its meeting this month. According to a survey from the CME Group, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points at the next Federal Reserve meeting scheduled for July 26.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Wall Street is in celebration mode after a sharper-than-expected deceleration of inflation, but it remains above Powell & Co's average annual 2% target. However, there is a great probability that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. Brian Jacobsen, chief economist at Annex Wealth Management, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"U.S. consumer prices rose modestly in June and logged their smallest annual increase in more than two years as inflation continued to subside. Even though the Federal Reserve has probably already talked itself into a corner needing to hike at the July meeting, it may be the last one for this hiking cycle.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Starting in March 2022, the U.S. Federal Reserve has enacted ten consecutive interest rate increases totaling five percentage points, and the next Federal Reserve policy meeting will be at the center of attention in July 2023. The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5% to 5.25%, which is the highest level since the 2006 year, and in the days ahead, stock and cryptocurrency markets will be hypersensitive to any FED comments.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Inflation Cooled More Than Expected In June. Does This Indicate That The Federal Reserve Is Near The End Of Its Rapid Interest Rate Hikes?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"inflation-cooled-more-than-expected-in-june-does-this-indicate-that-the-federal-reserve-is-near-the-end-of-its-rapid-interest-rate-hikes","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-13 21:13:36","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12490","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12354,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-05 22:47:04","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:04","post_content":"\n

Despite the high federal funds rate, durable goods orders exceeded expectations, which caused investors to remain unconcerned about a recession, surprising analysts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 12, the central bank's bank term funding program announcement reinforced faith in the banking system, and investors were content to see additional signs of decreased inflation. The stock market tracked with the economy in the first half of 2023, surprising the upside and leaving investors to wonder if the resilience can continue. The current rally in the cryptocurrency market is also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity. Bank of America U.S. economist Michael Gapen said<\/a> on Friday:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The economy has proven more resilient than we previously expected, owing largely to consumption. However, we do not expect such robust prints to continue. Momentum in the economy should slow as the lagged effects of tighter monetary policy and financial conditions start to take hold.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The jobs report on Friday is the next big test that could show if the economy is still resilient as higher rates crimp company credit lines. Companies must pay more to borrow when interest rates rise, causing them to decrease spending and job opportunities. According to analysts' estimates, the job report on Friday could show that the U.S. economy added 225,000 jobs in June 2023, with the unemployment rate set to fall to 3.6%, down from 3.7% in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Over the past twelve months, the U.S. job report has outperformed market expectations on 11 out of 12 occasions, and another set of better-than-expected readings may reinforce hopes of a soft landing (a possibility that the U.S. economy escaped a deep recession). The U.S. economy added 339,000 jobs in May 2023, and in the chart below, we can also see how the job market performed since June 2021.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Non-Farm<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

While sentiment-based indicators show that investors are no longer in panic, a recommendation is that you should continue to take a defensive investment approach in the upcoming days because another strong job report could also pressure the Fed to do more by anchoring a 25 bp hike this month and pushing back against the timeline for rate cuts. The next Federal Reserve meeting is on July 26. The CME Group survey shows a high probability of a 25 basis point rate increase.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Economy Has Proven More Resilient Than Analysts Previously Expected. The Focus Of Investors Is Switching To The U.S. Jobs Report","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-economy-has-proven-more-resilient-than-analysts-previously-expected-the-focus-of-investors-is-switching-to-the-u-s-jobs-report","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-05 22:47:08","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12354","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12237,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-29 06:44:16","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:16","post_content":"\n

The U.S. stock market recovered this Tuesday from recent losses as upbeat economic data cooled investor worries of a possible recession that could be triggered by the Federal Reserve's aggressive interest rate hikes. In May, the U.S. economy showed positive signs, with higher-than-expected orders for essential capital goods and a significant increase in sales of new single-family homes. Moreover, consumer confidence in the U.S. reached its highest level since January 2022.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Commerce Department's durable goods report brought good news for analysts in May. Commercial aircraft\/parts saw a significant rise of 32.5%, transportation equipment increased by 3.9%, and autos\/features grew by 2.2%, leading to new orders. Non-defense capital goods, excluding aircraft, grew by 0.7%. The report indicates greater confidence in future business conditions and job availability for six months. Oren Klachkin, lead U.S. economist at Oxford Economics (OE), said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The May durable goods orders and shipments data help to fend off fears that a recession is just around the corner. However, the economic backdrop is set to become more discouraging for manufacturers as tighter lending standards and elevated interest rates weaken demand for goods.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Durable<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. economy remains steady despite the federal funds rate reaching its peak since 2007. Investors should note that good economic data may lead to a 25 basis point increase in interest rates at the Federal Reserve's July meeting. Financial markets predict a 79.4% chance of this happening. This week's important economic data includes a crucial inflation measure that could provide valuable insight into the Federal Reserve's plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Experts recommend a cautious approach when interest rates exceed 5%. This involves taking calculated risks due to the current economic climate, which is unstable and unpredictable. As interest rates increase, companies face higher borrowing costs, causing them to decrease spending, especially on hiring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Investor Jeremy Grantham warns of potential losses in the U.S. stock market and advises cautiousness. It's important to note that cryptocurrencies could also face a significant decline. This is due to the high correlation between the crypto market and U.S. equities. If the stock market experiences a downturn, the crypto-sphere may follow suit. Investors must consider this possibility.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Upbeat Economic Data Lifted Investors' Mood, But Days Ahead Could Give Cues On The Next Federal Reserve's Steps","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"upbeat-economic-data-lifted-investors-mood-but-days-ahead-could-give-cues-on-the-next-federal-reserves-steps","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-29 06:44:23","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12237","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12127,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-21 15:38:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:34","post_content":"\n

According to the latest American Association of Individual Investors(AAII) survey, Investor confidence is at a peak reaching a 19-month high. American Association of Individual Investors also reported that bearish sentiment fell to a 23-month low, and there is general expectation that the stock prices would rise over the next several months. The crypto market displayed a high correlation with U.S. equities. If a positive trend is witnessed in the stock market, the same is usually replicated in the crypto-sphere as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Surveys<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers released data on Friday, showing that consumer sentiment in the U.S. improved to a four-month high in June. This is also positive news, and the improved view reflects greater optimism after signs of easing inflation, economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season in the U.S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recent inflation data signalled that the Fed's monetary tightening is cooling the world's largest economy, and according to many analysts, the Federal Reserve is near the end of its tightening cycle. The U.S. economy remains stable even though the federal funds rate remains at its highest since 2007; the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been substantial, and the unemployment rate has remained low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

THIS TUESDAY, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that groundbreaking new American homes jumped by 21.7% in May 2023 to 1.63 million units. Building permits, considered among the housing market's most forward-looking indicators, increased more than expected in May, rising 5.2% to 1.49 million units at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Kieran Clancy, Senior Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

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\n

The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5.25% to 5.5%, which is the highest level in 22 years, and analysts' bets on the Fed leaving interest rates unchanged in the September meeting stand at nearly 91%, up from 88.5% before the private payrolls and GDP data were released. However, it is important to keep in mind that Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell warned last week that the U.S. central bank is \"prepared\"<\/em> to increase interest rates further if needed as it seeks to bring inflation down to its 2% target. Because of this, investors should pay close attention to the personal consumption expenditures price index numbers, the Fed's preferred measure of inflation, and non-farm payroll numbers due this Thursday and Friday, respectively, for more clues on interest rates path.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again On Weak Jobs Data. Does Strong Buying Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-on-weak-jobs-data-does-strong-buying-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-31 23:11:14","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-31 13:11:14","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=13172","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":13092,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-08-27 20:19:45","post_date_gmt":"2023-08-27 10:19:45","post_content":"\n

The U.S. stock market's weakness in recent days is connected with robust U.S. economic growth, which suggests that the Fed will probably keep high interest rates for a longer period. Strong economic data caused investors to dial back expectations of rate cuts, although the Fed has made significant progress in cooling consumer prices.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The latest economic data showed that industrial production in the U.S. rose more than expected in July, and the Federal Reserve announced that industrial output increased by 1% in July from June's downwardly revised decline of 0.8%. The pace of growth was above the expectation for an increase of 0.3%, while strong retail sales numbers that were released this week also confirmed the U.S. economy's resilience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, the GDPNow estimate for real GDP growth that the Atlanta Fed produces rose to 5.8% for Q3 last Wednesday, up from 5.0% the prior day and 3.9% on Aug. 1. This is more than double the pace the Commerce Department first projected for the second quarter, however; many analysts see this like bad news for a stock market that is expecting the Fed to cease its tightening.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This week's main event will be the Federal Reserve's economic symposium at Jackson Hole this Friday, and Fed Chair Jerome Powell is expected to give his address on monetary policy at 10:05 a.m. ET (14:05 GMT). It is important to say that a more hawkish-than-expected message from Fed Chair Jerome Powell at Jackson Hole last August sank the S&P 500 by -3.4%, and analysts at Bank of America believe that the U.S. stock market is probably not prepared for a hawkish message from Powell again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Barring the market drop in August 2022 and a 2019 tumble, Fed chairs' Jackson Hole speeches have not been big market movers in recent years, but there may be greater scope for market gyrations this time around. Analysts at Bank of America reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Fading expectations of recession have brought the focus back to inflation and a potential tight Fed \u2026 and risk assets have started showing more signs of weakness than at any other point this year. We therefore think equities are more at risk of a macro-driven shock than the market is pricing in.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

To be sure, there's little guarantee that Powell's message will be a starkly hawkish one, but investors should keep in mind that inflation remains above Powell & Co's average annual 2% target. Fed officials repeated several times this month that they will continue with the effort to bring inflation down closer to their 2% annual target. The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5.25% to 5.5%, which is the highest level in 22 years, and in the days ahead, stock and cryptocurrency markets will be hypersensitive to any FED comments.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Wall Street's Main Indexes Remain Under Pressure On Fears That The Fed Is Likely Going To Keep High Rates For Longer","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"wall-streets-main-indexes-remain-under-pressure-on-fears-that-the-fed-is-likely-going-to-keep-high-rates-for-longer","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-27 20:19:49","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-27 10:19:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=13092","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":13011,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-08-10 23:19:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-08-10 13:19:34","post_content":"\n

Wall Street's three main indexes tumbled this Tuesday as financial stocks dropped after rating agency Moody's cut credit ratings of several small- to mid-sized U.S. banks and said it could downgrade some of the country's biggest lenders. The agency cited higher funding costs, profitability pressures, and slowing loan growth as a common theme in banks' second-quarter earnings and said the Fed's rate hikes will lower profitability as consumers take out fewer loans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rating agency Moody's cut credit ratings of Associated Banc-Corp. (ASB), Old National Bancorp (ONB), Pinnacle Financial Partners (PNFP), BOK Financial Corp. (BOKF), M&T Bank (MTB), Webster Bank (WBS), Amarillo National Bank, Commerce Bancshares (CBSH), Prosperity Bank (PB), and Fulton Financial Corp. (FULT).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The news that scared investors, even more, is the fact that rating agency Moody's assigned a negative outlook to six top-tier lenders - U.S. Bancorp (USB), State Street Corp. (STT), Truist Financial Corp. (TFC), Bank of New York Mellon (BK), Northern Trust Corp. (NTRS), and Cullen\/Frost Bankers Inc. (CFR)\u2014placing them on review for a potential future downgrade.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lenders have lost 4% so far this year, compared with a 17% rise in the benchmark S&P 500 index, while the broader S&P 500 banking sector is up just under 1% so far this year, as shares of the biggest banks like JPMorgan Chase (JPM) and Wells Fargo (WFC) have outperformed their smaller counterparts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"
Brandon Pizzurro, director of public investments at Guidestone Capital Management said<\/a>:<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

\"Anytime you see the backbone of the U.S. financial system being under watch, that gives people a lot to pause. Markets are slowly digesting that maybe the U.S. financial system is not absolutely perfect, and maybe we are going to have higher rates for a much longer period of time.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The collapse of Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank earlier this year already sparked a crisis of confidence in U.S. lenders, and the negative information is that the CBOE Market Volatility Index VIX, Wall Street's fear gauge, hit this Tuesday a two-month high at 17.71. There are currently too much important things that could easily go wrong, and it would not surprise me to see a big sell-off in financial markets if something goes wrong. The upside potential for stocks and cryptocurrencies probably remains limited for the weeks ahead, and a recommendation is that investors should continue to take a defensive investment approach.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Wall Street's Main Indexes Tumbled As Financial Stocks Dropped After Moody's Cut Credit Ratings of Several U.S. Banks","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"wall-streets-main-indexes-tumbled-as-financial-stocks-dropped-after-moodys-cut-credit-ratings-of-several-u-s-banks","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-10 23:19:38","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-10 13:19:38","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=13011","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12726,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-27 16:26:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-27 06:26:53","post_content":"\n

Investors continue to observe comments from Federal Reserve officials that could give more insight into the path of interest rates, but it is important to say that the U.S. Central Bank is widely seen raising rates by 25 basis points at its meeting this Wednesday, although the consumer prices and producer prices data provided evidence that inflation cooled more than expected.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The US economy is doing better than expected, but inflation is still higher than the target of 2%. The latest economic data, corporate earnings, solid job market, and consumer sentiment cemented this expectation, and according to analysts, the U.S. economy still has some vibrancy, which gives the Fed cover to continue its rate hike policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points on July 26. Still, there is also a significant chance that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. The federal funds rate is at 5% to 5.25%, the highest since 2007, but financial and tech stock gains still supported Wall Street shares.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Fed.<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

With higher interest rates, companies need to spend more money to borrow money to invest in growth, but as long the U.S. economy is not in recession and the corporate profit remains healthy, there is no risk of a bigger sell-off on the stock market. The recent rally in the cryptocurrency market was also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The S&P 500 is up to nearly 20% year-to-date, while the Nasdaq has advanced about 37%, and both indexes are on track for their fifth straight month of gains. Corporate earnings so far are coming in pretty well, and Alphabet (Google), Microsoft, Visa, AT&T, Coca-Cola, Meta, Boeing, Procter & Gamble, Exxon Mobil, McDonald's, Ford, and Intel are among the companies scheduled to report quarterly results by the end of this trading week.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy. The International Monetary Fund raised its global economic outlook for 2023 due to strong activity in the services sector in the first quarter.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank May Raise Rates By 25 BPS; How Will This Impact Financial And Crypto Markets?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-may-raise-rates-by-25-bps-how-will-this-impact-financial-and-crypto-markets","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-27 16:27:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-27 06:27:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12726","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12610,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-19 15:44:42","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:42","post_content":"\n

Shares on Wall Street continue to be supported, led by gains in financial and technology stocks, with investors looking toward the next round of quarterly results as earnings season gets underway. The S&P 500 is up to nearly 19% year-to-date, while the Nasdaq has advanced about 37%, and both indexes are on track for their fifth straight month of gains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Some of the largest U.S. banks, including JPMorgan Chase and Wells Fargo, reported a profit boost from higher rates, pointing towards a resilient economy. This Tuesday, Bank of America posted a 20% surge in second-quarter profit, and it is also important to mention that Morgan Stanley's stock had today the most significant single-day gain since late 2020, after its second-quarter profit and revenue beat analyst expectations on a boost from its wealth management business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to Refinitiv data, of the 30 companies in the S&P 500 that reported earnings last week, 80% beat analyst expectations. Corporate profits are emerging as the big driver of what the market is likely to do in the near term, but if earnings results fall short of expectations, the stock market's reaction could be severe. Chris Zaccarelli, chief investment officer for Independent Advisor Alliance, added<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Investors are looking at the fact that the economy has been resilient, and corporate earnings so far are coming in pretty well. The tech-heavy Nasdaq led Wall Street higher, supported by mega-cap growth stocks including Apple and Tesla, ahead of quarterly results from industry heavyweights through the week.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Megacaps<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Goldman Sachs, International Business Machines (IBM), Netflix, Tesla, Blackstone (BX), Johnson & Johnson, Philip Morris International (PM), Newmont (NEM), and American Express are among the companies scheduled to report quarterly results by the end of this trading week. A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street even more, and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy and strong.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the days ahead, the U.S. stock market will also be hypersensitive to FED comments. However, prices and producer prices data provided evidence that inflation cooled more than expected, stoking hopes that the U.S. Federal Reserve will soon end its monetary policy tightening. However, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points on July 26. Still, there is also a great chance that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings.<\/p>\n","post_title":"U.S. Stocks Are Advancing At The Start Of The Earnings Season; Here's What To Expect","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"u-s-stocks-are-advancing-at-the-start-of-the-earnings-season-heres-what-to-expect","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-19 15:44:48","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12610","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12490,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-13 21:13:24","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:24","post_content":"\n

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released its June inflation report this Wednesday, and the report showed that the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which measures prices that urban consumers pay for a basket of goods and services, rose 0.2% in June compared with May's 0.1% growth, but landed below the 0.3% consensus. In the 12 months through June, the consumer prices (CPI) advanced only 3.0%, and it is important to say that this was the smallest year-on-year increase since March 2021 and followed a 4.0% rise in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Consumer<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The CPI reading has cooled considerably since peeking out around 9% in June 2022, which suggests that the Fed's campaign to quell inflation is working well. Another positive information is that a core measure that strips out volatile food and energy prices was 0.2% every month in June, halving from the 0.4% growth rate in each of the three months prior.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Fed may debate whether to hike the policy rate further based on the new inflation data. However, Ryan Sweet, the Chief US Economist at Oxford Economics, thinks that the cooler-than-expected inflation report will not stop the Federal Reserve from raising its policy rate by 25 basis points at its meeting this month. According to a survey from the CME Group, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points at the next Federal Reserve meeting scheduled for July 26.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Wall Street is in celebration mode after a sharper-than-expected deceleration of inflation, but it remains above Powell & Co's average annual 2% target. However, there is a great probability that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. Brian Jacobsen, chief economist at Annex Wealth Management, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"U.S. consumer prices rose modestly in June and logged their smallest annual increase in more than two years as inflation continued to subside. Even though the Federal Reserve has probably already talked itself into a corner needing to hike at the July meeting, it may be the last one for this hiking cycle.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Starting in March 2022, the U.S. Federal Reserve has enacted ten consecutive interest rate increases totaling five percentage points, and the next Federal Reserve policy meeting will be at the center of attention in July 2023. The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5% to 5.25%, which is the highest level since the 2006 year, and in the days ahead, stock and cryptocurrency markets will be hypersensitive to any FED comments.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Inflation Cooled More Than Expected In June. Does This Indicate That The Federal Reserve Is Near The End Of Its Rapid Interest Rate Hikes?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"inflation-cooled-more-than-expected-in-june-does-this-indicate-that-the-federal-reserve-is-near-the-end-of-its-rapid-interest-rate-hikes","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-13 21:13:36","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12490","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12354,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-05 22:47:04","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:04","post_content":"\n

Despite the high federal funds rate, durable goods orders exceeded expectations, which caused investors to remain unconcerned about a recession, surprising analysts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 12, the central bank's bank term funding program announcement reinforced faith in the banking system, and investors were content to see additional signs of decreased inflation. The stock market tracked with the economy in the first half of 2023, surprising the upside and leaving investors to wonder if the resilience can continue. The current rally in the cryptocurrency market is also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity. Bank of America U.S. economist Michael Gapen said<\/a> on Friday:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The economy has proven more resilient than we previously expected, owing largely to consumption. However, we do not expect such robust prints to continue. Momentum in the economy should slow as the lagged effects of tighter monetary policy and financial conditions start to take hold.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The jobs report on Friday is the next big test that could show if the economy is still resilient as higher rates crimp company credit lines. Companies must pay more to borrow when interest rates rise, causing them to decrease spending and job opportunities. According to analysts' estimates, the job report on Friday could show that the U.S. economy added 225,000 jobs in June 2023, with the unemployment rate set to fall to 3.6%, down from 3.7% in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Over the past twelve months, the U.S. job report has outperformed market expectations on 11 out of 12 occasions, and another set of better-than-expected readings may reinforce hopes of a soft landing (a possibility that the U.S. economy escaped a deep recession). The U.S. economy added 339,000 jobs in May 2023, and in the chart below, we can also see how the job market performed since June 2021.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Non-Farm<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

While sentiment-based indicators show that investors are no longer in panic, a recommendation is that you should continue to take a defensive investment approach in the upcoming days because another strong job report could also pressure the Fed to do more by anchoring a 25 bp hike this month and pushing back against the timeline for rate cuts. The next Federal Reserve meeting is on July 26. The CME Group survey shows a high probability of a 25 basis point rate increase.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Economy Has Proven More Resilient Than Analysts Previously Expected. The Focus Of Investors Is Switching To The U.S. Jobs Report","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-economy-has-proven-more-resilient-than-analysts-previously-expected-the-focus-of-investors-is-switching-to-the-u-s-jobs-report","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-05 22:47:08","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12354","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12237,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-29 06:44:16","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:16","post_content":"\n

The U.S. stock market recovered this Tuesday from recent losses as upbeat economic data cooled investor worries of a possible recession that could be triggered by the Federal Reserve's aggressive interest rate hikes. In May, the U.S. economy showed positive signs, with higher-than-expected orders for essential capital goods and a significant increase in sales of new single-family homes. Moreover, consumer confidence in the U.S. reached its highest level since January 2022.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Commerce Department's durable goods report brought good news for analysts in May. Commercial aircraft\/parts saw a significant rise of 32.5%, transportation equipment increased by 3.9%, and autos\/features grew by 2.2%, leading to new orders. Non-defense capital goods, excluding aircraft, grew by 0.7%. The report indicates greater confidence in future business conditions and job availability for six months. Oren Klachkin, lead U.S. economist at Oxford Economics (OE), said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The May durable goods orders and shipments data help to fend off fears that a recession is just around the corner. However, the economic backdrop is set to become more discouraging for manufacturers as tighter lending standards and elevated interest rates weaken demand for goods.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Durable<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. economy remains steady despite the federal funds rate reaching its peak since 2007. Investors should note that good economic data may lead to a 25 basis point increase in interest rates at the Federal Reserve's July meeting. Financial markets predict a 79.4% chance of this happening. This week's important economic data includes a crucial inflation measure that could provide valuable insight into the Federal Reserve's plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Experts recommend a cautious approach when interest rates exceed 5%. This involves taking calculated risks due to the current economic climate, which is unstable and unpredictable. As interest rates increase, companies face higher borrowing costs, causing them to decrease spending, especially on hiring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Investor Jeremy Grantham warns of potential losses in the U.S. stock market and advises cautiousness. It's important to note that cryptocurrencies could also face a significant decline. This is due to the high correlation between the crypto market and U.S. equities. If the stock market experiences a downturn, the crypto-sphere may follow suit. Investors must consider this possibility.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Upbeat Economic Data Lifted Investors' Mood, But Days Ahead Could Give Cues On The Next Federal Reserve's Steps","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"upbeat-economic-data-lifted-investors-mood-but-days-ahead-could-give-cues-on-the-next-federal-reserves-steps","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-29 06:44:23","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12237","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12127,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-21 15:38:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:34","post_content":"\n

According to the latest American Association of Individual Investors(AAII) survey, Investor confidence is at a peak reaching a 19-month high. American Association of Individual Investors also reported that bearish sentiment fell to a 23-month low, and there is general expectation that the stock prices would rise over the next several months. The crypto market displayed a high correlation with U.S. equities. If a positive trend is witnessed in the stock market, the same is usually replicated in the crypto-sphere as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Surveys<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers released data on Friday, showing that consumer sentiment in the U.S. improved to a four-month high in June. This is also positive news, and the improved view reflects greater optimism after signs of easing inflation, economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season in the U.S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recent inflation data signalled that the Fed's monetary tightening is cooling the world's largest economy, and according to many analysts, the Federal Reserve is near the end of its tightening cycle. The U.S. economy remains stable even though the federal funds rate remains at its highest since 2007; the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been substantial, and the unemployment rate has remained low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

THIS TUESDAY, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that groundbreaking new American homes jumped by 21.7% in May 2023 to 1.63 million units. Building permits, considered among the housing market's most forward-looking indicators, increased more than expected in May, rising 5.2% to 1.49 million units at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Kieran Clancy, Senior Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

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\n

\"We're back to a spot now where bad news is something of good news. The most recent data really shows that the economy is not overheating, which puts us back in the situation where we don't have as much fear of additional rate hikes at this point in time.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5.25% to 5.5%, which is the highest level in 22 years, and analysts' bets on the Fed leaving interest rates unchanged in the September meeting stand at nearly 91%, up from 88.5% before the private payrolls and GDP data were released. However, it is important to keep in mind that Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell warned last week that the U.S. central bank is \"prepared\"<\/em> to increase interest rates further if needed as it seeks to bring inflation down to its 2% target. Because of this, investors should pay close attention to the personal consumption expenditures price index numbers, the Fed's preferred measure of inflation, and non-farm payroll numbers due this Thursday and Friday, respectively, for more clues on interest rates path.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again On Weak Jobs Data. Does Strong Buying Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-on-weak-jobs-data-does-strong-buying-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-31 23:11:14","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-31 13:11:14","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=13172","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":13092,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-08-27 20:19:45","post_date_gmt":"2023-08-27 10:19:45","post_content":"\n

The U.S. stock market's weakness in recent days is connected with robust U.S. economic growth, which suggests that the Fed will probably keep high interest rates for a longer period. Strong economic data caused investors to dial back expectations of rate cuts, although the Fed has made significant progress in cooling consumer prices.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The latest economic data showed that industrial production in the U.S. rose more than expected in July, and the Federal Reserve announced that industrial output increased by 1% in July from June's downwardly revised decline of 0.8%. The pace of growth was above the expectation for an increase of 0.3%, while strong retail sales numbers that were released this week also confirmed the U.S. economy's resilience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, the GDPNow estimate for real GDP growth that the Atlanta Fed produces rose to 5.8% for Q3 last Wednesday, up from 5.0% the prior day and 3.9% on Aug. 1. This is more than double the pace the Commerce Department first projected for the second quarter, however; many analysts see this like bad news for a stock market that is expecting the Fed to cease its tightening.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This week's main event will be the Federal Reserve's economic symposium at Jackson Hole this Friday, and Fed Chair Jerome Powell is expected to give his address on monetary policy at 10:05 a.m. ET (14:05 GMT). It is important to say that a more hawkish-than-expected message from Fed Chair Jerome Powell at Jackson Hole last August sank the S&P 500 by -3.4%, and analysts at Bank of America believe that the U.S. stock market is probably not prepared for a hawkish message from Powell again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Barring the market drop in August 2022 and a 2019 tumble, Fed chairs' Jackson Hole speeches have not been big market movers in recent years, but there may be greater scope for market gyrations this time around. Analysts at Bank of America reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Fading expectations of recession have brought the focus back to inflation and a potential tight Fed \u2026 and risk assets have started showing more signs of weakness than at any other point this year. We therefore think equities are more at risk of a macro-driven shock than the market is pricing in.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

To be sure, there's little guarantee that Powell's message will be a starkly hawkish one, but investors should keep in mind that inflation remains above Powell & Co's average annual 2% target. Fed officials repeated several times this month that they will continue with the effort to bring inflation down closer to their 2% annual target. The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5.25% to 5.5%, which is the highest level in 22 years, and in the days ahead, stock and cryptocurrency markets will be hypersensitive to any FED comments.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Wall Street's Main Indexes Remain Under Pressure On Fears That The Fed Is Likely Going To Keep High Rates For Longer","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"wall-streets-main-indexes-remain-under-pressure-on-fears-that-the-fed-is-likely-going-to-keep-high-rates-for-longer","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-27 20:19:49","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-27 10:19:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=13092","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":13011,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-08-10 23:19:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-08-10 13:19:34","post_content":"\n

Wall Street's three main indexes tumbled this Tuesday as financial stocks dropped after rating agency Moody's cut credit ratings of several small- to mid-sized U.S. banks and said it could downgrade some of the country's biggest lenders. The agency cited higher funding costs, profitability pressures, and slowing loan growth as a common theme in banks' second-quarter earnings and said the Fed's rate hikes will lower profitability as consumers take out fewer loans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rating agency Moody's cut credit ratings of Associated Banc-Corp. (ASB), Old National Bancorp (ONB), Pinnacle Financial Partners (PNFP), BOK Financial Corp. (BOKF), M&T Bank (MTB), Webster Bank (WBS), Amarillo National Bank, Commerce Bancshares (CBSH), Prosperity Bank (PB), and Fulton Financial Corp. (FULT).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The news that scared investors, even more, is the fact that rating agency Moody's assigned a negative outlook to six top-tier lenders - U.S. Bancorp (USB), State Street Corp. (STT), Truist Financial Corp. (TFC), Bank of New York Mellon (BK), Northern Trust Corp. (NTRS), and Cullen\/Frost Bankers Inc. (CFR)\u2014placing them on review for a potential future downgrade.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lenders have lost 4% so far this year, compared with a 17% rise in the benchmark S&P 500 index, while the broader S&P 500 banking sector is up just under 1% so far this year, as shares of the biggest banks like JPMorgan Chase (JPM) and Wells Fargo (WFC) have outperformed their smaller counterparts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"
Brandon Pizzurro, director of public investments at Guidestone Capital Management said<\/a>:<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

\"Anytime you see the backbone of the U.S. financial system being under watch, that gives people a lot to pause. Markets are slowly digesting that maybe the U.S. financial system is not absolutely perfect, and maybe we are going to have higher rates for a much longer period of time.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The collapse of Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank earlier this year already sparked a crisis of confidence in U.S. lenders, and the negative information is that the CBOE Market Volatility Index VIX, Wall Street's fear gauge, hit this Tuesday a two-month high at 17.71. There are currently too much important things that could easily go wrong, and it would not surprise me to see a big sell-off in financial markets if something goes wrong. The upside potential for stocks and cryptocurrencies probably remains limited for the weeks ahead, and a recommendation is that investors should continue to take a defensive investment approach.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Wall Street's Main Indexes Tumbled As Financial Stocks Dropped After Moody's Cut Credit Ratings of Several U.S. Banks","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"wall-streets-main-indexes-tumbled-as-financial-stocks-dropped-after-moodys-cut-credit-ratings-of-several-u-s-banks","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-10 23:19:38","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-10 13:19:38","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=13011","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12726,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-27 16:26:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-27 06:26:53","post_content":"\n

Investors continue to observe comments from Federal Reserve officials that could give more insight into the path of interest rates, but it is important to say that the U.S. Central Bank is widely seen raising rates by 25 basis points at its meeting this Wednesday, although the consumer prices and producer prices data provided evidence that inflation cooled more than expected.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The US economy is doing better than expected, but inflation is still higher than the target of 2%. The latest economic data, corporate earnings, solid job market, and consumer sentiment cemented this expectation, and according to analysts, the U.S. economy still has some vibrancy, which gives the Fed cover to continue its rate hike policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points on July 26. Still, there is also a significant chance that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. The federal funds rate is at 5% to 5.25%, the highest since 2007, but financial and tech stock gains still supported Wall Street shares.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Fed.<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

With higher interest rates, companies need to spend more money to borrow money to invest in growth, but as long the U.S. economy is not in recession and the corporate profit remains healthy, there is no risk of a bigger sell-off on the stock market. The recent rally in the cryptocurrency market was also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The S&P 500 is up to nearly 20% year-to-date, while the Nasdaq has advanced about 37%, and both indexes are on track for their fifth straight month of gains. Corporate earnings so far are coming in pretty well, and Alphabet (Google), Microsoft, Visa, AT&T, Coca-Cola, Meta, Boeing, Procter & Gamble, Exxon Mobil, McDonald's, Ford, and Intel are among the companies scheduled to report quarterly results by the end of this trading week.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy. The International Monetary Fund raised its global economic outlook for 2023 due to strong activity in the services sector in the first quarter.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank May Raise Rates By 25 BPS; How Will This Impact Financial And Crypto Markets?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-may-raise-rates-by-25-bps-how-will-this-impact-financial-and-crypto-markets","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-27 16:27:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-27 06:27:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12726","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12610,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-19 15:44:42","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:42","post_content":"\n

Shares on Wall Street continue to be supported, led by gains in financial and technology stocks, with investors looking toward the next round of quarterly results as earnings season gets underway. The S&P 500 is up to nearly 19% year-to-date, while the Nasdaq has advanced about 37%, and both indexes are on track for their fifth straight month of gains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Some of the largest U.S. banks, including JPMorgan Chase and Wells Fargo, reported a profit boost from higher rates, pointing towards a resilient economy. This Tuesday, Bank of America posted a 20% surge in second-quarter profit, and it is also important to mention that Morgan Stanley's stock had today the most significant single-day gain since late 2020, after its second-quarter profit and revenue beat analyst expectations on a boost from its wealth management business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to Refinitiv data, of the 30 companies in the S&P 500 that reported earnings last week, 80% beat analyst expectations. Corporate profits are emerging as the big driver of what the market is likely to do in the near term, but if earnings results fall short of expectations, the stock market's reaction could be severe. Chris Zaccarelli, chief investment officer for Independent Advisor Alliance, added<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Investors are looking at the fact that the economy has been resilient, and corporate earnings so far are coming in pretty well. The tech-heavy Nasdaq led Wall Street higher, supported by mega-cap growth stocks including Apple and Tesla, ahead of quarterly results from industry heavyweights through the week.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Megacaps<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Goldman Sachs, International Business Machines (IBM), Netflix, Tesla, Blackstone (BX), Johnson & Johnson, Philip Morris International (PM), Newmont (NEM), and American Express are among the companies scheduled to report quarterly results by the end of this trading week. A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street even more, and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy and strong.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the days ahead, the U.S. stock market will also be hypersensitive to FED comments. However, prices and producer prices data provided evidence that inflation cooled more than expected, stoking hopes that the U.S. Federal Reserve will soon end its monetary policy tightening. However, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points on July 26. Still, there is also a great chance that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings.<\/p>\n","post_title":"U.S. Stocks Are Advancing At The Start Of The Earnings Season; Here's What To Expect","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"u-s-stocks-are-advancing-at-the-start-of-the-earnings-season-heres-what-to-expect","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-19 15:44:48","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12610","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12490,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-13 21:13:24","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:24","post_content":"\n

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released its June inflation report this Wednesday, and the report showed that the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which measures prices that urban consumers pay for a basket of goods and services, rose 0.2% in June compared with May's 0.1% growth, but landed below the 0.3% consensus. In the 12 months through June, the consumer prices (CPI) advanced only 3.0%, and it is important to say that this was the smallest year-on-year increase since March 2021 and followed a 4.0% rise in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Consumer<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The CPI reading has cooled considerably since peeking out around 9% in June 2022, which suggests that the Fed's campaign to quell inflation is working well. Another positive information is that a core measure that strips out volatile food and energy prices was 0.2% every month in June, halving from the 0.4% growth rate in each of the three months prior.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Fed may debate whether to hike the policy rate further based on the new inflation data. However, Ryan Sweet, the Chief US Economist at Oxford Economics, thinks that the cooler-than-expected inflation report will not stop the Federal Reserve from raising its policy rate by 25 basis points at its meeting this month. According to a survey from the CME Group, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points at the next Federal Reserve meeting scheduled for July 26.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Wall Street is in celebration mode after a sharper-than-expected deceleration of inflation, but it remains above Powell & Co's average annual 2% target. However, there is a great probability that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. Brian Jacobsen, chief economist at Annex Wealth Management, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"U.S. consumer prices rose modestly in June and logged their smallest annual increase in more than two years as inflation continued to subside. Even though the Federal Reserve has probably already talked itself into a corner needing to hike at the July meeting, it may be the last one for this hiking cycle.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Starting in March 2022, the U.S. Federal Reserve has enacted ten consecutive interest rate increases totaling five percentage points, and the next Federal Reserve policy meeting will be at the center of attention in July 2023. The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5% to 5.25%, which is the highest level since the 2006 year, and in the days ahead, stock and cryptocurrency markets will be hypersensitive to any FED comments.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Inflation Cooled More Than Expected In June. Does This Indicate That The Federal Reserve Is Near The End Of Its Rapid Interest Rate Hikes?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"inflation-cooled-more-than-expected-in-june-does-this-indicate-that-the-federal-reserve-is-near-the-end-of-its-rapid-interest-rate-hikes","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-13 21:13:36","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12490","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12354,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-05 22:47:04","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:04","post_content":"\n

Despite the high federal funds rate, durable goods orders exceeded expectations, which caused investors to remain unconcerned about a recession, surprising analysts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 12, the central bank's bank term funding program announcement reinforced faith in the banking system, and investors were content to see additional signs of decreased inflation. The stock market tracked with the economy in the first half of 2023, surprising the upside and leaving investors to wonder if the resilience can continue. The current rally in the cryptocurrency market is also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity. Bank of America U.S. economist Michael Gapen said<\/a> on Friday:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The economy has proven more resilient than we previously expected, owing largely to consumption. However, we do not expect such robust prints to continue. Momentum in the economy should slow as the lagged effects of tighter monetary policy and financial conditions start to take hold.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The jobs report on Friday is the next big test that could show if the economy is still resilient as higher rates crimp company credit lines. Companies must pay more to borrow when interest rates rise, causing them to decrease spending and job opportunities. According to analysts' estimates, the job report on Friday could show that the U.S. economy added 225,000 jobs in June 2023, with the unemployment rate set to fall to 3.6%, down from 3.7% in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Over the past twelve months, the U.S. job report has outperformed market expectations on 11 out of 12 occasions, and another set of better-than-expected readings may reinforce hopes of a soft landing (a possibility that the U.S. economy escaped a deep recession). The U.S. economy added 339,000 jobs in May 2023, and in the chart below, we can also see how the job market performed since June 2021.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Non-Farm<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

While sentiment-based indicators show that investors are no longer in panic, a recommendation is that you should continue to take a defensive investment approach in the upcoming days because another strong job report could also pressure the Fed to do more by anchoring a 25 bp hike this month and pushing back against the timeline for rate cuts. The next Federal Reserve meeting is on July 26. The CME Group survey shows a high probability of a 25 basis point rate increase.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Economy Has Proven More Resilient Than Analysts Previously Expected. The Focus Of Investors Is Switching To The U.S. Jobs Report","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-economy-has-proven-more-resilient-than-analysts-previously-expected-the-focus-of-investors-is-switching-to-the-u-s-jobs-report","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-05 22:47:08","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12354","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12237,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-29 06:44:16","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:16","post_content":"\n

The U.S. stock market recovered this Tuesday from recent losses as upbeat economic data cooled investor worries of a possible recession that could be triggered by the Federal Reserve's aggressive interest rate hikes. In May, the U.S. economy showed positive signs, with higher-than-expected orders for essential capital goods and a significant increase in sales of new single-family homes. Moreover, consumer confidence in the U.S. reached its highest level since January 2022.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Commerce Department's durable goods report brought good news for analysts in May. Commercial aircraft\/parts saw a significant rise of 32.5%, transportation equipment increased by 3.9%, and autos\/features grew by 2.2%, leading to new orders. Non-defense capital goods, excluding aircraft, grew by 0.7%. The report indicates greater confidence in future business conditions and job availability for six months. Oren Klachkin, lead U.S. economist at Oxford Economics (OE), said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The May durable goods orders and shipments data help to fend off fears that a recession is just around the corner. However, the economic backdrop is set to become more discouraging for manufacturers as tighter lending standards and elevated interest rates weaken demand for goods.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Durable<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. economy remains steady despite the federal funds rate reaching its peak since 2007. Investors should note that good economic data may lead to a 25 basis point increase in interest rates at the Federal Reserve's July meeting. Financial markets predict a 79.4% chance of this happening. This week's important economic data includes a crucial inflation measure that could provide valuable insight into the Federal Reserve's plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Experts recommend a cautious approach when interest rates exceed 5%. This involves taking calculated risks due to the current economic climate, which is unstable and unpredictable. As interest rates increase, companies face higher borrowing costs, causing them to decrease spending, especially on hiring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Investor Jeremy Grantham warns of potential losses in the U.S. stock market and advises cautiousness. It's important to note that cryptocurrencies could also face a significant decline. This is due to the high correlation between the crypto market and U.S. equities. If the stock market experiences a downturn, the crypto-sphere may follow suit. Investors must consider this possibility.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Upbeat Economic Data Lifted Investors' Mood, But Days Ahead Could Give Cues On The Next Federal Reserve's Steps","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"upbeat-economic-data-lifted-investors-mood-but-days-ahead-could-give-cues-on-the-next-federal-reserves-steps","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-29 06:44:23","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12237","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12127,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-21 15:38:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:34","post_content":"\n

According to the latest American Association of Individual Investors(AAII) survey, Investor confidence is at a peak reaching a 19-month high. American Association of Individual Investors also reported that bearish sentiment fell to a 23-month low, and there is general expectation that the stock prices would rise over the next several months. The crypto market displayed a high correlation with U.S. equities. If a positive trend is witnessed in the stock market, the same is usually replicated in the crypto-sphere as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Surveys<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers released data on Friday, showing that consumer sentiment in the U.S. improved to a four-month high in June. This is also positive news, and the improved view reflects greater optimism after signs of easing inflation, economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season in the U.S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recent inflation data signalled that the Fed's monetary tightening is cooling the world's largest economy, and according to many analysts, the Federal Reserve is near the end of its tightening cycle. The U.S. economy remains stable even though the federal funds rate remains at its highest since 2007; the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been substantial, and the unemployment rate has remained low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

THIS TUESDAY, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that groundbreaking new American homes jumped by 21.7% in May 2023 to 1.63 million units. Building permits, considered among the housing market's most forward-looking indicators, increased more than expected in May, rising 5.2% to 1.49 million units at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Kieran Clancy, Senior Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

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\n

Wall Street's three main indexes continue to rise this week, while Tom Lee, head of research at Fundstrat Global Advisors, said that he believes that the U.S. stock market could be supported in September as he expects incoming inflation data to show a significant slowdown in inflationary pressures. The crypto market displayed again a high correlation with U.S. equities, and if a positive trend is witnessed in the stock market, the same is usually replicated in the crypto-sphere as well. David Russell, global head of market strategy at TradeStation, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"We're back to a spot now where bad news is something of good news. The most recent data really shows that the economy is not overheating, which puts us back in the situation where we don't have as much fear of additional rate hikes at this point in time.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5.25% to 5.5%, which is the highest level in 22 years, and analysts' bets on the Fed leaving interest rates unchanged in the September meeting stand at nearly 91%, up from 88.5% before the private payrolls and GDP data were released. However, it is important to keep in mind that Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell warned last week that the U.S. central bank is \"prepared\"<\/em> to increase interest rates further if needed as it seeks to bring inflation down to its 2% target. Because of this, investors should pay close attention to the personal consumption expenditures price index numbers, the Fed's preferred measure of inflation, and non-farm payroll numbers due this Thursday and Friday, respectively, for more clues on interest rates path.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again On Weak Jobs Data. Does Strong Buying Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-on-weak-jobs-data-does-strong-buying-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-31 23:11:14","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-31 13:11:14","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=13172","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":13092,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-08-27 20:19:45","post_date_gmt":"2023-08-27 10:19:45","post_content":"\n

The U.S. stock market's weakness in recent days is connected with robust U.S. economic growth, which suggests that the Fed will probably keep high interest rates for a longer period. Strong economic data caused investors to dial back expectations of rate cuts, although the Fed has made significant progress in cooling consumer prices.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The latest economic data showed that industrial production in the U.S. rose more than expected in July, and the Federal Reserve announced that industrial output increased by 1% in July from June's downwardly revised decline of 0.8%. The pace of growth was above the expectation for an increase of 0.3%, while strong retail sales numbers that were released this week also confirmed the U.S. economy's resilience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, the GDPNow estimate for real GDP growth that the Atlanta Fed produces rose to 5.8% for Q3 last Wednesday, up from 5.0% the prior day and 3.9% on Aug. 1. This is more than double the pace the Commerce Department first projected for the second quarter, however; many analysts see this like bad news for a stock market that is expecting the Fed to cease its tightening.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This week's main event will be the Federal Reserve's economic symposium at Jackson Hole this Friday, and Fed Chair Jerome Powell is expected to give his address on monetary policy at 10:05 a.m. ET (14:05 GMT). It is important to say that a more hawkish-than-expected message from Fed Chair Jerome Powell at Jackson Hole last August sank the S&P 500 by -3.4%, and analysts at Bank of America believe that the U.S. stock market is probably not prepared for a hawkish message from Powell again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Barring the market drop in August 2022 and a 2019 tumble, Fed chairs' Jackson Hole speeches have not been big market movers in recent years, but there may be greater scope for market gyrations this time around. Analysts at Bank of America reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Fading expectations of recession have brought the focus back to inflation and a potential tight Fed \u2026 and risk assets have started showing more signs of weakness than at any other point this year. We therefore think equities are more at risk of a macro-driven shock than the market is pricing in.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

To be sure, there's little guarantee that Powell's message will be a starkly hawkish one, but investors should keep in mind that inflation remains above Powell & Co's average annual 2% target. Fed officials repeated several times this month that they will continue with the effort to bring inflation down closer to their 2% annual target. The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5.25% to 5.5%, which is the highest level in 22 years, and in the days ahead, stock and cryptocurrency markets will be hypersensitive to any FED comments.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Wall Street's Main Indexes Remain Under Pressure On Fears That The Fed Is Likely Going To Keep High Rates For Longer","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"wall-streets-main-indexes-remain-under-pressure-on-fears-that-the-fed-is-likely-going-to-keep-high-rates-for-longer","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-27 20:19:49","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-27 10:19:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=13092","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":13011,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-08-10 23:19:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-08-10 13:19:34","post_content":"\n

Wall Street's three main indexes tumbled this Tuesday as financial stocks dropped after rating agency Moody's cut credit ratings of several small- to mid-sized U.S. banks and said it could downgrade some of the country's biggest lenders. The agency cited higher funding costs, profitability pressures, and slowing loan growth as a common theme in banks' second-quarter earnings and said the Fed's rate hikes will lower profitability as consumers take out fewer loans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rating agency Moody's cut credit ratings of Associated Banc-Corp. (ASB), Old National Bancorp (ONB), Pinnacle Financial Partners (PNFP), BOK Financial Corp. (BOKF), M&T Bank (MTB), Webster Bank (WBS), Amarillo National Bank, Commerce Bancshares (CBSH), Prosperity Bank (PB), and Fulton Financial Corp. (FULT).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The news that scared investors, even more, is the fact that rating agency Moody's assigned a negative outlook to six top-tier lenders - U.S. Bancorp (USB), State Street Corp. (STT), Truist Financial Corp. (TFC), Bank of New York Mellon (BK), Northern Trust Corp. (NTRS), and Cullen\/Frost Bankers Inc. (CFR)\u2014placing them on review for a potential future downgrade.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lenders have lost 4% so far this year, compared with a 17% rise in the benchmark S&P 500 index, while the broader S&P 500 banking sector is up just under 1% so far this year, as shares of the biggest banks like JPMorgan Chase (JPM) and Wells Fargo (WFC) have outperformed their smaller counterparts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"
Brandon Pizzurro, director of public investments at Guidestone Capital Management said<\/a>:<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

\"Anytime you see the backbone of the U.S. financial system being under watch, that gives people a lot to pause. Markets are slowly digesting that maybe the U.S. financial system is not absolutely perfect, and maybe we are going to have higher rates for a much longer period of time.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The collapse of Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank earlier this year already sparked a crisis of confidence in U.S. lenders, and the negative information is that the CBOE Market Volatility Index VIX, Wall Street's fear gauge, hit this Tuesday a two-month high at 17.71. There are currently too much important things that could easily go wrong, and it would not surprise me to see a big sell-off in financial markets if something goes wrong. The upside potential for stocks and cryptocurrencies probably remains limited for the weeks ahead, and a recommendation is that investors should continue to take a defensive investment approach.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Wall Street's Main Indexes Tumbled As Financial Stocks Dropped After Moody's Cut Credit Ratings of Several U.S. Banks","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"wall-streets-main-indexes-tumbled-as-financial-stocks-dropped-after-moodys-cut-credit-ratings-of-several-u-s-banks","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-10 23:19:38","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-10 13:19:38","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=13011","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12726,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-27 16:26:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-27 06:26:53","post_content":"\n

Investors continue to observe comments from Federal Reserve officials that could give more insight into the path of interest rates, but it is important to say that the U.S. Central Bank is widely seen raising rates by 25 basis points at its meeting this Wednesday, although the consumer prices and producer prices data provided evidence that inflation cooled more than expected.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The US economy is doing better than expected, but inflation is still higher than the target of 2%. The latest economic data, corporate earnings, solid job market, and consumer sentiment cemented this expectation, and according to analysts, the U.S. economy still has some vibrancy, which gives the Fed cover to continue its rate hike policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points on July 26. Still, there is also a significant chance that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. The federal funds rate is at 5% to 5.25%, the highest since 2007, but financial and tech stock gains still supported Wall Street shares.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Fed.<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

With higher interest rates, companies need to spend more money to borrow money to invest in growth, but as long the U.S. economy is not in recession and the corporate profit remains healthy, there is no risk of a bigger sell-off on the stock market. The recent rally in the cryptocurrency market was also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The S&P 500 is up to nearly 20% year-to-date, while the Nasdaq has advanced about 37%, and both indexes are on track for their fifth straight month of gains. Corporate earnings so far are coming in pretty well, and Alphabet (Google), Microsoft, Visa, AT&T, Coca-Cola, Meta, Boeing, Procter & Gamble, Exxon Mobil, McDonald's, Ford, and Intel are among the companies scheduled to report quarterly results by the end of this trading week.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy. The International Monetary Fund raised its global economic outlook for 2023 due to strong activity in the services sector in the first quarter.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank May Raise Rates By 25 BPS; How Will This Impact Financial And Crypto Markets?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-may-raise-rates-by-25-bps-how-will-this-impact-financial-and-crypto-markets","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-27 16:27:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-27 06:27:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12726","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12610,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-19 15:44:42","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:42","post_content":"\n

Shares on Wall Street continue to be supported, led by gains in financial and technology stocks, with investors looking toward the next round of quarterly results as earnings season gets underway. The S&P 500 is up to nearly 19% year-to-date, while the Nasdaq has advanced about 37%, and both indexes are on track for their fifth straight month of gains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Some of the largest U.S. banks, including JPMorgan Chase and Wells Fargo, reported a profit boost from higher rates, pointing towards a resilient economy. This Tuesday, Bank of America posted a 20% surge in second-quarter profit, and it is also important to mention that Morgan Stanley's stock had today the most significant single-day gain since late 2020, after its second-quarter profit and revenue beat analyst expectations on a boost from its wealth management business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to Refinitiv data, of the 30 companies in the S&P 500 that reported earnings last week, 80% beat analyst expectations. Corporate profits are emerging as the big driver of what the market is likely to do in the near term, but if earnings results fall short of expectations, the stock market's reaction could be severe. Chris Zaccarelli, chief investment officer for Independent Advisor Alliance, added<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Investors are looking at the fact that the economy has been resilient, and corporate earnings so far are coming in pretty well. The tech-heavy Nasdaq led Wall Street higher, supported by mega-cap growth stocks including Apple and Tesla, ahead of quarterly results from industry heavyweights through the week.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Megacaps<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Goldman Sachs, International Business Machines (IBM), Netflix, Tesla, Blackstone (BX), Johnson & Johnson, Philip Morris International (PM), Newmont (NEM), and American Express are among the companies scheduled to report quarterly results by the end of this trading week. A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street even more, and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy and strong.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the days ahead, the U.S. stock market will also be hypersensitive to FED comments. However, prices and producer prices data provided evidence that inflation cooled more than expected, stoking hopes that the U.S. Federal Reserve will soon end its monetary policy tightening. However, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points on July 26. Still, there is also a great chance that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings.<\/p>\n","post_title":"U.S. Stocks Are Advancing At The Start Of The Earnings Season; Here's What To Expect","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"u-s-stocks-are-advancing-at-the-start-of-the-earnings-season-heres-what-to-expect","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-19 15:44:48","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12610","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12490,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-13 21:13:24","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:24","post_content":"\n

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released its June inflation report this Wednesday, and the report showed that the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which measures prices that urban consumers pay for a basket of goods and services, rose 0.2% in June compared with May's 0.1% growth, but landed below the 0.3% consensus. In the 12 months through June, the consumer prices (CPI) advanced only 3.0%, and it is important to say that this was the smallest year-on-year increase since March 2021 and followed a 4.0% rise in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Consumer<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The CPI reading has cooled considerably since peeking out around 9% in June 2022, which suggests that the Fed's campaign to quell inflation is working well. Another positive information is that a core measure that strips out volatile food and energy prices was 0.2% every month in June, halving from the 0.4% growth rate in each of the three months prior.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Fed may debate whether to hike the policy rate further based on the new inflation data. However, Ryan Sweet, the Chief US Economist at Oxford Economics, thinks that the cooler-than-expected inflation report will not stop the Federal Reserve from raising its policy rate by 25 basis points at its meeting this month. According to a survey from the CME Group, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points at the next Federal Reserve meeting scheduled for July 26.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Wall Street is in celebration mode after a sharper-than-expected deceleration of inflation, but it remains above Powell & Co's average annual 2% target. However, there is a great probability that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. Brian Jacobsen, chief economist at Annex Wealth Management, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"U.S. consumer prices rose modestly in June and logged their smallest annual increase in more than two years as inflation continued to subside. Even though the Federal Reserve has probably already talked itself into a corner needing to hike at the July meeting, it may be the last one for this hiking cycle.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Starting in March 2022, the U.S. Federal Reserve has enacted ten consecutive interest rate increases totaling five percentage points, and the next Federal Reserve policy meeting will be at the center of attention in July 2023. The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5% to 5.25%, which is the highest level since the 2006 year, and in the days ahead, stock and cryptocurrency markets will be hypersensitive to any FED comments.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Inflation Cooled More Than Expected In June. Does This Indicate That The Federal Reserve Is Near The End Of Its Rapid Interest Rate Hikes?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"inflation-cooled-more-than-expected-in-june-does-this-indicate-that-the-federal-reserve-is-near-the-end-of-its-rapid-interest-rate-hikes","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-13 21:13:36","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12490","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12354,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-05 22:47:04","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:04","post_content":"\n

Despite the high federal funds rate, durable goods orders exceeded expectations, which caused investors to remain unconcerned about a recession, surprising analysts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 12, the central bank's bank term funding program announcement reinforced faith in the banking system, and investors were content to see additional signs of decreased inflation. The stock market tracked with the economy in the first half of 2023, surprising the upside and leaving investors to wonder if the resilience can continue. The current rally in the cryptocurrency market is also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity. Bank of America U.S. economist Michael Gapen said<\/a> on Friday:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The economy has proven more resilient than we previously expected, owing largely to consumption. However, we do not expect such robust prints to continue. Momentum in the economy should slow as the lagged effects of tighter monetary policy and financial conditions start to take hold.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The jobs report on Friday is the next big test that could show if the economy is still resilient as higher rates crimp company credit lines. Companies must pay more to borrow when interest rates rise, causing them to decrease spending and job opportunities. According to analysts' estimates, the job report on Friday could show that the U.S. economy added 225,000 jobs in June 2023, with the unemployment rate set to fall to 3.6%, down from 3.7% in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Over the past twelve months, the U.S. job report has outperformed market expectations on 11 out of 12 occasions, and another set of better-than-expected readings may reinforce hopes of a soft landing (a possibility that the U.S. economy escaped a deep recession). The U.S. economy added 339,000 jobs in May 2023, and in the chart below, we can also see how the job market performed since June 2021.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Non-Farm<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

While sentiment-based indicators show that investors are no longer in panic, a recommendation is that you should continue to take a defensive investment approach in the upcoming days because another strong job report could also pressure the Fed to do more by anchoring a 25 bp hike this month and pushing back against the timeline for rate cuts. The next Federal Reserve meeting is on July 26. The CME Group survey shows a high probability of a 25 basis point rate increase.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Economy Has Proven More Resilient Than Analysts Previously Expected. The Focus Of Investors Is Switching To The U.S. Jobs Report","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-economy-has-proven-more-resilient-than-analysts-previously-expected-the-focus-of-investors-is-switching-to-the-u-s-jobs-report","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-05 22:47:08","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12354","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12237,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-29 06:44:16","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:16","post_content":"\n

The U.S. stock market recovered this Tuesday from recent losses as upbeat economic data cooled investor worries of a possible recession that could be triggered by the Federal Reserve's aggressive interest rate hikes. In May, the U.S. economy showed positive signs, with higher-than-expected orders for essential capital goods and a significant increase in sales of new single-family homes. Moreover, consumer confidence in the U.S. reached its highest level since January 2022.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Commerce Department's durable goods report brought good news for analysts in May. Commercial aircraft\/parts saw a significant rise of 32.5%, transportation equipment increased by 3.9%, and autos\/features grew by 2.2%, leading to new orders. Non-defense capital goods, excluding aircraft, grew by 0.7%. The report indicates greater confidence in future business conditions and job availability for six months. Oren Klachkin, lead U.S. economist at Oxford Economics (OE), said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The May durable goods orders and shipments data help to fend off fears that a recession is just around the corner. However, the economic backdrop is set to become more discouraging for manufacturers as tighter lending standards and elevated interest rates weaken demand for goods.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Durable<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. economy remains steady despite the federal funds rate reaching its peak since 2007. Investors should note that good economic data may lead to a 25 basis point increase in interest rates at the Federal Reserve's July meeting. Financial markets predict a 79.4% chance of this happening. This week's important economic data includes a crucial inflation measure that could provide valuable insight into the Federal Reserve's plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Experts recommend a cautious approach when interest rates exceed 5%. This involves taking calculated risks due to the current economic climate, which is unstable and unpredictable. As interest rates increase, companies face higher borrowing costs, causing them to decrease spending, especially on hiring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Investor Jeremy Grantham warns of potential losses in the U.S. stock market and advises cautiousness. It's important to note that cryptocurrencies could also face a significant decline. This is due to the high correlation between the crypto market and U.S. equities. If the stock market experiences a downturn, the crypto-sphere may follow suit. Investors must consider this possibility.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Upbeat Economic Data Lifted Investors' Mood, But Days Ahead Could Give Cues On The Next Federal Reserve's Steps","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"upbeat-economic-data-lifted-investors-mood-but-days-ahead-could-give-cues-on-the-next-federal-reserves-steps","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-29 06:44:23","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12237","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12127,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-21 15:38:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:34","post_content":"\n

According to the latest American Association of Individual Investors(AAII) survey, Investor confidence is at a peak reaching a 19-month high. American Association of Individual Investors also reported that bearish sentiment fell to a 23-month low, and there is general expectation that the stock prices would rise over the next several months. The crypto market displayed a high correlation with U.S. equities. If a positive trend is witnessed in the stock market, the same is usually replicated in the crypto-sphere as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Surveys<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers released data on Friday, showing that consumer sentiment in the U.S. improved to a four-month high in June. This is also positive news, and the improved view reflects greater optimism after signs of easing inflation, economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season in the U.S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recent inflation data signalled that the Fed's monetary tightening is cooling the world's largest economy, and according to many analysts, the Federal Reserve is near the end of its tightening cycle. The U.S. economy remains stable even though the federal funds rate remains at its highest since 2007; the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been substantial, and the unemployment rate has remained low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

THIS TUESDAY, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that groundbreaking new American homes jumped by 21.7% in May 2023 to 1.63 million units. Building permits, considered among the housing market's most forward-looking indicators, increased more than expected in May, rising 5.2% to 1.49 million units at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Kieran Clancy, Senior Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

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\n
\"Market<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Wall Street's three main indexes continue to rise this week, while Tom Lee, head of research at Fundstrat Global Advisors, said that he believes that the U.S. stock market could be supported in September as he expects incoming inflation data to show a significant slowdown in inflationary pressures. The crypto market displayed again a high correlation with U.S. equities, and if a positive trend is witnessed in the stock market, the same is usually replicated in the crypto-sphere as well. David Russell, global head of market strategy at TradeStation, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"We're back to a spot now where bad news is something of good news. The most recent data really shows that the economy is not overheating, which puts us back in the situation where we don't have as much fear of additional rate hikes at this point in time.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5.25% to 5.5%, which is the highest level in 22 years, and analysts' bets on the Fed leaving interest rates unchanged in the September meeting stand at nearly 91%, up from 88.5% before the private payrolls and GDP data were released. However, it is important to keep in mind that Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell warned last week that the U.S. central bank is \"prepared\"<\/em> to increase interest rates further if needed as it seeks to bring inflation down to its 2% target. Because of this, investors should pay close attention to the personal consumption expenditures price index numbers, the Fed's preferred measure of inflation, and non-farm payroll numbers due this Thursday and Friday, respectively, for more clues on interest rates path.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again On Weak Jobs Data. Does Strong Buying Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-on-weak-jobs-data-does-strong-buying-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-31 23:11:14","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-31 13:11:14","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=13172","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":13092,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-08-27 20:19:45","post_date_gmt":"2023-08-27 10:19:45","post_content":"\n

The U.S. stock market's weakness in recent days is connected with robust U.S. economic growth, which suggests that the Fed will probably keep high interest rates for a longer period. Strong economic data caused investors to dial back expectations of rate cuts, although the Fed has made significant progress in cooling consumer prices.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The latest economic data showed that industrial production in the U.S. rose more than expected in July, and the Federal Reserve announced that industrial output increased by 1% in July from June's downwardly revised decline of 0.8%. The pace of growth was above the expectation for an increase of 0.3%, while strong retail sales numbers that were released this week also confirmed the U.S. economy's resilience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, the GDPNow estimate for real GDP growth that the Atlanta Fed produces rose to 5.8% for Q3 last Wednesday, up from 5.0% the prior day and 3.9% on Aug. 1. This is more than double the pace the Commerce Department first projected for the second quarter, however; many analysts see this like bad news for a stock market that is expecting the Fed to cease its tightening.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This week's main event will be the Federal Reserve's economic symposium at Jackson Hole this Friday, and Fed Chair Jerome Powell is expected to give his address on monetary policy at 10:05 a.m. ET (14:05 GMT). It is important to say that a more hawkish-than-expected message from Fed Chair Jerome Powell at Jackson Hole last August sank the S&P 500 by -3.4%, and analysts at Bank of America believe that the U.S. stock market is probably not prepared for a hawkish message from Powell again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Barring the market drop in August 2022 and a 2019 tumble, Fed chairs' Jackson Hole speeches have not been big market movers in recent years, but there may be greater scope for market gyrations this time around. Analysts at Bank of America reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Fading expectations of recession have brought the focus back to inflation and a potential tight Fed \u2026 and risk assets have started showing more signs of weakness than at any other point this year. We therefore think equities are more at risk of a macro-driven shock than the market is pricing in.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

To be sure, there's little guarantee that Powell's message will be a starkly hawkish one, but investors should keep in mind that inflation remains above Powell & Co's average annual 2% target. Fed officials repeated several times this month that they will continue with the effort to bring inflation down closer to their 2% annual target. The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5.25% to 5.5%, which is the highest level in 22 years, and in the days ahead, stock and cryptocurrency markets will be hypersensitive to any FED comments.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Wall Street's Main Indexes Remain Under Pressure On Fears That The Fed Is Likely Going To Keep High Rates For Longer","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"wall-streets-main-indexes-remain-under-pressure-on-fears-that-the-fed-is-likely-going-to-keep-high-rates-for-longer","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-27 20:19:49","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-27 10:19:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=13092","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":13011,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-08-10 23:19:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-08-10 13:19:34","post_content":"\n

Wall Street's three main indexes tumbled this Tuesday as financial stocks dropped after rating agency Moody's cut credit ratings of several small- to mid-sized U.S. banks and said it could downgrade some of the country's biggest lenders. The agency cited higher funding costs, profitability pressures, and slowing loan growth as a common theme in banks' second-quarter earnings and said the Fed's rate hikes will lower profitability as consumers take out fewer loans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rating agency Moody's cut credit ratings of Associated Banc-Corp. (ASB), Old National Bancorp (ONB), Pinnacle Financial Partners (PNFP), BOK Financial Corp. (BOKF), M&T Bank (MTB), Webster Bank (WBS), Amarillo National Bank, Commerce Bancshares (CBSH), Prosperity Bank (PB), and Fulton Financial Corp. (FULT).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The news that scared investors, even more, is the fact that rating agency Moody's assigned a negative outlook to six top-tier lenders - U.S. Bancorp (USB), State Street Corp. (STT), Truist Financial Corp. (TFC), Bank of New York Mellon (BK), Northern Trust Corp. (NTRS), and Cullen\/Frost Bankers Inc. (CFR)\u2014placing them on review for a potential future downgrade.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lenders have lost 4% so far this year, compared with a 17% rise in the benchmark S&P 500 index, while the broader S&P 500 banking sector is up just under 1% so far this year, as shares of the biggest banks like JPMorgan Chase (JPM) and Wells Fargo (WFC) have outperformed their smaller counterparts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"
Brandon Pizzurro, director of public investments at Guidestone Capital Management said<\/a>:<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

\"Anytime you see the backbone of the U.S. financial system being under watch, that gives people a lot to pause. Markets are slowly digesting that maybe the U.S. financial system is not absolutely perfect, and maybe we are going to have higher rates for a much longer period of time.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The collapse of Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank earlier this year already sparked a crisis of confidence in U.S. lenders, and the negative information is that the CBOE Market Volatility Index VIX, Wall Street's fear gauge, hit this Tuesday a two-month high at 17.71. There are currently too much important things that could easily go wrong, and it would not surprise me to see a big sell-off in financial markets if something goes wrong. The upside potential for stocks and cryptocurrencies probably remains limited for the weeks ahead, and a recommendation is that investors should continue to take a defensive investment approach.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Wall Street's Main Indexes Tumbled As Financial Stocks Dropped After Moody's Cut Credit Ratings of Several U.S. Banks","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"wall-streets-main-indexes-tumbled-as-financial-stocks-dropped-after-moodys-cut-credit-ratings-of-several-u-s-banks","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-10 23:19:38","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-10 13:19:38","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=13011","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12726,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-27 16:26:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-27 06:26:53","post_content":"\n

Investors continue to observe comments from Federal Reserve officials that could give more insight into the path of interest rates, but it is important to say that the U.S. Central Bank is widely seen raising rates by 25 basis points at its meeting this Wednesday, although the consumer prices and producer prices data provided evidence that inflation cooled more than expected.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The US economy is doing better than expected, but inflation is still higher than the target of 2%. The latest economic data, corporate earnings, solid job market, and consumer sentiment cemented this expectation, and according to analysts, the U.S. economy still has some vibrancy, which gives the Fed cover to continue its rate hike policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points on July 26. Still, there is also a significant chance that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. The federal funds rate is at 5% to 5.25%, the highest since 2007, but financial and tech stock gains still supported Wall Street shares.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Fed.<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

With higher interest rates, companies need to spend more money to borrow money to invest in growth, but as long the U.S. economy is not in recession and the corporate profit remains healthy, there is no risk of a bigger sell-off on the stock market. The recent rally in the cryptocurrency market was also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The S&P 500 is up to nearly 20% year-to-date, while the Nasdaq has advanced about 37%, and both indexes are on track for their fifth straight month of gains. Corporate earnings so far are coming in pretty well, and Alphabet (Google), Microsoft, Visa, AT&T, Coca-Cola, Meta, Boeing, Procter & Gamble, Exxon Mobil, McDonald's, Ford, and Intel are among the companies scheduled to report quarterly results by the end of this trading week.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy. The International Monetary Fund raised its global economic outlook for 2023 due to strong activity in the services sector in the first quarter.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank May Raise Rates By 25 BPS; How Will This Impact Financial And Crypto Markets?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-may-raise-rates-by-25-bps-how-will-this-impact-financial-and-crypto-markets","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-27 16:27:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-27 06:27:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12726","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12610,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-19 15:44:42","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:42","post_content":"\n

Shares on Wall Street continue to be supported, led by gains in financial and technology stocks, with investors looking toward the next round of quarterly results as earnings season gets underway. The S&P 500 is up to nearly 19% year-to-date, while the Nasdaq has advanced about 37%, and both indexes are on track for their fifth straight month of gains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Some of the largest U.S. banks, including JPMorgan Chase and Wells Fargo, reported a profit boost from higher rates, pointing towards a resilient economy. This Tuesday, Bank of America posted a 20% surge in second-quarter profit, and it is also important to mention that Morgan Stanley's stock had today the most significant single-day gain since late 2020, after its second-quarter profit and revenue beat analyst expectations on a boost from its wealth management business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to Refinitiv data, of the 30 companies in the S&P 500 that reported earnings last week, 80% beat analyst expectations. Corporate profits are emerging as the big driver of what the market is likely to do in the near term, but if earnings results fall short of expectations, the stock market's reaction could be severe. Chris Zaccarelli, chief investment officer for Independent Advisor Alliance, added<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Investors are looking at the fact that the economy has been resilient, and corporate earnings so far are coming in pretty well. The tech-heavy Nasdaq led Wall Street higher, supported by mega-cap growth stocks including Apple and Tesla, ahead of quarterly results from industry heavyweights through the week.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Megacaps<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Goldman Sachs, International Business Machines (IBM), Netflix, Tesla, Blackstone (BX), Johnson & Johnson, Philip Morris International (PM), Newmont (NEM), and American Express are among the companies scheduled to report quarterly results by the end of this trading week. A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street even more, and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy and strong.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the days ahead, the U.S. stock market will also be hypersensitive to FED comments. However, prices and producer prices data provided evidence that inflation cooled more than expected, stoking hopes that the U.S. Federal Reserve will soon end its monetary policy tightening. However, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points on July 26. Still, there is also a great chance that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings.<\/p>\n","post_title":"U.S. Stocks Are Advancing At The Start Of The Earnings Season; Here's What To Expect","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"u-s-stocks-are-advancing-at-the-start-of-the-earnings-season-heres-what-to-expect","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-19 15:44:48","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12610","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12490,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-13 21:13:24","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:24","post_content":"\n

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released its June inflation report this Wednesday, and the report showed that the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which measures prices that urban consumers pay for a basket of goods and services, rose 0.2% in June compared with May's 0.1% growth, but landed below the 0.3% consensus. In the 12 months through June, the consumer prices (CPI) advanced only 3.0%, and it is important to say that this was the smallest year-on-year increase since March 2021 and followed a 4.0% rise in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Consumer<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The CPI reading has cooled considerably since peeking out around 9% in June 2022, which suggests that the Fed's campaign to quell inflation is working well. Another positive information is that a core measure that strips out volatile food and energy prices was 0.2% every month in June, halving from the 0.4% growth rate in each of the three months prior.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Fed may debate whether to hike the policy rate further based on the new inflation data. However, Ryan Sweet, the Chief US Economist at Oxford Economics, thinks that the cooler-than-expected inflation report will not stop the Federal Reserve from raising its policy rate by 25 basis points at its meeting this month. According to a survey from the CME Group, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points at the next Federal Reserve meeting scheduled for July 26.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Wall Street is in celebration mode after a sharper-than-expected deceleration of inflation, but it remains above Powell & Co's average annual 2% target. However, there is a great probability that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. Brian Jacobsen, chief economist at Annex Wealth Management, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"U.S. consumer prices rose modestly in June and logged their smallest annual increase in more than two years as inflation continued to subside. Even though the Federal Reserve has probably already talked itself into a corner needing to hike at the July meeting, it may be the last one for this hiking cycle.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Starting in March 2022, the U.S. Federal Reserve has enacted ten consecutive interest rate increases totaling five percentage points, and the next Federal Reserve policy meeting will be at the center of attention in July 2023. The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5% to 5.25%, which is the highest level since the 2006 year, and in the days ahead, stock and cryptocurrency markets will be hypersensitive to any FED comments.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Inflation Cooled More Than Expected In June. Does This Indicate That The Federal Reserve Is Near The End Of Its Rapid Interest Rate Hikes?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"inflation-cooled-more-than-expected-in-june-does-this-indicate-that-the-federal-reserve-is-near-the-end-of-its-rapid-interest-rate-hikes","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-13 21:13:36","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12490","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12354,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-05 22:47:04","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:04","post_content":"\n

Despite the high federal funds rate, durable goods orders exceeded expectations, which caused investors to remain unconcerned about a recession, surprising analysts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 12, the central bank's bank term funding program announcement reinforced faith in the banking system, and investors were content to see additional signs of decreased inflation. The stock market tracked with the economy in the first half of 2023, surprising the upside and leaving investors to wonder if the resilience can continue. The current rally in the cryptocurrency market is also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity. Bank of America U.S. economist Michael Gapen said<\/a> on Friday:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The economy has proven more resilient than we previously expected, owing largely to consumption. However, we do not expect such robust prints to continue. Momentum in the economy should slow as the lagged effects of tighter monetary policy and financial conditions start to take hold.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The jobs report on Friday is the next big test that could show if the economy is still resilient as higher rates crimp company credit lines. Companies must pay more to borrow when interest rates rise, causing them to decrease spending and job opportunities. According to analysts' estimates, the job report on Friday could show that the U.S. economy added 225,000 jobs in June 2023, with the unemployment rate set to fall to 3.6%, down from 3.7% in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Over the past twelve months, the U.S. job report has outperformed market expectations on 11 out of 12 occasions, and another set of better-than-expected readings may reinforce hopes of a soft landing (a possibility that the U.S. economy escaped a deep recession). The U.S. economy added 339,000 jobs in May 2023, and in the chart below, we can also see how the job market performed since June 2021.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Non-Farm<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

While sentiment-based indicators show that investors are no longer in panic, a recommendation is that you should continue to take a defensive investment approach in the upcoming days because another strong job report could also pressure the Fed to do more by anchoring a 25 bp hike this month and pushing back against the timeline for rate cuts. The next Federal Reserve meeting is on July 26. The CME Group survey shows a high probability of a 25 basis point rate increase.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Economy Has Proven More Resilient Than Analysts Previously Expected. The Focus Of Investors Is Switching To The U.S. Jobs Report","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-economy-has-proven-more-resilient-than-analysts-previously-expected-the-focus-of-investors-is-switching-to-the-u-s-jobs-report","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-05 22:47:08","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12354","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12237,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-29 06:44:16","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:16","post_content":"\n

The U.S. stock market recovered this Tuesday from recent losses as upbeat economic data cooled investor worries of a possible recession that could be triggered by the Federal Reserve's aggressive interest rate hikes. In May, the U.S. economy showed positive signs, with higher-than-expected orders for essential capital goods and a significant increase in sales of new single-family homes. Moreover, consumer confidence in the U.S. reached its highest level since January 2022.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Commerce Department's durable goods report brought good news for analysts in May. Commercial aircraft\/parts saw a significant rise of 32.5%, transportation equipment increased by 3.9%, and autos\/features grew by 2.2%, leading to new orders. Non-defense capital goods, excluding aircraft, grew by 0.7%. The report indicates greater confidence in future business conditions and job availability for six months. Oren Klachkin, lead U.S. economist at Oxford Economics (OE), said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The May durable goods orders and shipments data help to fend off fears that a recession is just around the corner. However, the economic backdrop is set to become more discouraging for manufacturers as tighter lending standards and elevated interest rates weaken demand for goods.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Durable<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. economy remains steady despite the federal funds rate reaching its peak since 2007. Investors should note that good economic data may lead to a 25 basis point increase in interest rates at the Federal Reserve's July meeting. Financial markets predict a 79.4% chance of this happening. This week's important economic data includes a crucial inflation measure that could provide valuable insight into the Federal Reserve's plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Experts recommend a cautious approach when interest rates exceed 5%. This involves taking calculated risks due to the current economic climate, which is unstable and unpredictable. As interest rates increase, companies face higher borrowing costs, causing them to decrease spending, especially on hiring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Investor Jeremy Grantham warns of potential losses in the U.S. stock market and advises cautiousness. It's important to note that cryptocurrencies could also face a significant decline. This is due to the high correlation between the crypto market and U.S. equities. If the stock market experiences a downturn, the crypto-sphere may follow suit. Investors must consider this possibility.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Upbeat Economic Data Lifted Investors' Mood, But Days Ahead Could Give Cues On The Next Federal Reserve's Steps","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"upbeat-economic-data-lifted-investors-mood-but-days-ahead-could-give-cues-on-the-next-federal-reserves-steps","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-29 06:44:23","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12237","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12127,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-21 15:38:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:34","post_content":"\n

According to the latest American Association of Individual Investors(AAII) survey, Investor confidence is at a peak reaching a 19-month high. American Association of Individual Investors also reported that bearish sentiment fell to a 23-month low, and there is general expectation that the stock prices would rise over the next several months. The crypto market displayed a high correlation with U.S. equities. If a positive trend is witnessed in the stock market, the same is usually replicated in the crypto-sphere as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Surveys<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers released data on Friday, showing that consumer sentiment in the U.S. improved to a four-month high in June. This is also positive news, and the improved view reflects greater optimism after signs of easing inflation, economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season in the U.S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recent inflation data signalled that the Fed's monetary tightening is cooling the world's largest economy, and according to many analysts, the Federal Reserve is near the end of its tightening cycle. The U.S. economy remains stable even though the federal funds rate remains at its highest since 2007; the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been substantial, and the unemployment rate has remained low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

THIS TUESDAY, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that groundbreaking new American homes jumped by 21.7% in May 2023 to 1.63 million units. Building permits, considered among the housing market's most forward-looking indicators, increased more than expected in May, rising 5.2% to 1.49 million units at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Kieran Clancy, Senior Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

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\n

The U.S. job openings data dipped to levels not seen since early 2021 as the Labor Department's Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey (JOLTS) showed the number of job openings stood at 8.827 million in July, falling for the third straight month. In the meantime, fresh gross domestic product (GDP) numbers showed the U.S. economy expanded 2.1% in the second quarter, slower than a preliminary estimate of a 2.4% growth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Market<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Wall Street's three main indexes continue to rise this week, while Tom Lee, head of research at Fundstrat Global Advisors, said that he believes that the U.S. stock market could be supported in September as he expects incoming inflation data to show a significant slowdown in inflationary pressures. The crypto market displayed again a high correlation with U.S. equities, and if a positive trend is witnessed in the stock market, the same is usually replicated in the crypto-sphere as well. David Russell, global head of market strategy at TradeStation, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"We're back to a spot now where bad news is something of good news. The most recent data really shows that the economy is not overheating, which puts us back in the situation where we don't have as much fear of additional rate hikes at this point in time.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5.25% to 5.5%, which is the highest level in 22 years, and analysts' bets on the Fed leaving interest rates unchanged in the September meeting stand at nearly 91%, up from 88.5% before the private payrolls and GDP data were released. However, it is important to keep in mind that Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell warned last week that the U.S. central bank is \"prepared\"<\/em> to increase interest rates further if needed as it seeks to bring inflation down to its 2% target. Because of this, investors should pay close attention to the personal consumption expenditures price index numbers, the Fed's preferred measure of inflation, and non-farm payroll numbers due this Thursday and Friday, respectively, for more clues on interest rates path.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again On Weak Jobs Data. Does Strong Buying Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-on-weak-jobs-data-does-strong-buying-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-31 23:11:14","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-31 13:11:14","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=13172","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":13092,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-08-27 20:19:45","post_date_gmt":"2023-08-27 10:19:45","post_content":"\n

The U.S. stock market's weakness in recent days is connected with robust U.S. economic growth, which suggests that the Fed will probably keep high interest rates for a longer period. Strong economic data caused investors to dial back expectations of rate cuts, although the Fed has made significant progress in cooling consumer prices.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The latest economic data showed that industrial production in the U.S. rose more than expected in July, and the Federal Reserve announced that industrial output increased by 1% in July from June's downwardly revised decline of 0.8%. The pace of growth was above the expectation for an increase of 0.3%, while strong retail sales numbers that were released this week also confirmed the U.S. economy's resilience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, the GDPNow estimate for real GDP growth that the Atlanta Fed produces rose to 5.8% for Q3 last Wednesday, up from 5.0% the prior day and 3.9% on Aug. 1. This is more than double the pace the Commerce Department first projected for the second quarter, however; many analysts see this like bad news for a stock market that is expecting the Fed to cease its tightening.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This week's main event will be the Federal Reserve's economic symposium at Jackson Hole this Friday, and Fed Chair Jerome Powell is expected to give his address on monetary policy at 10:05 a.m. ET (14:05 GMT). It is important to say that a more hawkish-than-expected message from Fed Chair Jerome Powell at Jackson Hole last August sank the S&P 500 by -3.4%, and analysts at Bank of America believe that the U.S. stock market is probably not prepared for a hawkish message from Powell again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Barring the market drop in August 2022 and a 2019 tumble, Fed chairs' Jackson Hole speeches have not been big market movers in recent years, but there may be greater scope for market gyrations this time around. Analysts at Bank of America reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Fading expectations of recession have brought the focus back to inflation and a potential tight Fed \u2026 and risk assets have started showing more signs of weakness than at any other point this year. We therefore think equities are more at risk of a macro-driven shock than the market is pricing in.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

To be sure, there's little guarantee that Powell's message will be a starkly hawkish one, but investors should keep in mind that inflation remains above Powell & Co's average annual 2% target. Fed officials repeated several times this month that they will continue with the effort to bring inflation down closer to their 2% annual target. The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5.25% to 5.5%, which is the highest level in 22 years, and in the days ahead, stock and cryptocurrency markets will be hypersensitive to any FED comments.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Wall Street's Main Indexes Remain Under Pressure On Fears That The Fed Is Likely Going To Keep High Rates For Longer","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"wall-streets-main-indexes-remain-under-pressure-on-fears-that-the-fed-is-likely-going-to-keep-high-rates-for-longer","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-27 20:19:49","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-27 10:19:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=13092","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":13011,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-08-10 23:19:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-08-10 13:19:34","post_content":"\n

Wall Street's three main indexes tumbled this Tuesday as financial stocks dropped after rating agency Moody's cut credit ratings of several small- to mid-sized U.S. banks and said it could downgrade some of the country's biggest lenders. The agency cited higher funding costs, profitability pressures, and slowing loan growth as a common theme in banks' second-quarter earnings and said the Fed's rate hikes will lower profitability as consumers take out fewer loans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rating agency Moody's cut credit ratings of Associated Banc-Corp. (ASB), Old National Bancorp (ONB), Pinnacle Financial Partners (PNFP), BOK Financial Corp. (BOKF), M&T Bank (MTB), Webster Bank (WBS), Amarillo National Bank, Commerce Bancshares (CBSH), Prosperity Bank (PB), and Fulton Financial Corp. (FULT).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The news that scared investors, even more, is the fact that rating agency Moody's assigned a negative outlook to six top-tier lenders - U.S. Bancorp (USB), State Street Corp. (STT), Truist Financial Corp. (TFC), Bank of New York Mellon (BK), Northern Trust Corp. (NTRS), and Cullen\/Frost Bankers Inc. (CFR)\u2014placing them on review for a potential future downgrade.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lenders have lost 4% so far this year, compared with a 17% rise in the benchmark S&P 500 index, while the broader S&P 500 banking sector is up just under 1% so far this year, as shares of the biggest banks like JPMorgan Chase (JPM) and Wells Fargo (WFC) have outperformed their smaller counterparts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"
Brandon Pizzurro, director of public investments at Guidestone Capital Management said<\/a>:<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

\"Anytime you see the backbone of the U.S. financial system being under watch, that gives people a lot to pause. Markets are slowly digesting that maybe the U.S. financial system is not absolutely perfect, and maybe we are going to have higher rates for a much longer period of time.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The collapse of Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank earlier this year already sparked a crisis of confidence in U.S. lenders, and the negative information is that the CBOE Market Volatility Index VIX, Wall Street's fear gauge, hit this Tuesday a two-month high at 17.71. There are currently too much important things that could easily go wrong, and it would not surprise me to see a big sell-off in financial markets if something goes wrong. The upside potential for stocks and cryptocurrencies probably remains limited for the weeks ahead, and a recommendation is that investors should continue to take a defensive investment approach.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Wall Street's Main Indexes Tumbled As Financial Stocks Dropped After Moody's Cut Credit Ratings of Several U.S. Banks","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"wall-streets-main-indexes-tumbled-as-financial-stocks-dropped-after-moodys-cut-credit-ratings-of-several-u-s-banks","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-10 23:19:38","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-10 13:19:38","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=13011","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12726,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-27 16:26:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-27 06:26:53","post_content":"\n

Investors continue to observe comments from Federal Reserve officials that could give more insight into the path of interest rates, but it is important to say that the U.S. Central Bank is widely seen raising rates by 25 basis points at its meeting this Wednesday, although the consumer prices and producer prices data provided evidence that inflation cooled more than expected.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The US economy is doing better than expected, but inflation is still higher than the target of 2%. The latest economic data, corporate earnings, solid job market, and consumer sentiment cemented this expectation, and according to analysts, the U.S. economy still has some vibrancy, which gives the Fed cover to continue its rate hike policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points on July 26. Still, there is also a significant chance that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. The federal funds rate is at 5% to 5.25%, the highest since 2007, but financial and tech stock gains still supported Wall Street shares.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Fed.<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

With higher interest rates, companies need to spend more money to borrow money to invest in growth, but as long the U.S. economy is not in recession and the corporate profit remains healthy, there is no risk of a bigger sell-off on the stock market. The recent rally in the cryptocurrency market was also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The S&P 500 is up to nearly 20% year-to-date, while the Nasdaq has advanced about 37%, and both indexes are on track for their fifth straight month of gains. Corporate earnings so far are coming in pretty well, and Alphabet (Google), Microsoft, Visa, AT&T, Coca-Cola, Meta, Boeing, Procter & Gamble, Exxon Mobil, McDonald's, Ford, and Intel are among the companies scheduled to report quarterly results by the end of this trading week.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy. The International Monetary Fund raised its global economic outlook for 2023 due to strong activity in the services sector in the first quarter.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank May Raise Rates By 25 BPS; How Will This Impact Financial And Crypto Markets?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-may-raise-rates-by-25-bps-how-will-this-impact-financial-and-crypto-markets","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-27 16:27:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-27 06:27:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12726","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12610,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-19 15:44:42","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:42","post_content":"\n

Shares on Wall Street continue to be supported, led by gains in financial and technology stocks, with investors looking toward the next round of quarterly results as earnings season gets underway. The S&P 500 is up to nearly 19% year-to-date, while the Nasdaq has advanced about 37%, and both indexes are on track for their fifth straight month of gains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Some of the largest U.S. banks, including JPMorgan Chase and Wells Fargo, reported a profit boost from higher rates, pointing towards a resilient economy. This Tuesday, Bank of America posted a 20% surge in second-quarter profit, and it is also important to mention that Morgan Stanley's stock had today the most significant single-day gain since late 2020, after its second-quarter profit and revenue beat analyst expectations on a boost from its wealth management business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to Refinitiv data, of the 30 companies in the S&P 500 that reported earnings last week, 80% beat analyst expectations. Corporate profits are emerging as the big driver of what the market is likely to do in the near term, but if earnings results fall short of expectations, the stock market's reaction could be severe. Chris Zaccarelli, chief investment officer for Independent Advisor Alliance, added<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Investors are looking at the fact that the economy has been resilient, and corporate earnings so far are coming in pretty well. The tech-heavy Nasdaq led Wall Street higher, supported by mega-cap growth stocks including Apple and Tesla, ahead of quarterly results from industry heavyweights through the week.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Megacaps<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Goldman Sachs, International Business Machines (IBM), Netflix, Tesla, Blackstone (BX), Johnson & Johnson, Philip Morris International (PM), Newmont (NEM), and American Express are among the companies scheduled to report quarterly results by the end of this trading week. A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street even more, and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy and strong.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the days ahead, the U.S. stock market will also be hypersensitive to FED comments. However, prices and producer prices data provided evidence that inflation cooled more than expected, stoking hopes that the U.S. Federal Reserve will soon end its monetary policy tightening. However, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points on July 26. Still, there is also a great chance that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings.<\/p>\n","post_title":"U.S. Stocks Are Advancing At The Start Of The Earnings Season; Here's What To Expect","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"u-s-stocks-are-advancing-at-the-start-of-the-earnings-season-heres-what-to-expect","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-19 15:44:48","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12610","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12490,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-13 21:13:24","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:24","post_content":"\n

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released its June inflation report this Wednesday, and the report showed that the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which measures prices that urban consumers pay for a basket of goods and services, rose 0.2% in June compared with May's 0.1% growth, but landed below the 0.3% consensus. In the 12 months through June, the consumer prices (CPI) advanced only 3.0%, and it is important to say that this was the smallest year-on-year increase since March 2021 and followed a 4.0% rise in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Consumer<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The CPI reading has cooled considerably since peeking out around 9% in June 2022, which suggests that the Fed's campaign to quell inflation is working well. Another positive information is that a core measure that strips out volatile food and energy prices was 0.2% every month in June, halving from the 0.4% growth rate in each of the three months prior.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Fed may debate whether to hike the policy rate further based on the new inflation data. However, Ryan Sweet, the Chief US Economist at Oxford Economics, thinks that the cooler-than-expected inflation report will not stop the Federal Reserve from raising its policy rate by 25 basis points at its meeting this month. According to a survey from the CME Group, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points at the next Federal Reserve meeting scheduled for July 26.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Wall Street is in celebration mode after a sharper-than-expected deceleration of inflation, but it remains above Powell & Co's average annual 2% target. However, there is a great probability that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. Brian Jacobsen, chief economist at Annex Wealth Management, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"U.S. consumer prices rose modestly in June and logged their smallest annual increase in more than two years as inflation continued to subside. Even though the Federal Reserve has probably already talked itself into a corner needing to hike at the July meeting, it may be the last one for this hiking cycle.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Starting in March 2022, the U.S. Federal Reserve has enacted ten consecutive interest rate increases totaling five percentage points, and the next Federal Reserve policy meeting will be at the center of attention in July 2023. The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5% to 5.25%, which is the highest level since the 2006 year, and in the days ahead, stock and cryptocurrency markets will be hypersensitive to any FED comments.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Inflation Cooled More Than Expected In June. Does This Indicate That The Federal Reserve Is Near The End Of Its Rapid Interest Rate Hikes?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"inflation-cooled-more-than-expected-in-june-does-this-indicate-that-the-federal-reserve-is-near-the-end-of-its-rapid-interest-rate-hikes","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-13 21:13:36","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12490","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12354,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-05 22:47:04","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:04","post_content":"\n

Despite the high federal funds rate, durable goods orders exceeded expectations, which caused investors to remain unconcerned about a recession, surprising analysts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 12, the central bank's bank term funding program announcement reinforced faith in the banking system, and investors were content to see additional signs of decreased inflation. The stock market tracked with the economy in the first half of 2023, surprising the upside and leaving investors to wonder if the resilience can continue. The current rally in the cryptocurrency market is also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity. Bank of America U.S. economist Michael Gapen said<\/a> on Friday:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The economy has proven more resilient than we previously expected, owing largely to consumption. However, we do not expect such robust prints to continue. Momentum in the economy should slow as the lagged effects of tighter monetary policy and financial conditions start to take hold.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The jobs report on Friday is the next big test that could show if the economy is still resilient as higher rates crimp company credit lines. Companies must pay more to borrow when interest rates rise, causing them to decrease spending and job opportunities. According to analysts' estimates, the job report on Friday could show that the U.S. economy added 225,000 jobs in June 2023, with the unemployment rate set to fall to 3.6%, down from 3.7% in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Over the past twelve months, the U.S. job report has outperformed market expectations on 11 out of 12 occasions, and another set of better-than-expected readings may reinforce hopes of a soft landing (a possibility that the U.S. economy escaped a deep recession). The U.S. economy added 339,000 jobs in May 2023, and in the chart below, we can also see how the job market performed since June 2021.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Non-Farm<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

While sentiment-based indicators show that investors are no longer in panic, a recommendation is that you should continue to take a defensive investment approach in the upcoming days because another strong job report could also pressure the Fed to do more by anchoring a 25 bp hike this month and pushing back against the timeline for rate cuts. The next Federal Reserve meeting is on July 26. The CME Group survey shows a high probability of a 25 basis point rate increase.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Economy Has Proven More Resilient Than Analysts Previously Expected. The Focus Of Investors Is Switching To The U.S. Jobs Report","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-economy-has-proven-more-resilient-than-analysts-previously-expected-the-focus-of-investors-is-switching-to-the-u-s-jobs-report","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-05 22:47:08","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12354","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12237,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-29 06:44:16","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:16","post_content":"\n

The U.S. stock market recovered this Tuesday from recent losses as upbeat economic data cooled investor worries of a possible recession that could be triggered by the Federal Reserve's aggressive interest rate hikes. In May, the U.S. economy showed positive signs, with higher-than-expected orders for essential capital goods and a significant increase in sales of new single-family homes. Moreover, consumer confidence in the U.S. reached its highest level since January 2022.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Commerce Department's durable goods report brought good news for analysts in May. Commercial aircraft\/parts saw a significant rise of 32.5%, transportation equipment increased by 3.9%, and autos\/features grew by 2.2%, leading to new orders. Non-defense capital goods, excluding aircraft, grew by 0.7%. The report indicates greater confidence in future business conditions and job availability for six months. Oren Klachkin, lead U.S. economist at Oxford Economics (OE), said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The May durable goods orders and shipments data help to fend off fears that a recession is just around the corner. However, the economic backdrop is set to become more discouraging for manufacturers as tighter lending standards and elevated interest rates weaken demand for goods.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Durable<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. economy remains steady despite the federal funds rate reaching its peak since 2007. Investors should note that good economic data may lead to a 25 basis point increase in interest rates at the Federal Reserve's July meeting. Financial markets predict a 79.4% chance of this happening. This week's important economic data includes a crucial inflation measure that could provide valuable insight into the Federal Reserve's plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Experts recommend a cautious approach when interest rates exceed 5%. This involves taking calculated risks due to the current economic climate, which is unstable and unpredictable. As interest rates increase, companies face higher borrowing costs, causing them to decrease spending, especially on hiring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Investor Jeremy Grantham warns of potential losses in the U.S. stock market and advises cautiousness. It's important to note that cryptocurrencies could also face a significant decline. This is due to the high correlation between the crypto market and U.S. equities. If the stock market experiences a downturn, the crypto-sphere may follow suit. Investors must consider this possibility.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Upbeat Economic Data Lifted Investors' Mood, But Days Ahead Could Give Cues On The Next Federal Reserve's Steps","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"upbeat-economic-data-lifted-investors-mood-but-days-ahead-could-give-cues-on-the-next-federal-reserves-steps","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-29 06:44:23","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12237","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12127,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-21 15:38:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:34","post_content":"\n

According to the latest American Association of Individual Investors(AAII) survey, Investor confidence is at a peak reaching a 19-month high. American Association of Individual Investors also reported that bearish sentiment fell to a 23-month low, and there is general expectation that the stock prices would rise over the next several months. The crypto market displayed a high correlation with U.S. equities. If a positive trend is witnessed in the stock market, the same is usually replicated in the crypto-sphere as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Surveys<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers released data on Friday, showing that consumer sentiment in the U.S. improved to a four-month high in June. This is also positive news, and the improved view reflects greater optimism after signs of easing inflation, economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season in the U.S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recent inflation data signalled that the Fed's monetary tightening is cooling the world's largest economy, and according to many analysts, the Federal Reserve is near the end of its tightening cycle. The U.S. economy remains stable even though the federal funds rate remains at its highest since 2007; the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been substantial, and the unemployment rate has remained low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

THIS TUESDAY, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that groundbreaking new American homes jumped by 21.7% in May 2023 to 1.63 million units. Building permits, considered among the housing market's most forward-looking indicators, increased more than expected in May, rising 5.2% to 1.49 million units at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Kieran Clancy, Senior Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

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Investor optimism is rising again after the U.S. employment report that was released this Wednesday showed that the U.S. private sector's job growth decelerated more than expected in August. According to the report, private employment grew by 177,000 this month, below the 195,000 increase expected, driven by a sharp slowdown in the leisure and hospitality sector. On Tuesday,  the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that U.S. job openings fell in July, which also boosted optimism on the U.S. stock market as fresh economic data indicated a cooling U.S. economy, keeping alive hopes the Federal Reserve could pause rate hikes in September.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. job openings data dipped to levels not seen since early 2021 as the Labor Department's Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey (JOLTS) showed the number of job openings stood at 8.827 million in July, falling for the third straight month. In the meantime, fresh gross domestic product (GDP) numbers showed the U.S. economy expanded 2.1% in the second quarter, slower than a preliminary estimate of a 2.4% growth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Market<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Wall Street's three main indexes continue to rise this week, while Tom Lee, head of research at Fundstrat Global Advisors, said that he believes that the U.S. stock market could be supported in September as he expects incoming inflation data to show a significant slowdown in inflationary pressures. The crypto market displayed again a high correlation with U.S. equities, and if a positive trend is witnessed in the stock market, the same is usually replicated in the crypto-sphere as well. David Russell, global head of market strategy at TradeStation, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"We're back to a spot now where bad news is something of good news. The most recent data really shows that the economy is not overheating, which puts us back in the situation where we don't have as much fear of additional rate hikes at this point in time.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5.25% to 5.5%, which is the highest level in 22 years, and analysts' bets on the Fed leaving interest rates unchanged in the September meeting stand at nearly 91%, up from 88.5% before the private payrolls and GDP data were released. However, it is important to keep in mind that Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell warned last week that the U.S. central bank is \"prepared\"<\/em> to increase interest rates further if needed as it seeks to bring inflation down to its 2% target. Because of this, investors should pay close attention to the personal consumption expenditures price index numbers, the Fed's preferred measure of inflation, and non-farm payroll numbers due this Thursday and Friday, respectively, for more clues on interest rates path.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again On Weak Jobs Data. Does Strong Buying Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-on-weak-jobs-data-does-strong-buying-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-31 23:11:14","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-31 13:11:14","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=13172","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":13092,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-08-27 20:19:45","post_date_gmt":"2023-08-27 10:19:45","post_content":"\n

The U.S. stock market's weakness in recent days is connected with robust U.S. economic growth, which suggests that the Fed will probably keep high interest rates for a longer period. Strong economic data caused investors to dial back expectations of rate cuts, although the Fed has made significant progress in cooling consumer prices.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The latest economic data showed that industrial production in the U.S. rose more than expected in July, and the Federal Reserve announced that industrial output increased by 1% in July from June's downwardly revised decline of 0.8%. The pace of growth was above the expectation for an increase of 0.3%, while strong retail sales numbers that were released this week also confirmed the U.S. economy's resilience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, the GDPNow estimate for real GDP growth that the Atlanta Fed produces rose to 5.8% for Q3 last Wednesday, up from 5.0% the prior day and 3.9% on Aug. 1. This is more than double the pace the Commerce Department first projected for the second quarter, however; many analysts see this like bad news for a stock market that is expecting the Fed to cease its tightening.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This week's main event will be the Federal Reserve's economic symposium at Jackson Hole this Friday, and Fed Chair Jerome Powell is expected to give his address on monetary policy at 10:05 a.m. ET (14:05 GMT). It is important to say that a more hawkish-than-expected message from Fed Chair Jerome Powell at Jackson Hole last August sank the S&P 500 by -3.4%, and analysts at Bank of America believe that the U.S. stock market is probably not prepared for a hawkish message from Powell again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Barring the market drop in August 2022 and a 2019 tumble, Fed chairs' Jackson Hole speeches have not been big market movers in recent years, but there may be greater scope for market gyrations this time around. Analysts at Bank of America reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Fading expectations of recession have brought the focus back to inflation and a potential tight Fed \u2026 and risk assets have started showing more signs of weakness than at any other point this year. We therefore think equities are more at risk of a macro-driven shock than the market is pricing in.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

To be sure, there's little guarantee that Powell's message will be a starkly hawkish one, but investors should keep in mind that inflation remains above Powell & Co's average annual 2% target. Fed officials repeated several times this month that they will continue with the effort to bring inflation down closer to their 2% annual target. The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5.25% to 5.5%, which is the highest level in 22 years, and in the days ahead, stock and cryptocurrency markets will be hypersensitive to any FED comments.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Wall Street's Main Indexes Remain Under Pressure On Fears That The Fed Is Likely Going To Keep High Rates For Longer","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"wall-streets-main-indexes-remain-under-pressure-on-fears-that-the-fed-is-likely-going-to-keep-high-rates-for-longer","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-27 20:19:49","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-27 10:19:49","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=13092","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":13011,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-08-10 23:19:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-08-10 13:19:34","post_content":"\n

Wall Street's three main indexes tumbled this Tuesday as financial stocks dropped after rating agency Moody's cut credit ratings of several small- to mid-sized U.S. banks and said it could downgrade some of the country's biggest lenders. The agency cited higher funding costs, profitability pressures, and slowing loan growth as a common theme in banks' second-quarter earnings and said the Fed's rate hikes will lower profitability as consumers take out fewer loans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rating agency Moody's cut credit ratings of Associated Banc-Corp. (ASB), Old National Bancorp (ONB), Pinnacle Financial Partners (PNFP), BOK Financial Corp. (BOKF), M&T Bank (MTB), Webster Bank (WBS), Amarillo National Bank, Commerce Bancshares (CBSH), Prosperity Bank (PB), and Fulton Financial Corp. (FULT).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The news that scared investors, even more, is the fact that rating agency Moody's assigned a negative outlook to six top-tier lenders - U.S. Bancorp (USB), State Street Corp. (STT), Truist Financial Corp. (TFC), Bank of New York Mellon (BK), Northern Trust Corp. (NTRS), and Cullen\/Frost Bankers Inc. (CFR)\u2014placing them on review for a potential future downgrade.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lenders have lost 4% so far this year, compared with a 17% rise in the benchmark S&P 500 index, while the broader S&P 500 banking sector is up just under 1% so far this year, as shares of the biggest banks like JPMorgan Chase (JPM) and Wells Fargo (WFC) have outperformed their smaller counterparts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"\"
Brandon Pizzurro, director of public investments at Guidestone Capital Management said<\/a>:<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

\"Anytime you see the backbone of the U.S. financial system being under watch, that gives people a lot to pause. Markets are slowly digesting that maybe the U.S. financial system is not absolutely perfect, and maybe we are going to have higher rates for a much longer period of time.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The collapse of Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank earlier this year already sparked a crisis of confidence in U.S. lenders, and the negative information is that the CBOE Market Volatility Index VIX, Wall Street's fear gauge, hit this Tuesday a two-month high at 17.71. There are currently too much important things that could easily go wrong, and it would not surprise me to see a big sell-off in financial markets if something goes wrong. The upside potential for stocks and cryptocurrencies probably remains limited for the weeks ahead, and a recommendation is that investors should continue to take a defensive investment approach.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Wall Street's Main Indexes Tumbled As Financial Stocks Dropped After Moody's Cut Credit Ratings of Several U.S. Banks","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"wall-streets-main-indexes-tumbled-as-financial-stocks-dropped-after-moodys-cut-credit-ratings-of-several-u-s-banks","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-08-10 23:19:38","post_modified_gmt":"2023-08-10 13:19:38","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=13011","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12726,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-27 16:26:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-27 06:26:53","post_content":"\n

Investors continue to observe comments from Federal Reserve officials that could give more insight into the path of interest rates, but it is important to say that the U.S. Central Bank is widely seen raising rates by 25 basis points at its meeting this Wednesday, although the consumer prices and producer prices data provided evidence that inflation cooled more than expected.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The US economy is doing better than expected, but inflation is still higher than the target of 2%. The latest economic data, corporate earnings, solid job market, and consumer sentiment cemented this expectation, and according to analysts, the U.S. economy still has some vibrancy, which gives the Fed cover to continue its rate hike policy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points on July 26. Still, there is also a significant chance that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. The federal funds rate is at 5% to 5.25%, the highest since 2007, but financial and tech stock gains still supported Wall Street shares.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Fed.<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

With higher interest rates, companies need to spend more money to borrow money to invest in growth, but as long the U.S. economy is not in recession and the corporate profit remains healthy, there is no risk of a bigger sell-off on the stock market. The recent rally in the cryptocurrency market was also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The S&P 500 is up to nearly 20% year-to-date, while the Nasdaq has advanced about 37%, and both indexes are on track for their fifth straight month of gains. Corporate earnings so far are coming in pretty well, and Alphabet (Google), Microsoft, Visa, AT&T, Coca-Cola, Meta, Boeing, Procter & Gamble, Exxon Mobil, McDonald's, Ford, and Intel are among the companies scheduled to report quarterly results by the end of this trading week.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy. The International Monetary Fund raised its global economic outlook for 2023 due to strong activity in the services sector in the first quarter.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank May Raise Rates By 25 BPS; How Will This Impact Financial And Crypto Markets?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-may-raise-rates-by-25-bps-how-will-this-impact-financial-and-crypto-markets","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-27 16:27:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-27 06:27:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12726","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12610,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-19 15:44:42","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:42","post_content":"\n

Shares on Wall Street continue to be supported, led by gains in financial and technology stocks, with investors looking toward the next round of quarterly results as earnings season gets underway. The S&P 500 is up to nearly 19% year-to-date, while the Nasdaq has advanced about 37%, and both indexes are on track for their fifth straight month of gains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Some of the largest U.S. banks, including JPMorgan Chase and Wells Fargo, reported a profit boost from higher rates, pointing towards a resilient economy. This Tuesday, Bank of America posted a 20% surge in second-quarter profit, and it is also important to mention that Morgan Stanley's stock had today the most significant single-day gain since late 2020, after its second-quarter profit and revenue beat analyst expectations on a boost from its wealth management business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to Refinitiv data, of the 30 companies in the S&P 500 that reported earnings last week, 80% beat analyst expectations. Corporate profits are emerging as the big driver of what the market is likely to do in the near term, but if earnings results fall short of expectations, the stock market's reaction could be severe. Chris Zaccarelli, chief investment officer for Independent Advisor Alliance, added<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Investors are looking at the fact that the economy has been resilient, and corporate earnings so far are coming in pretty well. The tech-heavy Nasdaq led Wall Street higher, supported by mega-cap growth stocks including Apple and Tesla, ahead of quarterly results from industry heavyweights through the week.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Megacaps<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Goldman Sachs, International Business Machines (IBM), Netflix, Tesla, Blackstone (BX), Johnson & Johnson, Philip Morris International (PM), Newmont (NEM), and American Express are among the companies scheduled to report quarterly results by the end of this trading week. A positive financial performance among these companies could lift shares on Wall Street even more, and investors will watch guidance carefully from these companies to determine if profit margins remain healthy and strong.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In the days ahead, the U.S. stock market will also be hypersensitive to FED comments. However, prices and producer prices data provided evidence that inflation cooled more than expected, stoking hopes that the U.S. Federal Reserve will soon end its monetary policy tightening. However, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points on July 26. Still, there is also a great chance that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings.<\/p>\n","post_title":"U.S. Stocks Are Advancing At The Start Of The Earnings Season; Here's What To Expect","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"u-s-stocks-are-advancing-at-the-start-of-the-earnings-season-heres-what-to-expect","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-19 15:44:48","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-19 05:44:48","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12610","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12490,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-13 21:13:24","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:24","post_content":"\n

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released its June inflation report this Wednesday, and the report showed that the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which measures prices that urban consumers pay for a basket of goods and services, rose 0.2% in June compared with May's 0.1% growth, but landed below the 0.3% consensus. In the 12 months through June, the consumer prices (CPI) advanced only 3.0%, and it is important to say that this was the smallest year-on-year increase since March 2021 and followed a 4.0% rise in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Consumer<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The CPI reading has cooled considerably since peeking out around 9% in June 2022, which suggests that the Fed's campaign to quell inflation is working well. Another positive information is that a core measure that strips out volatile food and energy prices was 0.2% every month in June, halving from the 0.4% growth rate in each of the three months prior.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Fed may debate whether to hike the policy rate further based on the new inflation data. However, Ryan Sweet, the Chief US Economist at Oxford Economics, thinks that the cooler-than-expected inflation report will not stop the Federal Reserve from raising its policy rate by 25 basis points at its meeting this month. According to a survey from the CME Group, markets are pricing a 90% chance that Fed policymakers will raise interest rates by 25 basis points at the next Federal Reserve meeting scheduled for July 26.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Wall Street is in celebration mode after a sharper-than-expected deceleration of inflation, but it remains above Powell & Co's average annual 2% target. However, there is a great probability that interest rates will stay unchanged at the September, November, and December meetings. Brian Jacobsen, chief economist at Annex Wealth Management, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"U.S. consumer prices rose modestly in June and logged their smallest annual increase in more than two years as inflation continued to subside. Even though the Federal Reserve has probably already talked itself into a corner needing to hike at the July meeting, it may be the last one for this hiking cycle.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Starting in March 2022, the U.S. Federal Reserve has enacted ten consecutive interest rate increases totaling five percentage points, and the next Federal Reserve policy meeting will be at the center of attention in July 2023. The federal funds rate is now in a range of 5% to 5.25%, which is the highest level since the 2006 year, and in the days ahead, stock and cryptocurrency markets will be hypersensitive to any FED comments.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Inflation Cooled More Than Expected In June. Does This Indicate That The Federal Reserve Is Near The End Of Its Rapid Interest Rate Hikes?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"inflation-cooled-more-than-expected-in-june-does-this-indicate-that-the-federal-reserve-is-near-the-end-of-its-rapid-interest-rate-hikes","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-13 21:13:36","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-13 11:13:36","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12490","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12354,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-07-05 22:47:04","post_date_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:04","post_content":"\n

Despite the high federal funds rate, durable goods orders exceeded expectations, which caused investors to remain unconcerned about a recession, surprising analysts. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

On March 12, the central bank's bank term funding program announcement reinforced faith in the banking system, and investors were content to see additional signs of decreased inflation. The stock market tracked with the economy in the first half of 2023, surprising the upside and leaving investors to wonder if the resilience can continue. The current rally in the cryptocurrency market is also connected with the positive sentiment on the stock markets, and the strengthening correlation between crypto prices and stock prices indicates crypto's maturity. Bank of America U.S. economist Michael Gapen said<\/a> on Friday:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The economy has proven more resilient than we previously expected, owing largely to consumption. However, we do not expect such robust prints to continue. Momentum in the economy should slow as the lagged effects of tighter monetary policy and financial conditions start to take hold.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The jobs report on Friday is the next big test that could show if the economy is still resilient as higher rates crimp company credit lines. Companies must pay more to borrow when interest rates rise, causing them to decrease spending and job opportunities. According to analysts' estimates, the job report on Friday could show that the U.S. economy added 225,000 jobs in June 2023, with the unemployment rate set to fall to 3.6%, down from 3.7% in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Over the past twelve months, the U.S. job report has outperformed market expectations on 11 out of 12 occasions, and another set of better-than-expected readings may reinforce hopes of a soft landing (a possibility that the U.S. economy escaped a deep recession). The U.S. economy added 339,000 jobs in May 2023, and in the chart below, we can also see how the job market performed since June 2021.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Non-Farm<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

While sentiment-based indicators show that investors are no longer in panic, a recommendation is that you should continue to take a defensive investment approach in the upcoming days because another strong job report could also pressure the Fed to do more by anchoring a 25 bp hike this month and pushing back against the timeline for rate cuts. The next Federal Reserve meeting is on July 26. The CME Group survey shows a high probability of a 25 basis point rate increase.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Economy Has Proven More Resilient Than Analysts Previously Expected. The Focus Of Investors Is Switching To The U.S. Jobs Report","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-economy-has-proven-more-resilient-than-analysts-previously-expected-the-focus-of-investors-is-switching-to-the-u-s-jobs-report","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-07-05 22:47:08","post_modified_gmt":"2023-07-05 12:47:08","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12354","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12237,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-29 06:44:16","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:16","post_content":"\n

The U.S. stock market recovered this Tuesday from recent losses as upbeat economic data cooled investor worries of a possible recession that could be triggered by the Federal Reserve's aggressive interest rate hikes. In May, the U.S. economy showed positive signs, with higher-than-expected orders for essential capital goods and a significant increase in sales of new single-family homes. Moreover, consumer confidence in the U.S. reached its highest level since January 2022.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Commerce Department's durable goods report brought good news for analysts in May. Commercial aircraft\/parts saw a significant rise of 32.5%, transportation equipment increased by 3.9%, and autos\/features grew by 2.2%, leading to new orders. Non-defense capital goods, excluding aircraft, grew by 0.7%. The report indicates greater confidence in future business conditions and job availability for six months. Oren Klachkin, lead U.S. economist at Oxford Economics (OE), said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The May durable goods orders and shipments data help to fend off fears that a recession is just around the corner. However, the economic backdrop is set to become more discouraging for manufacturers as tighter lending standards and elevated interest rates weaken demand for goods.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Durable<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. economy remains steady despite the federal funds rate reaching its peak since 2007. Investors should note that good economic data may lead to a 25 basis point increase in interest rates at the Federal Reserve's July meeting. Financial markets predict a 79.4% chance of this happening. This week's important economic data includes a crucial inflation measure that could provide valuable insight into the Federal Reserve's plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Experts recommend a cautious approach when interest rates exceed 5%. This involves taking calculated risks due to the current economic climate, which is unstable and unpredictable. As interest rates increase, companies face higher borrowing costs, causing them to decrease spending, especially on hiring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Investor Jeremy Grantham warns of potential losses in the U.S. stock market and advises cautiousness. It's important to note that cryptocurrencies could also face a significant decline. This is due to the high correlation between the crypto market and U.S. equities. If the stock market experiences a downturn, the crypto-sphere may follow suit. Investors must consider this possibility.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Upbeat Economic Data Lifted Investors' Mood, But Days Ahead Could Give Cues On The Next Federal Reserve's Steps","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"upbeat-economic-data-lifted-investors-mood-but-days-ahead-could-give-cues-on-the-next-federal-reserves-steps","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-29 06:44:23","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-28 20:44:23","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12237","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12127,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-21 15:38:34","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:34","post_content":"\n

According to the latest American Association of Individual Investors(AAII) survey, Investor confidence is at a peak reaching a 19-month high. American Association of Individual Investors also reported that bearish sentiment fell to a 23-month low, and there is general expectation that the stock prices would rise over the next several months. The crypto market displayed a high correlation with U.S. equities. If a positive trend is witnessed in the stock market, the same is usually replicated in the crypto-sphere as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Surveys<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

The University of Michigan's Surveys of Consumers released data on Friday, showing that consumer sentiment in the U.S. improved to a four-month high in June. This is also positive news, and the improved view reflects greater optimism after signs of easing inflation, economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season in the U.S.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recent inflation data signalled that the Fed's monetary tightening is cooling the world's largest economy, and according to many analysts, the Federal Reserve is near the end of its tightening cycle. The U.S. economy remains stable even though the federal funds rate remains at its highest since 2007; the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been substantial, and the unemployment rate has remained low.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

THIS TUESDAY, the U.S. Commerce Department reported that groundbreaking new American homes jumped by 21.7% in May 2023 to 1.63 million units. Building permits, considered among the housing market's most forward-looking indicators, increased more than expected in May, rising 5.2% to 1.49 million units at a seasonally adjusted annualized rate. Kieran Clancy, Senior Economist at Pantheon Macroeconomics, said<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"The most forward-looking housing indicator is the stock market, which reflects where investors see the sector headed over the next six to twelve months. The ongoing bounce in housing starts and new home sales, and the surge in homebuilders' stock prices fuel the emerging narrative in parts of the commentariat that housing is now recovering.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, investors should remember that the U.S. economy didn't escape the recession, and it is still unclear how long interest rates could stay at the 5% plus level. The inflation remains far above the Fed's target; the path to 2% will be bumpy, and the Fed will not hesitate to raise rates again if inflation data surprised enormously to the upside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they hope to see a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it would certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"Investor Optimism Rises Again; Does Strong Activity Indicate The Possibility Of Further Gains In The Coming Weeks And Months?","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"investor-optimism-rises-again-does-strong-activity-indicate-the-possibility-of-further-gains-in-the-coming-weeks-and-months","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-21 15:38:44","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-21 05:38:44","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12127","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"},{"ID":12031,"post_author":"14","post_date":"2023-06-18 20:52:53","post_date_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:52:53","post_content":"\n

As widely expected, the U.S. Central Bank left its interest rate unchanged this Wednesday after a two-day meeting but warned that inflation is still elevated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The U.S. Central Bank signalled that interest rates would likely rise by another half of a percentage point by the end of this year, bringing the benchmark overnight interest rate rising from the 5.00%-5.25% range to a 5.50%-5.75% range. The U.S. Central Bank reported<\/a>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"In determining the extent of additional policy firming that may be appropriate to return inflation to 2% over time, the committee will take into account the cumulative tightening of monetary policy, the lags with which monetary policy affects economic activity and inflation, and economic and financial developments.\"<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"Federal<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

According to the central bank's Federal Open Market Committee, the U.S. banking system is sound and resilient; job gains have been strong, while the unemployment rate has remained low. Despite this, tighter credit conditions for households and businesses will likely weigh on economic activity and hiring in the second half of 2023.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Positive information is that the U.S. Labor Department's consumer price index (CPI) reading showed this week that inflation rose only 0.1% in May compared with a 0.4% jump in April, confirming that the Fed's restrictive policy rate is working. On Wednesday, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics also reported that annual producer prices cooled more than projected in May, which supported the Fed to pause rate hikes at Wednesday's meeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Easing inflation, signs of economic resilience, and a better-than-expected earnings season lifted U.S. stocks, and it is important to say that the benchmark S&P 500 and Nasdaq advanced this week to 14-month highs. Fed officials said they now expect a 1% gain in 2023 real gross domestic product, up from 0.4% projected in March. However, Fed officials lowered their 2024 growth projection to 1.1% from 1.2% and the 2025 outlook to 1.8% from 1.9%.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The next Fed meeting is scheduled for July 25-26, but it is still unclear how long rates could stay at the 5% plus level. For the next 12 months, or even 24 months, the reality is that Fed Chair Jerome Powell said that nearly all Fed officials expect more rate rises this year. Because of this, many analysts expect a significant economic contraction which will impact corporate earnings and financial markets. Wells Fargo analysts said that over the next 3-5 months, they expect a 10% correction on the U.S. stock market. If this happens, it will certainly negatively influence the cryptocurrency market.<\/p>\n","post_title":"The U.S. Central Bank Left Its Benchmark Lending Rate Unchanged This Wednesday","post_excerpt":"","post_status":"publish","comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","post_password":"","post_name":"the-u-s-central-bank-left-its-benchmark-lending-rate-unchanged-this-wednesday","to_ping":"","pinged":"","post_modified":"2023-06-18 20:53:01","post_modified_gmt":"2023-06-18 10:53:01","post_content_filtered":"","post_parent":0,"guid":"https:\/\/www.thedistributed.co\/?p=12031","menu_order":0,"post_type":"post","post_mime_type":"","comment_count":"0","filter":"raw"}],"next":false,"total_page":false},"paged":1,"class":"jblog_block_13"};

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