The stock market is expected to gain 2% by year-end, as earnings reports show strong revenue and earnings beats. Companies are managing inflation by passing on limited price increases and maintaining margins. Interest rate concerns have subsided, and earnings growth is now the focus. While earnings growth projections are low, they could be exceeded, potentially boosting the market further. Companies are also considering altering service terms instead of raising prices to maintain market share.
Economic growth slowed to 1.6% in the first quarter of 2024, below expectations. Meanwhile, inflation jumped to 3.4%, its highest rate in a year. Consumer spending also slowed, indicating consumers are starting to feel the pinch of rising prices. The report suggests the economy is facing challenges, with slower growth and higher inflation.
The Federal Reserve's goal of 2% inflation faces challenges in 2024. Inflation has declined but remains above the target. The Fed is cautious before cutting interest rates until the data supports a clear path to 2%. Housing inflation, especially in rent costs, remains a concern. The Fed wants more time to monitor the economy and investigate if these costs will decline as expected.
The annual rate for newly purchased Series I bonds may drop below 5% in May, from the current 5.27%. While short-term investors may have better options with CDs or savings accounts, the I bond's fixed rate could still appeal to long-term investors aiming to preserve their purchasing power.
The housing market is intriguing. Despite low supply, sales are slowing due to high mortgage rates. However, new listings are gradually increasing. Interest rates are the key factor, as higher rates suppress demand. Lack of inventory prevents a price collapse but balances out the market. A rate drop could lead to more sales. High rates are having an inflationary impact as people spend less on housing but more on other things. However, apartment construction is slowing, which could create future supply issues and inflation concerns.
Global economic growth remains steady at 3.2%, but below past averages due to factors like declining productivity and reduced investment. Artificial intelligence shows potential for growth, but its impact is uncertain. Inflation is projected to decline, but geopolitical tensions could affect it. Interest rates may change, depending on factors like inflation. Trade disruptions and fragmentation pose risks, but early action can mitigate them. China's economy remains resilient, despite property sector challenges, and support measures are encouraged.
The Federal Reserve (Fed) is monitoring inflation and using core PCE inflation as a key indicator. Despite a recent decline in inflation, core PCE inflation remains slightly above the Fed's target of 2%. The Fed's goal is to keep inflation around this level to maintain price stability. While inflation has shown no signs of returning to target, the Fed is cautiously optimistic that its current policy can address risks and support economic growth by adjusting interest rates as needed.
The rate for Series I savings bonds, also known as I bonds, could drop below 5% in May, experts predict. This would be less than the current 5.27% rate for bonds purchased before May 1st but still higher than the 4.3% offered for bonds bought between May 1st and October 31st. Despite the expected decline, experts still consider I bonds a good investment, especially for long-term savers.
The Federal Reserve is now considering waiting until at least September before cutting interest rates, which is later than the expected timeline. The central bank is focused on combating inflation, which is still elevated at around 3%. Some economists believe a rate cut may not happen until 2025. Despite the resilient economy, higher rates for longer could pose risks to the labor market and finance sector.
Strong retail sales and a positive job market suggest the economy is holding up, prompting economists to expect fewer interest rate cuts from the Federal Reserve than previously anticipated. However, experts warn that risks like geopolitical tensions and a volatile stock market could lead to a potential downturn. Investors should consider defensive sectors like utilities and avoid chasing high-growth sectors with elevated valuations and suppressed volatility.
Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell and Bank of Canada Governor Tiff Macklem will discuss the economy and monetary policies between their respective countries. The market expects the Fed to maintain steady interest rates until September, despite rising inflation. This speech will likely be Powell's last before the next Federal Reserve meeting.
The US economy is not experiencing sufficient inflation to meet Federal Reserve goals. Therefore, interest rate cuts are unlikely. The current rate of inflation is above the Fed's target of 2%, and recent data suggests it will take longer than expected to achieve this goal.
