The market pulled back slightly so far this week and retail sales fell below expectations—declining by 0.9%. There was also a 3.5% decline in auto sales, indicating consumers’ hesitation to make big ticket purchases. Watch as Gary Quinzel, Vice President for Portfolio Consulting, discusses the Federal Reserve’s reaction and other macroeconomic headlines.

For the period November 1 – November 30, 2024.  Executive Summary  With the US presidential election in the rearview mirror, US equities climbed higher in November and bond yields declined. Risk assets continue to be supported by a positive macroeconomic backdrop, solid earnings growth, and an accommodative Fed. 

For the period September 1 – September 30, 2024. Executive Summary Despite recent bouts of volatility, equity markets marched higher, ending the third quarter at all-time highs. The Fed began a recalibration of interest rates with a 50-basis point cut, as they see balanced risks to both inflation and employment.

For the period August 1 – August 31, 2024 Executive Summary After a brief bout of volatility to start the month, equities roared back to finish August near all-time highs, propelling us toward the first rate cut since March 2020. The Fed has signaled their intentions, as their focus has clearly shifted to the labor market, which is showing signs of slowing.

For the period June 1 – June 30, 2024. Executive Summary Positive returns in the Growth and Technology sectors helped cap off another strong quarter for the market, but they have further intensified the high concentration of market leadership. Investors appear content with modest rate cut expectations, while growth and inflation have moderated.

In the May 2024 edition of Markets Monthly: Strategies & Perspectives, Wealth Enhancement Group specialists Ayako Yoshioka and Gary Quinzel share economic highlights, market updates, and more.

For the period April 1 – April 30, 2024. Executive Summary Equity markets pulled back in April amid hawkish repricing of rate expectations. Inflation has proven to be stickier than most believed at the start of the year, but following the most recent Fed meeting, it still seems that the next interest rate move will be lower.

For the period March 1 – March 31, 2024. Executive Summary Equity markets continue to march higher despite the historic duration of the inverted U.S. Treasury yield curve. Inflation has moderated and stabilized, while growth expectations have modestly improved, indicating that risks between inflation and economic growth are well-balanced.

For the period February 1 – February 29, 2024. Executive Summary The S&P 500 continues to notch new record highs in 2024, fueled by strength in the Technology sector and expectations for more accommodative monetary policy. While the Fed may not be in a rush to lower interest rates, the combination of solid earnings and a resilient labor market supports the case for further strengthening of the economy and risky assets.

For the period January 1 – January 31, 2024. Executive Summary U.S. equity markets hit new all-time highs in January, even as market expectations for interest rate cuts from the Fed were recalibrated. The Fed wants to be confident that inflation is stemmed prior to their first rate cut, so all eyes will focus on economic data, which currently supports their decision.