FIRESIDE CHARTS
Mixed Messages, Preferred Stocks, Tax Day
The U.S. economy continues to stand out relative to its developed world peers, despite sending many mixed messages. Consumers are still spending but, in addition to higher credit card debt, they are…
Sticky Inflation, Oil Volatility, Inverted Yield Curve
The Consumer Price Index (CPI) for February rose in-line with expectations, but the headline number remains higher than the Federal Reserve’s target and there remain some concerning readings under the…
AI Boom, Tech Dominance, Global Growth
It may be too early to claim victory on inflation. Higher than anticipated inflation in shelter pushed up core inflation more than expected, but that wasn’t the only concerning category in the report…
Stubborn Inflation, Sweden, Semiconductors
It may be too early to claim victory on inflation. Higher than anticipated inflation in shelter pushed up core inflation more than expected, but that wasn’t the only concerning category in the report…
Strong Job Growth, India Accelerating, Regional Banks
The U.S. economy continues to defy expectations. January’s non-farm payrolls report smashed expectations and December’s report was revised higher. Productivity growth in the fourth quarter was higher…
Consumer Optimism, Oil Surplus, Bitcoin ETFs
Consumers are perking up as we begin the new year. Sentiment is beginning to turn on the future economic outlook, and consumers are feeling positive about their financial health. Economic momentum…
7 Charts We’re Watching in 2024
As we usher in the New Year, it’s an opportune time to reflect on the dynamics of the global economy and the financial markets. In this post, we’ll take a step back to explore seven charts that we’re…
Bullish Sentiment, Energy Prices, Stock Buybacks
November’s market rally has investors feeling bullish again. A string of constructive economic data has sent interest rates lower and stocks higher. Recent data indicates that the labor market is…
Labor Productivity, Construction Employment, Small-Cap Stocks
Happy Veterans Day! Labor productivity increased more than expected in the third quarter, as the economy continues to digest pandemic era disruptions. The labor market is weakening, unfortunately this…
Goldilocks Economy, Profitless Companies, Retirement Savings
U.S. Gross Domestic Product (GDP) grew at an annualized rate of 4.9% in the third quarter. The core personal consumption expenditures (PCE) index, the Federal Reserves preferred gauge of inflation…