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Weekly Market Update – 4.8.2024

Last week, strong job numbers introduced uncertainty, with the S&P 500 falling by 0.93% and bonds dropping by 1.06%. Job creation and openings support economic growth but can result in persistent inflation and prompt the Federal Reserve (Fed) to maintain high-interest rates to fulfill its dual mandate of maximum employment and price stability. Gold prices surged above $2,300 per ounce, reaching record highs before settling at $2,299 on Friday. There’s considerable buzz around gold ...
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Weekly Market Update – 3.18.2024

Last week, the market had mixed reactions to the inflation data. The Core Consumer Price Index (Core CPI) and Producer Price Index (PPI) for February exceeded expectations, registering at 0.4% and 0.6%, respectively, from the previous month. Over the past twelve months, Core CPI increased by 3.8%. The S&P 500 gained following Tuesday’s CPI data but sold off on Thursday after the hotter-than-expected PPI data, closing down -0.09% for the week. The Federal Open Market Committee ...
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Weekly Market Update – 2.19.2024

Last week, the Consumer Price Index (CPI) and Producer Price Index (PPI) both came in hotter than expected, with shelter costs being the primary contributor to the notable increase in January’s CPI report, accounting for two-thirds of the total increase. For commentary and a chart explaining how real wage growth has outpaced inflation since the start of 2023, please take a look at the attached Weekly Market Recap. Real wage growth should support consumer spending and the economy. ...
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Weekly Market Update – 2.12.2024

Last week, the S&P 500 gained 1.40%, reaching another all-time closing high on Friday of 5027. Earnings beats from Disney (DIS), Chipotle (CMG), and McDonald’s (MCD) contributed to the S&P 500 setting higher highs. This week, the Chiefs can be considered a dynasty after beating the 49ers in overtime to win their second consecutive Super Bowl and third in five years. According to the USA Today Ad Meter, State Farm’s “Like a Good Neighbor” was the most-liked ...
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Weekly Market Update – 1.22.2024

Last week, the December retail sales report showed strong consumer spending to finish 2023.  Consumer sentiment soared this January to 78.8 from 69.7 in December. Optimism created from lower expected inflation and higher wages contributed to sentiment climbing a cumulative 29%, the largest two-month increase since 1991 as a recession ended. The S&P 500 hit an all-time high of 4840 on Friday, capping the week with a 1.19% gain. As we move into this week, the spotlight turns to the ...
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Weekly Market Update – 1.9.2024

Last week, positive jobs and wage data ended the nine-week rally for US equities, with the S&P 500 declining by 1.5%. A factor in the lower 3.7% unemployment rate and the creation of 216K new jobs in November was increased hiring in the government sector, which may not continue. Wages grew by 4.1% compared to last year, supporting US households but raising concerns about inflation, as higher wages can lead to increased costs, especially in the labor-intensive service sector. This week, ...
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Weekly Market Update – 11.20.2023

Last week, the S&P 500 registered a 2.31% gain, marking a three-week upward trend in stocks. Interest rates fell in response to moderate inflation data and decreased consumer spending, signaling a promising yet cautious economic scenario. In its recent earnings report, Walmart beat expectations and shared insightful observations on inflation and consumer behavior during its earnings call. The company noted deflation in most grocery categories, excluding beef, dry, and canned goods, and ...
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