Tag: Inflation

Inflation Pressures Continue to Ease in October

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

The latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) report released Tuesday morning showed inflation pressures continued to ease in October. Consumer prices were unchanged for the month and rose 3.2% over the last 12 months. This marks a deceleration from September’s 0.4% monthly increase and 3.7% annual inflation rate.

Core inflation, which excludes volatile food and energy costs, also showed signs of moderating. The core CPI rose 0.2% in October, down from 0.3% in September. On an annual basis, core inflation was 4.0% in October, slower than the 4.1% pace in September and the lowest since September 2021.

Falling Energy Prices Hold Down Headline Inflation

Much of the monthly easing in prices was due to falling energy costs. Energy prices dropped 2.5% in October, driven largely by a 5% decline in gas prices during the month. This helped offset increases in other areas and kept headline CPI flat for October. Lower oil and gas prices also contributed to the slowing in annual inflation.

The recent drop in gas prices is welcome news for consumers who saw prices spike earlier this year. According to AAA, the national average for a gallon of regular gasoline has fallen to $3.77 as of Nov. 14, down from a record high of $5.02 in mid-June. If prices continue to trend lower, it would provide further relief on overall inflation.

Shelter Inflation Moderates

The shelter index, which includes rents and homeowner costs, has been a major driver of inflation this year. But there are signs of moderation taking hold. Shelter inflation rose 6.7% over the last year in October, the smallest increase in 12 months. On a monthly basis, shelter costs were up just 0.3% in October versus 0.6% in September.

Rents are a key component of shelter inflation. Growth in rents indexes slowed in October, likely reflecting a cooling housing market. The index for rent of primary residence increased 0.5% for the month, while the owners’ equivalent rent index rose 0.4%.

Used Vehicle Prices Extend Declines

Consumers also got a break on used vehicle prices in October. Prices for used cars and trucks fell 0.8% in October, after a 2.5% decline in September. New vehicle prices dipped 0.1% as auto supply constraints slowly ease.

Used car prices skyrocketed in 2021 and early 2022 amid low inventories. But prices have now fallen 7.5% from the record high set in May 2022, helping reduce inflationary pressures.

Outlook for Fed Policy

Financial markets took the CPI report as another sign the Federal Reserve is getting inflation under control. Markets are now pricing in a near 100% chance the Fed holds rates steady at its December policy meeting. This follows four consecutive 0.75 percentage point hikes between June and November.

Fed Chair Jerome Powell recently indicated the central bank can slow the pace of hikes as inflation moves back toward the 2% target. But he cautioned there is still “some ways to go” in bringing inflation down.

Most economists expect the Fed to continue holding rates in the first half of 2023. But sticky inflation in services may mean rates have to stay elevated for longer before the Fed can contemplate rate cuts. Wage growth and the tight labor market also pose upside risks on inflation.

For consumers, easing inflation provides some financial relief after two difficult years. But prices remain substantially above pre-pandemic levels. Moderating inflation is a positive sign the Fed’s policies are working, but households will likely continue feeling price pressures for some time.

Slower Job Growth in October Adds to Evidence of Cooling Labor Market

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

The October employment report showed a moderation in U.S. job growth, adding to signs that the blazing labor market may be starting to ease. Nonfarm payrolls increased by 150,000 last month, lower than consensus estimates of 180,000 and a slowdown from September’s revised gain of 289,000 jobs.

The unemployment rate ticked up to 3.9% from 3.8% in September, hitting the highest level since January 2022. Wages also rose less than expected, with average hourly earnings climbing just 0.2% month-over-month and 4.1% year-over-year.

October’s report points to a cooling job market after over a year of robust gains that outpaced labor force growth. The slowdown was largely driven by a decline of 35,000 manufacturing jobs stemming from strike activity at major automakers including GM, Ford, and Chrysler.

The United Auto Workers unions reached tentative agreements with the automakers this week, so some job gains are expected to be recouped in November. But broader moderation in hiring aligns with other indicators of slowing momentum. Job openings declined significantly in September, quits rate dipped, and small business hiring plans softened.

For investors, the cooling labor market supports the case for a less aggressive Fed as the central bank aims to tame inflation without triggering a recession. Markets are now pricing in a 90% chance of no rate hike at the December FOMC meeting, compared to an 80% chance prior to the jobs report.

The Chance of a Soft Landing Improves

The decline in wage growth in particular eases some of the Fed’s inflation worries. Slowing wage pressures reduces the risk of a 1970s-style wage-price spiral. This gives the Fed room to pause rate hikes to assess the delayed impact of prior tightening.

Markets cheered the higher likelihood of no December hike, with stocks surging on Friday. The S&P 500 gained 1.4% in morning trading while the tech-heavy Nasdaq jumped 1.7%. Treasury yields declined, with the 10-year falling to 4.09% from 4.15% on Thursday.

Investors have become increasingly optimistic in recent weeks that the Fed can orchestrate a soft landing, avoiding recession while bringing inflation back toward its 2% target. CPI inflation showed signs of moderating in October, declining more than expected to 7.7%.

But risks remain, especially with services inflation still running hot. The Fed’s terminal rate will likely still need to move higher than current levels around 4.5%. Any renewed acceleration in wage growth could also put a December hike back on the table.

Labor Market Resilience Still Evident

While job gains moderated, some details within October’s report demonstrate continued labor market resilience. The unemployment rate remains near 50-year lows at 3.9%, still below pre-pandemic levels. Labor force participation also remains above pre-COVID levels despite a slight tick down in October.

The household survey showed a gain of 328,000 employed persons last month, providing a counterweight to the slower payrolls figure based on the establishment survey.

Job openings still exceeded available workers by over 4 million in September. And weekly jobless claims remain around historically low levels, totaling 217,000 for the week ended October 29.

With demand for workers still outstripping supply, risks of a sharp pullback in hiring seem limited. But the October report supports the case for a period of slower job gains as supply and demand rebalances.

Moderating job growth gives the Fed important breathing room as it assesses progress toward its 2% inflation goal. For investors, it improves the odds that the Fed can achieve a soft landing, avoiding aggressive hikes even as inflation persists at elevated levels.

Stocks Surge as End of Fed Hikes Comes Into View

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

A buoyant optimism filled Wall Street on Thursday as investors interpreted the Fed’s latest decision to stand pat on rates as a sign the end of the hiking cycle may be near. The Nasdaq leapt 1.5% while the S&P 500 and Dow climbed nearly 1.25% each as traders priced in dwindling odds of additional tightening.

While Fed Chair Jerome Powell stressed future moves would depend on the data, markets increasingly see one more increase at most, not the restrictive 5-5.25% peak projected earlier. The CME FedWatch tool shows only a 20% chance of a December hike, down from 46% before the Fed meeting.

The prospect of peak rates arriving sparked a “risk-on” mindset. Tech stocks which suffered during 2023’s relentless bumps upward powered Thursday’s rally. Apple rose over 3% ahead of its highly anticipated earnings report. The iPhone maker’s results will offer clues into consumer spending and China demand trends.

Treasury yields fell in tandem with rate hike expectations. The 10-year yield dipped under 4.6%, nearing its early October lows. As monetary policy tightening fears ease, bonds become more attractive.

Meanwhile, Thursday’s batch of earnings updates proved a mixed bag. Starbucks and Shopify impressed with better than forecast reports showcasing resilient demand and progress on cost discipline. Shopify even managed to eke out a quarterly profit thanks to AI-driven optimization.

Both stocks gained over 10%, extending gains for October’s worst sectors – consumer discretionary and tech. But biotech Moderna plunged nearly 20% on underwhelming COVID vaccine sales guidance. With demand waning amid relaxed restrictions, Moderna expects revenue weakness to persist.

Still, markets found enough earnings bright spots to sustain optimism around what many now view as the Fed’s endgame. Bets on peak rates mark a momentous shift from earlier gloom over soaring inflation and relentless hiking.

Savoring the End of Hiking Anxiety

Just six weeks ago, recession alarm bells were clanging loudly. The S&P 500 seemed destined to retest its June lows after a brief summer rally crumbled. The Nasdaq lagged badly as the Fed’s hawkish resolve dashed hopes of a policy pivot.

But September’s surprisingly low inflation reading marked a turning point in sentiment. Rate hike fears moderated and stocks found firmer footing. Even with some residual CPI and jobs gains worrying hawkish Fed members, investors are increasingly looking past isolated data points.

Thursday’s rally revealed a market eager to rotate toward the next major focus: peak rates. With the terminal level now potentially in view, attention turns to the timing and magnitude of rate cuts once inflation falls further.

Markets are ready to move on from monetary policy uncertainty and regain the upside mentality that supported stocks for so long. The Nasdaq’s outperformance shows traders positioning for a soft landing rather than bracing for recession impact.

Challenges Remain, but a Peak Brings Relief

Reaching peak rates won’t instantly cure all market ills, however. Geopolitical turmoil, supply chain snarls, and the strong dollar all linger as headwinds. Corporate earnings face pressure from margins strained by high costs and waning demand.

And valuations may reset lower in sectors like tech that got ahead of themselves when easy money flowed freely. But putting an endpoint on the rate rollercoaster will remove the largest overhang on sentiment and allow fundamentals to reassert influence.

With peak rates cementing a dovish pivot ahead, optimism can return. The bear may not yet retreat fully into hibernation, but its claws will dull. As long as the economic foundation holds, stocks have room to rebuild confidence now that the end is in sight.

Of course, the Fed could always surprise hawkishly if inflation persists. But Thursday showed a market ready to look ahead with hopes the firehose of rate hikes shutting off will allow a modest new bull run to take shape in 2024.

Inflation Battle Goes On: Powell’s Reassuring Message from the Fed

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell reiterated the central bank’s determination to bring down inflation in a speech today, even as he acknowledged potential economic risks from sustained high interest rates. His remarks underline the Fed’s unwavering focus on price stability despite emerging signs of an economic slowdown.

While noting welcome data showing inflation may be starting to cool, Powell stressed it was too early to determine a downward trend. He stated forcefully that inflation remains “too high”, requiring ongoing policy resolve from the Fed to return it to the 2% target.

Powell hinted the path to lower inflation likely entails a period of below-trend economic growth and softening labor market conditions. With jobless claims recently hitting a three-month low, the robust job market could exert persistent upward pressure on prices. Powell indicated weaker growth may be necessary to rebalance supply and demand and quell wage-driven inflation.

His remarks mirror other Fed officials who have suggested a growth sacrifice may be required to decisively curb inflation. The comments reflect Powell’s primary focus on price stability amid the worst outbreak of inflation in over 40 years. He admitted the path to lower inflation will likely prove bumpy and take time.

Powell stated the Fed will base policy moves on incoming data, risks, and the evolving outlook. But he stressed officials are united in their commitment to the inflation mandate. Additional evidence of strong economic growth or persistent labor market tightness could necessitate further rate hikes.

Markets widely expect the Fed to pause rate increases for now, after aggressively raising the federal funds rate this year from near zero to a current target range of 3.75%-4%. But Powell avoided any definitive signal on the future policy path. His remarks leave the door open to additional tightening if high inflation persists.

The speech underscores the Fed’s data-dependent approach while maintaining flexibility in either direction. Powell emphasized officials will proceed carefully in evaluating when to halt rate hikes and eventually ease monetary policy. The Fed faces heightened risks now of overtightening into a potential recession or undertightening if inflation remains stubbornly high.

After being accused of misreading rapidly rising inflation last year, Powell stressed the importance of policy consistency and avoiding premature pivots. A sustainable return to the 2% goal will require ongoing tight monetary policy for some time, even as economic headwinds strengthen.

Still, Powell acknowledged the uncertainties in the outlook given myriad economic crosscurrents. While rate hikes will continue slowing growth, easing supply chain strains and improving global trade could help counter those drags next year. And robust household savings could cushion consumer spending despite higher rates.

But Powell made clear the Fed will not declare victory prematurely given the persistence of inflation. Officials remain firmly committed to policy firming until convincing evidence demonstrates inflation moving down sustainably toward the target. Only then can the Fed safely conclude its aggressive tightening cycle.

For investors, Powell’s speech signals monetary policy will likely remain restrictive for some time, though the ultimate peak in rates remains uncertain. Markets should prepare for extended volatility as the Fed responds to evolving economic data. With risks tilted toward policy tightness, interest-sensitive assets could face ongoing pressure.

Investors Await Powell’s Speech for Cues on Future Rate Hikes

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell is set to deliver a closely watched speech on Thursday before the Economic Club of New York that could offer critical guidance on the future path of monetary policy.

Markets are looking for clarity from Powell on how the Fed plans to balance improving inflation data against surging Treasury yields and risks of recession. His remarks come at a precarious time – inflation shows early signs of easing but remains well above the Fed’s 2% target, while rapidly rising interest rates threaten to slow economic growth.

Powell faces the tricky task of conveying that the Fed remains vigilant in combating inflation while avoiding cementing expectations for further aggressive rate hikes that could hammer markets.

“Powell has to present himself to investors as the dispassionate neutral leader and allow others to be more aggressive,” said Jeffrey Roach, chief economist at LPL Financial. “They’re not going to declare victory, and that is one reason why Powell is going to continue to talk somewhat hawkish.”

Cues from within the Fed have been mixed recently. Several officials, including Philadelphia Fed President Patrick Harker, have advocated holding fire on rate hikes temporarily to evaluate incoming data. This “wait and see” approach comes after a torrent of large rate increases this year, with the Fed Funds rate now sitting at a 15-year high of 3.75%-4%.

But hawkish voices like New York Fed President John Williams insist the Fed must keep policy restrictive for some time to combat inflation. Markets hope Powell will provide definitive guidance on the prevailing consensus within the central bank.

Policymakers are navigating a complex environment. Inflation data has been gradually improving from 40-year highs earlier this year. But inflation expectations remain uncomfortably high, pointing to the need for further tightening.

“Powell has to present the recent inflation data as welcome news, but not evidence that the job is done,” said Ryan Sweet, chief U.S. economist at Oxford Economics. “The Fed still has more work to do.”

At the same time, the rapid rise in Treasury yields in recent weeks has already tightened financial conditions substantially. Another massive rate hike could be unnecessary overkill.

According to Krishna Guha of Evercore ISI, Powell will likely underscore “that the data has been coming in stronger than expected, but there has also been a big move in yields, which has tightened financial conditions, so no urgency for a policy response in November.”

Markets are currently pricing in a 65% chance that rates remain on hold at next month’s policy meeting. But there is still roughly a one-in-three chance of another 0.75 percentage point hike.

All eyes will be parsing Powell’s speech for any clues or direct guidance on the Fed’s next steps. While he is expected to avoid concrete commitments, his language choices will be dissected for shifts in tone or any hints at changes in thinking around the policy trajectory.

Powell’s remarks will also be scrutinized for takeaways on how long the Fed may need to keep rates elevated before ultimately cutting. Luke Tilley of Wilmington Trust expects Powell “to keep talking about staying vigilant” and the need for rates to remain higher for longer to ensure inflation comes down sustainably.

With growing recession fears on Main Street and Wall Street, Powell faces a defining moment to communicate a clear roadmap of where monetary policy is headed, while retaining flexibility. Walking this tightrope will be critical to shoring up the Fed’s credibility and avoiding unnecessary market turmoil.

All eyes are on the Fed chair tomorrow as investors and economists eagerly await guidance from the man himself holding the levers over the world’s most influential interest rate.

Rising Housing Costs Drive Consumer Inflation Even Higher in September

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Consumer inflation accelerated more than expected in September due largely to intensifying shelter costs, putting further pressure on household budgets and keeping the Federal Reserve on high alert.

The consumer price index (CPI) increased 0.4% last month after rising 0.1% in August, the Labor Department reported Thursday. On an annual basis, prices were up 3.7% through September.

Both the monthly and yearly inflation rates exceeded economist forecasts of 0.3% and 3.6% respectively.

The higher than anticipated inflation extends the squeeze on consumers in the form of elevated prices for essentials like food, housing, and transportation. It also keeps the Fed under the microscope as officials debate further interest rate hikes to cool demand and restrain prices.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Surging Shelter Costs in Focus

The main driver behind the inflation uptick in September was shelter costs. The shelter index, which includes rent and owners’ equivalent rent, jumped 0.6% for the month. Shelter costs also posted the largest yearly gain at 7.2%.

On a monthly basis, shelter accounted for over half of the total increase in CPI. Surging rents and housing costs reflect pandemic trends like strong demand amid limited supply.

“Just because the rate of inflation is stable for now doesn’t mean its weight isn’t increasing every month on family budgets,” noted Robert Frick, corporate economist at Navy Federal Credit Union. “That shelter and food costs rose particularly is especially painful.”

Energy and Food Costs Also Climb

While shelter led the inflation surge, other categories saw notable increases as well in September. Energy costs rose 1.5% led by gasoline, fuel oil, and natural gas. Food prices gained 0.2% for the third consecutive month, with a 6% jump in food away from home.

On an annual basis, energy costs were down 0.5% but food was up 3.7% year-over-year through September.

Used vehicle prices declined 2.5% in September but new vehicle costs rose 0.3%. Overall, transportation services inflation eased to 0.9% annually in September from 9.5% in August.

Wage Growth Lags Inflation

Rising consumer costs continue to outpace income growth, squeezing household budgets. Average hourly earnings rose just 0.2% in September, not enough to keep pace with the 0.4% inflation rate.

That caused real average hourly earnings to fall 0.2% last month. On a yearly basis, real wages were up only 0.5% through September—a fraction of the 3.7% inflation rate over that period.

American consumers have relied more heavily on savings and credit to maintain spending amid high inflation. But rising borrowing costs could limit their ability to sustain that trend.

Fed Still Focused on Inflation Fight

The hotter-than-expected CPI print keeps the Fed anchored on inflation worries. Though annual inflation has eased from over 9% in June, the 3.7% rate remains well above the Fed’s 2% target.

Officials raised interest rates by 75 basis points in both September and November, pushing the federal funds rate to a range of 3-3.25%. Markets expect another 50-75 basis point hike in December.

Treasury yields surged following the CPI report, reflecting ongoing inflation concerns. Persistently high shelter and food inflation could spur the Fed to stick to its aggressive rate hike path into 2023.

Taming inflation remains the Fed’s number one priority, even at the risk of slowing economic growth. The latest CPI data shows they still have work to do on that front.

All eyes will now turn to the October and November inflation reports heading into the pivotal December policy meeting. Further hotter-than-expected readings could force the Fed’s hand on more supersized rate hikes aimed at cooling demand and prices across the economy.

Bond Market Signals Recession Warning As Yields Invert

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

The bond market is sounding alarm bells about the economic outlook. The yield on the 2-year Treasury briefly exceeded the 10-year yield this week for the first time since 2019. Known as a yield curve inversion, this phenomenon historically signals a recession could be on the horizon.

While not a guarantee, yield curve inversions have preceded every recession over the past 50 years. Here is what is happening in the bond market and what it could mean for investors.

Why Did Yields Invert?

Yields on short-term bonds like 2-year Treasuries tend to track the Federal Reserve’s policy rate. With the Fed aggressively hiking rates to combat inflation, short-term yields have been rising quickly.

Meanwhile, long-term yields like the 10-year are influenced by investors’ growth and inflation expectations. As optimism over the economy’s trajectory wanes, investors have been driving down long-term yields.

This dynamic inversion, where short-term rates exceed longer-duration ones, reflects mounting concerns that the Fed’s rate hikes will severely slow economic activity. Markets increasingly fear rates may cause a hard landing into recession.

Image credit: Cnbc.com

Growth and Inflation Concerns Intensify

The yield curve has flashed the most negative signal since the lead up to the pandemic recession. This suggests investors see a lack of catalysts for growth on the horizon even as inflation remains stubbornly high.

Ongoing supply chain problems, the war in Ukraine putting pressure on food and energy prices, and fears of a housing market slowdown are all weighing on outlooks. There is a sense the Fed lacks effective tools to bring down inflation without crushing the economy.

Meanwhile, key economic indicators like manufacturing surveys have weakened significantly. This points to activity already slowing ahead of when rate hikes would take full effect.

Implications for Investors

The risks of a recession are rising. Yield curve inversions have foreshadowed every recession since the 1950s. However, they have also sometimes occurred 1-2 years before downturns start.

This suggests investors should prepare for choppiness, but not panic. Rotating toward more defensive stocks like healthcare and consumer staples can help portfolios better weather volatility. At the same time, cyclical sectors like tech and industrials could face more pressure.

In fixed income, short-term bonds may offer opportunities as the Fed potentially cuts rates during a downturn. But credit-sensitive sectors like high-yield bonds and leveraged loans could struggle if defaults rise.

While uncertainty abounds, the inverted yield curve highlights the delicate balancing act ahead for the Fed and concerns over still-high inflation. Investors will be closely watching upcoming data for signs of how quickly the economy is slowing. For now, caution and safe-haven assets look to be in favor as recession worries cast a long shadow.

August PCE Index Release Suggests Slower Pace of Inflation Growth

Posted on by cpatches

Today’s news brings the release of the August data for the Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) Index by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis. This report, a crucial indicator of inflation and consumer spending in the United States, has set a positive tone for financial markets as they rally in early trading.

In August, the PCE Index recorded a year-over-year growth rate of 3.5%, showing a modest increase from the previous month’s 3.4%. On a monthly basis, the core PCE, the Federal Reserve’s preferred measure of inflation, inched up by 0.1%, slightly lower than the 0.2% increase in July.

The Federal Reserve has long regarded the core PCE as its favored measure of inflation. While the August PCE report has provided insight into inflation trends, it’s important to note that the Fed made a decision to keep interest rates steady earlier this week. Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell consistently references the core PCE figures when assessing inflation. Powell has emphasized that inflation remains above the Fed’s 2% target, which has informed the central bank’s recent decision to maintain interest rates within a range of 5.25%-5.50%. This decision underscores the Fed’s cautious approach to managing inflation while fostering economic growth.

Historically, PCE reports have played a significant role in guiding monetary policy and influencing market dynamics. When inflationary pressures rise, the Fed may respond by raising interest rates to curb price increases. Conversely, when PCE growth moderates, the central bank may opt for rate cuts to stimulate economic activity.

While the report suggests a slower pace of inflation growth in August compared to July, inflation remains a pertinent issue. Investors will closely monitor subsequent reports and Federal Reserve actions to gain insight into the trajectory of inflation and its potential impact on financial markets and the broader economy. The early market rally reflects the market’s optimism following the release of the latest PCE data, as it continues to navigate the evolving economic landscape.

Mortgage Rates Hit 23-Year High

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Mortgage rates crossed the 7% threshold this past week, as the 30-year fixed rate hit 7.31% according to Freddie Mac data. This marks the highest level for mortgage rates since late 2000.

The implications extend far beyond the housing market alone. The sharp rise in rates stands to impact the stock market, economic growth, and investor sentiment through various channels.

For stock investors, higher mortgage rates pose risks of slower economic growth and falling profits for rate-sensitive sectors. Housing is a major component of GDP, so a pullback in home sales and construction activity would diminish economic output.

Slower home sales also mean less revenue for homebuilders, real estate brokers, mortgage lenders, and home furnishing retailers. With housing accounting for 15-18% of economic activity, associated industries make up a sizable chunk of the stock market.

A housing slowdown would likely hit sectors such as homebuilders, building materials, home improvement retailers, and home furnishing companies the hardest. Financial stocks could also face challenges as mortgage origination and refinancing drop off.

Broader economic weakness resulting from reduced consumer spending power would likely spillover to impact earnings across a wide swath of companies and market sectors. Investors may rotate to more defensive stocks if growth concerns escalate.

Higher rates also signal tightening financial conditions, which historically leads to increased stock market volatility and investor unease. Between inflation cutting into incomes and higher debt servicing costs, consumers have less discretionary income to sustain spending.

Reduced consumer spending has a knock-on effect of slowing economic growth. If rate hikes intended to fight inflation go too far, it raises the specter of an economic contraction or recession down the line.

For bond investors, rising rates eat into prices of existing fixed income securities. Bonds become less attractive compared to newly issued debt paying higher yields. Investors may need to explore options like floating rate bonds and shorter duration to mitigate rate impacts.

Rate-sensitive assets that did well in recent years as rates fell may come under pressure. Real estate, utilities, long-duration bonds, and growth stocks with high valuations are more negatively affected by rising rate environments.

Meanwhile, cash becomes comparatively more attractive as yields on savings accounts and money market funds tick higher. Investors may turn to cash while awaiting clarity on inflation and rates.

The Fed has emphasized its commitment to bringing inflation down even as growth takes a hit. That points to further rate hikes ahead, meaning mortgage rates likely have room to climb higher still.

Whether the Fed can orchestrate a soft landing remains to be seen. But until rate hikes moderate, investors should brace for market volatility and economic uncertainty.

Rising mortgage rates provide yet another reason for investors to ensure their portfolios are properly diversified. Maintaining some allocation to defensive stocks and income plays can help smooth out risk during periods of higher volatility.

While outlooks call for slower growth, staying invested with a long-term perspective is typically better than market timing. Patience and prudent risk management will be virtues for investors in navigating markets in the year ahead.

High Gas Prices Return, Complicating Inflation Fight

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

Pain at the pump has made an unwelcome return, with gas prices rapidly rising across the United States. The national average recently climbed to $3.88 per gallon, while some states now face prices approaching or exceeding $6 per gallon.

In California, gas prices have spiked to $5.79 on average, up 31 cents in just the past week. It’s even worse in metro Los Angeles where prices hit $6.07, a 49 cent weekly jump. Besides California, drivers in 11 states now face average gas prices of $4 or more.

This resurgence complicates the Federal Reserve’s fight against high inflation. Oil prices are the key driver of retail gas costs. With oil climbing back to $90 per barrel, pushed up by supply cuts abroad, gas prices have followed.

West Texas Intermediate crude rose to $93.74 on Tuesday, its highest level in 10 months, before retreating below $91 on Wednesday. The international benchmark Brent crude hit highs above $96 per barrel. Goldman Sachs warned Brent could reach $107 if OPEC+ nations don’t unwind production cuts.

For consumers, higher gas prices add costs and sap purchasing power, especially for lower-income families. Drivers once again face pain filling up their tanks. Households paid an average of $445 a month on gas during the June peak when prices topped $5 a gallon. That figure dropped to $400 in September but is rising again.

Politically, high gas also causes headaches for the Biden administration. Midterm voters tend to blame whoever occupies the White House for pain at the pump, whether justified or not. President Biden has few tools to immediately lower prices set by global markets.

Take a look at other energy companies by taking a look at Noble Capital Markets Research Analyst Michael Heim’s coverage list.

However, economists say oil and gas prices must rise significantly further to seriously jeopardize the U.S. economy. Past recessions only followed massive oil price spikes of at least 100% within a year. Oil would need to double from current levels, to around $140 per barrel, to inevitably tip the economy into recession, according to analysis.

Nonetheless, the energy resurgence does present challenges for the Fed’s inflation fight. While core inflation has cooled lately, headline inflation has rebounded in part due to pricier gas. Consumer prices rose 0.1% in August, defying expectations of a drop, largely because of rising shelter and energy costs.

This complicates the Fed’s mission to cool inflation through interest rate hikes. Some economists believe the energy volatility will lead the Fed to pencil in an additional quarter-point rate hike this year to around 4.5%. However, a dramatic policy response is unlikely with oil still below $100 per barrel.

In fact, some argue the energy spike may even inadvertently help the Fed. By sapping consumer spending power, high gas prices could dampen demand and ease price pressures. If energy costs siphon purchases away from discretionary goods and services, it may allow inflation to fall without more aggressive Fed action.

Morgan Stanley analysis found past energy price shocks had a “small” impact on core inflation but took a “sizable bite out of” consumer spending. While bad for growth, this demand destruction could give the Fed space to cool inflation without triggering serious economic damage.

For now, energy volatility muddies the inflation outlook and complicates the Fed’s delicate task of engineering a soft landing. Gas prices swinging upward once again present both economic and political challenges. But unless oil spikes drastically higher, the energy complex likely won’t force the Fed’s hand. The central bank will keep rates elevated as long as underlying inflation remains stubbornly high.

U.S. National Debt Tops $33 Trillion

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

The U.S. national debt surpassed $33 trillion for the first time ever this week, hitting $33.04 trillion according to the Treasury Department. This staggering sum exceeds the size of the entire U.S. economy and equals about $100,000 per citizen.

For investors, the ballooning national debt raises concerns about future tax hikes, inflation, and government spending cuts that could impact markets. While the debt level itself may seem abstract, its trajectory has real implications for portfolios.

Over 50% of the current national debt has accumulated since 2019. Massive pandemic stimulus programs, tax cuts, and a steep drop in tax revenues all blew up the deficit during Covid-19. Interest costs on the debt are also piling up.

Some level of deficit spending was needed to combat the economic crisis. But years of expanding deficits have brought total debt to the highest level since World War II as a share of GDP.

With debt now exceeding the size of the economy, there is greater risk of reduced economic output from crowd-out effects. High debt levels historically hamper GDP growth.

Economists worry that high debt will drive up borrowing costs for consumers and businesses as the government competes for limited capital. The Congressional Budget Office projects interest costs will soon become the largest government expenditure as rates rise.

Higher interest rates will consume more tax revenue just to pay interest, leaving less funding available for programs and services. Taxes may have to be raised to cover these costs.

Rising interest costs will also put more pressure on the Federal Reserve to keep rates low and monetize the debt through quantitative easing. This could further feed inflation.

If interest costs spiral, government debt could eventually reach unsustainable levels and require restructuring. But well before that, the debt overhang will influence policy and markets.

As debt concerns mount, investors may rotate to inflation hedges like gold and real estate. The likelihood of higher corporate and individual taxes could hit equity valuations and consumer spending.

But government spending cuts to social programs and defense would also ripple through the economy. Leaner budgets would provide fiscal headwinds reducing growth.

With debt limiting stimulus options, creative monetary policy would be needed in the next recession. More radical measures by the Fed could introduce volatility.

While the debt trajectory is troubling, a crisis is not imminent. Still, prudent investors should account for fiscal risks in their portfolio positioning and outlook. The ballooning national debt will shape policy and markets for years to come.

The Fed’s Tightrope Walk Between Inflation and Growth

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

The Federal Reserve is stuck between a rock and a hard place as it aims to curb high inflation without inflicting too much damage on economic growth. This precarious balancing act has major implications for both average citizens struggling with rising prices and investors concerned about asset values.

For regular households, the current bout of high inflation straining budgets is public enemy number one. Prices are rising at 8.3% annually, squeezing wages that can’t keep pace. Everything from groceries to rent to healthcare is becoming less affordable. Meanwhile, rapid Fed rate hikes intended to tame inflation could go too far and tip the economy into recession, slowing the job market and risking higher unemployment.

However, new economic research suggests the Fed also needs to be cognizant of rate hikes’ impact on the supply side of the economy. Supply chain bottlenecks and constrained production have been key drivers of this inflationary episode. Aggressive Fed action that suddenly squelches demand could backfire by inhibiting business investment, innovation, and productivity growth necessary to expand supply capacity.

For example, sharply higher interest rates make financing more expensive, deterring business investment in new factories, equipment, and technologies. Tighter financial conditions also restrict lending to startups and venture capital for emerging technologies. All of this could restrict supply, keeping prices stubbornly high even in a weak economy.

This means the Fed has to walk a tightrope, moderating demand enough to curb inflation but not so much that supply takes a hit. The goal is to lower costs without forcing harsh rationing of demand through high unemployment. A delicate balance is required.

For investors, rapidly rising interest rates have already damaged asset prices, bringing an end to the long-running stock market boom. Higher rates make safe assets like bonds more appealing versus risky bets like stocks. And expectations for Fed hikes ahead impact share prices and other securities.

But stock markets could stabilize if the Fed manages to engineering the elusive “soft landing” – bringing down inflation while avoiding recession. The key is whether moderating demand while supporting supply expansion provides stable growth. However, uncertainty remains high on whether the Fed’s policies will thread this narrow needle.

Overall, the Fed’s inflation fight has immense stakes for Americans’ economic security and investors’ asset values. Walking the tightrope between high inflation and very slow growth won’t be easy. Aggressive action risks supply problems and recession, but moving too slowly could allow inflation to become entrenched. It’s a delicate dance with high stakes riding on success.

Consumer Prices Rise at Faster Pace in August

Posted on by slightbourne@noblecapitalmarkets.com

The Consumer Price Index (CPI) increased 0.6% in August on a seasonally adjusted basis, quickening from the 0.2% rise seen in July, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ latest report. Over the past 12 months through August, headline CPI inflation stands at 3.7% before seasonal adjustment, up from 3.2% for the 12-month period ending in July.

The August monthly gain was primarily driven by a spike of 10.6% in the gasoline index. Gasoline was coming off a tamer 0.2% increase in July. Food prices also contributed to inflationary pressures, with the food at home index edging up 0.2% again last month. The food away from home index rose 0.3%.

Meanwhile, the energy index excluding gasoline picked up as well. Natural gas costs ticked up 0.1%, electricity prices rose 0.2%, and fuel oil prices surged 9.1%.

The core CPI, which removes volatile food and energy categories, rose 0.3% in August after a 0.2% gain in July. The shelter index has been a main driver of core inflation. It covers rental costs and owners’ equivalent rent, both of which have rapidly increased due to imbalances between housing supply and demand.

On an annual basis, the energy index has fallen 3.6%, as gasoline, natural gas and fuel oil costs are down over the past 12 months. However, the food and core indexes are up 4.3% and 4.3% year-over-year, respectively.

Within the core CPI, the main drivers have been shelter costs, up 7.3% over the last 12 months, along with auto insurance (+19.1%), recreation services (+3.5%), personal care (+5.8%) and new vehicles (+2.9%). Medical care services inflation has also accelerated to 6.6% over the past year.

Geographically, inflation varies significantly by region. The Northeast has seen 4.2% CPI inflation over the past year, the Midwest 3.9%, the South 3.7%, and the West just 2.9%. By city size, larger metropolitan areas over 1.5 million people have experienced 3.8% inflation, compared to 3.6% for mid-sized cities and 3.7% in smaller cities.

August’s monthly data shows inflation quickened after signs of cooling in July. While gasoline futures retreated in September, shelter inflation remains stubbornly high with no meaningful relief expected until mortgage rates decline substantially.

With core inflation running well above the Fed’s 2% target, further interest rate hikes are anticipated to combat still-high inflation. But the path to a soft economic landing appears increasingly narrow amid recession risks.

The next CPI update will be released in mid-October, shedding light on whether persistent pricing pressures are continuing to squeeze household budgets. For now, the August report shows inflation picking up steam after the prior month’s encouraging data.

Looking Ahead

Consumers may get temporary relief in the near term at the gas pump, as oil and gasoline futures prices pulled back in September following OPEC’s modest production cut.

Yet the larger concern remains the entrenched inflation in essentials like food, rent and medical care. Shelter inflation in particular has shown little sign of abating, as rental rates and housing prices remain disconnected from incomes.

Mortgage rates have soared above 6% in 2023 after starting the year around 3%. The sharp rise in financing costs continues to shut many homebuyers out of the market. Until mortgage rates meaningfully decline, shelter inflation is likely to persist.

And that will be challenging as long as the Fed keeps interest rates elevated. Monetary policy has lagged in responding to inflation, putting central bankers in catch-up mode. Further rate hikes are expected in the coming months absent a significant cooling in pricing pressures.

But the risks of the Fed overtightening and spurring a recession continue to intensify. The path to a soft landing for the economy is looking increasingly precarious.

For consumers, it means further inflationary pain is likely in store before a sustained moderation emerges. Budgets will remain pressured by pricier essentials, leaving less room for discretionary purchases.

While the monthly data will remain volatile, the overall trend points to stubborn inflation persisting through year-end. The Fed will be closely watching to see if their actions to date have slowed price gains enough. If not, consumers should prepare for more rate hikes and resulting economic uncertainty into 2024.