Tag: Chair of the Federal Reserve

Economy and Trading

Fed Rate Cuts Amid Persistent Inflation: Why Prices Remain High Despite Claims of Victory

Despite Federal Reserve interest rate cuts and claims that inflation is defeated, consumer prices remain stubbornly high. Tariffs, supply chain pressures, and wage dynamics continue fueling economic uncertainty for households and policymakers.

Federal Reserve officials and the Trump administration have recently touted significant progress in combating inflation, with President Donald Trump declaring to the United Nations that “inflation has been defeated” and grocery and mortgage costs are declining. However, economic data reveals a more complex reality: inflation has increased in three of the past four months, remaining above the Fed’s 2% target and continuing to strain American households. This discrepancy between political rhetoric and economic conditions raises critical questions about the sustainability of recent policy moves, including Fed rate cuts and escalating tariffs.

Current Inflation Landscape and Political Narratives

by Jessica Moore P.E.
BusinessEconomy and Trading

Wall Street Mixed Session: Bank Rally, Trade Tensions, and Economic Signals

Wall Street experienced a divided trading session with bank stocks surging on upbeat quarterly results while broader indexes reflected ongoing trade war concerns. Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell’s economic assessment provided additional context for investors navigating volatile market conditions.

Wall Street delivered a mixed performance on Tuesday as investors weighed strong banking sector earnings against persistent U.S.-China trade tensions and Federal Reserve commentary. The S&P 500 posted modest gains while the Nasdaq declined, reflecting the complex interplay of corporate results and macroeconomic factors influencing Wall Street sentiment.

Banking Sector Leads Market Rally

by Jessica Moore P.E.
Economy and TradingPolicy

Alternative Economic Indicators: 11 Unconventional Metrics to Track During Government Shutdowns

** As government shutdowns halt official economic data, investors and policymakers are turning to alternative indicators ranging from private payroll reports to men’s underwear sales. These unconventional metrics offer unique insights when traditional compass points disappear.

The Data Void: Why Alternative Economic Indicators Matter During Shutdowns

When the Bureau of Labor Statistics halts its regular reports during government shutdowns, investors and policymakers face a significant challenge. The current government shutdown has entered its 14th day with predictions suggesting it could last 30 days or more, creating a critical data vacuum at a time when the economy is transitioning from tight monetary policy. Without official statistics on employment, inflation, and growth, market participants must rely on alternative measures to gauge economic health.

by Michael Turner