by lportee53 | Jun 23, 2025 | Uncategorized
Last week, the Federal Reserve held interest rates steady, maintaining the federal funds target range at 5.25%–5.50%. While the decision was widely anticipated, attention turned to Fed Chair Powell’s comments and the updated Summary of Economic Projections, which signaled a cautious stance on inflation and a slower path to rate cuts than previously expected. On the housing front, both Building Permits and Housing Starts for May came in lower than anticipated, offering insights into low builder sentiment amid elevated mortgage rates. At only 1.393 million for Building Permits and -9.8% for Housing Starts, economists will be watching to see if this will be a new trend. Meanwhile, as a key driver of gross domestic product (GDP), Core Retail Sales came in at -0.3%, providing a read of possible fatigue in consumer strength and spending behavior.
by lportee53 | Jun 17, 2025 | Commentary
While last week was lighter on economic data, global headlines were anything but quiet. Trade talks between the U.S. and China took center stage, and rising tensions between Israel and Iran rattled investor confidence. Still, beneath the surface, key inflation data and shifting expectations quietly shaped the market narrative.
by lportee53 | Jun 17, 2025 | Articles, Investing
“The Four Most Dangerous Words In Investing Are: ‘This Time It’s Different.’” – Sir John Templeton Despite those who say the conventional wisdom that has guided investor actions over the years is no longer valid in 2025, remember the famous quote from legendary...
by lportee53 | Jun 9, 2025 | Commentary
The week began with the ISM Manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) report on Monday, which showed continued weakness in the manufacturing sector. The index came in at 48.5 for May, slightly below April’s 48.7, marking the third consecutive month of contraction. Trade-related concerns and rising tariffs were cited as key challenges, with export and import activity weakening significantly.
by lportee53 | Jun 2, 2025 | Commentary
Last week’s economic data offered a mixed view of the U.S. economy, beginning with a notable rebound in consumer sentiment. On Tuesday, consumer confidence rose sharply in May to 98 from 85.7 in April, reversing five months of declines. The improvement was driven by a significant increase in expectations for future income and business conditions. Current assessments of the economy also improved, though concerns about job availability remained.
