Economic growth appeared much softer in the first five months of the year following the release of key economic data on Thursday. … READ MORE >
Federal Reserve
U.S. harmonized index of consumer prices: A more accurate metric of disinflation?
Traditional measures of inflation don’t necessarily tell the full story of what is happening with pricing, especially in housing. That’s where other measures like the harmonized index of consumer prices are instructive … READ MORE >
U.S. inflation expectations are well anchored as Fed nears decision
Our read on the economy, hiring and the labor market suggests that the Fed can ease rates without dislodging well-anchored expectations and still establish price stability. … READ MORE >
Jobless claims ease as housing starts drop
Initial jobless claims dropped by 5,000 last week to 238,000 yet remained elevated near a 10-month high as housing starts fell in May to the lowest level since June 2020 … READ MORE >
Retail sales and industrial production rise in May
The soft rebound in May’s retail sales was good news, suggesting that the economy might reach a soft landing sooner than expected. … READ MORE >
PCE inflation preview: From noise to norm, rate cuts are on the horizon
Following the release of the consumer price index and producer price index this week, we are now forecasting a 0.084% increase in the May personal consumption expenditures index, translating to a 2.6% increase on a year-over-year basis. … READ MORE >
Initial jobless claims jump as inflation continues to improve
The weekly initial jobless claims figure was the highest level in almost a year, nearing the threshold of 250,000 that in our view signals conditions for a possible recession. … READ MORE >
FOMC holds rates steady but is divided on their direction
Seven FOMC members supported one cut this year, eight supported two and four supported no cuts. Overall, the forecast projects a 5.125% rate later this year. … READ MORE >
U.S. consumer price index cools in May as gas and transportation costs decline
The encouraging May CPI data released by the Labor Department on Thursday is likely to be the first in a string of constructive inflation reports that will define policy normalization at the Fed. … READ MORE >
U.S. financial conditions update: A shift in structure and a new center of gravity
The RSM US Financial Conditions Index turned positive in January and has centered at 0,25 standard deviations above zero since March, indicating the normal level of risk priced into financial securities. … READ MORE >