Markets wobbled following the FOMC’s decision to cut interest rates, and Chair Powell's comments that the Fed may not adjust rates in December.
The credit spreads on the CDX High-Yield Index widened, which is noteworthy because stocks and credit spreads generally tend to move in the same direction. It also seems that free cash flow for stocks does matter.
As the world faces the concurrent challenges of the energy transition, energy security and slowing economic and productivity growth, Japan’s government has launched an ambitious $1trn transition plan called the GX (green transformation) strategy. The GX strategy aims to cut emissions, improve efficiency and boost green innovation throughout the Japanese economy.
A friendship is formed through learning, and a common bond is established over their shared views on various subjects in which they both participate. We can apply this idea to the current state of affairs in the investment world.
Stocks achieved records for the fourth consecutive session this morning as AI enthusiasm, robust corporate earnings, trade deal optimism and dovish monetary policy expectations encouraged risk-taking on Wall Street.
As the calendar has now turned squarely into Q4, the sweepstakes for who will be nominated as next Chair of the Federal Reserve will no doubt increase. Current Chair Powell’s term does not end until May 2026, but according to published reports, it looks like the Trump Administration could make an announcement as soon as January.
Consider October theory as a traffic light signal for the upcoming months. It’s the perfect time to press the pause button, reset goals, and then give them a go before the current year ends.
AI investment fuels a $1.1 trillion capex surge in the S&P 500, with IT returns soaring post-tariff. Meanwhile, AI transforms marketing by making high-quality ad creation affordable and narrowing the gap between big brands and small businesses.
While trade tensions with China dominated the attention during the week, some bank news also captured investor interest. Stocks pushed higher last week, buoyed by strong third-quarter results posted by several money center banks.
Institutional investors increasingly recognize the challenge that physical climate risk is beginning to pose to markets and economies. The COP30 Net Zero Atlas maps physical climate risk across sub-national regions, pinpointing exposure through granular mapping.
Pavlov’s dogs became conditioned to associate a bell with a reward. Does that sound all that different from equity traders right now?
With the federal government shutdown delaying major economic data releases, investors are left navigating markets without key signals. While this shutdown does not include debt ceiling standoffs, it still clouds short-term visibility for the economy.