Market Update April 2024
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Did you know that over half of the global voting populace will have the chance to vote in what’s been dubbed the biggest election year in history.
In this Market Perspective podcast, Vector’s Jason and Ezra discuss the S&P 500’s recent highs, economic trends, and the implications of geo-political events on the markets. We get into persistent inflation rates, noting a shift from anticipated declines to a slight acceleration, potentially altering the timeline for expected Federal Reserve interest rate cuts.
The labor market's resilience continues to be a pivotal force in economic momentum, despite the challenges posed by inflation and higher interest rates, the U.S. economy has added jobs for 39 consecutive months. BLS data shows the unemployment rate was below 4% for 26 months in a row, the longest streak since the late 1960s.
In the episode we also touch on the significance of market breadth, which has recently widened, signaling a healthier participation across a spectrum of companies. If market gains are led by only a handful of companies, then the fragility of the stock market may be greater.
The VIX, not to be confused with Vic’s Bar & Grill in downtown Victoria, is an index that measures market volatility, has been on the rise recently. A higher VIX number coincides with larger or more frequent swings in the stock market. We talk about the volatility index as a tool to inform investors about the current state of unrest or stability in the market.
As we reflect on this historic year of elections, it’s evident that the choices we make can reverberate through the markets and beyond. With each episode, we're committed to providing clarity amidst complexity and fostering resilience in your financial life.
Listen to this podcast and others on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Charts and video available on our blog.
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Time … Titles:
Times & Titles
00:00 ... The Global Election Year: Navigating Political Winds
02:10 ... Market Highs and Economic Signals: Q1 2024 Snapshot
04:51 ... Interest Rate Trajectories and Inflationary Trends
07:14 ... Shelter Costs and Auto Insurance: The Inflation Impact
10:55 ... Consumer Spending and the Power of the Job Market
13:46 ... Political Outcomes and Market Implications
17:45 ... VIX and Market Volatility: Reading the Pendulum Swing
21:33 ... Understanding Market Breadth and Top Company Influence
These discussions aim to spark dialogue about enhancing retirement readiness and making more informed financial decisions. At Vector, we delve into the nuances of scenario planning, offer insights and guidance tailored to each client's unique circumstances. If you or someone you know is pondering their financial future or seeking clarity on their retirement plan, we're here to help.
This discussion is with Vector’s Jason Ranallo and Communications Director Ezra Firkins.
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