Growth shocks, not just inflation, to be a primary driver of markets
Mar 1, 2024
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Exploring the shift from inflation fears to growth shocks as a market driver, with insights on market sensitivity to data and core inflation expectations. Discussion includes strategies for navigating the transition phase, the impact of upcoming US labor market reports, and the influence of global market trends on investor portfolios.
Growth shocks, not inflation, are becoming a primary market volatility driver.
Balancing equity and bond portfolios is crucial during the current market transition phase.
Deep dives
Transition Period in Markets: Fed Policy and Growth Data Impacting Rates
The recent transition in the stock and bond markets has been influenced by changes in Federal Reserve policy and strong growth data. Initially, there was an overestimation of expected Fed cuts which caused a shift in market sentiment. Subsequent stronger growth news, including positive job reports and GDP growth, led to a more hawkish policy stance from the Federal Committee members. As a result, five-year rates have increased significantly. Although market sensitivity to January data may have led to some overreactions, rates are expected to adjust as Fed cuts become more imminent towards mid-year.
Evolution of Stocks and Bonds Relationship: Navigating Market Volatility
The relationship between stocks and bonds has evolved through different phases, from both asset classes rising together pre-pandemic to a period where inflation fears caused market volatility and impacted stock and bond prices inversely. Currently, the market is in a transition phase where inflation and growth shocks are key drivers. Investors need to balance their equity and bond portfolios carefully. Looking ahead, the emphasis may shift back to bonds providing a hedge to long equity positions as inflation comes under control. Internationally, a global uptick in the industrial cycle suggests potential opportunities in areas beyond the US for investors seeking equity growth.
As inflation fears recede, growth shocks could become a greater driver of market volatility. Kamakshya Trivedi, head of global foreign exchange, interest rates, and emerging market strategy research at Goldman Sachs Research, explains what this "transition phase" means for investors' portfolios.