David Rubenstein, manager of the Carlyle Group, discusses pressing economic topics like the future of the U.S. dollar, oil markets, and potential recessions. The conversation dives deep into financial systems, interest rates, and unemployment figures. Insights are shared on the Federal Reserve's approach, the impact of COVID-19, and potential solutions for raising money.
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Quick takeaways
The Federal Reserve is cautious about raising interest rates and is focused on achieving a 2% inflation rate to avoid a hard landing or recession in the near future.
Factors such as decreased labor force participation, limited immigration, and challenges in hiring lower-income workers make it unlikely for high unemployment rates to occur in the near future.
Higher interest rates have led to increased mortgage costs, causing a shift towards rental housing and apartments in the real estate market, particularly slowing down home sales.
Deep dives
The Federal Reserve's cautious approach to interest rates
The Federal Reserve, led by J. Powell, is being cautious in raising interest rates and is concerned about the risk of backtracking. They are likely to increase interest rates by another 25 basis points this year, but reducing rates may not occur until after the first two quarters of next year. The goal is to achieve a 2% inflation rate, which is challenging, but a hard landing or recession may be avoided for now.
Unemployment and demographic factors
The low unemployment rate is influenced by several factors. The labor force participation has decreased due to older individuals retiring or not returning to work after COVID-19. Immigration has also declined, limiting job opportunities that would typically be filled by immigrants. Furthermore, employers face challenges in hiring lower-income workers, impacting unemployment rates. The complexities of these factors make it unlikely that high unemployment will occur in the near future.
Impact of interest rates on the housing market
Interest rate hikes have resulted in higher mortgage costs, making it difficult for middle-income families to afford homes. Consequently, real estate developers are shifting towards rental housing and apartments, as demand for purchasing homes decreases. The housing market, particularly for home sales, is slow and inactive, with a greater focus on the rental market.
Potential crisis in commercial real estate and distress debt
The commercial real estate market is possibly heading towards a crisis, particularly in urban office markets, where remote work has become more common. This shift may lead to fewer lease renewals, reduced lease space, and lower rents. It could result in a distressed real estate debt market, with higher default rates and potential consequences for banks and developers. While regulations hinder banks from taking back the debt, they may eventually be forced to do so, creating significant challenges.
Debt, inflation, and the future of the US economy
The US national debt, currently at $32 trillion, presents a significant challenge. The possible solutions include increasing taxes, cutting spending, seeking a bailout, or defaulting, none of which are favorable options. The preferred approach has been inflating the debt away, although this places the burden on future generations. While the US has a history of debt, the size and continued increase in debt levels raise concerns. However, the US economy may leverage innovation to overcome challenges and maintain its position as a dynamic and important global economy for the next few decades.
What's really going on in the world economy? James Altucher turns to David Rubenstein—manager of the Carlyle Group, one of the world's most significant private equity funds—for answers. With half a trillion dollars in investments and a deep involvement in the global economy since the '70s, David offers unparalleled insights into pressing questions like the future of the U.S. dollar, oil markets, and potential recessions. The conversation doesn't just skim the surface; it dives deep into the mechanics of financial systems, interest rates, and unemployment figures. Whether you're an investor, an entrepreneur, or someone simply trying to understand the economic maze, this episode promises a comprehensive look at where things stand and where they might be headed.
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What do YOU think of the show? Head to JamesAltucherShow.com/listeners and fill out a short survey that will help us better tailor the podcast to our audience!
Are you interested in getting direct answers from James about your question on a podcast? Go to JamesAltucherShow.com/AskAltucher and send in your questions to be answered on the air!
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Visit Notepd.com to read our idea lists & sign up to create your own!
My new book, Skip the Line, is out! Make sure you get a copy wherever books are sold!
I write about all my podcasts! Check out the full post and learn what I learned at jamesaltuchershow.com
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Thank you so much for listening! If you like this episode, please rate, review, and subscribe to “The James Altucher Show” wherever you get your podcasts: