U.S. Economy: A Glass Half Full, Half Empty, or Both?

When it comes to cutting interest rates, the Federal Reserve seems determined to stick with its plan to take it slowly and let the data guide their decisions. But what data are they looking at, and what is it telling them? And what cues does the data have for investors? On this episode, host Mike Townsend and Kevin Gordon, director and senior investment strategist with the Schwab Center for Financial Research, sort through inflation numbers, consumer confidence data, the latest jobs report, and more to explain what's important to the Fed. Kevin also looks back at the markets' strong first half of the year and what the underlying data may signal for the second half of 2024. And he provides his perspective on why investors feel anxious about the market even amidst strong performance.

Mike also provides the latest from Washington, including a Supreme Court decision that could have far-reaching implications for companies and the markets and a setback for bipartisan privacy legislation. And Mike shares insights on the process should a presidential nominee choose not to run.

WashingtonWise is an original podcast for investors from Charles Schwab. For more on the series, visit Schwab.com/WashingtonWise.

If you enjoy the show, please leave a ★★★★★ rating or review on Apple Podcasts

IMPORTANT DISCLOSURES

The policy analysis provided by the Charles Schwab & Co., Inc., does not constitute and should not be interpreted as an endorsement of any political party.

The information provided here is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered an individualized recommendation or personalized investment advice. All expressions of opinion are subject to changes without notice in reaction to shifting market, economic, and geopolitical conditions. Data herein is obtained from what are considered reliable sources; however, its accuracy, completeness, or reliability cannot be guaranteed. Supporting documentation for any claims or statistical information is available upon request.

Examples provided are for illustrative purposes only and not intended to be reflective of results you can expect to achieve.

Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.

All names and market data shown above are for illustrative purposes only and are not a recommendation, offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy any security. Supporting documentation for any claims or statistical information is available upon request.

The information and content provided herein is general in nature and is for informational purposes only. It is not intended, and should not be construed, as a specific recommendation, individualized tax, legal, or investment advice. Tax laws are subject to change, either prospectively or retroactively. Where specific advice is necessary or appropriate, individuals should contact their own professional tax and investment advisors or other professionals (CPA, Financial Planner, Investment Manager) to help answer questions about specific situations or needs prior to taking any action based upon this information.

​Diversification and asset allocation strategies do not ensure a profit and cannot protect against losses in a declining market.

Schwab does not recommend the use of technical analysis as a sole means of investment research.

Performance may be affected by risks associated with non-diversification, including investments in specific countries or sectors. Additional risks may also include, but are not limited to, investments in foreign securities, especially emerging markets, real estate investment trusts (REITs), fixed income, small capitalization securities and commodities. Each individual investor should consider these risks carefully before investing in a particular security or strategy.

Forecasts contained herein are for illustrative purposes only, may be based upon proprietary research and are developed through analysis of historical public data.

Indexes are unmanaged, do not incur management fees, costs, and expenses and cannot be invested in directly. For more information on indexes, please see Schwab.com/IndexDefinitions.

Past performance is no guarantee of future results and the opinions presented cannot be viewed as an indicator of future performance.

The Schwab Center for Financial Research is a division of Charles Schwab & Co., Inc.

0724-CGWU