Guests Keith Lerner, Jens Stoltenberg, and Mohamed El-Erian discuss the economy, NATO future, and the week's economic data. Topics include signs of economic cooling, NATO's path amid uncertainty, and analysis of market data for the Fed.
NATO Secretary General's Insights on Ukraine Conflict
The NATO Secretary General discusses the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia. He emphasizes Ukraine's right to defend itself against Russian aggression, highlighting the importance of allies' support. The NATO summit addressed providing military support and emphasized moving Ukraine closer to NATO membership to strengthen its position as a sovereign nation.
US Commitment to NATO and Potential Policy Changes
The discussion shifts to the future US commitment to NATO, with reassurance that the US will likely remain a strong ally. Factors supporting this include shared security interests, bipartisan support for NATO, and increased defense spending by European allies. Despite past criticisms, the US is expected to uphold its NATO alliance.
Economic Data Analysis and Forecast
Economic analyst Keith evaluates recent economic data, focusing on tech sector performance and small caps. He anticipates a cooling economy but projects positive earnings growth, albeit not as robust as previously seen. Keith suggests the financial sector, smaller banks, and industrials may outperform due to low expectations, urging a focus on relative performance amid market shifts.
Keith Lerner of Truist says the economy is showing signs of cooling, but that doesn't necessarily mean it's weakening. NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg addresses the future of the alliance amid rising global uncertainty. Mohamed El-Erian of Queens' College, Cambridge recaps the week in economic data and what it means for the Fed.