Market analyst Dan Nathan, stock trader Guy Adami, and market strategist Liz Young discuss the Fed's preparation for a rate cut shift, the impact of yields and inflation, small caps, XLE, Toll Brothers, and earnings insight in this engaging podcast.
The market's expectations and projected growth rates for earnings in 2023 and 2024 are inconsistent, potentially leading to volatility in equity markets.
The market's disconnect from GDP projections and labor market suggests a potential correction in the future.
Deep dives
Contradictions in Projections
The projections for 2023 earnings and revenue growth show a modest increase of 0.7% for the S&P 500, but 2024 is expected to have double-digit earnings growth at 11.8%. However, the math doesn't add up, as GDP growth is projected to be below trend and inflation is a headwind for earnings. Margin expansion is expected, but cost-cutting options have mostly been exhausted. The market's expectations and the projected growth rates are inconsistent, which could lead to volatility in equity markets.
Concerns over Small Caps and Energy
Small caps have been stuck in a trading range, and with slowing global growth and higher unemployment, it's doubtful they will see continued upward trajectory. Energy stocks, like Toll Brothers, have experienced significant gains in a short period of time. However, the fundamentals don't support these gains, and it seems like an accident waiting to happen. The market is disconnected from GDP projections and the labor market, which suggests a potential correction in the future.
Inconsistencies in the Fed's Projections
The Fed's projections for 2023 show GDP growth of 1.4% and a soft landing, but earnings and revenue growth rates are double that projection. The math doesn't add up, especially with inflation as a headwind and the expectation of margin expansion. The market and the Fed's projections for 2024 also differ, with the market expecting more cuts than the Fed. These inconsistencies could lead to heightened volatility in equity markets.
Expectations for 2024 Earnings Growth
Analysts expect double-digit earnings growth in 2024, with an estimated year-over-year growth rate of 11.8%. However, the math doesn't align with projected GDP growth and the current economic conditions. Margin expansion is expected, but the factors influencing this expansion are unclear. The market is also debating the future growth prospects, with some predicting greater cuts than the Fed's projections. This disconnect could lead to market volatility.