Neil Dutta, head of US Economic Research at Renaissance Macro Research, discusses rising bond yields and the likelihood of a recession in 2025. Priya Misra of JP Morgan Asset Management offers insights on the potential for a US soft landing and peak rates in fixed income markets. Mike Wilson, Morgan Stanley’s Chief US Equity Strategist, analyzes the resilience of the equity market, contemplating where traders might see volatility in the upcoming year. Together, they navigate the complexities of the economic outlook amid changing financial landscapes.
The Federal Reserve's recent policy shifts reflect its vigilance over the economy, impacting bond yields and raising recession concerns.
The rising strength of the dollar poses challenges for U.S. exports and corporate earnings, particularly for global technology firms.
Deep dives
Insights into the Fed's Policy Changes
The recent changes in the Federal Reserve’s policies highlight its responsiveness to economic data and market conditions. A significant shift occurred during the last Fed meeting, where they preemptively revised policy forecasts, which raised concerns among economists about its implications for the financial markets. The discussion points to how the market has reacted, specifically with rising yields and a strong dollar, potentially signaling a slowdown in economic activity. Analysts agreed that this tightening of financial conditions may not align with the expected growth trends, suggesting caution in future economic forecasts.
Challenges in the Housing Market
The housing market is currently under stress due to elevated mortgage rates, which are close to 7%, affecting affordability for many potential homebuyers. As the spring selling season approaches, an increase in inventory indicates a mismatch between availability and demand, particularly in key markets. This situation compounds the challenges facing home builders, as the construction employment sector may also experience negative impacts. The discussion emphasizes the possibility of further declines in housing performance if economic conditions remain unfavorable.
Consumer Behavior and Economic Outlook
A cooling labor market is anticipated to negatively affect consumer spending patterns, making it difficult for consumption to sustain the previous year's pace. With hiring rates and wage growth decreasing, consumers are likely to feel financial pressure, inhibiting their purchasing power. Despite some positive indicators such as rising equity and home prices bolstering spending, a broader decline in consumer confidence may lead to reduced economic activity. This paints a picture of a divergence in wealth distribution, where some segments thrive while others face stagnation.
Impact of the Strengthening Dollar
The strengthening dollar is becoming a concern as it affects U.S. exports and corporate earnings, particularly for global companies in the technology sector. The increase in the dollar's value, while beneficial in some respects, imposes challenges for businesses with dollar-denominated debts, especially in emerging markets. The correlation between the dollar's strength and risks in equity valuations suggests a tightening of financial conditions that could lead to broader economic implications. As the dollar continues to rise, market observers will need to closely monitor its effects on both local and global economic frameworks.
Watch Tom and Paul LIVE every day on YouTube: http://bit.ly/3vTiACF. Bloomberg Surveillance hosted by Tom Keene & Paul SweeneyJanuary 3rd, 2025 Featuring:
Neil Dutta, Partner/Head: US Economic Research at Renaissance Macro Research, on the rise in bond yields, the outlook for recession, and the health of he US economy as we kick off 2025
Priya Misra, Portfolio Manager - Core Plus Fund at JP Morgan Asset Management, talks about the US soft landing, peak rates, and where to go from here in fixed income
Mike Wilson, Chief US Equity Strategist at Morgan Stanley, joins for two segments to discuss US economic resilience, where we are in the equity market bull run, and whether traders will experience more choppiness in 2025