Steve Hanke: The Fed is Behind the Curve - Recession is Inevitable
Aug 20, 2024
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In a compelling discussion, Professor Steve Hanke, a renowned applied economics expert from Johns Hopkins University, warns about an inevitable recession. He highlights the alarming contraction of the money supply and its implications for both the stock market and consumer behavior. Hanke argues that the Fed is lagging in its responses, leading to forecasting errors. He advocates for cautious investment strategies, suggesting alternatives like gold amidst economic uncertainty. Tune in to hear his insights and recommendations!
The contraction of the money supply since July 2022 signals an inevitable economic recession, highlighting the link between monetary dynamics and market outcomes.
As consumer spending declines and unemployment rises, investors should prioritize safety by considering U.S. government bonds and diversifying into gold.
Deep dives
Rising Unemployment and Economic Indicators
The unemployment rate has been climbing from a low of 3.5% in 2023 to 4.3%, indicating potential economic distress. This increase in unemployment is concerning as it directly affects consumer income and spending power, crucial components of economic health. Measures suggest that the unemployment rate's upward trend may hint at an ongoing recession, revealing a disconnect between consumer behavior and economic optimism reported elsewhere. The correlation between rising unemployment and reduced spending underlines the risk of a slowdown in economic growth.
Money Supply and Its Impact on Inflation
The stock of money in the United States has decreased since July 2022, mirroring historical patterns that often precede recessions. This contraction in money supply holds implications for future inflation rates, which are projected to decline further, aligning with forecasts suggesting levels between 2.5% to 3% by year-end. The discussion emphasizes the relationship between changes in money supply, economic activity, and inflation, asserting that the lag effects significantly influence market outcomes. Understanding these monetary dynamics is essential, as previous contractions have coincided with broader economic downturns.
Evaluating Consumer Health and Spending Patterns
Recent trends indicate a weakening consumer base, as visible through disappointing earnings reports from major retailers such as Amazon and Nike, revealing shifts in spending habits. The consumer's discretionary spending has diminished, leading to downward adjustments in company forecasts and an expectation that consumer spending will continue to decline. Analyzing the composition of GDP, which emphasizes consumption, reveals its limitations; gross output provides a broader perspective on economic activity. Given the diverse influences affecting consumer spending, a cautious outlook is warranted, especially as many households reevaluate their financial priorities.
Investment Strategies in a Potential Downturn
In light of anticipated economic challenges, investment strategies should prioritize safety and liquidity, particularly in U.S. government bonds, which offer favorable yields. Historical data indicates an increasing trend in capital gains for bonds as inflation decreases, suggesting a continued value in these assets. On the stock front, maintaining a defensive posture by reducing positions and accumulating cash or liquid assets has been recommended, reflecting a cautious approach to an overvalued market. Additionally, diversifying into gold and agricultural assets may present hedging opportunities against inflation and economic uncertainties.
James Connor welcomes Professor Steve Hanke for a thought-provoking conversation exploring why we’re headed for recession and its implications for an overheated stock market, while also suggesting a safe asset investors should consider under this scenario. The renowned professor of applied economics at Johns Hopkins University issues a stark warning about the U.S. economy, stating that we’re “running on fumes” as the money supply contracts, making an economic downturn inevitable this year or early next!
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Timestamps:
01:30 - The Money Supply Contraction Means Recession Is Coming
07:49 - The Stock Market Is Overpriced
13:29 - The Health Of The US Consumer?
22:02 - US Monetary Policy: The Fed Is Behind The Curve Here
33:00 - How Should Investors Position Themselves Under Steve's Recession Outlook?