Diane Swonk

Diane Swonk, Chief Economist at KPMG, shares her insights on the U.S. economy amidst fluctuating trends. She explains how AI investments and wealth effects sustain growth despite a K-shaped recovery where affluence skews benefits. Diane highlights that childcare costs push skilled women out of the workforce and discusses the challenges posed by recent government shutdowns. With a forecast of 3.2% CPI, she warns that wage growth isn't keeping up with inflation, complicating consumer budgets during the holiday season.

Diane Swonk, Chief Economist at KPMG, discusses the current labor market challenges, highlighting a freeze in hiring and increased layoffs. She analyzes the struggles of job seekers, including a new graduate facing a mountain of applications and an educator resorting to supermarket work. Swonk explains how various demographic groups are disproportionately affected, particularly Black women. The conversation touches on recession indicators and the impact of AI on entry-level jobs, raising concerns about the economy's future and practical advice for those job hunting.

Exploring free speech in America with a diverse group of guests, the podcast discusses legal actions against Trump allies, campus protests, student activism, controversies over Palestinian rights, and the delicate balance of the Federal Reserve's independence. It delves into the challenges of maintaining professionalism in election administration, the importance of upholding due process, and the complexities of advocating for diverse viewpoints while upholding organizational values.

Diane Swonk, Chief Economist at KPMG, provides keen insights into the disappointing December jobs report, revealing only 50,000 new positions created. She discusses how the declining unemployment rate can hide deeper labor market issues, including low workforce participation and stress among workers. The conversation also touches on the emotional recovery of LA fire survivors, sharing poignant stories of cherished items lost and found, illustrating resilience in the face of adversity.

Rich Clarida, former Vice Chairman of the Federal Reserve, Diane Swonk, Chief Economist at KPMG, and Bob Michael, Columbia economics professor, analyze the Fed's recent decision to lower interest rates. They delve into the implications for inflation and job markets while discussing historical challenges the Fed faces. The trio highlights the intricate balance between achieving price stability and addressing diverse economic needs. Additionally, they examine the effects of U.S. monetary policies on global capital flows and bond markets, adding depth to the ongoing economic discourse.

Diane Swonk, Chief Economist at KPMG, shares her insights on the dismal December jobs report revealing only 50,000 new hires. She explains how the decline in the unemployment rate reflects reduced workforce participation rather than robust job growth. Swonk also addresses the rise in part-time employment, highlighting underlying labor-market stress. Additionally, the podcast features stories from LA fire survivors about their lost and found personal items, showcasing resilience and the emotional weight of recovered treasures.

Nancy Marshall-Genzer, a veteran Marketplace reporter, discusses Greg Abel stepping into the CEO role at Berkshire Hathaway, exploring his cautious cash strategy and its implications. Diane Swonk, KPMG's chief economist, highlights the paradox of a strong stock market contrasted with job market weaknesses and firms' reluctance to hire, affecting new job seekers. The conversation shifts to the evolving landscape of movie criticism in the era of social media, raising questions about the relevance of traditional critics.

Diane Swonk, Chief Economist at KPMG with expertise in US monetary policy, joins Matt Lozetti from Deutsche Bank, who analyzes macroeconomic trends, and Bob Michael, a financial expert focused on the bond market. They delve into the Federal Reserve's decision to cut interest rates by 25 basis points, exploring its implications for inflation and the labor market. The discussion also covers investment strategies in the bond market, challenges from a weaker dollar, and the importance of clear communication during Fed announcements.

Rich Clarida, former Federal Reserve Vice Chair, shares his deep insights into monetary policy, while Diane Swonk, chief economist at KPMG, discusses the complexities of inflation and labor market conditions. Matt Lozetti from Deutsche Bank forecasts economic trends, and Bob Michael delves into the strategic challenges the Fed faces. They humorously explore the predictability of Fed press conferences and analyze the impact of global capital flows on the U.S. bond market, addressing how European debt scenarios add to the economic puzzle.

Diane Swonk, Chief Economist at KPMG, dissects the 2023 economy with a focus on consumer resilience, inflation, employment gains, changing labor market dynamics, decline in wages, and the outlook for 2024 economy.