Decision Point
In my previous article dated November 30, 2023 (Are We There Yet?), I highlighted the optimism regarding cuts in the federal funds rate. At the time, expectations were high that cuts would be forthcoming based on moderating inflation. Fast forward nine months and we have seen no cuts in the federal funds rate. The target […]
Are We There Yet?
In response to elevated levels of inflation, the Federal Reserve (Fed) has raised the federal funds rate by 5.25% to a current range of 5.25% – 5.50%. While there have been some bumps in the road, including two negative quarters of real GDP growth (Q1 & Q2 2022) and a banking crisis (March 2023), the […]
Precariously Balanced Rocks
My least favorite subject in high school was earth science. For some reason, I found the subject matter very dry and mundane. However, as I grew older and started to travel more extensively, I found much to like about the planet. In particular, rocks and rock formations drew my interest. During my travels, I would […]
Waiting on the World to Change
Driving in my car over the weekend, I listened to one of John Mayer’s classic songs – Waiting on the World to Change. While the song does not address economics or the financial markets, I thought the title of the song was relevant when considering the world today. Determining precisely how events will unfold is […]
Investors in the Mist
Over the last couple of months, heightened volatility has been evident in the U.S. equity market. The precipitating factor appears to be the hawkish turn taken by the Federal Reserve in response to elevated levels of inflation. In remarks to the Senate Banking Committee in November, Federal Reserve Chairman Powell noted it was time to […]
The Best Laid Plans
At the end of August, the U.S. concluded its 20-year war in Afghanistan. Images and videos of the withdrawal painted a dire picture of chaos, confusion, and suffering with the Taliban firmly back in power. Having served in Afghanistan while on active duty in the U.S. Air Force, I was not too surprised at the […]