Economic Commentary

ECONOMY AND POLICY December 20, 2019 Market Commentary by Scott J. Brown, Ph.D., Chief Economist Stock market participants remained optimistic, despite impeachment. The economic data were mixed, but consistent with moderate growth in the overall economy. The House approved (largely along party line) two articles of impeachment against President Trump. There is wide expectation that […]

Chief Economist Scott Brown discusses current economic conditions. We’re still missing a lot of information on the fourth quarter, but recent reports paint a picture of moderate growth in the overall economy. That picture will become clearer as December data arrive next month. The economy was mixed in 2019, and should remain mixed into the […]

Chief Economist Scott Brown discusses current economic conditions. The Fed’s policy statement, the revised dot plot, and Chair Powell’s press conference reaffirmed expectations that monetary policy will remain on hold for the foreseeable future. That doesn’t mean that rates won’t be changed. The Fed stands ready to provide further accommodation if conditions warrant. However, the […]

Chief Economist Scott Brown discusses current economic conditions. Nonfarm payrolls rose more than expected in the initial estimate for November (+266,000), with upward revisions to the gains for September and October (a net 41,000 higher). In contrast, the ADP estimate of private-sector payrolls rose more modestly (+67,000). What to believe? The unemployment rate has been […]