Economic Commentary

ECONOMY AND POLICY September 17, 2021   Chief Economist Scott Brown discusses current economic conditions. Following the strong performance in the first half of the year, economic growth was bound to moderate in the second half. Growth is still expected to be strong by historical standards. Yet, it may be disappointing for some investors. Team […]

ECONOMY AND POLICY September 17, 2021   In a win (but not a complete victory) for “team transitory,” the Consumer Price Index rose less than expected in August (+0.3%, up just 0.1% excluding food and energy). Areas that were running hot a few months ago (used cars, vehicle rentals, car insurance, airfares) retreated. The report […]

ECONOMY AND POLICY September 10, 2021   Chief Economist Scott Brown discusses the latest market data. Indices Last Last Week YTD return % DJIA 35,443.82 35,213.12 15.8% NASDAQ 15,331.18 14,945.81 18.95% S&P 500 4,536.95 4,470.00 20.79% MSCI EAFE 2,384.89 2,339.25 11.05% Russell 2000 2,304.02 2,213.98 16.67%   Consumer Money Rates Last 1 year ago Prime […]

ECONOMY AND POLICY September 03, 2021   Chief Economist Scott Brown discusses current economic conditions. Nonfarm payrolls rose less than expected in the initial estimate for August, likely reflecting an impact from the Delta variant. However, the shortfall (relative to expectations) may have also reflected the usual noise in the data. You should never take […]