Economic Commentary

ECONOMY AND POLICY November 06, 2020 Chief Economist Scott Brown discusses the latest market data. The anticipated Blue Wave was apparently met by a Red Wave, leading to a closer-than-expected presidential election and a divided Congress. The stock market was encouraged by the prospects of a divided government, even though that implies a smaller fiscal […]

ECONOMY AND POLICY October 30, 2020 Chief Economist Scott Brown discusses current economic conditions. Recent economic data reports added to the picture of a sharp rebound in May and June, followed by more moderate growth in July, August, and September. Economic activity through the pandemic has been mixed, with strength in some areas and prolonged […]

ECONOMY AND POLICY October 30, 2020 Chief Economist Scott Brown discusses the latest market data. Earnings reports were generally supportive and the economic data remained consistent with moderate economic growth in the near term, but financial market participants remained focused on election uncertainty and rising COVID-19 cases. Real GDP rose 7.4% (q/q) in the advance […]

ECONOMY AND POLICY October 23, 2020 Chief Economist Scott Brown discusses current economic conditions. There are a number of uncertainties heading into the November 3 election and many more as we look ahead into 2021. There’s a long held belief that the stock market abhors uncertainty. There’s also an old adage that says the market […]