Weekly Market Snapshot

Chief Economist Scott Brown discusses the latest market data.

Investor optimism remained strong in the first day of trading 2020, but news that the US. Military had assassinated an Iranian general sent share prices lower. The price of oil rose and bond yields fell in response to heightened uncertainty.

The ISM Manufacturing Index fell to 47.2 in December, vs. 48.1 in November. New orders, production, and employment contracted for the fifth consecutive month. Order backlogs fell for the eighth month in a row (not a good sign). “Global trade remains the most significant cross-industry issue, but there are signs that several industry sectors will improve as a result of the phase-one trade agreement between the U.S. and China,” according to the report.

The Conference Board’s Consumer Confidence Index edged down to 126.5 in the initial estimate for December, vs. 126.8 in November (revised from 125.5). Consumers’ assessments of current conditions improved, but their expectations declined, driven by a softening in the outlook regarding jobs and financial prospects. “While the economy hasn’t shown signs of further weakening, there is little to suggest that growth, and in particular consumer spending, will gain momentum in early 2020,” according to the report.

Next week, geopolitical developments are expected to drive financial markets. The ISM Non-Manufacturing Index (Tuesday) should remain consistent with moderate growth in the overall economy. The Employment Report (Friday) will be subject to possible seasonal distortions, but we should see a moderation in the trend in job growth. Prior to seasonal adjustment, we can expect to lose jobs in construction and education in December and gain (temporary) jobs in retail and deliveries. Annual benchmark revisions to the household survey data (the unemployment rate) are not expected to change the picture. Revisions to the establishment survey data (payrolls, hours, and earnings) will be released on February 7.

Indices

Consumer Money Rates

Currencies

Commodities

Bond Rates

Treasury Yield Curve – 01/10/2020

As of close of business 01/09/2020

S&P Sector Performance (YTD) – 01/10/2020

As of close of business 01/09/2019

Economic Calendar

All expressions of opinion reflect the judgment of the Research Department of Raymond James & Associates, Inc. and are subject to change. There is no assurance any of the forecasts mentioned will occur or that any trends mentioned will continue in the future. Investing involves risks including the possible loss of capital. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. International investing is subject to additional risks such as currency fluctuations, different financial accounting standards by country, and possible political and economic risks, which may be greater in emerging markets. While interest on municipal bonds is generally exempt from federal income tax, it may be subject to the federal alternative minimum tax, and state or local taxes. In addition, certain municipal bonds (such as Build America Bonds) are issued without a federal tax exemption, which subjects the related interest income to federal income tax. Municipal bonds may be subject to capital gains taxes if sold or redeemed at a profit. Taxable Equivalent Yield (TEY) assumes a 35% tax rate.