April’s reports showed signs of continued slowing economic growth. Hiring slowed during the month, with 175,000 jobs added. Service sector and consumer confidence both fell in April, while the yield curve inversion narrowed.
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Economic Release Snapshot: Consumer Sentiment Slides in May
Each week, we break down the latest U.S. economic reports, including what the results mean for the overall health of the economy. Here, you will find how economists’ forecasts compare with actual results, key takeaways to consider, as well as a list of what’s on tap for the week ahead.
Looking Back at the Markets in April and Ahead to May 2024
Markets pulled back in April, as high inflation and rising interest rates led to mid-single-digit declines for stocks during the month.
This result marked the first monthly decline for U.S. equities this year following a strong first quarter. International markets came in mixed, as developed markets were down in April while emerging markets saw a modest gain. Fixed income was also down for the month.
Economic Release Snapshot: Hiring Slows in April
Each week, we break down the latest U.S. economic reports, including what the results mean for the overall health of the economy. Here, you will find how economists’ forecasts compare with actual results, key takeaways to consider, as well as a list of what’s on tap for the week ahead.
Digesting the Fed: Higher for Longer and Longer
The Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) met this week and voted unanimously to hold rates steady for the sixth consecutive meeting, leaving its policy range at 5.25 percent to 5.5 percent. Futures markets had this expectation confidently priced in since mid-February, so the official decision comes as no surprise. This view is in stark contrast to market expectations at the start of 2024, when a second rate cut was fully priced in for this point in time. Yet even the first rate cut still eludes us.
Market Thoughts for May 2024 [Video]
Rising interest rates pressured stock and bond prices in April. U.S. markets were down in the low-single digits, marking the first monthly decline for U.S. stocks this year. The combination of faster hiring and still-hot inflation complicated the Fed’s efforts to cut interest rates.
Olivia has joined Riverstone Wealth Partners providing knowledge gained from her 15 plus years in management. Olivia has provided services within the financial industry, mortgage industry, and in the non-profit sector. Olivia thrives on providing stellar customer service, accomplishing all goals set before her, and doing the right thing. Olivia’s degree in Business Management allowed her to take on roles that ultimately led her to Riverstone Wealth Partners. Olivia is currently pursuing another degree with an emphasizes in Human Resources, which she has learned over time… is her passion!
Ashley has been working in the customer service field since she started her first job at age 16. For the past ten years she worked in an office setting handling accounts payable and receivable as well as some receptionist work. She is very excited to learn more about the investment field.
Alec joined Riverstone after starting out his post college career on the operations side of an international logistics company working as an account executive. Graduating with a BA in Economics from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, he quickly developed a strong interest in the financial world. A lifetime resident of the Chicagoland area, Alec is an avid fan of his hometown sports teams. He is also an enthusiast of outdoor activities like fishing, camping, and hiking whenever possible.
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