Last week, the Federal Reserve (Fed) reduced interest rates by 25 basis points in a much-anticipated move. My biggest takeaway from the Fed meeting is the diverging views on what comes next with regards to monetary policy. A clear split has emerged, with one official wanting more easing, some wanting rates to be kept unchanged and the majority seeking gradual rate modifications as part of a mid-cycle adjustment. The central bank has also been making headlines recently for the volatility in the repo market. The New York Fed has been injecting liquidity to ensure its proper functioning of this market; however, the pressures in repo rates add to the challenging current environment for traders.
Despite the relative easing of trade tensions between the U.S. and China, markets will be forced to weigh the current and future state of the economy. In Europe, weak manufacturing and non-manufacturing signs over the weekend have pressured stocks lower, while yields have fallen. I expect a choppy market in the near term, with stocks constrained by their proximity to the all-time high. Treasury yields have been vacillating since the beginning of August, and I don’t expect the volatility to abate any time soon.
< Go to Monday Morning Perspectives
This blog post is for informational use only. The views expressed are those of the author(s), and do not necessarily reflect the views of Penn Mutual Asset Management. This material is not intended to be relied upon as a forecast, research or investment advice, and it is not a recommendation, offer or solicitation to buy or sell any securities or to adopt any investment strategy.
Any statements about financial and company performance of The Penn Mutual Life Insurance Company or its insurance subsidiaries (each, “Client”) made by the author is provided with a written consent from the Client. Penn Mutual Asset Management is a wholly owned subsidiary of The Penn Mutual Life Insurance Company.
Opinions and statements of financial market trends that are based on current market conditions constitute judgment of the author and are subject to change without notice. The information and opinions contained in this material are derived from sources deemed to be reliable but should not be assumed to be accurate or complete. Statements that reflect projections or expectations of future financial or economic performance of the markets may be considered forward-looking statements. Actual results may differ significantly. Any forecasts contained in this material are based on various estimates and assumptions, and there can be no assurance that such estimates or assumptions will prove accurate.
Investing involves risk, including possible loss of principal. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. All information referenced in preparation of this material has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, but accuracy and completeness are not guaranteed. There is no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the information and Penn Mutual Asset Management shall have no liability for decisions based upon such information.
High-Yield bonds are subject to greater fluctuations in value and risk of loss of income and principal. Investing in higher yielding, lower rated corporate bonds have a greater risk of price fluctuations and loss of principal and income than U.S. Treasury bonds and bills. Government securities offer a higher degree of safety and are guaranteed as to the timely payment of principal and interest if held to maturity.
All trademarks are the property of their respective owners. This material may not be reproduced in whole or in part in any form, or referred to in any other publication, without express written permission.
