The December employment report was released last week and the data proved weaker than expected after several strong readings over the past few months. For the month, 145,000 new jobs were created, less than the anticipated 160,000. Average hourly earnings also grew at a slower pace than expected (0.1% versus 0.3%). The unemployment rate remained at 3.5%. Despite the release of this weak data, the stock market moved to new highs during the week as tensions between the U.S. and Iran eased.
The upcoming week starts this quarter’s earnings season, with many of the large banks reporting results. I expect earnings will continue to be sluggish but in line with reduced expectations. In 2019, equities saw significant multiple expansion as the Federal Reserve (Fed) lowered interest rates. I expect this trend to continue in early 2020; however, as the year plays out, earnings will become more important to further gains in equities.
Treasury yields will likely continue to be range-bound as growth and inflation remain stable. I don’t expect any Fed interest rate changes during the course of the year.
< 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.
