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Chief Economist Scott Brown discusses the latest market data.

The stock market rose in the first part of the week, boosted by optimism about the economy. Tensions with China, which the market ignored earlier in the week, appeared to matter more later on.

Personal income rose a surprising 10.5% in the initial estimate for April, as “recovery rebate” checks and unemployment benefits offset an 8.9% drop in private-sector wages and salaries. Personal spending plunged 13.6%, following a 6.9% decline in March (-17.2% y/y). Ex-food and energy, the PCE Price Index fell 0.4%, up 0.9% year-over-year (vs. the Fed’s goal of 2%). Jobless claims continued to trend lower in the week ending May 23 (at 2.123 million, still very high). Continuing claims for the prior week fell by 3.86 million, although that figure doesn’t include pandemic assistance. The estimate of 1Q20 GDP growth was revised to a -5.0% annual rate (vs. -4.8% in the advance estimate), reflecting a larger decline in inventories and somewhat smaller declines in consumer spending and business investment. Durable goods orders plunged 17.2% in April (following a 16.6% decline in March), reflecting further cancellations of aircraft orders. Ex-transportation, orders fell 7.4%, a smaller decline than anticipated.

Next week, we’re unlikely to see much evidence of a recovery in the May economic data (although a number of real-time indicators point to a pickup). ISM surveys are likely to reflect less weakness (which some may view as “improvement”). Friday’s employment report is expected to show further job losses and an increase in the unemployment rate, but the data will be subject to a number of distortions (data collection, seasonal adjustment).

Indices

Consumer Money Rates

Currencies

Commodities

Bond Rates

Treasury Yield Curve – 05/29/2020

S&P Sector Performance (YTD) – 05/29/2020

 

As of close of business 05/28/2020

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.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average is an unmanaged index of 30 widely held stocks. The NASDAQ Composite Index is an unmanaged index of all common stocks listed on the NASDAQ National Stock Market. The S&P 500 is an unmanaged index of 500 widely held stocks. The MSCI EAFE (Europe, Australia, Far East) index is an unmanaged index that is generally considered representative of the international stock market. The Russell 2000 index is an unmanaged index of small cap securities which generally involve greater risks. An investment cannot be made directly in these indexes. The performance noted does not include fees or charges, which would reduce an investor’s returns. U.S. government bonds and treasury bills are guaranteed by the US government and, if held to maturity, offer a fixed rate of return and guaranteed principal value. U.S. government bonds are issued and guaranteed as to the timely payment of principal and interest by the federal government. Treasury bills are certificates reflecting short-term (less than one year) obligations of the U.S. government.

Commodities trading is generally considered speculative because of the significant potential for investment loss. Markets for commodities are likely to be volatile and there may be sharp price fluctuations even during periods when prices overall are rising. Specific sector investing can be subject to different and greater risks than more diversified investments. Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is the annual total market value of all final goods and services produced domestically by the U.S. The federal funds rate (“Fed Funds”) is the interest rate at which banks and credit unions lend reserve balances to other depository institutions overnight. The prime rate is the underlying index for most credit cards, home equity loans and lines of credit, auto loans, and personal loans. Material prepared by Raymond James for use by financial advisors. Data source: Bloomberg, as of close of business May 28, 2020.