The Economy. The economy maintained its trajectory of growth with slowing inflation. In fact, inflation slowed enough that the Federal Reserve kept the Federal Funds rate level during its two Q4 meetings. This prompted a strong rally in risk assets as markets applauded the likely end to the Fed’s current rate hike cycle, possible rate cuts in 2024 and the improved potential for a legitimate soft landing for the economy.
Summary Economic data continues to be mixed as the labor market remains strong, weak manufacturing data seems better than many feared, services data is slowing but still resilient, and inflation remains elevated but improving.
