Money

Fed may soon pause rate hikes as inflation eases

Published

5 months ago

July 13, 2023

ticker NEWS

Inflation in the U.S. eased in the previous month to its slowest pace in over two years, providing relief to Americans who have been grappling with a period of escalating prices

This development also increases the likelihood of the U.S. Federal Reserve refraining from further interest rate hikes, following an anticipated increase scheduled for this month.

According to the U.S. Labor Department, the consumer price index (CPI) rose by 3 percent in June compared to the previous year.

This figure represents a significant drop from the peak inflation rate of 9.1 percent observed in June 2022. Additionally, June’s inflation rate declined from 4 percent in May and was last close to 3 percent in March 2021.

However, it is important to note that inflation still remains above the Federal Reserve’s target of 2 percent.

The Fed has indicated its intention to raise interest rates to a 22-year high during its meeting on July 25-26, citing recent indications of stronger-than-expected economic activity.

The June inflation report is not expected to alter this outcome. At their previous meeting, officials opted to maintain the benchmark federal funds rate within a range of 5 percent to 5.25 percent, marking their first pause after ten consecutive increases since March 2022.

Most officials at the June meeting anticipated two more rate increases within the year.

Core consumer prices, which exclude the volatile food and energy categories, increased by 4.8 percent in June compared to the previous year.

This growth rate represents the slowest pace since October 2021 and a decrease from 5.3 percent in May.

Economists had previously estimated core prices to rise by 5 percent. Notable changes in specific categories included sharp declines in prices for used cars and airline fares, while prices for car insurance and recreation rose.

Rent saw an increase in June but at the slowest monthly pace since early 2022.

The Fed is primarily focused on curbing persistently high core inflation and considers it a better predictor of future inflation than the overall inflation rate.

Core inflation has been driven by rising car prices, strong demand for labour-intensive services, and an earlier surge in housing rental prices.

The market responded positively to the inflation figures, as they affirmed that the Federal Reserve is making progress in its efforts to control high inflation.

Stocks rose, and bond yields fell as a result.

Despite the Fed’s rate increases, the US economy has demonstrated resilience this year, defying predictions of an economic downturn.

Although hiring slowed in June, it remained strong, and unemployment rates remained historically low. The most recent estimate from the Atlanta Fed indicates that US economic output rose at an annual rate of 2.3 percent during the recently concluded second quarter.

Money

Bank accidentally deposits $86M into client’s account

Published

17 hours ago

December 3, 2023

ticker NEWS

A financial institution mistakenly deposited over $86 million into a client’s account, causing shockwaves in the banking industry.

The error came to light when the client, a small business owner, checked their account balance and discovered the astronomical sum. It is being hailed as one of the most significant banking errors in recent memory.

The client, who wishes to remain anonymous, reportedly contacted the bank immediately upon noticing the massive windfall. Bank officials were left scrambling to rectify the error, which has raised numerous questions about the institution’s internal controls and safeguards.

The client’s account, initially holding just a few thousand dollars, suddenly displayed a balance that could buy luxury yachts, mansions, and more.

The incident has prompted investigations by regulatory authorities to determine how such an egregious error occurred in the first place.

While the bank has issued an apology and assured the client that the funds will be corrected to the proper balance, it remains unclear how this mistake could have happened on such a colossal scale.

The financial institution may also face potential legal consequences for the error, as well as reputational damage that could impact its future business.

Money

Tech giants drive global mega-cap surge amid inflation relief

Published

2 days ago

December 1, 2023

ticker NEWS

Tech giants have taken the lead in propelling global mega-cap stocks to new heights.

This surge comes as a welcome relief for investors who have been closely monitoring the impact of rising inflation on the financial markets.

The tech sector, including giants like Apple, Amazon, and Microsoft, has been instrumental in driving the rally. These companies have reported robust earnings and strong growth prospects, which has boosted investor confidence. As a result, the market capitalization of these tech behemoths has reached unprecedented levels, contributing significantly to the overall rise in global mega-cap stocks.

The easing of inflationary pressures has played a pivotal role in this resurgence. Central banks’ efforts to tame inflation through monetary policy adjustments have begun to bear fruit, reassuring investors and stabilizing financial markets. As concerns over rapidly increasing prices recede, investors have become more willing to invest in mega-cap stocks, particularly in the tech sector, which has demonstrated resilience in the face of economic challenges.

Will the tech giants maintain their momentum and continue to lead the mega-cap surge, or are there potential risks on the horizon?

Money

Real reason bosses want employers back in the office

Published

4 days ago

November 30, 2023

ticker NEWS

As the world gradually recovers from the pandemic, employers are increasingly pushing for their staff to return to the office after years of remote work.

The driving force behind this push is the sharp decline in commercial property values, which has left many businesses concerned about their real estate investments.

Commercial property values have plunged in the wake of the pandemic, with many companies downsizing or reconsidering their office space needs.

This has put pressure on employers to reevaluate their remote work policies and encourage employees to return to the office. #featured