The Weekly Market Snapshot from Frazier Allen for the week of July 2nd, 2012

By Frazier Allen | July 2, 2012 |

Market Commentary by Scott J. Brown, Ph.D., Chief Economist

The economic data were mixed, but consistent with a lackluster to moderate pace of growth in the near term. New home sales and the Pending Home Sales Index improved, consistent with a gradual housing recovery. Consumer confidence and consumer sentiment deteriorated, reflecting a worsening of attitudes for households with income over 75,000.

The Supreme Court upheld the Affordable Care Act, with Chief Justice Roberts crossing the political line. ACA would boost costs for some businesses (mid-size and large firms not currently offering healthcare coverage), but isn’t likely to slow the economy appreciably (the fiscal cliff, gasoline prices, and Europe will have substantially greater effects). The Congressional Budget Office projects that ACA will reduce the deficit, but cautions that such forecasts are imprecise.

Next week, with Europe expected to be pushed to the back burner for U.S. investors, the economic data will be more important. The June Employment Report (Friday) will be the most critical – it is the last employment report before the Fed’s August 1 policy decision (where QE3 is expected to be under consideration). Weather and seasonal adjustment issues boosted January and February payrolls, borrowing seasonal strength from April and May (making the last two months look weaker than they really were). Payroll growth is expected to pick up somewhat in June. Still, uncertainty about the election, the fiscal cliff, and Europe could restrain hiring to some extent. Wednesday’s holiday may lead to thinner market activity during the week.

Indices

Consumer Money Rates

Currencies

Commodities

Bond Rates

Treasury Yield Curve – 6/29/2012

S&P Sector Performance (YTD) – 6/29/2012

Economic Calendar

Important Disclosures

US 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. US 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 US 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.

Tax Equiv Muni yields (TEY) assume a 35% tax rate on triple-A rated, tax-exempt insured revenue bonds.

Material prepared by Raymond James for use by its financial advisors.

The information contained herein has been obtained from sources considered reliable, but we do not guarantee that the foregoing material is accurate or complete. Data source: Bloomberg, as of close of business June 28th, 2012.

©2012 Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. member FINRA / SIPC.

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