Market Commentary by Scott J. Brown, Ph.D., Chief Economist
The economic data were mixed, but mostly disappointing. Consumer confidence improved in September and the Case-Shiller Home Price Index continued to rise. Real GDP rose at a 1.3% annual rate in the 3rd estimate for 2Q12 (vs. +1.7% in the 2nd estimate). Personal income rose 0.1% in August (+3.5% y/y). Spending rose 0.5%, but gasoline accounted for about 80% of that. The PCE Price Index rose 0.4% (+1.5% y/y), up 0.1% ex-food & energy (+1.6% y/y) – trending below the Fed’s 2% target. Durable goods orders plunged 13.2%, partly reflecting a drop in civilian aircraft orders (which went negative due to order cancelations).
However, ex-transportation, orders fell while revisions showed a larger drop in July. Shipments fell. Ex-transportation, unfilled orders fell for the third consecutive month (not a good sign). Inventory growth was faster in the first two months of the quarter (likely unintentional).
The financial market reactions to the data were somewhat disjointed. Investors also kept an eye on developments in Europe.
Next week, the economic calendar remains busy. The ISM Manufacturing Index is likely to set the tone for the week. With Obama moving ahead in recent polls of the key battleground states, the presidential debates will be critical for Romney’s campaign. The topic for Wednesday night’s debate is domestic policy. The financial markets are unlikely to respond much to what’s said. The Employment Report should be the week’s highlight. The Chicago teachers strike is expected to have no impact on nonfarm payrolls. Otherwise, expect “more of the same” – that is, moderate job growth, but not especially strong.
Indices
Last | Last Week | YTD return % | |
DJIA | 13485.97 | 13596.93 | 10.38% |
NASDAQ | 3136.60 | 3175.96 | 20.40% |
S&P 500 | 1447.15 | 1460.26 | 15.07% |
MSCI EAFE | 1526.25 | 1545.77 | 8.05% |
Russell 2000 | 843.54 | 851.51 | 13.85% |
Consumer Money Rates
Last | 1-year ago | |
Prime Rate | 3.25 | 3.25 |
Fed Funds | 0.08 | 0.10 |
30-year mortgage | 3.41 | 4.09 |
Currencies
Last | 1-year ago | |
Dollars per British Pound | 1.622 | 1.565 |
Dollars per Euro | 1.290 | 1.360 |
Japanese Yen per Dollar | 77.650 | 76.570 |
Canadian Dollars per Dollar | 0.981 | 1.019 |
Mexican Peso per Dollar | 12.839 | 13.367 |
Commodities
Last | 1-year ago | |
Crude Oil | 91.85 | 84.45 |
Gold | 1777.60 | 1657.43 |
Bond Rates
Last | 1-month ago | |
2-year treasury | 0.23 | 0.24 |
10-year treasury | 1.61 | 1.59 |
10-year municipal (TEY) | 3.02 | 3.22 |
Treasury Yield Curve – 9/28/2012
S&P Sector Performance (YTD) – 9/28/2012
Economic Calendar
October 1st |
— |
ISM Manufacturing Index (September) |
October 2nd |
— |
Motor Vehicle Sales (September) |
October 3rd |
— |
ADP Payroll Estimate (September) ISM Non-Manufacturing Index (September) First Presidential Debate (domestic policy) |
October 4th |
— |
Bank of England Policy Decision European Central Bank Policy Decision Jobless Claims (week ending 9/27th) |
October 5th |
— |
Employment Report (September) |
October 8th |
— |
Columbus Day Holiday (bond market closed) |
October 10th |
— |
Fed Beige Book |
October 15th |
— |
Retail Sales (September) |
October 24th |
— |
FOMC Policy Meeting (no press briefing) |
November 6th |
— |
Election Day |
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 September 20th, 2012.
©2012 Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. member FINRA / SIPC.