The Weekly Market Snapshot from Frazier Allen for the week of April 10th, 2012

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

The minutes of the March 13th Federal Open Market Committee meeting suggested reduced odds of another round of Fed asset purchases (QE3). That shouldn’t have been a surprise to anyone, but the news was taken negatively by the stock market and long-term Treasury yields snapped higher. The European Central Bank left rates changed, but ECP president Draghi seemed a bit hawkish in his post-meeting press conference, renewing concerns about the European financial crisis (I guess, it wouldn’t seem like spring otherwise).

The U.S. economic data (this is being written before the release of the March Employment Report) remained consistent with moderate growth. ISM figures were mixed, but both reports showed further growth in new orders and employment.

Next week, the stock market will get its chance to react to the March payroll figures. The inflation reports show up a little earlier than usual this month. Gasoline prices have risen – but the seasonal adjustment anticipates higher gasoline prices in March, which should dampen the impact on the headline PPI and CPI figures. Core inflation is likely to remain moderate.

Indices

Consumer Money Rates

Currencies

Commodities

Bond Rates

Treasury Yield Curve – 4/05/2012

S&P Sector Performance (YTD) – 4/05/2012

Economic Calendar

Treasury Yield Curve – 3/30/2012

S&P Sector Performance (YTD) – 3/30/2012

Economic Calendar

Important Disclosures

Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. There are special risks involved with global investing related to market and currency fluctuations, economic and political instability, and different financial accounting standards. The above material has been obtained from sources considered reliable, but we do not guarantee that it is accurate or complete. There is no assurance that any trends mentioned will continue in the future. While interest on municipal bonds is generally exempt from federal income tax, it may be subject to the federal alternative minimum tax, 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. Investing involves risk and investors may incur a profit or a loss.

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 April 4th, 2012.

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