Key Wealth Matters

Markets absorbed a brief U.S. government shutdown, ongoing fourth‑quarter earnings, and fresh readings from the Institute for Supply Management: Services stayed in expansion while Manufacturing showed a tentative uptick. While the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ payroll report was delayed, other labor signals softened—job openings slipped to 6.5 million, weekly claims rose to 231,000, and the ADP private payrolls tally was only 22,000. Equity leadership shifted as AI pressure hit software stocks while investors favored tangible, cash‑flowing businesses and added non‑U.S. exposure. Credit stayed orderly—investment‑grade spreads widened slightly and high‑yield widened a bit more—while the riskiest...

The Fed stayed put, inflation hasn’t cooled enough, and investors are penciling in the next rate cut at mid‑year. A light data slate backed that view—jobless claims remained low, productivity stayed strong, and producer prices firmed. The FOMC held rates at 3.50%–3.75% with two dissents for a 0.25% cut, keeping the focus on data while markets handicap a shallow easing path. Kevin Warsh’s nomination adds policy‑risk questions and could mean more debate inside the Committee. Equity breadth is improving as mega‑cap results diverge on AI spending, arguing for neutral risk with a quality tilt.

Spea...

A steady, broadening market week: breadth improved beyond the mega‑caps, volatility’s blip faded, and PCE inflation continues to run at a pace consistent with the Fed’s target while stale data keeps focus on next week’s FOMC meeting. We also discuss the bond markets, Fed independence and the next Fed Chair. We wrap with a quick policy roundtable—credit‑card APR caps, potential GSE MBS buying, and housing supply signals—and what it could mean for portfolios.

Speakers:

Brian Pietrangelo, Managing Director of Investment Strategy

Rajeev Sharma, Head of Fixed Income...

A steady but complicated start to 2026: inflation isn’t flaring, retail spending held up, and the Beige Book nudged higher while jobless claims stayed low. With a January interest rate cut likely off the table, markets are eyeing mid‑year moves, as the Fed navigates political noise and confidence in credit remains high—even as spreads sit near cycle tights. We dig into what that mix means for positioning right now, then tackle the power story—AI‑driven demand, a pricier generation mix, and grid bottlenecks—why electricity costs likely stay elevated and how it can ripple through portfolios.

Happy New Year! In the first episode of 2026, we catch up on what we missed during the holiday break, and dig into the latest market and economic developments in the beginning of the year, including the Federal Reserve’s recent rate cuts, updated projections for GDP and inflation, and the impact of the government shutdown on economic data releases. The conversation covers labor market trends, productivity gains, and a notable geopolitical event in Venezuela, analyzing its implications for oil markets and global economics. We also explore expectations for future Fed actions, the evolving landscape of mortgage policy, and the im...

In this week's episode, our experts discuss recent market activity, economic data delays due to the recent government shutdown, and the Federal Reserve’s latest rate cut. The Fed’s decision was marked by rare dissent, reflecting uncertainty about inflation and future policy direction, with only one rate cut projected for 2026. We analyze the implications for credit markets, the US dollar, and the evolving role of artificial intelligence in corporate strategy, noting shifts in tech stock performance and the importance of distinguishing winners and losers in the AI space. The conversation also draws parallels to past market bubbles, emphasizing the...

On this week’s episode, a busy week of mixed economic signals—initial jobless claims hit a very low 191,000 while ADP reported a -32,000 decline in private payrolls—and a split economy where ISM Manufacturing remains in contraction as Services continue to expand. With a delayed September PCE inflation (the Fed’s preferred inflation gauge) arriving today, just before next week’s FOMC meeting, markets are leaning toward a 25 bp “risk management” cut as Treasury yields hover in a 4.05–4.15% range and auctions resume. Looking ahead to 2026, the team expects continued momentum without a recession, a need for discernment in AI rather than b...

With the historic government shutdown behind us, we dig back into key economic data captured over the duration of the shutdown: highlights include a modest improvement in housing activity, favorable labor market indicators despite data being somewhat stale, and mixed signals from the Federal Reserve amid uncertainty over December rate cuts. Equity markets showed heightened volatility, with strong earnings failing to sustain momentum, suggesting potential consolidation through year-end. Fixed income markets remain highly sensitive to Fed commentary, reflecting divergent views among policymakers. We also take a walk down memory lane to our 2025 predictions from last year—accurate on most ca...

This week, we cover the historic end of U.S. penny production resulting from high manufacturing costs and obsolescence. Market updates focused on lingering uncertainty due to delayed economic data from the recent government shutdown, while Federal Reserve policy remains unclear, with rate cuts seen as a toss up ahead of December’s meeting. With holiday shopping well underway, we discuss consumer trends, noting resilience despite crosscurrents like tariffs and inflation, with strong performance from major retailers and signs of a “K-shaped” economy. Overall, our current outlook suggests cautious optimism for 2026, supported by fiscal and monetary tailwinds.

Speake...

This week, we explore the economic impact of the ongoing government shutdown, now in its 38th day, and its effect on labor market data and investor sentiment. Our experts discuss alternative employment indicators, strong Q3 earnings, and the influence of AI on market performance. They also examine the Federal Reserve’s cautious stance on inflation and interest rate cuts amid data uncertainty. Finally, the conversation touches on the Supreme Court’s review of Trump-era tariffs and its potential implications for market volatility.

Speakers:

Brian Pietrangelo, Managing Director of Investment Strategy

George Matey...

Cynthia Honcharenko, Director of Fixed Income Portfolio Management, joins the podcast to deliver a report on this week’s Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting; be sure to read her companion piece, “The Gentle Cut: Easing Without Euphoria” on our Weekly Investment Brief feed. Our discussion tracks how the equity and bond markets behaved leading up to, and following, the meeting, and what to expect going forward. We also touch on this week’s earnings reports from several big tech companies, and what positive trade talks between the United States and China might mean for the future.

Spea...

Amid the ongoing government shutdown, we look at alternate sources of data to draw a picture of what’s happening with inflation, the labor market, and home sales. Our experts provide insights on the market’s reaction to these reports, the anticipated Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting next week, and the performance of different sectors and asset classes. We also touch on some unusual market dynamics, with low-quality and high-beta stocks outperforming higher-quality companies. Finally, we talk sandwiches in celebration of National Bologna Day.

Speakers:

Brian Pietrangelo, Managing Director of Investment Strategy

...

The ongoing government shutdown delayed updates of the Consumer Price Index, Producer Price Index, weekly unemployment claims, and retail sales. Still, there was plenty to cover from this week, including the potential impact on the banking sector amid emerging credit concerns, the strength and state of the consumer, recent earnings reports, a dip in oil prices, and the outlook for the Federal Reserve's monetary policy for the remainder of the year and in 2026 once a new Chair is selected.

Speakers:

Brian Pietrangelo, Managing Director of Investment Strategy

George Mateyo, Chief Investment O...

Speakers: 
Brian Pietrangelo, Managing Director of Investment Strategy 

George Mateyo, Chief Investment Officer 
Rajeev Sharma, Head of Fixed Income 
Stephen Hoedt, Head of Equities

01:58 – Our team of experts discusses the impact of the government shutdown on economic data releases, inflation concerns, and labor market trends.

04:35 –  Analysis of bond market movements, expectations for Federal Reserve rate cuts, and insights from recent FOMC minutes.

08:24 – The panel examines high market valuations, the impact of “hopes and dreams,” and the effects of vendor financing and developments in the AI sector.

1...

Speakers:

Brian Pietrangelo, Managing Director of Investment Strategy

George Mateyo, Chief Investment Officer

Rajeev Sharma, Head of Fixed Income
 

00:54 – We review the key economic data and market activity from the past week, including the Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey (JOLTS) report, the September ADP National Employment Report showing a significant decline in private sector employment, and the Institute for Supply Management (ISM) manufacturing and services PMI reports.

02:45 – The current government shutdown prevented the release of data on weekly initial unemployment claims as well as reports from the Burea...

Joel Redmond, Managing Director of Business Advisory Services at Key Private Bank, joins the podcast this week to provide some insights and advice for business owners. He also addresses recent legislation changes that might affect capital gains tax exclusions for certain C corporations. Brian and George break down the news and numbers of the week and discuss the overarching risk appetite of the economy, as evidenced by pockets of concentrated investment in certain sectors like AI. We also touch on the Federal Reserve, equities and fixed income, and the importance of a diversified portfolio.

Speakers:

Cynthia Honcharenko, Director of Fixed Income Portfolio Management, joins the podcast to deliver a report on this week’s Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting; be sure to read her companion piece, “The Fed Cut Rates, But Didn’t Cut Loose” on our Weekly Investment Brief feed. Our discussion tracks how the equity and bond markets behaved leading up to, and following, the meeting, and what we might expect in the future. We also step back in time to the mid-1990s to draw parallels to two things we’re seeing today: a rate-cutting Fed amid a tech-driven bull market, an...

In this week's episode, we break down the factors and trends shaping the economy, including new reports that shed some light on labor and inflation. Expected rate cuts from the Federal Reserve at next week’s Federal Open Market Committee Meeting (FOMC) appear to be the main driving force behind movements in fixed income and equities. Please join us on Thursday, September 18, where we’ll sit down with experts in Artificial Intelligence during our National Call: AI: Everything You Are Afraid to Ask but Need to Know. And be sure to tune in again next week, where we’ll recap...

In this week's episode, we discuss the Beige Book Report, and three employment reports including fresh numbers from a weaker-than-expected report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). We also touch on the policies and politics bedeviling the Federal Reserve, and the likelihood of rate cuts later this month. As always, we analyze how all of these factors affect the equity and bond markets. Finally, happy National 401(k) Day! See today’s resources below to help you educate and celebrate.

Speakers:

Brian Pietrangelo, Managing Director of Investment Strategy

George Mateyo, Chief Inv...

In this week's episode, we discuss the latest economic and market news, including updates on unemployment claims, GDP growth, and inflation data. Our experts provide their insights and analysis on the implications of these and other economic developments, particularly the potential impact on the Federal Reserve's monetary policy decisions. We also touch on the potential political challenges facing the Fed and questions about its independence and how that could affect the equity and bond markets. 

01:59 – The three reports this week on initial unemployment claims, GDP, and consumer spending, are painting a mixed picture of the...

In this week's episode, our experts review the now-stale minutes from July’s Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting, Fed Chairman Jerome Powell’s new dovishness from the Jackson Hole Economic Symposium, and what to look out for in the coming weeks as we near the end of a notable summer.

Speakers:

Brian Pietrangelo, Managing Director of Investment Strategy

George Mateyo, Chief Investment Officer

Rajeev Sharma, Managing Director of Fixed Income

Stephen Hoedt, Head of Equities
 

02:30 – We highlight this week’s economic releases: the Labor Depa...

This week was lighter on economic news and reporting—certainly when compared to the previous two action-packed weeks—so we’re shaking things up for this episode. Each expert brings to the table a news item that caught his eye this week, and one topic that might not be receiving enough attention. Topics include skyrocketing investment into artificial intelligence, the fractures at the Federal Reserve (see Additional Resources below for a link to past guest Cynthia Honcharenko’s take on the interesting dynamics taking place at the Fed), turmoil in the gold market, the changing demographics of the labor market a...

In this week's episode, we discuss eight reports and news items that are impacting the economy today, and which will likely have lingering effects into the future; these touch on the labor market in regard to unemployment and payrolls, housing, inflation, Gross Domestic Product (GDP), earnings season, and – the big news of the week – what came out of the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting and the lower than expected new non-farm payroll report. As always, we analyze these items and how they’re affecting the equity and bond markets, and what moves investors may consider making.

Spe...

In this week's episode, we review the unemployment and home sales figures that were released this week, as well as the ongoing trade tensions and tariff negotiations between the United States and its trading partners. We also touch on the Federal Reserve’s policy decisions and President Trump’s visit to tour the renovations to the Federal Reserve headquarters in Washington, D.C. Lastly, we look into the performance of the stock market, including the S&P 500 reaching new all-time highs, a new round of corporate earnings, and the resurgence of "meme stocks."

Speakers:
Brian Piet...

In this week's episode, we cover a wide range of reports that touch on inflation, consumer spending, manufacturing activity, and what might come out of the upcoming Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting on July 30. We also analyze the moves in both the bond markets and equities caused by the rumors of President Trump’s desire to remove Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell. Lastly, we discuss the potential for antitrust activity among the most influential companies in the technology sector, colloquially known as the Magnificent 7.

Speakers:
Brian Pietrangelo, Managing Director of Investment Strategy

In this week's episode, our experts discuss the state of the economy, markets, and investment outlook for the second half of 2025. 

Speakers:
Brian Pietrangelo, Managing Director of Investment Strategy

George Mateyo, Chief Investment Officer
Rajeev Sharma, Managing Director of Fixed Income
Stephen Hoedt, Head of Equities

01:36 - Recap of employment data which shows stability with positive revisions and declining unemployment claims. 

03:54 - Discussion about renewed tariff threats (up to 200%) and their potential to slow growth and raise inflation. The team highlights the impact of the “One Big Beau...

In this episode, our experts opine on the economy, considering three key indicators making a splash this week: unemployment claims are down, but so was the first quarter estimate of Gross Domestic Product (GDP), while inflation stayed stickier than hoped for in May. Meanwhile, bond yields moved higher, and the stock market is having a heyday, despite the dollar hitting a three-year low. We will be off next week for the July 4th holiday, and look forward to bringing you fresh insights the following week.

Speakers:
Brian Pietrangelo, Managing Director of Investment Strategy

George...

The Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) met this week to report on dampened economic projections, forecast two potential rate cuts in the remainder of the year, and reaffirm the wait-and-see approach that has been a hallmark of Fed policy thus far in 2025. Our experts analyze what came out of the meeting, how investors should respond, and what the future may hold. We also break down the key provisions in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act as passed by the U.S. House of Representatives, what comes next in the Senate, and highlight four provisions that may impact you.

In this week's episode, Ather Bajwa, Managing Director of Multi-Strategy Research, joins us to deliver a masterclass in private credit – what it is, why it’s important, and what to consider before investing. We also unpack new surveys and reports across a variety of topics including unemployment, inflation, and volatility. As usual, we look at where the markets are in light of the global and national news of the day, such as increasing conflict in the Middle East and the upcoming Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting.

Speakers:
Brian Pietrangelo, Managing Director of Investment Strat...

In this week's episode we unpack three reports about the labor market; the mixed results show an uptick in new job openings amid increasing initial weekly unemployment claims, though the unemployment rate remains steady at 4.2%. We also discuss the Federal Reserve’s Beige Book report, which shows elevated levels of consumer and commercial uncertainty ahead of the June 18 Federal Open Market Committee meeting. As always, we analyze how this news is affecting the equity and fixed income markets.

 
Speakers:
Brian Pietrangelo, Managing Director of Investment Strategy

George Mateyo, Chief Investment Officer
Rajeev Sha...

In this week's episode, we delve into the big economic news shaping our world and portfolios. We provide updates on the job market, modest gross domestic product (GDP) growth, the Personal Consumption Expenditures price index and an uptick in inflation, new tax policies and the National Deficit, and what the Federal Reserve might be thinking for the rest of this year and beyond (notably, the long-lasting implications of the potential loss of safe haven status in U.S. Treasury bonds). 

Speakers:
Brian Pietrangelo, Managing Director of Investment Strategy

George Mateyo, Chief Investment Officer

In this week's episode, our experts unpack the past few days following positive news on tariff discussions between the United States and China. We also provide observations on the final earnings calls of the first quarter of 2025, changes in consumer sentiment, ongoing uncertainty around the Federal Reserve, what happened in the Treasury Bond market, and how proposed tax and spending plans from Congress will impact the federal deficit. Please note that we will not release a new episode next week in observance of the Memorial Day holiday weekend; we encourage you to take a moment to reflect on the...

In this week's episode, we review the news from Wednesday’s Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting, highlighting four themes: a slower path to rate cuts; rising risk of policy dilemma and potential stagflation; decisions will be made based on data, not any pre-committed timelines; a policy bias towards easing but with less conviction. Overall economic indicators remain stable, setting us up for a peaceful weekend to celebrate the mothers in our lives this Mother’s Day.

Speakers:
Brian Pietrangelo, Managing Director of Investment Strategy

Cynthia Honcharenko, Director of Fixed Income Portfolio Management

In this week's episode, our investment experts explore three major themes from the week: negative real gross domestic product (GDP) growth, inflation, and the labor market. We discuss how these factors affect equity and bond markets, and overall sentiment regarding the economy. We also consider if the relatively positive news from this week continues into the weeks and months ahead, or if the full negative impact of tariffs will make for a sobering summer.

01:51 – The advance estimate for the first quarter of 2025 real gross domestic product showed a 0.3% decrease, signaling the first negative quarter since ear...

In this week's Market Minutes recap, hear from our team of investment experts as they share their perspectives on the latest market and economic activity. Our panel delves into the ongoing volatility from President Trump’s on-again/off-again tariffs, the public tensions between Trump and Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell and the question of a Fed free of political influence, and what happened with earnings in the first quarter of 2025. 

01:52 – Both new unemployment claims and continuing unemployment claims remained stable, despite recent and ongoing market volatility. 

02:20 – Existing home sales fell in March by 5...

In this week's jam-packed Market Minutes recap, hear from our team of experts as they share their perspectives on the latest economic reports. Our panel shares detailed insights into CPI inflation, initial unemployment claims, tariffs, the equities and bond market, and rate cuts. 

Speakers:
Brian Pietrangelo, Managing Director of Investment Strategy
Rajeev Sharma, Head of Fixed Income
Stephen Hoedt, Head of Equities

03:48 – The Bureau of Labor Statistics released a favorable Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation report showing inflation for March, month-over-month, declined for the first time since May 2020, at -0.1%
04:47 – Initial unemp...

In this week's jam-packed Market Minutes recap, hear from our team of experts as they share their perspectives on the latest economic reports. Our panel shares detailed insights into the ISM Report on Business, new non-farm payroll data, tariffs, the equities market, and rate cuts.

Speakers:
Brian Pietrangelo, Managing Director of Investment Strategy
George Mateyo, Chief Investment Officer
Rajeev Sharma, Head of Fixed Income
Stephen Hoedt, Head of Equities

01:13 – The ISM Report on Business was released and indicators showed Manufacturing has continued to remain in a contractionary phase, while Services continues to...

In this week's jam-packed Market Minutes recap, hear from our team of experts as they share their perspectives on the latest economic reports. Our panel shares detailed insights into the U.S. Consumer Confidence report, GDP, PCE inflation, equities, the credit market, and municipal bonds.

Speakers:
Brian Pietrangelo, Managing Director of Investment Strategy
Rajeev Sharma, Head of Fixed Income
Stephen Hoedt, Head of Equities
Tim McDonough, Director of Fixed Income Portfolio Management

03:20 – The Conference Board’s U.S. Consumer Confidence report was released and showed a decline in overall consumer confidence due...

In this week's jam-packed Market Minutes recap, hear from our team of experts as they share their perspectives on the latest economic reports. Our panel shares detailed insights into the recent FOMC meeting, credit markets, and the yield curve

Speakers:
Brian Pietrangelo, Managing Director of Investment Strategy
Cindy Honcharenko, Director of Portfolio Management
George Mateyo, Chief Investment Officer
Rajeev Sharma, Head of Fixed Income

Key points include:

01:34 - This Week's Market and Economic Updates: February 2025 saw a 0.2% increase in retail sales, a 0.7% increase in industrial production, and a 4.2% increase...

In this week's Market Minutes recap, hear from our team of investment experts as they share their perspectives on the latest market and economic activity. Our panel shares detailed insights into the JOLTS report, CPI and PPI data, the equities market, tariffs, foreign government spending, the credit market, and the upcoming FOMC meeting. 

 
Speakers:
Brian Pietrangelo, Managing Director of Investment Strategy
Donald Saverno, Director of Investment Research
Rajeev Sharma, Head of Fixed Income
Stephen Hoedt, Head of Equities

01:46 – The Job Openings and Labor Turnover Survey (JOLTS) report was outlined 7.7 million job...