The July reports indicated slowing economic growth during the month. Hiring slowed notably, which could signal potential weakness for the labor market. Service sector and consumer confidence both improved in July, and the yield curve inversion widened modestly due to falling long-term interest rates.
News
Economic Release Snapshot: Service Sector Confidence Improves in July
Each week, we break down the latest U.S. economic reports, including what the results mean for the overall health of the economy. Here, you will find how economists’ forecasts compare with actual results, key takeaways to consider, as well as a list of what’s on tap for the week ahead.
Looking Back at the Markets in July and Ahead to August 2024
July was a mixed month for markets, as investors rotated away from larger technology companies and took a more diversified approach during the month. The S&P 500 and Dow Jones Industrial Average both posted positive returns in July, but the Nasdaq Composite declined modestly. International markets were up for the month, while falling interest rates led to positive returns for bonds.
Stock Market Sell-Off: What to Expect Next
It has been quite a couple of days in the financial markets. Today marks the latest in a sharp drawdown around the world. Japan has been hit particularly hard, but the pullback is global. Here in the U.S., for example, the S&P 500 is down about 3 percent for the day (as of this writing) and just shy of 8 percent off its all-time highs. The Nasdaq is doing even worse, down almost 4 percent for the day and 14 percent off its all-time highs.
Economic Release Snapshot: Job Growth Slows as Unemployment Rises
Each week, we break down the latest U.S. economic reports, including what the results mean for the overall health of the economy. Here, you will find how economists’ forecasts compare with actual results, key takeaways to consider, as well as a list of what’s on tap for the week ahead.
Market Thoughts for August 2024 [Video]
July was a mixed month for markets, as investors rotated away from tech companies in favor of a more diversified approach. The tech-heavy Nasdaq had a weak month, the S&P 500 ended up a bit, and the Dow Jones Industrial Average did best of all, up by almost 5 percent. On the economic front, we are still in a relatively familiar place as we head into August. Despite some slowing, the economy is healthy and inflation is down.