The Brief

September 29, 2023 | R. Matthew Lauer


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A curated summary of today's key global market and economic developments.

The Brief

Economic Developments

  • The US Federal Reserve has recently been dovish about raising rates.
  • Treasury yields have pulled back from recent highs but remain elevated.
  • September is expected to be a challenging month for global bonds.
  • US consumer spending has slowed to its lowest pace in a year
  • Final GDP data indicates a 2.1% growth in the US economy. 
  • The UK's economic growth for Q1 is revised up, outperforming other G7 countries.
  • Weakening of the pound sterling attributed to economic concerns.
  • Bank of Japan's unscheduled bond purchase to manage rising yields.

 

Business News

  • Ari Emanuel's Endeavor, Fenway Sports, and Henry Kravis are considering investing in the PGA. 
  • The UAW is negotiating a 30% pay raise from automakers.
  • Nike's stock rises despite lower inventory. 
  • Tesla faces a lawsuit for alleged racial discrimination in the workplace.
  • Charges of securities fraud against a former Goldman worker.
  • Potential furloughs may happen as a result of the government shutdown.

 

Tech Industry and International Relations

  • Huawei's resurgence with the Mate 60 Pro smartphone highlights China's semiconductor advancements despite export controls.
  • Concerns in the US arise over China's growing military capabilities.
  • Challenges faced by President Joe Biden's $100 billion chip subsidies, including labor disputes.
  • US allocates $500 million in grants for domestic semiconductor production.
  • Microsoft's discussions about selling Bing to Apple.
  • EU's preparations to "Trump-proof" in case of a Trump win in the presidential election.

 

Investment Considerations

  • Senator Bob Menendez's cash allocation prompts discussion on cash.
  • Cash offers attractive yields now that rates are higher. 
  • Rising bond yields may lead to declining stock prices. 
  • Concerns about fiscal deficits and their impact on the bond market.

 


Works cited: "Treasury Yields Pull Back, September Remains Challenging: Bloomberg Close", Bloomberg, 28 Sept. 2023. "Menendez Isn’t the Only One Who Could Use a Cash Pile", John Authers, Bloomberg Opinion, 29 Sept. 2023. "UK economic growth revised up, but pound on track for worst month in a year" The Guardian, 29 Sept. 2023. The Daily Shot, 29 Sept. 2023. "Huawei's Resurgence and EU's Preparations for a Potential Trump Win" Bloomberg, 29 Sept. 2023. "5% Yields, China's Chips, Japan Bonds: Five Things You Must Know", Bloomberg, 29 Sept. 2023. ChatGPT, an AI software developed by OpenAI for initial draft article summaries.