Blog Home

Send Us Your Comments And Questions

RSS Feed

US Economy and Credit Markets Week Ended March 16, 2012 Posted Under: Weekly Market Commentary   Treasury yields surged this week as investors relinquished the safe haven of government debt for riskier assets. Tuesday’s statement from the Fed referenced improving economic growth with no indication of additional quantitative easing and they kept the target range for the federal funds rate at 0.0 – 0.25%. February retail sales increased 1.1%, in line with expectations. Excluding autos, sales increased 0.9% which was better than the estimate of 0.7%. Both the Philadelphia Fed Survey and Empire Manufacturing Index beat expectations, coming in at 12.5 and 20.21 respectively against estimates of 12.0 and 17.50. The Producer Price Index increased 0.4% in February, in line with estimates and is 3.3% higher year over year. Excluding food and energy, PPI increased 0.2% in February and 3.0% year over year. The Consumer Price Index increased 0.4% in February and 2.9% year over year, both in line with estimates. Excluding food and energy, CPI increased 0.1% in February vs. the estimate of 0.2% and increased 2.2% year over year matching expectations. Industrial production was flat in February as the survey expected 0.4% growth and capacity utilization was 78.7% vs. the estimate of 78.8%. U of M Consumer Confidence was reported at 74.3 vs. the estimate of 76.0. Major economic reports (and related consensus forecasts) for next week include: Tuesday: February Housing Starts 700,000, 0.1% MoM), February Building Permits (686,000, 0.5% MoM); Wednesday: February Existing Home Sales (4.60M, 0.7% MoM); Thursday: January House Price Index (0.2%), February Leading Indicators (0.6%); Friday: February New Home Sales (325,000, 1.3% MoM). Posted on Monday, March 19, 2012 @ 9:26 AM • Post Link Share:   Printer Friendly

These posts were prepared by First Trust Advisors L. P., and reflect the current opinion of the authors. They are based upon sources and data believed to be accurate and reliable. Opinions and forward looking statements expressed are subject to change without notice. This information does not constitute a solicitation or an offer to buy or sell any security.

 

Most Current Posts

<<< Newer Posts •  Older Posts >>>

2013

2012

2011