Corporate Bond Market Insight - Resilient Growth Meets Rising Inflation
Key takeaways from the latest edition:
The economy stayed resilient in the second quarter, despite geopolitical volatility, supported by earnings, consumer spending and AI-related investment.
Inflation pressures rose across producer and consumer prices, though lower energy prices may signal a near-term peak. Inflation is likely to remain elevated through year-end.
The Fed held rates steady under new chair Kevin Warsh while shifting to a more neutral, inflation-focused stance. He also offered less forward guidance in keeping with his beliefs.
Investment-grade corporates held up well despite record June issuance, with spreads near historic tights. Current yields may make laddered IG corporates an attractive volatility hedge.