Trade Winds, Tariff Clouds, and the Consumer Engine

<span id="hs_cos_wrapper_name" class="hs_cos_wrapper hs_cos_wrapper_meta_field hs_cos_wrapper_type_text" style="" data-hs-cos-general-type="meta_field" data-hs-cos-type="text" >Trade Winds, Tariff Clouds, and the Consumer Engine</span>
The forecast is cloudy with a chance of Powell. Meta and Microsoft earnings could bring the thunder.
 
KEY TAKEAWAYS
  • JOLTS report and Consumer Confidence showed mixed signals
  • Today includes GDP, FOMC, ADP Jobs, and major earnings (Meta, Microsoft)
  • GDP expected to rebound from Q1 contraction, but Private Investment may be weak
  • Fed not expected to cut rates today, but Powell’s commentary and vote count matter
  • Meta and Microsoft earnings will shape AI sentiment and broader market direction
MY HOT TAKES
  • We’re at an inflection point—and markets don’t yet know which way the wind blows
  • Private Investment matters more than people realize—it’s where recessions begin
  • Consumers have kept the economy alive, but that pace is slowing
  • Powell may not cut today, but political pressure is mounting fast
  • Meta and Microsoft earnings are really a referendum on AI
  • You can quote me: “Though today's FOMC release is likely to be an uneventful affair, one never knows, so be prepared to deal with wrench or bone, should one be thrown.

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