The Independent Market Observer

Tariffs and Trade Wars: Part 1

June 13, 2018

Trade and tariffs just made the front pages in a big way with the confrontation between the U.S. and other countries at the recent G7 summit. Terms like trade war are being thrown around, and Canada (Canada!) is openly threatening retaliation. So, now seems a good time to take a look at what is really happening—and what it might mean for us and our investments.

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Monday Update: Service Sector Confidence Rises, Trade Deficit Down

June 11, 2018

There were only two major economic news releases last week, but the week ahead will be a busy one.

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Monday Update: Strong Spending and Job Growth

June 4, 2018

Last week’s reports gave us a broad look at the economy, from employment to manufacturing. This week, we will see two major releases.

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A Preview of the Jobs Report

May 31, 2018

Much of the economic data suggests that the slowdown in the first quarter is passing—this morning’s personal spending report is a good example. But, as always, what matters most for the economy is jobs.

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Monday Update: Housing Slow, Investment Rising

May 29, 2018

Last week was a slow one for economic news, but the releases we did see were important. This week, we will get a broad look at the economy.

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Monday Update: Growth Rebound Continues

May 21, 2018

Last week's economic news was all about whether there are signs of a rebound after a weak first quarter. This week will be a slow one, but the releases we will see are important.

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Appearance on CNBC's Power Lunch, May 17, 2018 [Video]

May 18, 2018

On Thursday, I appeared on CNBC's Power Lunch to discuss the current state of the market, rising rates, and investor skepticism. Overall, things are good, so how much better can they get? Listen in to learn more.

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Monday Update: Inflation Pulls Back

May 14, 2018

Last week was largely focused on prices, although we got a look at consumer confidence. This week, we’ll be watching the economic data to see whether earlier signs of a slowdown are passing.

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Monday Update: Growth Strong But Slowing

May 7, 2018

Last week was an extremely busy one for economic news, which gave us a look at all major sectors and concluded with the all-important employment report. Overall, while the economic statistics remain quite positive, there are signs of slowing. This week, the main focus will be on prices, plus we’ll get a look at consumer confidence.

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Monday Update: Data Beats Expectations (Almost) Across the Board

April 30, 2018

Last week’s economic news started off with housing and ended with the gross domestic product (GDP) report. The week ahead will be a busy one, giving us a look at all major sectors and wrapping up with the most important report of the month: employment.

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