Inflation is coming down and is close to the Fed's target rate, which sets up the potential for rate cuts by the Fed. At the same time, the economy has experienced a series of slowdowns with crosscurrents and bifurcations in the indicators and in the equities market. So what's in store for the rest of 2024?

In this episode, Kathy and Liz Ann discuss the broader macroeconomic outlook and central bank policy for the second half of the year. They cover topics such as inflation, Fed policy, the U.S. economy, the labor market, and the impact of debt and deficits. They also highlight the importance of factors and quality in the equity market and the potential for a broadening out of performance. The upcoming week's economic indicators and data releases are also discussed.

On Investing is an original podcast from Charles Schwab. For more on the show, visit schwab.com/OnInvesting.

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Important Disclosures

The information provided here is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered an individualized recommendation or personalized investment advice. The investment strategies mentioned here may not be suitable for everyone. Each investor needs to review an investment strategy for his or her own particular situation before making any investment decision. 

All expressions of opinion are subject to change without notice in reaction to shifting market conditions. Data contained herein from third-party providers is obtained from what are considered reliable sources. However, its accuracy, completeness, or reliability cannot be guaranteed. 

Examples provided are for illustrative purposes only and not intended to be reflective of results you can expect to achieve.

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Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.

Diversification and asset allocation strategies do not ensure a profit and cannot protect against losses in a declining market.

Forecasts contained herein are for illustrative purposes only, may be based upon proprietary research and are developed through analysis of historical public data.

Performance may be affected by risks associated with non-diversification, including investments in specific countries or sectors. Additional risks may also include, but are not limited to, investments in foreign securities, especially emerging markets, real estate investment trusts (REITs), fixed income, municipal securities including state specific municipal securities, small capitalization securities and commodities. Each individual investor should consider these risks carefully before investing in a particular security or strategy.

Schwab does not recommend the use of technical analysis as a sole means of investment research.

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The information and content provided herein is general in nature and is for informational purposes only. It is not intended, and should not be construed, as a specific recommendation, individualized tax, legal, or investment advice. Tax laws are subject to change, either prospectively or retroactively. Where specific advice is necessary or appropriate, individuals should contact their own professional tax and investment advisors or other professionals (CPA, Financial Planner, Investment Manager) to help answer questions about specific situations or needs prior to taking any action based upon this information.

Currency trading is speculative, volatile and not suitable for all investors.

Past performance is no guarantee of future results and the opinions presented cannot be viewed as an indicator of future performance.

Forecasts contained herein are for illustrative purposes only, may be based upon proprietary research and are developed through analysis of historical public data.

Indexes are unmanaged, do not incur management fees, costs, and expenses and cannot be invested in directly. For more information on indexes, please see schwab.com/indexdefinitions.

The Global Manufacturing Purchasing Managers Index (PMI) is a survey-based indicator of the economic health of the global manufacturing sector. The PMI index includes the major indicators of: new orders, inventory levels, production, supplier deliveries and the employment environment.

JOLTS is the Job Opening and Labor Turnover Survey.

QCEW is the Quarterly Census of Employment and Wages.

CLO is the Collateralized Loan Obligation market.

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