Market Recap and Fed Insights - January 8th

In this episode of Dividend Cafe, Brian Szytel provides a comprehensive market recap for January 8th. The Dow closed above fair value with a gain of 106 points, while the S&P edged slightly higher and the NASDAQ remained flat. The U.S. dollar strengthened amidst currency weakness in the UK. Fed Governor Waller discussed potential rate cuts in 2025, noting core PCE inflation was below 2% over the past year. The FOMC minutes from December indicated elevated inflation and a cautious approach to rate cuts. On the economic front, ADP private payrolls fell short of expectations, but the labor market remains strong with initial jobless claims lower than anticipated. Additionally, Waller remarked that Trump tariffs would likely have minimal impact on inflation. The episode concludes with a brief Q&A on Trump's comments about Canada, Greenland, and Panama, and a look ahead to the non-farm payroll report on Friday.

00:00 Introduction and Market Recap

00:27 Currency and Fed Policy Updates

02:03 Economic Data Insights

02:40 Q&A Session Highlights

03:14 Closing Remarks and Upcoming Events

Links mentioned in this episode:
DividendCafe.com

TheBahnsenGroup.com