Markets being forward looking, I believe we're seeing a snap back ahead of this weeks Jackson Hole meeting (Aug 21-23) where policymakers will discuss at length their thinking around the labor markets of major economies, perhaps dropping clues about the path for monetary policy in the months ahead.
The spotlight will be on Janet Yellen, who will speak on Friday in her first appearance at Jackson Hole as Fed chair.
Most will recall Ben Bernanke two years ago that paved the way for an unprecedented $85 billion per month stimulus plan.
While most don't expect anything spectacular out of the Fed Chairwoman given the improvement in the unemployment rate and overall economy, I have to wonder what will happen after the air is let out of the hopium balloon. QE is still set to end in October. Tensions between Russian and Ukraine have sent yields lower. Whether there is further escalation or a resolution is yet to be seen. The economy is recovering like a limp noodle, but it is improving. September and October are historically difficult months for equity returns.
Stocks are up, bonds have been holding. One of them is lying. Just sayin'.
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