Yields Surge, Stocks Tumble
Last week’s meeting of the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) proved unsettling for the financial markets. It wasn’t only the widely expected announcement of another rate hike but a more hawkish message that rates may be heading higher for longer than anticipated. Fed officials indicated that any policy change might be further off than investors had contemplated.
The latest rate hike caused bond yields to rise, with two-year and ten-year Treasury note yields touching levels not seen in over a decade. Global central banks moved in tandem with the Fed, as the Bank of England, Swiss National Bank, and Norway’s Norges Bank, among others, also hiked rates.4,5
Another Rate Hike
In its effort to cool inflationary forces, the Federal Reserve raised interest rates by 0.75% last week—the third consecutive rate increase of that size. Projections by FOMC members suggested that interest rates may increase by as much as 1.25 percentage points before year-end.6
The FOMC also projects that unemployment will rise to 4.4% by December 2023. This projection is up from its current level of 3.7%, and that core inflation will be 4.5% by year-end. In June, Fed officials projected core inflation would be at 4.3% by year-end. They also indicated that interest rates may reach as high as 4.6% in 2023, without any rate cut likely until 2024.7
This Week: Key Economic Data
Tuesday: Durable Goods Orders. Consumer Confidence. New Home Sales.
Thursday: Jobless Claims. Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
Friday: Consumer Sentiment.
Source: Econoday, September 23, 2022 The Econoday economic calendar lists upcoming U.S. economic data releases (including key economic indicators), Federal Reserve policy meetings, and speaking engagements of Federal Reserve officials. The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The forecasts or forward-looking statements are based on assumptions and may not materialize. The forecasts also are subject to revision.
This Week: Companies Reporting Earnings
Wednesday: Cintas Corporation (CTAS), Paychex, Inc. (PAYX).
Thursday: Micron Technology, Inc. (MU), Nike, Inc. (NKE).
Source: Zacks, September 23, 2022 Companies mentioned are for informational purposes only. It should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of the securities. Investing involves risks, and investment decisions should be based on your own goals, time horizon, and tolerance for risk. The return and principal value of investments will fluctuate as market conditions change. When sold, investments may be worth more or less than their original cost. Companies may reschedule when they report earnings without notice.
Food For Thought
“People are like stained-glass windows. They sparkle and shine
when the sun is out, but when the darkness sets in,
their true beauty is revealed only if there is a light from within.”
– Dr. Elisabeth Kübler-Ross
Tax Tips
Tax-Deductible Educator Expenses
The educator expense deduction allows eligible teachers and administrators to deduct part of the cost of technology, supplies, and training from their taxes. In this case, an “eligible educator” is a taxpayer that is a kindergarten through grade 12 teacher, instructor, counselor, principal, or aide. They must work at least 900 hours a year at a school that provides elementary or secondary education.
In 2022, educators can deduct up to $300 of trade or business expenses not reimbursed by their employer, a grant, or another source. Some examples of covered expenses include:
- Professional development course fees
- Books
- Supplies
- Computer equipment
- Other classroom equipment
- Personal protective equipment (masks, disinfectant, etc.)
* This information is not intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax advice. We suggest that you discuss your specific tax issues with a qualified tax professional.
Tip adapted from IRS.gov8
Healthy Living Tip
Choose In-Season Produce This Fall
Eating healthy is essential to keep you and your family feeling good as the days get shorter and the temperature drops. One of the easiest ways to incorporate fresher, riper produce into your meals is to buy in-season items. Generally, in-season produce, harvested at the right time, is full of flavor and nutrition. Plus, sometimes fruits and veggies cost less when they're in season!
Here are some healthy picks that are in-season during the fall:
- Apples
- Beets
- Brussels Sprouts
- Carrots
- Cauliflower
- Pumpkin
- Winter squash
- Raspberries
- Celery
What are some of your favorite fall produce items?
Tip adapted from the US Department of Agriculture9
Weekly Riddle
Alexandra’s mom had four children. The first one was named May,
the second was named June, and the third was named August.
What was the fourth child's name?
Last week’s riddle: We all have one, and even though it often demands an answer,
it offers no question. What is this everyday item?
Answer: A phone.
Photo of the Week
Sunken Tamblingan Temple, Ubud, Bali, Indonesia.
