The December jobs report showed robust job growth of 256,000 and a drop in unemployment to 4.1%, signaling a resilient labor market. However, this good news was interpreted as bad news for Wall Street because it reinforced expectations of higher inflation and potential Fed rate hikes, leading to a spike in Treasury yields and a sell-off in stocks.
Analysts expect the December PPI to show 0.3% monthly growth, with Core PPI (excluding food and energy) at 0.2%. For CPI, expectations are 0.3% monthly growth, while Core CPI is anticipated to show a slight decline of 0.1%. These figures are relatively benign but could influence Treasury yields and inflation concerns.
The strong jobs report reduced the likelihood of Fed rate cuts in 2024. The CME FedWatch tool indicates a high probability of just one rate cut in 2025, likely in the second half of the year. However, futures trading still suggests a 25% chance of a rate cut in the first quarter of 2024.
Rate-sensitive sectors like staples, real estate, and financials were among the hardest hit. Growth sectors, including infotech and consumer discretionary, also suffered due to concerns about higher borrowing costs. Housing stocks, such as Lenar and KB Home, faced significant pressure as higher rates could dampen real estate activity.
The S&P 500 lost 91.21 points, or 1.54%, closing at 5,827.04. It was down 1.94% for the week, narrowly finishing above the 100-day moving average, which is a key technical level for market direction.
Bank earnings, starting Wednesday, could provide a distraction from inflation concerns. Higher yields may boost net interest income for banks, benefiting those with strong lending operations. However, banks with heavy exposure to retail and corporate lending might struggle if high rates persist, as borrowing activity could decline.
The new administration's proposed tariff and immigration policies could exacerbate inflation fears. These policies may lead to higher costs for goods and services, adding to existing concerns about inflation and its impact on the economy and financial markets.
Investors don't get a break from yield worries as both CPI and PPI loom this week. But bank earnings could distract. Major indexes hit post-election lows in Friday's sell-off.
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