Geopolitics Shape Markets, Fed Watch
Geopolitical headlines continue to materially impact market sentiment, and the latest news flow has been constructive. Israel and Lebanon agreed to a ten-day ceasefire that appears to be holding, and the larger conflict between the US and Iran is also de-escalating. Although the statements from the US administration point to an imminent deal between the […]
WHITEPAPER: Why Real Estate Drives California’s Fiscal Health
It has been stated time and again: Buying a home is the single largest investment most people make; home ownership is a key path to building wealth. For many, it is the American dream. But beyond the individual, what is real estate’s broader impact on the economy, communities, and society? Economy The real estate market […]
Fed Holds; Inflation Pressures Persist
The Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) held the federal funds rate at 3.50% to 3.75% on Wednesday in an 11 to 1 vote, with Governor Stephen Miran dissenting in favor of a quarter point cut. The accompanying Summary of Economic Projections raised growth forecasts to 2.4% for 2026, lifted headline and core inflation projections to […]
Oil Spike, Fed Meeting Ahead
The conflict with Iran remained the primary driver of market sentiment this week. Oil prices spiked as global supplies remained disrupted with the Strait of Hormuz remaining essentially closed. Against this geopolitical backdrop, a significant downward revision to fourth quarter gross domestic product (GDP), and firm inflation and employment data added to the complex set […]