CORNYVERSE

The much-anticipated August Producer Price Index (PPI) report has just been released, and it delivered a significant surprise. Instead of the expected rise, wholesale prices showed a slight decline, offering a dose of good news on the inflation front. This data is a critical signal for investors, as it directly influences the Federal Reserve's thinking on interest rates and the overall health of the economy.  Key Takeaways • Unexpected Drop: The headline PPI for August unexpectedly fell by 0.1% month-over-month, defying forecasts of a 0.3% increase. • Positive Market Reaction: The stock market reacted positively to the news, as lower-than-expected inflation eases pressure on the Fed to maintain high interest rates. • Core Inflation Cools: Core PPI, which excludes food and energy, also fell by 0.1%, further strengthening the disinflation narrative. • Fed Outlook: This report increases the likelihood that the Fed may feel more confident to consider rate cuts, pending c...

FOMC rate decisions have an outsized impact on global financial markets. Many investors are laser-focused on the next announcement. In this post, using the latest FOMC outcome, we’ll explain—in four key angles—how hikes or cuts affect our portfolios and what the rate outlook might be.   🎯 Key Takeaways ✅ What this post covers (3-line preview) ✅ How FOMC rate moves affect equities, bonds, and the dollar ✅ Why rates were held recently—and what’s next With the latest FOMC decision to hold the policy rate, uncertainty has increased. Investors hoping for cuts were disappointed. Higher rates raise corporate financing costs and can pressure stocks; lower rates can revive sentiment. Because the decision also moves bonds and the dollar, it’s crucial to anticipate the path ahead. 🔍 Why the Market’s Watching & Why the Hold At the July 2025 FOMC meeting, the target range was kept a...

The summer heat has faded; a cool September breeze is here. Yet a chill of tension hangs over global markets. September has often been volatile, and this year three powerful waves are rolling toward markets.   Key Takeaways ☑ Three wildcards : geopolitical conflict, major-country political shifts, and rising trade barriers ☑ Core impact : unresolved conflicts can stoke commodity prices, while political uncertainty may weigh on specific industries ☑ What to watch : go beyond headlines—trace how these macro forces link to real company earnings and your portfolio This post breaks the three September market risks into four layers, with a deep dive on what to guard against—and how to prepare. 🌋 Geopolitics in the Fog: Embers of Unfinished Conflicts First up is geopolitical risk. Like a massive whirlpool beneath a calm surface, seemingly quiet confl...