Market Week: August 8, 2022
The Markets (as of market close August 5, 2022)
Stocks closed last week generally higher. A surprisingly strong labor report for July helped alleviate recession fears, but opened the door to more interest-rate hikes from the Federal Reserve as it continues to slow inflation. The S&P 500 and the Nasdaq finished higher for the third straight week, the longest weekly rally since April. The Russell 2000 also enjoyed a solid week. The Dow and the Global Dow dipped lower. The apparent strength of the labor sector seemingly lends credence to the Fed’s premise that the economy is resilient enough to withstand larger interest-rate increases. A 75-basis point rate increase is now more likely when the Fed meets next in September. More rate hikes may pose a challenge for interest-sensitive stocks, like tech shares. Nevertheless, recent strong corporate earnings reports, coupled with strength in the labor sector, should bolster economic sentiment. Last week, crude oil prices posted the largest weekly loss since April after decreasing nearly $10.00 per barrel. Signs of a global economic slowdown has curbed demand, sending prices to their lowest level in six months. Falling crude oil prices are helping drive gasoline prices lower, with several states now posting average regular gasoline prices below $4.00 per gallon.