Read more
Oil Supply Stress Spreads Through the Global Economy as Fuel Costs and Inflation Rise
High oil and fuel prices are squeezing households and businesses as global supply buffers shrink. U.S. gasoline reached $4.47 a gallon, diesel has climbed above $6, and disruptions across the Middle East and Russia are increasing pressure on inflation and economic activity.
High Mortgage Rates and Persistent Inflation Keep Pressure on Household Budgets
Mortgage rates have climbed to 6.95% as inflation remains above the Federal Reserve’s target and policymakers raise rates. The pressure extends beyond housing, with elevated borrowing costs and higher vehicle prices adding to the affordability squeeze.
Markets Kept Testing Narratives Against Operating Reality
From AI infrastructure and crypto regulation to interest rates, housing and consumer brands, markets repeatedly shifted when new evidence challenged or reinforced the expectations already reflected in prices.