Asks how to factor in Iran war and energy market disruption for investment management.
Carol Masser
Raquel Oden
Short-term markets follow headlines (volatility), long-term follow corporate earnings. Bullish on US equities with 13-15% earnings growth predicted for 2026.
Asks how higher gas prices (up 33% since Jan 14) affect earnings if consumers feel strapped.
Tim Stenovec
Raquel Oden
Individual consumer story different from corporate. Gas prices higher, tariffs unresolved, Fed decisions pending, AI impacting labor market - need active management to pivot sectors.
Asks about margin pressure from higher energy prices and AI efficiency gains potentially reducing workforce.
Carol Masser
Raquel Oden
Labor markets will be impacted by AI, oil prices, tariffs. Recent unemployment concentrated in healthcare, not broad-based, which is concerning.
Asks about lingering geopolitical volatility even if war ends tomorrow.
Carol Masser
Raquel Oden
Geopolitical unknown keeps people up at night. Oil price shock (20-30% in week) is lot for consumer. Need to get oil prices under control.
Asks about Fed cutting rates given market resilience but individual pain.
Tim Stenovec
Raquel Oden
HSBC expects no Fed cuts this year - taking extreme view. New Fed chair adds uncertainty.