Germany and France — in what some have claimed is a breakthrough — have proposed establishing a recovery fund for countries hit hardest by the coronavirus pandemic. European Union leaders plan to meet in July on a €750 billion initiative that would involve the issuance of common debt. It would be a significant step toward closer economic ties.
The politics of the U.S.–China relationship have clearly become more complicated recently. The war of words over China’s handling of the coronavirus outbreak and the proposed new Hong Kong security law has the potential to create headwinds for the global economy and financial markets.
It is encouraging that some stabilization has started in the United States and the economic data fog is lifting just a little; but we forecast a low probability of a “V-shaped” recovery.
The coronavirus pandemic is testing the limits of fiscal and monetary policy responses from Congress and the Federal Reserve to boost the economy and calm financial markets.
The economic impact of the coronavirus pandemic in Europe will be severe amid stimulus efforts by policymakers, including the European Central Bank, to cushion the blow.
U.S. economic recovery will likely be slow and halting as coronavirus health risks cast a shadow on demand.
Putnam’s health-care analysts and portfolio managers offer their outlooks and perspectives on key aspects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Demand for oil has collapsed as the coronavirus pandemic devastates the global economy and curbs much of the need for fuel from companies and consumers.
The trajectory of bonds yields will depend on the Federal Reserve’s policies and fiscal stimulus amid a sharp global economic downturn.