Old thinking in China raises doubts
A recent public spending plan in China suggests authorities may be revisiting old habits.
Putnam Perspectives
Research insights from active investors
Posts from category: 2
Why the economy looks solid
Despite jittery global markets, we believe consumer and trade data point to a balanced and healthy U.S. economy.
The U.S. takes the policy road less traveled
The difference between U.S. and European economic growth trajectories may come down to policy paths taken or not taken.
Fed weighs addition to policy toolbox
The Fed may have a desire to switch to a different monetary-policy regime, one that would involve using a permanent balance sheet.
In rising economy, wages are a wild card
By the end of the first quarter, U.S. economic data began to improve somewhat from what had been winter-related economic weakness. After disappointing results from various sectors of the...
Is the Fed fighting the last war?
In recent posts, we have approached the problem of the outlook for interest rates by outlining the questions that surround the potential growth rate of the U.S. economy. It...
If the economy grows, will workers come back?
A look at recent trends in the U.S. economy suggests that the potential U.S. growth rate is declining. The first reason for this conclusion is that investment has been...
How yields can change in a “normalizing” economy
As the Federal Reserve plots its actions and communications strategy for the gradual normalization of monetary policy, fixed-income investors face the challenge of anticipating the future course of interest...
Warming economy may leave bond index cold
It appears likely that the U.S. economy will continue to improve, keeping interest rates elevated and volatile. The U.S. recovery, despite higher taxes, generally rising interest rates, and broad-based...