Is consumer confidence slipping as we approach 2025? Join CIO of Verdence Capital Advisors, Megan Horneman, as the latest insights from the University of Michigan's final January report is unraveled, which marks the first decline in consumer confidence in half a year. Megan takes a look at the contributing factors, such as the dip in current conditions and future expectations, and how rising inflation concerns are nudging spending habits. With consumers expecting a rise in inflation rates, the ripples could escalate current inflation levels, and it's a scenario the Federal Reserve won't be ignoring.

Get ready for a rollercoaster ride in the markets, driven by fluctuations in the semiconductor sector and a volatile equities day, as we anticipate the upcoming Federal Reserve meeting. Expect interest rates to stay put despite inflationary pressures, but keep an eye out for a wealth of reports on housing data and a fresh consumer sentiment reading from the conference board.

Don't forget to subscribe to stay informed!

https://youtu.be/eAtyyJjXoSM

Disclaimer:  material was prepared by Verdence Capital Advisors, LLC (“VCA”). VCA believes the information and data in this document were obtained from sources considered reliable and correct and cannot guarantee either their accuracy or completeness. VCA has not independently verified third-party sourced information and data. Any projections, outlooks 
or assumptions should not be construed to be indicative of the actual events which will occur. These projections, market outlooks or estimates are subject to change without notice. This material is being provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied upon for, investment, accounting, legal, or tax advice. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Different types of investments involve varying degrees of risk, and there can be no assurance 
that the future performance of any specific investment, investment strategy, or product or anynon-investment related content, made reference to directly or indirectly in these materials will be profitable, equal any corresponding indicated historical performance level(s), be suitable for your portfolio or individual situation, or prove successful. You should not assume that any 
discussion or information contained in this report serves as the receipt of, or as a substitute for, personalized investment advice from VCA. Due to various factors, including changing market conditions and/or applicable laws, the c...

Discover how the latest Consumer Price Index report might just be the market's best-kept secret for predicting economic trends. What does a modest rise in core inflation mean for your wallet and investments, especially when it's lower than experts anticipated? We're breaking down the report's implications, particularly focusing on the areas causing ripples—commodities, transportation services, and housing. With the Federal Reserve keeping a close eye on these sectors, we explore whether their current stance will change or if the market's optimism about potential rate cuts is a bit premature.
Join us as we navigate the intricate dance of numbers and market reactions, spotlighting why equities are soaring and what this could signal for future financial strategies. While headline inflation is slightly up year-on-year, it's the nuanced changes in core inflation that are capturing attention. Are the markets getting ahead of themselves with rate cut hopes? Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the inflation landscape and its potential impact on economic policy. Don't forget to subscribe and hit that notification bell to stay updated with all our economic insights!

https://youtu.be/2Aiy2dlPbis

Disclaimer:  material was prepared by Verdence Capital Advisors, LLC (“VCA”). VCA believes the information and data in this document were obtained from sources considered reliable and correct and cannot guarantee either their accuracy or completeness. VCA has not independently verified third-party sourced information and data. Any projections, outlooks 
or assumptions should not be construed to be indicative of the actual events which will occur. These projections, market outlooks or estimates are subject to change without notice. This material is being provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied upon for, investment, accounting, legal, or tax advice. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Different types of investments involve varying degrees of risk, and there can be no assurance 
that the future performance of any specific investment, investment strategy, or product or anynon-investment related content, made reference to directly or indirectly in these materials will be profitable, equal any corresponding indicated historical performance level(s), be suitable for your portfolio or individual situation, or prove successful. You should not assume that any 
discussion or information contained in this report serves as the receipt of, or as a substitute for, personalized investment advice from VCA. Due to various factors, including changing market conditions and/or applicable laws, the c...

The December jobs report shows stronger-than-expected job creation, but raises questions about inflation and interest rates. CIO of Verdence, Megan Horneman, dissects the implications of this employment data, including its effects on wage inflation, market reactions, and future Fed policy decisions.
 
• Jobs growth at 256,000, surpassing expectations
• Wage inflation remains a sticky challenge for the Fed
• Revised unemployment rate impacts monetary policy considerations
• Rising interest rates concern the housing market and mortgage affordability
• Stock market reactions highlight vulnerabilities in specific sectors
• Future inflation readings may influence upcoming Fed actions

Listen to more episodes at MarketsWithMegan.fm or anywhere you get your podcasts.

https://youtu.be/2Aiy2dlPbis?si=dKf8OPhsrERUurOn

Disclaimer:  material was prepared by Verdence Capital Advisors, LLC (“VCA”). VCA believes the information and data in this document were obtained from sources considered reliable and correct and cannot guarantee either their accuracy or completeness. VCA has not independently verified third-party sourced information and data. Any projections, outlooks 
or assumptions should not be construed to be indicative of the actual events which will occur. These projections, market outlooks or estimates are subject to change without notice. This material is being provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied upon for, investment, accounting, legal, or tax advice. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Different types of investments involve varying degrees of risk, and there can be no assurance 
that the future performance of any specific investment, investment strategy, or product or anynon-investment related content, made reference to directly or indirectly in these materials will be profitable, equal any corresponding indicated historical performance level(s), be suitable for your portfolio or individual situation, or prove successful. You should not assume that any 
discussion or information contained in this report serves as the receipt of, or as a substitute for, personalized investment advice from VCA. Due to various factors, including changing market conditions and/or applicable laws, the c...

Welcome to the first episode of Markets with Megan in 2025! Join Megan Horneman, Chief Investment Officer at Verdence Capital Advisors, as she reviews the latest ISM Services Index report and what it reveals about consumer spending trends.

🔎 Key Highlights:
- How the service sector drives U.S. GDP and inflation.
- Sticky inflation: Why service-related spending pressures persist.
- The rise in the ISM Services Index and its economic implications.
- Analyzing the spike in prices paid and its impact on Federal Reserve policy.
- What today’s market movements and interest rate trends mean for investors.

https://youtu.be/Q2VX1Q7W0ok

Disclaimer:  material was prepared by Verdence Capital Advisors, LLC (“VCA”). VCA believes the information and data in this document were obtained from sources considered reliable and correct and cannot guarantee either their accuracy or completeness. VCA has not independently verified third-party sourced information and data. Any projections, outlooks 
or assumptions should not be construed to be indicative of the actual events which will occur. These projections, market outlooks or estimates are subject to change without notice. This material is being provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied upon for, investment, accounting, legal, or tax advice. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Different types of investments involve varying degrees of risk, and there can be no assurance 
that the future performance of any specific investment, investment strategy, or product or anynon-investment related content, made reference to directly or indirectly in these materials will be profitable, equal any corresponding indicated historical performance level(s), be suitable for your portfolio or individual situation, or prove successful. You should not assume that any 
discussion or information contained in this report serves as the receipt of, or as a substitute for, personalized investment advice from VCA. Due to various factors, including changing market conditions and/or applicable laws, the c...

The equity markets show signs of recovery after yesterday's steep selloff following the Fed's latest actions. Today, December 19th, we explore what's driving this rebound and analyze key economic data, including an upgraded GDP growth rate for Q3. Consumer spending remains resilient, with a notable boost in service sector activity and exports.

Join us for insights into these developments and what they mean for the markets. Stay informed—subscribe to Markets with Megan.

https://youtu.be/AzN_Y3aESiM

Disclaimer:  material was prepared by Verdence Capital Advisors, LLC (“VCA”). VCA believes the information and data in this document were obtained from sources considered reliable and correct and cannot guarantee either their accuracy or completeness. VCA has not independently verified third-party sourced information and data. Any projections, outlooks 
or assumptions should not be construed to be indicative of the actual events which will occur. These projections, market outlooks or estimates are subject to change without notice. This material is being provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied upon for, investment, accounting, legal, or tax advice. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Different types of investments involve varying degrees of risk, and there can be no assurance 
that the future performance of any specific investment, investment strategy, or product or anynon-investment related content, made reference to directly or indirectly in these materials will be profitable, equal any corresponding indicated historical performance level(s), be suitable for your portfolio or individual situation, or prove successful. You should not assume that any 
discussion or information contained in this report serves as the receipt of, or as a substitute for, personalized investment advice from VCA. Due to various factors, including changing market conditions and/or applicable laws, the c...

The Fed's latest rate cut surprises the markets, revealing a shift in their inflation outlook and reducing anticipated cuts for next year. Investors react negatively, reassessing economic projections and adjusting their strategies accordingly. Verdence CIO, Megan Horneman recaps the last 24 hours and what to anticipate into the new year:

- Fed cuts interest rates by 25 basis points, but markets sell off sharply
- Market expectations for next year's rate cuts reduced from four to two
- Fed raises inflation forecasts; core PCE inflation expected at 2.5%
- Risks to employment and inflation seen as balanced by the Fed
- Markets anticipate no changes in rates for Q1 of next year
- Monitoring of Fed Chairman Jerome Powell's messages going forward

If you like this podcast, please subscribe, hit the alarm bell and, as always, if you'd like any of our further historical podcasts, you can go to marketswithmegan.fm.

https://youtu.be/A1FltISwYNM

Disclaimer:  material was prepared by Verdence Capital Advisors, LLC (“VCA”). VCA believes the information and data in this document were obtained from sources considered reliable and correct and cannot guarantee either their accuracy or completeness. VCA has not independently verified third-party sourced information and data. Any projections, outlooks 
or assumptions should not be construed to be indicative of the actual events which will occur. These projections, market outlooks or estimates are subject to change without notice. This material is being provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied upon for, investment, accounting, legal, or tax advice. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Different types of investments involve varying degrees of risk, and there can be no assurance 
that the future performance of any specific investment, investment strategy, or product or anynon-investment related content, made reference to directly or indirectly in these materials will be profitable, equal any corresponding indicated historical performance level(s), be suitable for your portfolio or individual situation, or prove successful. You should not assume that any 
discussion or information contained in this report serves as the receipt of, or as a substitute for, personalized investment advice from VCA. Due to various factors, including changing market conditions and/or applicable laws, the c...

Can a string of robust retail sales figures foretell the Federal Reserve's next move on interest rates? In this episode, Verdence CIO Megan Horneman recaps November's retail sales report that exceeded expectations for three months in a row. Amidst the holiday shopping frenzy, auto sales and a surge in internet shopping have influenced the retail landscape, while sectors like clothing and department stores lag. This economic snapshot provides insights as the Fed prepares for its pivotal meeting.

Tomorrow’s Federal Reserve meeting could signal the next chapter for interest rates, and Megan breaks down the possibilities. A 25 basis point cut might be on the horizon, but the Fed's balancing act between stimulating the economy and managing inflation is anything but straightforward.

There's a potentially hawkish tone from the central bank, hinting at a pause in rate cuts heading into 2025. Stay tuned and subscribe now to catch our post-meeting analysis.

https://youtu.be/vtDkwYNBxaM

Disclaimer:  material was prepared by Verdence Capital Advisors, LLC (“VCA”). VCA believes the information and data in this document were obtained from sources considered reliable and correct and cannot guarantee either their accuracy or completeness. VCA has not independently verified third-party sourced information and data. Any projections, outlooks 
or assumptions should not be construed to be indicative of the actual events which will occur. These projections, market outlooks or estimates are subject to change without notice. This material is being provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied upon for, investment, accounting, legal, or tax advice. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Different types of investments involve varying degrees of risk, and there can be no assurance 
that the future performance of any specific investment, investment strategy, or product or anynon-investment related content, made reference to directly or indirectly in these materials will be profitable, equal any corresponding indicated historical performance level(s), be suitable for your portfolio or individual situation, or prove successful. You should not assume that any 
discussion or information contained in this report serves as the receipt of, or as a substitute for, personalized investment advice from VCA. Due to various factors, including changing market conditions and/or applicable laws, the c...

How does a significant dip in the ISM Services Index affect the Federal Reserve's tightrope walk between inflation control and economic growth? Verdence CIO Megan Horneman uncovers the latest twists in the U.S. service sector's journey through expansion territory, with the index experiencing its sharpest drop since June. Unpack the mixed signals sent by November's data, where a broad decline in business activity, employment, and export orders contrasts with a stubbornly rising prices paid component—posing a challenging conundrum for the Fed's policy strategies.

As we anticipate crucial upcoming economic data, like the jobs report and CPI insights, the Fed's December meeting looms with uncertainty. Navigate the potential implications for interest rate cuts and the economic outlook into 2025. Tune in for an analysis of the service sector's current status and the Federal Reserve's tricky balancing act that could shape market dynamics. Don't miss the insights and predictions you'll need to stay informed in these unpredictable times.

https://youtu.be/YPu5H0gHbwg

Disclaimer:  material was prepared by Verdence Capital Advisors, LLC (“VCA”). VCA believes the information and data in this document were obtained from sources considered reliable and correct and cannot guarantee either their accuracy or completeness. VCA has not independently verified third-party sourced information and data. Any projections, outlooks 
or assumptions should not be construed to be indicative of the actual events which will occur. These projections, market outlooks or estimates are subject to change without notice. This material is being provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied upon for, investment, accounting, legal, or tax advice. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Different types of investments involve varying degrees of risk, and there can be no assurance 
that the future performance of any specific investment, investment strategy, or product or anynon-investment related content, made reference to directly or indirectly in these materials will be profitable, equal any corresponding indicated historical performance level(s), be suitable for your portfolio or individual situation, or prove successful. You should not assume that any 
discussion or information contained in this report serves as the receipt of, or as a substitute for, personalized investment advice from VCA. Due to various factors, including changing market conditions and/or applicable laws, the c...

In this podcast episode, "Markets with Megan," Megan recaps the pivotal economic and political developments of November 2024, marked by President Trump's return to the White House and Republican congressional dominance. This political clarity spurred an equity rally but also brought inflation challenges, particularly in services and housing. Megan takes a look at the Federal Reserve's 25 basis-point rate cut, its implications, and the gradual approach to future monetary policy shifts amidst persistent inflationary pressures.

Gain insights into consumer behavior, where post-election confidence contrasts with weakening retail sales and rising credit card delinquencies, signaling potential hurdles for economic growth. Also take a look at asset class performance, with U.S. equities leading a broad market rally, and volatility in fixed income markets driven by inflation concerns. Look forward at upcoming key economic indicators, offering a comprehensive snapshot of the factors shaping today's financial landscape.

https://youtu.be/ORWmccRe5Kg

Disclaimer:  material was prepared by Verdence Capital Advisors, LLC (“VCA”). VCA believes the information and data in this document were obtained from sources considered reliable and correct and cannot guarantee either their accuracy or completeness. VCA has not independently verified third-party sourced information and data. Any projections, outlooks 
or assumptions should not be construed to be indicative of the actual events which will occur. These projections, market outlooks or estimates are subject to change without notice. This material is being provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied upon for, investment, accounting, legal, or tax advice. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Different types of investments involve varying degrees of risk, and there can be no assurance 
that the future performance of any specific investment, investment strategy, or product or anynon-investment related content, made reference to directly or indirectly in these materials will be profitable, equal any corresponding indicated historical performance level(s), be suitable for your portfolio or individual situation, or prove successful. You should not assume that any 
discussion or information contained in this report serves as the receipt of, or as a substitute for, personalized investment advice from VCA. Due to various factors, including changing market conditions and/or applicable laws, the c...

Break down the key insights from the November 7th FOMC meeting with Verdence CIO Megan Horneman. What does a balanced risk between inflation and employment mean for the future of rate cuts? Megan explores this cautious yet open-minded stance and what it signals for the economy. Find out how firms' hiring selectivity and reluctance to raise prices paint a complex picture of the current landscape. We examine the Fed's data-driven approach, dissecting how these dynamics might shape decisions as we approach the December meeting.

Feel the pulse of the markets with our analysis of how equities and bonds responded not just to these minutes but also to the geopolitically significant 60-day ceasefire between Hezbollah and Israel. The intriguing interplay between Fed policy and market expectations is more evident than ever. As we gear up for crucial upcoming reports on inflation and employment, we help prepare you for what lies ahead. Don't miss  the analysis, and remember to subscribe and share for more essential economic insights.

https://youtu.be/-PzO6_Z4h6E

Disclaimer:  material was prepared by Verdence Capital Advisors, LLC (“VCA”). VCA believes the information and data in this document were obtained from sources considered reliable and correct and cannot guarantee either their accuracy or completeness. VCA has not independently verified third-party sourced information and data. Any projections, outlooks 
or assumptions should not be construed to be indicative of the actual events which will occur. These projections, market outlooks or estimates are subject to change without notice. This material is being provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide, and should not be relied upon for, investment, accounting, legal, or tax advice. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Different types of investments involve varying degrees of risk, and there can be no assurance 
that the future performance of any specific investment, investment strategy, or product or anynon-investment related content, made reference to directly or indirectly in these materials will be profitable, equal any corresponding indicated historical performance level(s), be suitable for your portfolio or individual situation, or prove successful. You should not assume that any 
discussion or information contained in this report serves as the receipt of, or as a substitute for, personalized investment advice from VCA. Due to various factors, including changing market conditions and/or applicable laws, the c...