The surge in equity markets has not stemmed from a significant change in the geopolitical conflict, but rather due to a major drop in interest rates. Our Chief Investment Officer, Megan Horneman,  offers expert insights and analysis.

Megan covers the latest economic data, the NFI Small Business Optimism Index that hit a four-month low in September. She draws a parallel to the SVP Bank collapse, highlighting the declining confidence among consumers and business owners alike. It's a signal of economic headwinds for the rest of the year. Stay tuned for more economic and market data throughout the week.

https://youtu.be/uxABnziTecg

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 co...

What if the geopolitical tension weren’t just about the nightmarish scenes we witness on the news, but about how these situations impact our economy and financial futures? Join us as Megan Horneman, our Chief Investment Officer, describes the volatile markets, highlighting the ripple effects the recent conflict between Israel and Hamas has had on the global economy, the sharp rally of traditional safe-haven assets, the rebound of equity markets, and a potential surge in crude oil prices and its possible implications for long-term inflation.

These tumultuous times could lead to a slowing economy, weakened consumer and business confidence, and tight lending conditions. Megan also delves into the potential repercussions of the Federal Reserve's future actions and paints a picture of what the future might look like if these conditions persist. Amidst the uncertainties, Megan offers some insight and hope, guiding us in navigating these unpredictable events. If you're looking for a comprehensive understanding of the present market conditions and their potential impact on your financial future, this episode is a must-listen.

https://youtu.be/B04TGDaAbZg

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 co...

In this episode, Megan discusses the impressive September jobs report, with a whopping 336,000 jobs added to the economy. The gains were led by sectors like Leisure and Hospitality and Education, surpassing economist expectations.

The big question now is how this report might impact the Federal Reserve's decisions. With such strong labor market performance, it's highly likely that interest rates will see another increase before the end of the year. Megan also touches on the recent fluctuations in the bond and equity markets.

But don't jump to conclusions just yet. While a strong labor market could facilitate a soft landing for the economy, there's still significant volatility ahead, especially due to rising interest rates. This could put pressure on consumers, potentially affecting the holiday season.

If you want to learn more or have any questions about the financial landscape, feel free to reach out to us at podcast at verdence.com. Stay informed and stay tuned for more insights from Megan!

https://youtu.be/NnKvG6QEg3U

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 co...

Megan unpacks the recent ISM Services report, a pivotal measure of the US service sector. This sector accounts for a significant portion of our expenditures, so any shifts in its performance are crucial. Despite remaining in expansion territory, there was a noticeable decline in September. Megan reviews the data, highlighting concerning drops in new orders and employment—both of which serve as leading indicators for consumer spending and the labor market. Stay informed about these subtle yet impactful changes that could influence the economic landscape in the upcoming months. 

https://youtu.be/SWw_9UBWwmE

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 co...

Listen to valuable insights from the recent JOLTS Report, from Megan Horneman, the Chief Investment Officer for Verdence Capital Advisors. Intrigued by the impacts of job openings on the US economy? Then you'll want to tune in as Megan breaks down the complex economic indicators that influence the Federal Reserve's decision-making process. 

In a surprising twist, we discuss the unexpected surge in job openings - particularly in the white-collar sector - after months of decreasing trends. Megan unravels the implications of this shift and the challenges it presents for the Federal Reserve as they seek to balance unemployment and inflation in a tight employment market. As we gear up for the end-of-week jobs report, Megan's experienced analysis helps us anticipate the potential economic trends that might emerge. This episode is packed with nuggets of financial wisdom that will enhance your understanding of the economy's impact on everyday individuals. Don't miss out - and feel free to reach out with any questions or comments!

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 co...

What happens when a strike targets all three major automakers in the U.S. simultaneously? That's the question Megan Horneman, Chief Investment Officer for Verden's Capital Advisors, tackles in our in-depth discussion. She examines how the ongoing UAW strike - unlike previous strikes - is uniquely disruptive, and what this could mean for the economy. 

As Megan expertly navigates us through the potential impacts of this strike, she raises concerns about the potential ripple effects on the supply chain, particularly in the auto sector. She also speculates on the possible inflationary effects of agreements reached during negotiations, such as wage increases. However, she offers reassurance about one thing: the direct impact on GDP is not expected to be substantial. Megan's insightful commentary provides a critical look at the situation, shedding light on its implications for the economy.

https://youtu.be/ttmup8EgCwU

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 co...

The housing market is in flux right now. Our Chief Investment Officer, Megan Horneman, as she breaks down the unexpected tumble in home builder sentiment and how a stall in potential buyer traffic and a fall in housing starts are reshaping the market landscape. 

What are the reasons behind these shifts?  Megan focuses on the impact of high interest rates. Mortgage rates are now a remarkable 7.3% - the highest since 2000, and a sluggish recovery in existing homes is weighing on both potential and current homeowners. There are a complex blend of factors currently testing the housing market, and what this could signify for our economy in the long haul.  Don't hesitate to connect with us at podcast @ verdence dot com with any questions or feedback.

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 co...

Megan analyzes the latest Federal Reserve meeting, where decisions were made that could change the face of the financial landscape. The Federal Reserve had a surprising hawkish stance, a move that was unexpected by the market. Megan illuminates how rampant inflation and escalating energy prices can influence this monetary policy shift, and what that could mean for the economy. 

Megan reviews the numbers behind the Federal Reserve's projections - projected GDP growth, inflation target rates, and a potential increase in the Fed funds rate for the next year. She provides valuable insights into these numbers and their implications, setting the stage for an expanded discussion on the future of interest rates. Megan points out the subtleties of these higher interest rates and the potential for further rate hikes. If you have questions or wish to discuss further, feel free to reach out to us at podcast at verdence.com

https://youtu.be/O2CeXPfSgVU

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 co...

Megan dives into the recent retail sales report and unpacks its surprising insights.

While the headline number showed a significant monthly jump, driven by rising energy prices and spending at gas stations, Megan uncovers a different story when you exclude volatile items like gasoline, energy, autos, and building materials. The underlying data reveals a modest increase of only about a tenth for the month, following a downward revision from the previous month.

Megan looks more closely at specific sectors, noting a drop in furniture sales and mixed results for back-to-school items like clothing and electronics. She also highlights weaknesses in discretionary spending categories such as internet shopping and dining out, indicating a potential trend of consumer weakness.

With oil prices remaining a key factor, Megan discusses what this means for consumers as we head into the fourth quarter. If you have any questions or comments, feel free to reach out to the podcast team at [email protected].

Stay informed and gain valuable insights into the ever-evolving world of finance with Markets with Megan. Subscribe now to never miss an episode!

https://youtu.be/vcZ9jkJLgK4

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 co...

Today, Megan provides insights into the challenges facing China amidst weak growth numbers and slowing exports and consumer demand.

Our recent white paper "the Health of the Chinese Economy" takes a deeper look at the situation. Instead of delving into the intricacies of Chinese politics, we focus is on the historical rise of China to superpower status and how certain policies over the decades have led to structural challenges.

One burning question addressed is whether Chinese equities present a good buying opportunity, especially considering their underperformance year-to-date. To get a comprehensive understanding of this topic, make sure to check out their detailed white paper or watch the condensed video on our website at verdence.com.

https://youtu.be/68lo_WoPn6I

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 co...