Investment Corner with Jason & Sean: The Last Mile of the Inflation Race May Be the Hardest

In June of 2022, the U.S. recorded a year-over-year inflation reading of 9.1%, an inflation level not yet experienced in the 21st century. A year later, the annual inflation rate had dropped all the way down to 3.0%. 

As the Fed continues its mission to bring down inflation while maintaining full employment, many investors out there may believe that the fight is almost over. As we approach the 2% inflation goal, many economists and investors believe the Fed should start to cut rates at the risk of being overly restrictive, dragging the U.S. economy into a recession. Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell has repeatedly stated that the Fed is cognizant of the risk of being overly restrictive, but is also being proactive to prevent a restimulation of inflation that an early cut in rates could bring. 

For the last 6 months, as each month’s inflation data is released, the anticipated date for the first rate cut by the Fed gets pushed out even further. The last percent or two decrease in inflation may take longer to achieve, so the investment team at Schneider Downs Wealth Management believes that investors should be prepared for a higher interest rate for longer environment. Similar to losing those last few pounds in a weight loss journey, bringing U.S. inflation down from 3% to 2% may be more difficult than bringing it down from 9% to 3%.  

About Schneider Wealth Management  

Schneider Downs Wealth Management has been providing investment and retirement services since 2000. Although our service platforms continue to evolve, commitment to our clients remains our first priority. Our service is tailored to your individualized goals but built on the fundamental principles of our practice: fiduciary guidance, fee transparency and goal-based decision making.

To learn more, visit our dedicated Wealth Management page. 

Schneider Downs Wealth Management Advisors, LP (SDWMA) is a registered investment adviser with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). SDWMA provides fee-based investment management services and financial planning services, along with fee-based retirement advisory and consulting services. Material discussed is meant for informational purposes only, and it is not to be construed as investment, tax or legal advice. Please note that individual situations can vary. Therefore, this information should be relied upon when coordinated with individual professional advice. Registration with the SEC does not imply any level of skill or training