Moody's Talks - Inside Economics

Mark, Cris and Marisa recap the week’s economic news, including the now highly likely confirmation for the Fed Chair nominee, Kevin Warsh, the ongoing conflict in Iran and its impact on energy and related commodities, and the proposed bailout of Spirit Airlines. After the stats game, the team takes a few thought-provoking listener questions about tax policy and tariffs.

Stock prices are hitting new records, while consumer sentiment has fallen to record lows. Businesses are of mixed minds. What’s driving this disconnect—and who’s right? Mark and Cris are joined once again by colleague Matt Colyar to break down the divergence between investors, consumers, and business leaders. Their insights reveal key dynamics shaping the economic outlook. Plus, the statistics game returns – back by overwhelming listener demand.

The Inside Economics team is joined by Matt Colyar to discuss the week’s loaded economic data slate. First, Matt offers a detailed reaction to March’s hot CPI report – the first inflation data capturing effects from the conflict in the Middle East. Next, the group discusses how each is thinking about their recession probabilities in light of the tenuous ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran and the latest economic data. The group closes, of course, with the numbers game where Mark reveals that he doesn’t file his own taxes, and despite not eating meat, Cris provides an update on how America’s steakhouses are faring amid rising beef costs.

The Inside Economics crew (minus Dr. DeAntonio) parses the March jobs report, which came in surprisingly strong. They all agree that the headline number is deceptive and the labor market is actually quite weak and poised to weaken further in the wake of the conflict in the Middle East. Mark unveils his new take on the Sahm Rule indicator, which points to a surprising conclusion. The stats game is back (and not going anywhere), and the team takes several good listener questions.

Moody's commercial real estate experts Tom LaSalvia and Kevin Fagan join Mark, Marisa, and Cris to take stock of where CRE markets stand today. Tom and Kevin go beyond the headlines to unpack the nuances driving the office market's uneven recovery, multifamily's supply-driven growing pains, and retail's quiet comeback. Their verdict: measured confidence — provided the broader economy cooperates. As a bonus, Tom reveals the philosopher alter ego hiding inside each host. Spoiler alert: not everyone gets to be Socrates.