‘Banks, the PMI Index and Oil …’
On bank earnings and Trump's suggestion that credit card debt should be capped at 10% for one year, the markets pulled back this second week in January, says Gemini AI 1/14/2026. This was exasperated by a December PMI report reflecting a slowing economy but persistent inflation, suggesting there would now be a pause in the rate cut that was highly anticipated in this first 30 days of 2026. Then there is the turmoil in Iran that has raised concerns over a disruption in the Middle East oil supply, reports Oil Price.com, 1/14/2026. Further, this has translated to WTI Crude oil prices pushing back up to $61.76 a barrel.
Pundits who believe that lower rates would spur the real estate market and drive employment in small cap markets believe the Fed should follow through with rates cuts.
Nevertheless, many analysts still see 2026 as a bull climate for the markets.
The question now becomes….
Will this be early in the year or later in the year?
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The opinions expressed in this material do not necessarily reflect the views of LPL Financial and based on the political content of this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual. The economic forecasts set forth in this material may not develop as predicted. All indices are unmanaged and may not be invested into directly.
Russell E. Towne, LPL Financial Advisor, is a registered representative with and Securities and Advisory Services offered through LPL Financial, a Registered Investment Advisor. Member FINRA/SIPC.