UBS On-Air: Market Moves

Following a busy week up on Capitol Hill, Shane reflects on the testimonies of Supreme Court Justices Elena Kagan and Amy Coney Barrett before the House Appropriations Committee, along with the Senate confirmation hearings of three Trump administrations nominees. Plus, an update on the US-Iran conflict as military strikes remain ongoing. Featured is Shane Lieberman, Senior Governmental Affairs Advisors, Governmental Affairs US. Host: Daniel Cassidy

Join David Lefkowitz, Head of Equities Americas, each month for a look at the factors that are driving performance across US equities. We also cover risk considerations, thematic focuses, and positioning recommendations from the UBS Chief Investment Office (as outlined within the latest UBS House View). This month, David updates on the three bull market growth drivers, shares expectations for the Q2 corporate earnings season, reviews positioning preferences and risk considerations. Plus, a look at performance of non-US equity markets. Host: Daniel Cassidy

US Michigan consumer sentiment data is a weak economic signal. It does have political punch, via the inflation expectations measure. Consumers focus on the price of frequent purchases (food and fuel), and tend to fixate on the price level. Most consumers will have a “fair” price in mind as a reference, and for gasoline prices that is probably around USD 2.50 per US gallon. Gasoline remains well above that level—off its highs, but having risen recently.

Hostilities in the Middle East have flared up again, disrupting shipping and renewing concerns about energy prices, inflation, and global growth. But both the US and Iran still have powerful economic and political incentives to avoid a return to all-out war. Why does diplomacy remain the most likely endgame - and what could a lasting agreement mean for investors? In the latest episode of Across the Pond, hosts Christopher Swann and Belinda Ulander are joined by UBS Global Chief Economist Paul Donovan to explore the implications for US markets, Europe’s energy-sensitive economy, and opportunities across Asia and beyond.

Traditional IRAs can be powerful retirement savings vehicles, but they may not always be the most tax-efficient asset for beneficiaries to inherit. Ainsley Carbone and Justin Waring join to discuss one strategy that may help address that challenge - using IRA distributions to fund life insurance as part of a broader legacy plan. Host: Daniel Cassidy