In recent weeks, the financial markets have been subject to significant volatility, prompting widespread concern and speculation. As I reflect on the current economic landscape, I find it important to share some thoughts on the broader implications and underlying factors contributing to this turbulence.

1. Headline-Driven Market Reactions

The recent jobs report has sparked a flurry of reactions, but it is crucial to maintain a measured perspective. Following the market's selloff impulsively could be a mistake. The masses are often swayed by headlines, which can lead to exaggerated responses that lack logical foundation. Market participants must look beyond sensational news and consider the broader economic context.

2. Strength of the Private Economy

One of the most reassuring aspects of the current economic situation is the relative strength of the private economy. Unlike in 2007, when the private sector was heavily burdened by debt and poor balance sheets, today's private economy is in much better shape. The trauma of the Credit Crisis 15 years ago has left a lasting impression, making the mere mention of a recession a cause for alarm. However, there are several reasons to believe that the current private balance sheet is robust enough to withstand economic pressures.

The possibility of a recession should not be dismissed, but, in my opinion, it is likely to be more of a recalibration than a collapse. For instance, the dominance of the "Magnificent 7" tech companies may need some adjustment in market share. This type of recalibration is a far cry from the dramatic collapse and subsequent bailout scenarios we witnessed in the past. The private sector's strength provides a buffer that could lead to a more measured economic adjustment.

3. Contextualizing Market Movements

When assessing market movements, it's important to contextualize the numbers. A 1,000-point drop in the Dow Jones Industrial Average is not as significant as it might have been in 2007. Back then, such a drop represented a 7% decline, whereas today it equates to about 2.5%. The market has grown substantially, and what might seem like a dramatic drop in absolute terms is relatively smaller in terms of percentage and scale.

In 2019, we experienced similar volatility driven by fear contagion, which resulted in larger percentage movements. The current situation appears to be more of a hiccup than a crisis, especially considering that job growth, albeit lower than expected, is still positive. The market's sensitivity to minor deviations in expected growth rates should be viewed with caution.

4. The Role of Recessions in Economic Cycles

Recessions are not inherently negative; they can serve as a healthy reset for the economy. It's been 15 years since the Credit Crisis, and the economy has been propped up by significant fiscal and monetary stimulus. This artificial support has undoubtedly contributed to economic stability, but it has also delayed necessary adjustments.

A recession in the near future may provide an opportunity for the economy to recalibrate and address imbalances. The strength of underlying balance sheets suggests that any potential recession could lead to a softer landing and pave the way for a more fundamentally sound recovery. The resilience of the private sector, combined with prudent fiscal policies, could mitigate the severity of an economic downturn.

Personal Reflections

These reflections are purely my own, but I believe they offer a valuable perspective on the current economic climate. It's easy to get caught up in the noise of market movements and sensational headlines, but maintaining a broader view is essential. The strength of the private economy, the context of market movements, and the potential benefits of a recession all point to a more resilient economic landscape than we experienced in the past.

In conclusion, while market volatility can be unsettling, it's important to avoid knee-jerk reactions based on headlines. The private sector's strength and the potential for a healthy economic reset suggest that the current situation, while challenging,may not be as dire as some might fear. By keeping a balanced perspective and focusing on the underlying fundamentals, we can navigate this period of volatility with greater confidence and foresight

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Material prepared herein has been created for informational purposes only and should not be considered investment advice or a recommendation. Information was obtained from sources believed to be reliable but was not verified for accuracy.   All advisory services are offered through Savvy Advisors, Inc., an SEC registered investment advisor. The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the speakers and authors.

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Securities offered through DAI Securities, LLC, member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services offered through Savvy Advisors, Inc an SEC registered investment adviser. DAI Securities, LLC and Savvy Advisors, Inc are separate, and unaffiliated, entities.