Last Week In Markets: May 23 - May 27 2022

In the US, the second estimate of Q1 2022 GDP was revised slightly lower to -1.5% annualized. April new home sales declined 16.6% m/m. April durable goods orders increased 0.4% m/m, less than forecast. The May Flash Standard & Poor’s (S&P) Global Manufacturing and Services Purchasing Managers’ Indexes (PMIs) were 57.5 and 53.5, respectively (PMI readings above 50 indicate expansion). While headlines continue to warn of a possible global recession, economic data still generally don’t support that argument, in our view. The latest PMI readings imply ongoing growth—another overlooked positive amid today’s dreary sentiment backdrop. For more, please see our 5/26/2022 commentary “Surveys Still Say No to Global Recession.”

In the eurozone, the May Flash S&P Global Manufacturing and Services PMIs were 54.4 and 56.3, respectively—below expectations but indicating expansion. April money supply (M3) increased 6.0% y/y. In the UK, the May Flash S&P Global/CIPS UK Manufacturing and Services PMIs were 54.6 and 51.8, respectively—both less than estimated.

In Japan, the May Flash Jibun Bank Manufacturing and Services PMIs were 53.2 and 51.7, respectively—above expectations. April imports and exports increased 28.3% and 12.5% y/y, respectively.

The Week Ahead:

The US, eurozone, UK, Japan and China release May PMIs. The US releases May nonfarm payroll figures and unemployment data. The eurozone reports May consumer prices, April retail sales and unemployment figures. The UK releases April money supply (M4). Japan reports April industrial production, retail sales and unemployment numbers.

Tip of the Week:

US financial markets and Fisher Investments’ offices will be closed on Monday, May 30 in observance of Memorial Day. We will resume normal business hours on Tuesday, May 31.

Source for all data cited is FactSet. This update constitutes the general views of Fisher Investments and should not be regarded as personalized investment advice. No assurances are made we will continue to hold these views, which may change at any time based on new information, analysis or reconsideration. In addition, no assurances are made regarding the accuracy of any forecast made herein. Global equities are represented by the MSCI World Index. The MSCI World Index measures the performance of selected stocks in 23 developed countries and is presented net of dividend withholding taxes and uses the maximum rate applicable to non-resident institutional investors who do not benefit from double taxation treaties. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. A risk of loss is involved with investments in stock markets.