From groceries and gas, to appliances and computers, Americans are paying higher prices for just about everything. Strong consumer demand combined with shortages of both goods and labor have been behind much of the increase. But is today's inflation temporary — or something more permanent? And what could the answer mean for the economy, the markets and our financial lives?
Merrill Perspectives
WHERE COULD INFLATION GO NEXT?
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Inflation: How high for how long?
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In this episode of the
Merrill Perspectives podcast, Candace Browning, head of BofA Global Research, Chris Hyzy, Chief Investment Officer for Merrill and Bank of America Private Bank, and Ethan Harris, head of Global Economics for BofA Global Research, unravel what's fueling today's soaring inflation rate. They explore actions the Federal Reserve could take next to cool prices off, without putting the brakes on the strong U.S. economy. They also point to the potential positives to higher inflation. For example, wages in many industries are rising as well, and higher interest rates down the road could benefit retirees and savers who look to bonds and other fixed income investments for income.
They also share important insights on actions investors could take to help balance the effects of inflation on their portfolios, including ensuring they are well diversified across asset classes and having a preference for higher quality investments.
Opinions are as of the date of this podcast and are subject to change.
Investing involves risk including possible loss of principal. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.
BofA Global Research is research produced by BofA Securities, Inc. ("BofAS") and/or one or more of its affiliates. BofAS is a registered broker-dealer, Member SIPC popup, and wholly owned subsidiary of Bank of America Corporation ("BofA Corp.").
Asset allocation, diversification, and rebalancing do not ensure a profit or protect against loss in declining markets.
Investments have varying degrees of risk. Bonds are subject to interest rate, inflation and credit risks. Investments in a certain industry or sector may pose additional risk due to lack of diversification and sector concentration.
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