Two the Point — Earnings, Expectations, and Economic Balance

Markets continue to digest a wave of economic signals, from a steady CPI report to early signs of life in the manufacturing sector. As earnings season picks up, particularly in Financials, the backdrop remains broadly constructive for long-term investors.
Key Insights:
- June CPI rose 0.3% month-over-month and 2.7% year-over-year, driven by gasoline and shelter; core CPI held steady at 0.2% m/m and 2.9% y/y.
- Empire State Manufacturing Survey rebounded to +5.5 in July, the first positive reading since February, with new orders at +2.0.
- Initial jobless claims held at 227,000, reinforcing a stable labor market even as monthly job gains slow.
- Financials made up over 50% of earnings reported this week, with sector profits expected to rise 2.4% y/y, or ~9% if JPMorgan’s one-off gain from last year is excluded.
- Consumer Finance (+23%) and Property & Casualty Insurance (+26%) are forecast to lead sector-level earnings growth.
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