Dow Jones Industrial Average (^DJI)

Inflation is challenging small and mid-cap stocks: Strategist

Markets have been undergoing a correction as major market indexes (^DJI, ^IXIC, ^GSPC) struggle and have seen consecutive daily losses as of late. BofA Securities Senior US Equity Strategist and Head of US Small/Mid-Cap Strategy Jill Carey Hall joins Market Domination to discuss the market outlook. Hall acknowledges that a correction was looming: "It had been a while since markets had seen any significant pullback." She notes that the ongoing earnings season would have investors scrutinizing company outlooks amid higher inflation, geopolitical risks, and uncertainty attributed to expectations around the Federal Reserve's monetary policy. Throughout 2024 so far, Hall highlights that markets have seen "inflation data that surprised to the upside," which has led to Fed rate cut expectations being pushed out further into the year. She cautions that this could affect the performance of small-cap stocks, boosting refinancing risks in the sector. When asked about how investors should position themselves in the current market conditions, Hall recommended seeking exposure in sectors such as Energy, Industrials, and Materials, stating "it's an environment where it makes sense to be active rather than passive." For more expert insight and the latest market action, click here to watch this full episode of Market Domination. This post was written by Angel Smith