As we enter the last week of February, the overall stock market is feeling some downward pressure. Interest rates continues to rise and the stock prices of big companies - like Tesla, Apple and Amazon - are feeling the pressure of easy money not being so easy anymore. Although, many economic analysts feel that the recent environment of rising rates is purely a sign of confidence in the continued economic recovery and companies, as well as their stock prices, should be able to handle higher borrowing costs.
Economic reports from last week came back mostly positive: •Manufacturing (New York) - better than expectation •Manufacturing (Philadelphia) - better than expectation •Retail Sales - better than expectation •Housing Market Index - better than expectation •Existing Home Sales - better than expectation •New Home Construction - worse than expectation •Jobless Claims - worse than expectation
This week, economic reports like National Activity, Manufacturing, Housing, Consumer Confidence, Consumer Sentiment and Jobless Claims will be watched by investors.