From the Desk - Economic Commentary
Brandon Casey, Member Strategies - 5/15/2026
U.S. equity markets are moving lower this morning after limited progress from the latest U.S.-China discussions and continued uncertainty surrounding the war in Iran. Higher oil prices are adding to concerns and Treasury yields are also moving higher, with the 10-year approaching its highest level since 2023. Despite the pullback today, all three major averages are still trending to finish the week higher.
Industrial production rebounded in April, with total output rising 0.7%, following a 0.3% decline in March. The gain exceeded expectations for a more modest increase of roughly 0.3%. Manufacturing output increased 0.6%, supported by broad-based gains, while utilities output rose 1.9% and mining edged down 0.1%. Capacity utilization rose to 76.1%, though it remains below its long-run average.
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