Debt Ceiling Hurdle Cleared: Now What for Markets?

While markets are calm after the debt ceiling resolution, disruptors persist. Liz Ann Sonders, Kathy Jones, and Jeff Kleintop join host Mike Townsend to discuss some of the key issues that could roil the markets throughout the second half of 2023. Liz Ann, Schwab’s chief investment strategist, discusses how the debt ceiling deal is good for the markets in the near term, but rising debt poses worries in the future. She also shares her thoughts on whether the market’s upward trajectory is sustainable. Then Kathy, Schwab’s chief fixed income strategist, offers her perspective on the bond market, concerns at the credit rating agencies about the U.S. debt load, and the Fed’s decision this week to pause its 16-month run of interest rate hikes. Finally, Jeff, Schwab’s chief global investment strategist, discusses the implications for international investors of Europe’s debt issues and the European recession, plus how the ongoing U.S.-China tensions could affect emerging-market investors. And Mike breaks down the final debt ceiling bill to focus on what it does and does not accomplish and the work left for Washington to address.WashingtonWise is an original podcast for investors from Charles Schwab. For more on the series, visit Schwab.com/WashingtonWise.If you enjoy the show, please leave a ★★★★★ rating or review on Apple Podcasts. Important DisclosuresThe policy analysis provided by the Charles Schwab & Co., Inc., does not constitute and should not be interpreted as an endorsement of any political party.The information provided here is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered an individualized recommendation or personalized investment advice. The investment strategies mentioned here may not be suitable for everyone. Each investor needs to review an investment strategy for his or her own particular situation before making any investment decision. All expressions of opinion are subject to change without notice in reaction to shifting market conditions. Data contained herein from third-party providers is obtained from what are considered reliable sources. However, its accuracy, completeness or reliability cannot be guaranteed. Examples provided are for illustrative purposes only and not intended to be reflective of results you can expect to achieve.Past performance is no guarantee of future results and the opinions presented cannot be viewed as an indicator of future performance.Investing involves risk, including loss of principal.Fixed income securities are subject to increased loss of principal during periods of rising interest rates. Fixed income investments are subject to various other risks including changes in credit quality, market valuations, liquidity, prepayments, early redemption, corporate events, tax ramifications and other factors. Lower rated securities are subject to greater credit risk, default risk, and liquidity risk.Money market funds are neither insured nor guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency. Although the fund seeks to preserve the value of your investment at $1.00 per share, it is possible to lose money by investing in the fund.International investments involve additional risks, which include differences in financial accounting standards, currency fluctuations, geopolitical risk, foreign taxes and regulations, and the potential for illiquid markets. Investing in emerging markets may accentuate these risks.Forecasts contained herein are for illustrative purposes only, may be based upon proprietary research and are developed through analysis of historical public data.The National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER) is an American priv