Tariff Squabble Takes New Turn, 10-Year Stays Steady

While the U.S. economy continues to show signs of strength, investors remain cautious amid a number of global risks, including trade and foreign policy. Consumer spending, inflation and GDP growth data continue to support the Fed’s push for higher rates. On the global front, last week’s U.S./China trade talks yielded few results, thwarting the notion that the two nations could come to terms on tariffs. The consternation between the two nations continued this week as the administration accused China of undermining efforts to pressure North Korea into giving up its nuclear weapons … another indication that their trade war continues. With mixed domestic and global signals, the 10-year Treasury yield remains steady, currently at 2.85%.