Merrill's Mukherjee Expects a U.S. Slowdown But Not a Recession

The video discusses current economic concerns, focusing on trade wars, central bank policies, and corporate earnings. It analyzes the impact of these factors on the US economy, forecasting a GDP growth of 2-2.5% in 2019. The discussion includes the influence of government policies and the Federal Reserve's role in shaping economic outcomes. Investment strategies are advised, emphasizing balanced asset allocation and a slight pro-risk approach, favoring equities over bonds.

What is one of the main concerns for investors according to the transcript?

• Increasing unemployment

• Technological advancements

• Central bank policies

• Rising inflation rates

What is the expected earnings growth for the S&P 500 in 2019?

• 20%

• 5%

• 15%

• 10%

How does the transcript describe the impact of the 35-day government shutdown?

• It had no impact on GDP

• It slightly reduced GDP growth

• It significantly boosted GDP growth

• It caused a recession

What is the Federal Reserve expected to do regarding interest rates?

• Keep them unchanged for now

• Raise them immediately

• Eliminate them altogether

• Lower them significantly

What is the primary advice given to clients regarding asset allocation?

• Be very aggressive

• Be very defensive

• Invest only in bonds

• Stay balanced

Which market is favored within equities according to the investment strategy?

• Asian market

• US equity market

• African market

• European market

What is the concern regarding the European market?

• High inflation

• Technological lag

• Data deterioration

• Rapid growth