1、2nd Quarter 2026SVB Asset Management views on economic and market factors affecting global markets and business healthOverviewDomestic EconomyForeign ExchangeCentral Banks and Monetary PolicyCorporate Bond MarketMarkets and PerformanceThe first quarter of 2026 highlighted the interconnectedness of g
2、eopolitical events,inflation and monetary policy,underscoring the importance of diversification and cautious optimism in navigating market volatility.The Middle East conflict was a dominant factor,driving oil prices and influencing inflation and market sentiment.The Federal Reserve maintained the fe
3、deral funds rate at 3.64%throughout Q1 2026,reflecting a cautious stance amidst inflationary pressures and geopolitical uncertainties.Inflationary pressures were initially easing,with core Consumer Price Index(CPI)at 2.5%year-over-year(YoY)in February.However,the escalation of conflict in the Middle
4、 East caused a sharp rise in oil prices,reversing earlier disinflation trends.Investment grade(IG)corporate bonds experienced a challenging first quarter in 2026.Rising US Treasury yields,driven by inflation concerns and geopolitical risks,weighed on bond returns.The Bloomberg US Aggregate Bond Inde
5、x,which includes IG corporate bonds,was flat for the quarter,underperforming its prior four quarters of positive returns.QUARTERLY ECONOMIC REPORT|#0426-0049AD-1231263The unemployment rate fluctuated slightly from 4.3%to 4.4%in January through March.Demographic shifts and reduced labor force partici
6、pation influenced the unemployment data.Employment trends softened,with nonfarm payrolls contracting in five of the past nine months.The Federal Open Market Committee(FOMC)left the federal funds rate unchanged at its March meeting.The FOMCs cautious approach reflected the dual challenges of managing