Grim Stock Signals Accumulating

An article in Bloomberg discusses what market indicators seem to be saying about the economy, adding that “while few see incontrovertible signs investors are bracing for a recession, it’s a word that’s been coming up more as they seek a signal in the chaos.”

The article notes that stocks have been “acting in ways that have presaged slowing growth in the past,” citing the rise in defensive industries and a “sudden craze” for low-volatility stocks. It also notes that analysts don’t necessarily see a recession coming soon, but rather that the trends point to a healthy sell-off after a 10-year long bull market. That said, it adds that trade tensions and further tightening by the Fed are leading to a rising number of stock researchers who are “at least willing to mention” that the possibility of a recession is on the rise.