A senior executive from Citigroup has highlighted the uncertainties underlying the continued rise in the U.S. stock market. Despite recent records, Citi Wealth’s investment director, Kate Moore, characterizes the economic picture as highly uncertain. In her interview with CNBC, Moore emphasized that the movements in the markets are not based on firm foundations.
The Current State of U.S. Stock Markets
Moore noted the lack of clarity in macroeconomic indicators and pointed out the unpredictable risks for companies and the economy over the next six months. Surveys involving company executives support this uncertainty. The decrease in earnings expectations and the uncertainty in economic indicators make the ongoing surge in the stock market questionable.
Moore stated, “I am pessimistic because much of this rise is not based on solid foundations. We’re rising even as earnings expectations decrease. The main issue is that the uncertainty has not ended yet.” She stressed the need for investors to focus on companies with robust and stable earnings.
Cautionary Notes for Cryptocurrency Enthusiasts
In the interview, Moore also shared her views on the technology and artificial intelligence sectors. She acknowledged these areas as long-term and powerful investment themes but warned that current valuations approach perfection, making new investments risky. The correlation between cryptocurrencies and AI and technology stocks suggests that these warnings are also relevant for crypto investors.
Moore remarked, “High-quality companies and sectors with sustainable income are priced quite high. Although companies in technology and AI will continue to grow, everyone is in this space now, making new investment difficult. We’re not selling our current positions.”
She emphasized that technology and AI companies will continue to see demand even if general economic growth slows, although she does not advise new purchases at current price levels. The sector is monitored closely by all types of investors.
Warnings Against Potential Risks
Despite the recent rise in the stock market, the general economic picture and uncertainties in company earnings are causing investors to be cautious. Moore stressed that changes in trade policies and potential contractions are unclear in their impact on corporate profitability. Even companies with sustainable profits and pricing reflecting this success carry risk.
More selective and cautious strategies are recommended for medium- and long-term investments. The view that market rises cannot be permanent without clarifications in economic indicators is prominent. Experts advise investors to follow fundamental indicators rather than getting swept up in market enthusiasm.
The review of the report suggests that market participants should carefully assess risks and consider fundamental indicators beyond market dynamics in their investment decisions. The sustainability of market rises is debated, especially given the recent increased interest in sectors like technology and AI. Executive comments indicate that the current market atmosphere should be observed with caution.
