Introduction & Context
Market chatter around stagflation—slow growth plus sticky prices—has grown since tariffs and dollar weakness began squeezing margins.
Background & History
During the 1970s stagflation, utilities and consumer staples outperformed flashy sectors. Recent CPI and retail-sales data echo that dynamic.
Key Stakeholders & Perspectives
Income investors cheer reliable payouts; growth-fund managers argue long-term innovation still wins. The three firms have mixed Wall Street ratings, so debate is lively.
Analysis & Implications
If inflation stays elevated while the Fed hesitates, dividends may outpace Treasury yields, drawing more capital. That could push share prices up even if indexes tread water.
Looking Ahead
Watch Friday’s PCE report and upcoming earnings calls. Any guidance on pricing power or cost controls will test the stagflation thesis.