We are now approaching the start of a new quarter. From an interest rate point of view, there has not been any significant changes, as the Federal Reserve on 20 March 2024 have voted to hold interest rates at a 23-year high for a fifth consecutive meeting, while signalling that it still expects to make three cuts this year. This was after increasing the interest rates to a range between 5.25% and 5.50% on 26 July 2023. The possibility is still there for long-term interest rates to see decreases over the next few months.

Website: US Federal Reserve holds key rate, pencils in 3 cuts this year

Nonetheless, investors should keep an eye out for any other events. With continued conflicts around the world and the recent disruption to shipping due to the collapse of Baltimore bridge, these may be avenues to set inflation on a significant uptrend. Investors