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Iran’s Real War Is Against the Global Economy

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Iran’s Real War Is Against the Global Economy

Iran may be losing the military contest with the United States. But it is fighting a different war—one aimed at the global economy.

Over the past 12 days, the United States has demonstrated clear military superiority. Iran’s navy has been severely degraded, with more than 50 ships sunk or damaged; its retaliatory missile launches are down more than 90 percent; and its air force has been grounded. On the battlefield, the scorecard favors Washington, despite risks of escalation.

Strategically, the picture is far less certain. Even as the Trump administration struggles to define its objectives—be it decapitating Iranian leadership, destroying Iran’s nuclear capability, or pursuing regime change—it must confront a new reality.

The United States and Israel are fighting the Islamic Republic. Iran is fighting the global economy.

U.S. Leading Indicators Forecast Further Slowdown – WSJ

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U.S. Leading Indicators Forecast Further Slowdown – WSJ

The U.S. economy is expected to slow further amid continued headwinds, while conflict in the Middle East further clouds the growth outlook, according to a basket of monthly economic indicators.

The Leading Economic Index, or LEI, published Thursday by research group The Conference Board, inched down by 0.1% to 97.5, after a 0.2% decline in December.

“The U.S. LEI fell further in January, as consumer expectations retreated again and building permits softened,” said Justyna Zabinska-La Monica, senior manager at The Conference Board.

The reading signals continued headwinds to economic activity, though data showed improvement over the six-month period, she said.

The index fell 1.3% over the six months between July and January, compared with a 2.6% contraction over the previous six-month period, according to the report.

 

S&P 500 Over the Years

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I think as the year closed out I took the market decline too personally when we are all suffering from the declines in our portfolio. And it's not like these declines are permanent or even long lasting when you look at the history of the markets. It's a set back the year that was but things will get better eventually. 

S&P 500 Over the Years

Map: Texas School House State Forest