Each month, senior leaders from Hancock Whitney Asset Management host a webcast to provide timely insights on the most critical economic developments and market trends. In this discussion, the team examines what shaped recent events in markets, what’s influencing investor sentiment, and what to expect in the months ahead. With key topics ranging from Federal Reserve policy decisions to the evolving impacts of tariffs and immigration policy, this session is filled with valuable perspectives to help investors navigate current uncertainties. The recording of the webcast is available for those interested in a deeper dive into these important topics.
Watch the October 2025 Markets and Economic Webinar
Key Highlights from the October Webcast:
- Government Shutdown Begins: What’s at Stake
- As of October 1st, the U.S. officially entered a government shutdown due to an impasse in Congress.
- Prolonged shutdowns could dent GDP by ~0.2% per week and strain smaller contractors and businesses dependent on federal funding.
- Without a clear political force driving compromise, a resolution could take longer than usual.
- Economic Outlook: Disruption and Slowdown
- Tariffs and immigration policies are weighing on key sectors—especially manufacturing, construction, hospitality, and agriculture.
- Labor utilization is contracting, signaling underlying economic weakness, despite modest Q3 GDP being buoyed by productivity growth.
- Consumer spending saw a late-Q3 rebound, focused on services—not goods—but fragile consumer sentiment poses risks for Q4 growth.
- Federal Reserve: The First Cut Has Been Made
- In mid-September, the Fed cut rates by 25 basis points, shifting focus from inflation to labor market concerns.
- With additional cuts expected in November or December, fixed income returns have been solid year-to-date (+6%).
- Investors should expect income—not price appreciation—to drive returns in Q4.
- Equity Markets: A Surprisingly Strong September
- The S&P 500 rose over 3.5% in September, its best performance for that month in over 15 years.
- Q3 saw broad-based gains across small caps, tech, and international markets, reflecting strong earnings and AI-driven investment momentum.
- However, high valuations (24.5x forward earnings) and market concentration in a handful of large-cap names raise caution flags.
- Policy Update: New Tariffs and Visa Fees Raise Concerns
- Sudden enforcement of tariffs on branded pharmaceuticals and furniture surprised markets.
- A $100,000 fee on H-1B visas could affect sectors beyond tech, including healthcare and education.
- Legal challenges and exemptions are expected, but business uncertainty remains elevated.
Be sure to listen to the full recording of the webcast to hear how our investment leadership team breaks down these developments and what they could mean for portfolios going forward.
Disciplined investing is more important now than ever.
Our Asset Management team at Hancock Whitney is ready to help you align your portfolio to weather uncertainty and pursue long-term goals. Contact your Private Banker today.
This information is general in nature and is provided for educational purposes only. Information provided and statements made should not be relied on or interpreted as accounting, financial planning, investment, legal, or tax advice. Hancock Whitney Bank encourages you to consult a professional for advice applicable to your specific situation.
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