Robert Teeter from Silvercrest Asset Management discussed the recent rebound in the NASDAQ and the potential for interest rate cuts due to weaknesses in the labor market, while expressing a cautious yet optimistic outlook on equities and a conservative earnings growth estimate for 2025. He highlighted significant opportunities in the healthcare sector for margin gains as it continues to recover from the pandemic, suggesting that investors should consider this sector for future growth.
In a recent discussion, Robert Teeter from Silvercrest Asset Management shared insights on the current state of the market, particularly focusing on the NASDAQ’s performance and the upcoming Federal Reserve decision. The NASDAQ has seen a significant rebound, up about 5% for the week, which Teeter attributes to a recovery from a previous selloff driven by weaker economic data in July. He suggests that the market’s optimism may be linked to expectations of a potential interest rate cut, which could be justified by ongoing weaknesses in the labor market.
Teeter also addressed earnings estimates for 2025, highlighting a notable difference between LSEG’s forecast of 15% EPS growth and his own more conservative estimate of 9%. He maintains a favorable outlook on equities, asserting that even a 9% growth rate is strong and indicative of future returns. However, he acknowledges that this lower estimate is based on a slower economic growth forecast of around 2%, which impacts overall earnings projections.
Despite the slower economic outlook, Teeter sees opportunities in the healthcare sector, which has experienced a 14% increase year-to-date but still lags behind the S&P 500. He points out that healthcare has not yet returned to pre-pandemic margin levels, indicating that there is room for improvement. The disruptions caused by COVID-19, along with ongoing hiring challenges, have created a unique environment where margin gains are possible.
Teeter emphasizes that the potential for margin gains in healthcare is significant, especially as the sector continues to recover from the pandemic’s impact. He believes that if the economy can achieve growth rates of 2.5% or higher, it would further support the potential for earnings growth in healthcare. This perspective suggests that investors should consider the healthcare sector as a viable opportunity for future gains.
In conclusion, Teeter’s analysis reflects a cautious yet optimistic view of the market, particularly in relation to the healthcare sector. He highlights the importance of monitoring economic indicators and the Federal Reserve’s decisions, as these factors will play a crucial role in shaping market dynamics and investment opportunities in the coming months.