Week Ending: August 28th, 2026

Mixed Week of Economic Data Highlighted by Stubborn Inflation. The week kicked off with
weaker than expected housing data as both building permits and new home sales missed consensus’
marks. Conference Board Consumer Confidence plunged yet again and is in danger of challenging the
pandemic low. However, the most impactful readings came from the PCE price index with the Fed’s
preferred gauge of inflation slightly above estimates at the headline and right on economists’ forecasts
for the core at 3.3%. The GDP price index likewise confirmed stubbornly high inflation at 6.4%, and
expectations for one hike this year remain firm. Personal Consumption bolstered the second estimate
of 2Q GDP at 1.5%. Jobless claims were slightly below expectations, offering more signs of firming
employment while the University of Michigan Sentiment surprised slightly but remains near lows.

A woman with long brown hair wearing a blue blazer and a necklace smiles at the camera. The background is softly blurred with light and blue tones.

Gina Martin Adams, CFA, CMT

Chief Market Strategist, Shareholder

Gina Martin Adams, CFA, CMT, is the Chief Market Strategist for HB Wealth. With more than 25 years of experience at leading global financial institutions, Adams brings deep expertise in market analysis, thematic research, and translating complex economic trends into actionable strategies. She collaborates with HB Wealth’s investment team to deliver timely market perspectives, share actionable insights, and enhance the firm’s visibility as a leading voice in the industry. She contributes to advancing proprietary research, supporting the development of new investment products, and enhancing the client experience through thought leadership and education. She pursues a top-down perspective and model-based approach, leveraging fundamental, technical, and quantitative perspectives to inform investment decisions, and frequently presents her views in the media and at industry conferences, professional associations and investment organizations.

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Adam Shealy, CFA

Senior Market Strategist, Director of Fixed Income

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Michael Casper, CFA

Director, Senior Market Strategist

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Max Hurd, CFA

Associate, Investment Research

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Matthew Sanders

Senior Investment Research Analyst

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