Economic Update 2019: Showdowns leading to slowdowns

We recently wrapped up our annual Economic Forecast tour that spans across much of our footprint. During the roadshow, we shared our insights about issues impacting the economy and gave a glimpse into what we believe 2019 will bring.

This year’s theme focused on economic issues and conflicts that could lead to an economic showdown—an issue or conflict that ends in a dramatic result. We believe some of these showdowns will have a short-term impact, while others will have a longer-term impact—and that they will all ultimately lead to an economic slowdown in the U.S.

The showdowns we are paying the closest attention to are trade tensions, the tight labor market, the Federal Reserve and government shutdowns. Each of these can contribute to or weigh heavily on the economy in their own way.

Take a look at the following media coverage from our recent presentations to learn more about our 2019 forecast and the showdowns we anticipate will make an economic impact in 2019. 

• KC Mathews, CFA, Chief Investment Officer, UMB Bank,‡ KMOX-AM radio, January 21
• Ingram’s 2019 Economic Forecast: Are We Hitting the Brakes?,‡ Ingram’s, January 29
• Analyst Predicts U.S Economic Growth, but at a closer pace in ’19 and ’20,‡ Denver Post, February 2
• KC-area CIOs: It’s time to start mitigating risk, but don’t avoid stocks entirely,‡ Kansas City Business Journal, February 8
• The Impact of the Economic Showdown,‡ ColoradoBiz, February 25
• Economist: Growth slowing but no sign of recession,‡ Columbia Daily Tribune, April 4

Follow UMB and KC Mathews on LinkedIn to stay informed of the latest economic trends. Interested in learning more about our Private Wealth Management division? See what we mean when we say, “Your story. Our focus.”

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