Fed Should Not Cut Rates, Says DoubleLine's Sherman

Interest Rate and Inflation Expectations - The market is pricing in both potential rate cuts and higher inflation, creating conflicting signals for the Federal Reserve [3] - The analyst believes inflation has bottomed for the year, referencing break-even spreads as an indicator [2] - The analyst anticipates no rate cut in the immediate term, but acknowledges the possibility of a 50 basis points cut if labor market conditions deteriorate [4] Treasury Market Strategy - The firm is currently positioned for no rate cuts, with a "Steve Burner trade" involving being long on the two-year Treasury and short on the ten-year Treasury [5][6] - The firm has been largely ignoring the 30-year part of the Treasury market, anticipating further upward pressure on rates in that segment [9] - A steeper yield curve is expected if monetary policy is loosened amidst existing inflation and tariff pressures [8] Portfolio Construction and Risk Management - The portfolio includes short-duration credit, which is expected to rally if rates decline, providing dual exposure [13] - The firm is prioritizing stability and managing volatility, avoiding stretching for valuation or taking on significant risk due to unpredictable rate cuts [17] - The portfolio incorporates floating rate debt to benefit if there are no rate cuts [18] - The firm is considering non-dollar trades for the portfolio at some point this year [18] Fiscal Policy and Global Sovereign Debt - The analyst expresses concern about increased government spending, noting the debt limit was raised by $5 trillion [14] - There is pressure in sovereign debt globally, influenced by factors like the Japanese market and elections [15]