Tom Lee: Elements for market rally are still in place

Market Sentiment & Fed Policy - The stock market's record-setting run is heavily reliant on the Federal Reserve cutting interest rates in the fall [1] - Despite a hot PPI print, the stock market remained relatively flat, suggesting investors bought the dip [2] - The worst-case scenario for investors is the Fed hiking interest rates; a neutral stance could be seen as positive, indicating the economy can withstand current rates [4] - A 25 or 50 basis point cut by the Fed to normalize real interest rates could be positive for stocks [5] - The conversation has shifted from a 25 or 50 basis point cut to a 25 basis point cut or no cut at all [6] - The economy appears to be holding up under the current interest rates, even though the Fed's policy rates are higher compared to the rest of the world [7] - A 25 basis point cut could be perceived as hawkish if the Fed signals a "wait and see" approach [8] Investor Positioning - Many investors are positioned for a pickup in inflation and were expecting a hot PPI number, which is why the market reaction was muted [8][9]