Core Viewpoint - The article discusses a non-typical "closed loop" in the U.S. economy, where corporate layoffs boost stock prices, which in turn stimulate consumer spending, thereby supporting corporate performance and economic resilience [1] Group 1: Economic Dynamics - David Woo describes the phenomenon as a Soros-style "reflexivity" loop, warning that this cycle of layoffs, rising stock prices, and consumer support is creating a bubble that could burst if the AI-driven stock market surge fades or consumer confidence collapses [2] - JPMorgan's research highlights a "strange decoupling" where a deteriorating labor market coincides with strong household wealth growth, particularly in the U.S., where household wealth surged by 14.8% annualized over the past two quarters [3][8] - The "wealth effect" is identified as a key driver of consumer spending, with households increasing expenditure by approximately 3.5 cents for every dollar of wealth gained, bridging the gap between weak labor income and strong consumer spending [11] Group 2: Consumer Confidence and Spending - Despite the temporary support from the wealth effect, indicators show that U.S. consumers are running low on "fuel," with personal savings rates dropping significantly and consumer confidence at its lowest since 1975, as many households expect income growth to lag behind inflation [14][19] - JPMorgan emphasizes that while consumer confidence has been decoupled from actual spending, the persistent low levels of confidence are concerning [18] Group 3: Risks and Future Outlook - The current economic logic appears counterintuitive, with the stock market acting as a buffer against downturns, but analysts warn that if companies begin layoffs in response to a fading wealth effect, the stock market could become a magnifier of downward pressure [19][21] - JPMorgan's base case anticipates a gradual recovery in the labor market, which would validate the current consumption model, but acknowledges the increasing risk of sustained labor market weakness [20]
不止AI有“闭环”,美股也“闭环”了:企业裁员推高股价,股市走高刺激消费,消费强劲支撑业绩