Recession Indicators Are Breaking. Inflation Isn’t | Megan Horneman on What Comes Next

Megan Horneman: Fragile Optimism, Hidden Inflation Risks, and What Investors Are MissingIn this episode, we’re joined by Megan Horneman, Chief Investment Officer at Verdence Capital Advisors, to discuss her firm’s 2025 outlook and what she sees as the key macro risks and opportunities for investors right now.We explore the themes behind her “Year of Fragile Optimism” thesis, including consumer stress, inflation persistence, the impact of tariffs, debt sustainability, and why many investors are misreading the current market environment.Megan also shares how she’s thinking about portfolio positioning in a world where traditional recession indicators are breaking down and valuations remain elevated.Topics Discussed Include:Why consumer strength may be a mirageThe risk of complacency around inflationTariffs, trade imbalances, and global uncertaintyThe growing consequences of U.S. and global debtWhy small/mid-caps and international stocks may offer better valueFixed income positioning in a “higher for longer” environmentThe case for active management over passive in today’s marketOpportunities and risks in alternatives and private assetsLessons investors can learn from recent volatilityIf you're looking for a thoughtful macro perspective and practical ideas for navigating today's complex market landscape, this conversation is for you.