The Bond Market Is Testing the Treasury

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent’s effort to push down long term yields has already been challenged by the bond market, raising questions about whether talk and limited buybacks will be enough.Chuck Zodda and Mike Armstrong explain why the Treasury’s buyback announcement has failed to meaningfully lower long term rates, why the Fed and Treasury appear to be sending different messages, and why Kevin Warsh’s upcoming Jackson Hole speech could be a major test for markets. They also discuss why Treasury yields affect mortgages, corporate borrowing, savings rates, and stocks. Plus, they cover retail earnings, pressure on consumers from gas prices, rising healthcare costs, and why ghost job postings may frustrate job seekers without requiring government intervention.