JPMorgan Warns of Potential Stock Pullback Despite Wall Street Rally on Fed Rate Cut Hopes
Major US stock indexes opened higher, with the Dow Jones up 0.07%, S&P 500 up 0.26%, and Nasdaq up 0.49%. The rally is driven by expectations of potential Federal Reserve interest rate cuts following recent employment data. However, JPMorgan Chase's trading desk warns of possible risks to this rally, suggesting a 'sell the news' event if rates are cut in September. The bank notes reduced retail investor participation and fewer corporate buybacks in September, maintaining a cautious bullish stance and recommending hedges like VIX call spreads and gold exposure.

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Wall Street kicked off the week on a positive note, with major indexes rebounding from their previous session's losses. The upbeat sentiment was fueled by growing expectations that the Federal Reserve might consider reducing interest rates in light of recent employment data. However, JPMorgan Chase's trading desk has issued a warning about potential risks to this rally.
Market Performance
At the opening bell, all three major US stock indexes posted gains:
Index | Change | Percentage | Value |
---|---|---|---|
Dow Jones Industrial Average | +29.80 | +0.07% | 45,430.61 |
S&P 500 | +16.60 | +0.26% | 6,498.09 |
Nasdaq Composite | +105.80 | +0.49% | 21,806.22 |
Fed Rate Cut Expectations and JPMorgan's Warning
Investors appear to be interpreting recent jobs data as a potential catalyst for the Federal Reserve to consider easing its monetary policy. This optimism stems from the belief that the employment situation might give the Fed room to reduce borrowing costs, potentially stimulating economic growth and boosting market sentiment.
However, JPMorgan Chase's trading desk has warned that US stocks, which have set more than 20 all-time highs this year, could face a pullback if the Federal Reserve cuts interest rates at its September 17 meeting. Andrew Tyler, head of global market intelligence at JPMorgan, suggests the widely expected rate cut could trigger a 'sell the news' event.
Market Sentiment and Risk Factors
Despite the positive opening, which suggests that market participants are focusing on potential policy shifts, there are multiple risk factors to consider:
- The S&P 500 has climbed over 30% from April lows
- Ongoing inflation concerns
- Employment issues
- Trade war impacts
JPMorgan notes that September typically sees reduced retail investor participation and fewer corporate buybacks. The bank maintains a lower conviction tactical bullish call and recommends VIX call spreads and gold exposure as hedges.
Historical Context
Despite seasonal weakness concerns, historical data shows the S&P 500 has gained 1.2% on average during September when the Fed cuts rates in non-recessionary periods.
Looking Ahead
As the trading day progresses, market watchers will likely keep a close eye on any further economic indicators or statements from Fed officials that could provide additional insights into the central bank's thinking on interest rates.
While the opening gains were modest, they reflect a cautiously optimistic mood on Wall Street. Investors and traders will be keen to see if this momentum can be sustained throughout the trading session and beyond, while also considering the potential risks highlighted by JPMorgan's analysis.