
Must Read Research: Weather & Commodity Risks; Fed Hikes; EU Trade Dynamics and Evolving Consumers
From Global Research Unlocked by BofA Global Research
May 18, 2026 · 9 min · Episode 201
About this episode
The episode discusses the impact of weather disruptions on commodity markets, potential Fed rate hikes due to inflation, and changing consumer behaviors in response to economic pressures.
This week, we track how weather disruptions from El Niño may ripple through commodity markets that are already on edge, how sticky inflation and strong labor data could prompt unexpected Fed rate hikes, and how consumers are turning to Chinese autos, secondhand and off-price retail as they contend with these higher prices. You may also enjoy listening to the Merrill Perspectives podcast, featuring conversations on the big stories, news and trends affecting your everyday financial life. "Bank of America" and “BofA Securities” are the marketing names for the global banking businesses and global markets businesses (which includes BofA Global Research) of Bank of America Corporation. Lending, derivatives, and other commercial banking activities are performed globally by banking affiliates of Bank of America Corporation, including Bank of America, N.A., Member FDIC. Securities, trading, research, strategic advisory, and other investment banking and markets activities are performed globally by affiliates of Bank of America Corporation, including, in the United States, BofA Securities, Inc. a registered broker-dealer and Member of FINRA and SIPC, and, in other jurisdictions, by locally…
Topics covered
- weather disruptions
- commodity markets
- Fed rate hikes
- inflation
- consumer behavior
- Chinese autos
- retail trends
Keywords
- El Niño
- commodity risks
- Fed hikes
- inflation
- consumer trends
- Chinese autos
- retail
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: Bank of America, BofA Securities
Places: EU
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