Daily Rundown

March 30, 2026

Chart of the Day

Number of the Day

7.0 - The Kansas City Fed's employment index for services in March, the first positive reading in seven months and equaling the highest since July 2024

Quote of the Day

"Close-in demand remained robust, guests continued to spend more onboard and pricing strengthened...We're seeing this momentum continue in onboard and pre-cruise sales. Guests are engaging earlier in the vacation journey, purchasing more inclusive packages, excursions, and other experiences before they even step onboard." - Carnival CEO Josh Weinstein

Friday's Highlights

The University of Michigan consumer sentiment index (March) fell to 53.3 from a prior 56.6. Both present situation sentiment and expectations were lower.

The Kansas City Fed services index (March) improved to a 42-month high 15.0 from a prior 6.0. The input prices index jumped by 14.0 points, however.

Quick Commentary

While the rise in energy prices has dented confidence, it has yet to appreciably rein in actual activity. The risks will obviously continue to climb should prices remain on the rise and uncertainty remain elevated, but, for now, the greater threats to this expansion are still more endogenous than exogenous.

Today's Highlight

Dallas Fed manufacturing survey

Daily Trivia

Which state leads the U.S. in the number of insurance professionals per capita, with the industry cementing its reputation after a major fire in a nearby city in 1835?

(Friday's Question: Owing to limited year-to-year turnover, which Treasury secretary's signature is still the most prevalent on U.S. banknotes in circulation? Answer: Steve Mnuchin)