Investors are pricing in a higher likelihood that the Federal Reserve will hike rates after core CPI inflation rose in August more than economists had estimated. However, a rate hike may not keep the US stock market from climbing higher, says Jonathan Shugar, head of Cross Asset Sales in Goldman Sachs FICC and Equities, on The Markets podcast. Companies reported strong earnings growth in the second quarter, and valuations near the 10-year average are not stretched, he explains. Shugar also discusses why a Fed hike may not restrain investment in artificial intelligence, the risks in longer-term interest rates, and the potential opportunity for investors in consumer experience stocks. This episode was recorded on September 11, 2026. The opinions and views expressed herein are as of the date of publication, subject to change without notice, and may not necessarily reflect the institutional views of Goldman Sachs or its affiliates. The material provided is intended for informational purposes only, and does not constitute investment advice, a recommendation from any Goldman Sachs entity to take any particular action, or an offer or solicitation to purchase or sell any securities or financial products. This material may contain forward-looking statements. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Neither Goldman Sachs nor any of its affiliates make any representations or warranties, express or implied, as to the accuracy or completeness of the statements or information contained herein and disclaim any liability whatsoever for reliance on such information for any purpose. Each name of a third-party organization mentioned is the property of the company to which it relates, is used here strictly for informational and identification purposes only and is not used to imply any ownership or license rights between any such company and Goldman Sachs. A transcript is provided for convenience and may differ from the original video or audio content. Goldman Sachs is not responsible for any errors in the transcript. This material should not be copied, distributed, published, or reproduced in whole or in part or disclosed by any recipient to any other person without the express written consent of Goldman Sachs. ⁠ © 2026 Goldman Sachs. All rights reserved.

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