Currently, the market is pricing in a quarter-point rate hike, even though some argue for a pause on increases, given the recent banking sector tumult. Therefore, it could be an opportune time to load up some fundamentally sound stocks, United Microelectronics Corporation (UMC), Arcos Dorados Holdings Inc. (ARCO), and Berry Corporation (BRY) trading at attractive valuations.
Last week, the Labor Department reported that the Consumer Price Index (CPI) increased 0.4% in February and 6% year-over-year. Despite persistent tightening over the past year, inflation remains much above the Fed’s desired 2% level.
