Postcards: The Next Fed Chair, The Smell of Pepper, The Week Ahead (And 5% Rates)

From a hotel in Hunt Valley, MD, right around the corner from McCormick's spice plants, let's look to the week ahead and get an update on the state of momentum and sector strength.

Note: This accidentally went to the wrong list on Sunday. We’re resending it given that it offers our outlook on the week ahead. Enjoy.

Dear Fellow Expat:

When leaving the Florida Republic, it’s important to pack wisely.

Midjourney: “An Alligator Packs for an Adventure”

There’s a stark difference between the Florida Republic… and 45 miles northeast of the Banana Republic’s capital.

I’m visiting Baltimore for three days… again. [I’m in Hunt Valley, the home of McCormick & Co. (MKC), this morning. The place smells like pepper.]

It’s easy to forget that the weather can be under 70 degrees on an October evening.

Too many times have I made this mistake.

The socks are too thin… as is the blood.

So, I double-checked three times. I think I’m ready for a season not named Humidity.

Yesterday was my mother’s birthday. It’s a football game with friends today and even bigger plans tomorrow. We’re planning for the official launch of the Florida Republic.

Logistics must be addressed: i’s dotted and t’s…