Fed & Macro
Yield Curve
The plot of Treasury yields across maturities whose shape signals growth, inflation, and recession odds.
Also known as: Term Structure, Curve
- What it is
- The yield curve maps Treasury yields from short to long maturities. Its slope reflects market expectations for growth, inflation, and Fed policy. An inverted curve, with short yields above long, has historically preceded recessions.
- What it does
- Curve shape drives bank net-interest margins, valuation multiples, and recession positioning. A steepening or inversion shifts sector leadership and risk appetite. Investors read the curve as a macro regime signal.
- The evidence
- Inversions of the 2-year/10-year Treasury spread have historically preceded U.S. recessions, prompting defensive rotation.
- Best for
- Banks (XLF), rate-sensitive sectors, bond proxies (TLT, SHY).
- Pairs well with
- federal-funds-rate, fomc, sector-rotation
- Use cautiously with
- Inversion signals recession with long and variable lag; trading it as an immediate crash trigger has burned many.
- Cautions
- The lead time between inversion and downturn can be a year or more.
General information, not medical advice. Ingredient effects vary by formulation, concentration, and skin. Patch-test new actives and consult a qualified provider before starting prescription ingredients.
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