Conclusion
Earnings results will not be exciting, but the quarter may mark a trough in the earnings trajectory as the drags from oil and the dollar begin to abate. We continue to believe mid-single-digit earnings growth in the second half of 2016 is achievable, consistent with consensus estimates, and we hope to get more support for that view over the next four to six weeks—and fewer excuses.
Burt White is chief investment officer for LPL Financial.