On Wednesday, Jim Cramer from CNBC discussed the Dow Jones Utility Average and its recent rally. He pointed out that utilities tend to thrive in economic downturns because consumers must continue to pay their bills, despite the need for borrowing. Cramer also highlighted that interest rates are not rising, which is beneficial for these stocks.

Cramer emphasized that signs of a slowing economy have been emerging for weeks, and the rise in utilities further supports this notion. He suggested that Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell’s comments in April may have contributed to the economic slowdown. Utilities are a reliable indicator of market conditions, and their steady rally suggests that a slowdown may be on the horizon.

The Dow Jones Utility Average consists of 15 major utility stocks and has been steadily climbing since April 16. Cramer explained that utilities typically perform well in a slowing economy, and the sustained rally in this index suggests a slowdown is on the horizon. Despite the need for borrowing, interest rates are not rising, which is beneficial for these stocks.

In conclusion, Cramer stressed the importance of paying attention to the utilities sector as a barometer of economic trends. The sustained rally in utilities stocks, coupled with Powell’s commentary, may signal a forthcoming economic slowdown.