The pandemic brought a jumble to all facets of life. Financial markets reacted as expected, first pulling back with higher risk and then recovering on the backs of policy initiatives around the world. Even now, much is jumbled for markets and investors. Inflation accelerated but has trended lower most recently. It remains higher than desired. A highly anticipated U.S. recession has not materialized, in part due to robust consumer spending fueled by government initiatives. Higher interest rates have yet to dampen activity outside of a few sectors such as housing. A review of some key relationships can provide perspective for economic activity and investing ahead.