Weathering the Latest US Government Shutdown
Historically, shutdowns have been short-lived and have had negligible economic and market impact. As such, well-diversified investors need not take specific portfolio action in response.
Authored by: TJ Scavone
Is the Projected Path of Fed Easing Too Aggressive?
Yes. Current market expectations for the Federal Reserve to lower its policy rate by roughly 150 basis points by the end of next year are overly optimistic.
Heightened Inflation Risks Favor Building More Resilient Portfolios
Description: In today’s environment, building resilient portfolios is essential. Inflation risks are elevated and macroeconomic uncertainty is high. Allocating capital to hedge macro risks may reduce returns, so investors should carefully consider risk tolerance, objectives, and spending needs when assessing their allocations.
Do Fiscal Concerns Undermine the Role of US Treasury Securities as Core Portfolio Diversifiers?
No. US Treasury securities are likely to remain among the most effective diversifiers during periods of equity market stress.
Will the Fed Cut Rates to Rescue Financial Markets?
No, we do not think the Federal Reserve will cut rates in the near term to rescue financial markets. However, if tariffs begin to significantly impact the real economy, the Fed will eventually act.
2025 Outlook: Interest Rates
We expect most major central banks to continue cutting policy rates, which should allow bonds to outperform cash. With breakeven inflation rates likely to be range bound, returns of inflation-linked and nominal bonds should be similar.
VantagePoint: Deconstructing US Debt Dynamics
Despite alarming headlines about rising US debt, investors should resist making drastic portfolio changes. While an immediate crisis appears unlikely, the risk could increase if the United States fails to manage its debt effectively. Therefore, reviewing potential portfolio adjustments at the margin that might enhance future returns is prudent.
The Fed Cuts Aggressively, but Remains Cautious About Future Cuts
The Federal Reserve has reduced the target range for the federal funds rate by 50 basis points (bps) to 4.75%–5.00%, the first reduction in over four years.
US Election Anxiety: Keeping Calm Amid Political Uncertainty
Markets have been jittery as the US presidential election approaches. The macro backdrop is shifting, with slowing economic growth and ebbing inflation meaning a cycle of monetary easing beckons. At the same time, elevated valuations for a variety of assets are causing investors to reconsider narratives around themes, such as AI investment, and consider asset allocation tweaks. Investors should resist positioning portfolios for any one political outcome and remember that increased market volatility around elections is common. In the following report, we discuss our views on five common election-related narratives in the marketplace today.
Are Inflation-Linked Bonds Attractive?
Yes. Inflation-linked bonds, particularly US Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities (TIPS), have become an attractive investment option, given elevated real yields and their unique diversifying characteristics.