Market Matters: March 2020
Global risk assets suffered major drawdowns comparable to the global financial crisis in first quarter.
Credit/Fixed Income
The Complex Relationship Between Inflation and Asset Prices
As we write in March 2020, COVID-19 is spreading across much of the world, undercutting economic activity. While we are unsure of how this situation will unfold, we have long believed that the best way to guard against future uncertainty is to have a well-constructed portfolio. One key component in that is understanding the relationship between asset prices and inflation.
VantagePoint: The Bear Awakens
In this edition of VantagePoint, we review the circumstances that have abruptly ended the bull market and evaluate the market implications of COVID-19. With that context, we discuss the case for rebalancing and evaluate some early opportunities.
Rate Cuts Are No Vaccine
On Sunday, the Federal Reserve Bank announced a host of emergency measures intended to improve bond market liquidity and reduce borrowing costs, which come in response to rising signs of dislocation across Treasury, municipal, and corporate bond markets.
Treasury Bond Yields Plunge to Historic Lows
Yields on ten-year Treasuries dropped below 50 basis points (bps) today for the first time in history as COVID-19 fears spread. While we cannot rule out a recession, given the uncertainties associated with the virus and its impact on economic activity, we believe today’s low yields are less about long-term growth forecasts and more about expectations of further Federal Reserve easing, risk aversion, and liquidity preferences.
Market Matters: February 2020
Global risk assets suffered significant drawdowns in February as concerns over COVID-19’s impact on global economic activity grew.
US Manager Universe Statistics: Fourth Quarter 2019
This publication presents manager performance for 37 asset classes and substrategies, showing the median, mean, and key percentiles of return. Relevant indexes for each asset class are also included to provide market context.
Review of Market Performance: Calendar Year 2019
The gradual abatement of geopolitical risks, and a renewed accommodative stance from global central banks, led to a strong rebound in risk sentiment in 2019. Equities led the way higher, while interest rate cuts ensured fixed income markets participated in what was a robust year for asset classes across the board. This chart book explores global asset returns and the factors influencing performance last year.
US Manager Universe Statistics: Third Quarter 2019
This publication presents manager performance for 37 asset classes and substrategies, showing the median, mean, and key percentiles of return. Relevant indexes for each asset class are also included to provide market context.
Should Investors be Concerned About Central Banks’ Ability to Fight the Next Recession?
Yes. Economic growth is slowing, and governments have limited monetary and fiscal policy responses available in the event this slowdown becomes a recession. Today, investors need to weigh the investment implications of likely policy options.