Since the end of the “Yen Carry Trade” correction in August, bullish positioning has returned with a vengeance, yet two key risks face investors as September begins. While bullish positioning and optimism are ingredients for a rising market, there is more to this story.
On the latest edition of Market Week in Review, Investment Strategist BeiChen Lin assessed the state of the economy, including the health of the services and manufacturing sectors, and the likelihood of a big rate cut at the upcoming Federal Reserve meeting.
Former President Donald Trump’s proposals for targeted tax breaks are resonating with battleground-state voters, who overwhelmingly approve of his ideas to eliminate taxes on tipped income and retirement benefits.
Most people see “blockchain” and “funds” in the same sentence and immediately think of pools of money betting on cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ether. That isn’t how Singapore sees the utility of distributed ledgers.
Labor Day weekend, marking the end of the US summer driving season, is typically the year’s last hurrah for gasoline producers. This year, the high-fives were reserved for drivers (and White House occupants): The average pre-long weekend pump price was down 13% from last year after gasoline refining margins collapsed in August. Pump prices have eased further this week.
Investors should be careful what they wish for in hoping for an aggressive Fed rate cutting cycle, given stocks tend to do better when cuts are slow and steady.
After a decade of consistent outperformance, Japanese small caps began underperforming their large cap peers in 2018, a trend that has accelerated since 2023.
Here is a look at real (inflation-adjusted) charts of the S&P 500, Dow 30, and Nasdaq composite since their 2000 highs. We've updated this through the August 2024 close.
Few human activities are more central to historiography than war, and yet historians are poorly equipped to understand its evolutionary and psychological roots: Why War? attempts, with only partial success, to close this gap.
Since the pandemic, Wall Street strategists have repeatedly underestimated the performance of the US stock market in their annual projections, leading to a mad dash to boost their outlooks in the back end of the year.
I asked my great friend and business partner David Bahnsen, who is about as politically wired as anyone and one of the truly great economic and investment minds, to reflect on the intersection of politics and markets. It is a quick, balanced, and reasonable read...
Consumer attitudes are measured by two monthly surveys: the University of Michigan’s Consumer Sentiment Index (MCSI) and the Conference Board’s Consumer Confidence Index (CCI). In August, the MCSI rose for the first time in 5 months, inching up to 67.94. Meanwhile, the CCI increased to 103.3, its highest level in 6 months.
Personal income (excluding transfer receipts) rose 0.32% in July and is up 4.1% year-over-year. However, when adjusted for inflation using the BEA's PCE Price Index, real personal income (excluding transfer receipts) was up 0.16% month-over-month and up 1.6% year-over-year.
Nvidia Corp., the world’s biggest chipmaker, has discussed joining a funding round for OpenAI that would value the artificial intelligence startup at more than $100 billion, according to people familiar with the matter.
Nvidia Corp. failed to live up to investor hopes with its latest results on Wednesday, delivering an underwhelming forecast and news of production snags with its much-awaited Blackwell chips.
Will 2030 DC plans perform better at preparing U.S. workers for retirement?
The healthcare sector offers a compelling mix of defensive characteristics and growth potential driven by innovation. It also features ample dispersion that presents stock pickers with an opportunity to parse potential leaders and laggards in pursuit of above-market return.
Watch the video above to get specific recommendations for how to think about a website revamp as a financial advisor, and when to redirect your attention to other initiatives.
The Big Tech boom is causing headaches for all-powerful index providers on Wall Street, who can send billions of benchmark-tracking dollars on the move with just a stroke of the pen.
The most glaring uncertainties today, which contributed to early August seeing some of the largest market moves in the last several years, are the risks associated with the Federal Reserve’s dual mandate.
With US payroll and unemployment data surprising to the downside two Fridays ago, Treasury markets quickly repriced the probability of impending recession, helping set off a volatility spike in stocks across the world. According to Bloomberg, economists’ consensus probability of a US recession in the next twelve months is now approximately 30%.
Home prices continued to trend upwards in June as the benchmark 20-city index rose for a sixteenth consecutive month to a new all-time high. The S&P Case-Shiller Home Price Index revealed seasonally adjusted home prices for the 20-city index saw a 0.4% increase month-over-month (MoM) and a 6.4% increase year-over-year (YoY). After adjusting for inflation, the MoM was reduced to 0.1% and the YoY was reduced to 0.9%.
Midstream’s second quarter earnings calls reinforced the positive outlook for US natural gas demand driven in part by expected power demand from data centers. This note discusses the advantages of natural gas for data centers, additional factors contributing to demand growth, and how midstream is uniquely positioned to benefit from these trends.
One of the last remaining bright spots for Chinese consumption is rapidly fading, as the nation’s economic malaise takes a toll on demand for even the most accessible of goods.
Happy National Cheap Flight Day! Yes, you heard that right—there is a national celebration day to mark the start of a lull in travel demand. Who knew this would be a day to celebrate? Regardless, it’s good news for consumers as airfares should continue their recent downward trend!
Expectations heading into Nvidia Corp.’s Wednesday report are high, with analysts anticipating another strong consensus beat that could prompt the chipmaker to raise its profit guidance.
Over nearly three decades, I’ve been dedicated to the sport of running. For the last five years, I chased the elusive goal of qualifying for the Boston Marathon, my ultimate aspiration. It wasn’t until I sought the expertise of a professional coach that I finally achieved this dream.
Since our last update of the Three Tactical Rules on June 25, 2024, equity markets have retraced most of the rally from the spring. The change in market sentiment came abruptly, due to the labor market showing signs of weakness as the number of jobs available per unemployed worker fell to 1.2 and the unemployment rate rose to 4.3%. The recent market volatility has had a dramatic impact on our tactical rules.
Amid expectations of rate cuts from major central banks, managers are increasing their exposure to more cyclical and value-oriented names, including autos, transportation, and short-cycle industrials.
With questions swirling around Federal Reserve policy, the state of the economy and the US presidential race, at least one thing seems clear on Wall Street: spending on artificial intelligence remains a central priority.
As the AI halo begins to fade, equity investors are seeking companies that can profit from—and not just pontificate about—artificial intelligence.
Ethical Capital's Sloane Ortel marshals the data to counter the arguments against aggressively fighting climate change laid out in Larry Siegel's recent article.
Most DC plan participants pursue retirement readiness unassisted, but few grasp what’s required, according to our latest survey.
Portfolio Manager Jeremy Sutch, CFA, and Chief Investment Officer Sean Taylor assess the issues besetting the region’s key markets—from domestic challenges to geopolitical headwinds—as well as their structural strengths, and whether prospects may brighten with the onset of a U.S. rate-cutting cycle.
In a part of the US market for exchange-traded funds that has become known for increasingly risky products, a new offering has debuted that stands out in the crowd.
Quant traders at Man Group Plc are betting that unlocking the secrets of private markets will give them an edge in trading public stocks.
Advisors are offering customized holistic wealth management to their clients and their families to help ensure an orderly transition of wealth
The BlackRock Flexible Income ETF (BINC) launched less than 15 months ago and is already approaching $4 billion in AUM.
Nominal retail sales in July were up 0.97% month-over-month (MoM) and up 2.66% year-over-year (YoY). However, after adjusting for inflation, real retail sales were up 0.81% MoM and down 0.25% YoY.
Manufacturing activity declined slightly in New York State, according to the Empire State Manufacturing August survey. The diffusion index for General Business Conditions was little changed at -4.7. The latest reading was better than the forecast of -5.9.
Technology stocks led the market for much of this year, with AI euphoria in full effect. Recent cracks in the momentum caused some investors to question whether the enthusiasm has been exhausted. Technology investors and active stock pickers Tony Kim and Reid Menge offer answers ― and an optimistic outlook.
The KraneShares Sustainable Ultra Short Duration Index ETF (KCSH) offers low risk income investing with notable yields and diversification.
For plan sponsors, the trend toward de-risking often leads to a simplification of the equity manager lineup in the return-seeking portion of the portfolio.
Franklin Templeton’s David Mann highlights the firm’s diverse ETF lineup and offers perspective on stocks, bonds, and crypto. VettaFi’s Zeno Mercer goes in-depth on the “Magnificent Seven” stocks.
The acquisition further expands Janus Henderson’s private credit capabilities and complements Janus Henderson’s existing highly successful securitized credit franchise and expertise in public asset-backed securitized markets, and further expands our capabilities into the private markets.
When I was in high school, I really wanted a car. My loving parents took every situation as an opportunity to teach. They told me that if I wanted a car, I would have to earn it.
Multi-asset strategies must adapt to a promising—but changeable—environment for generating income.
For months investors have faced a dilemma — pay through the nose for technology giants trading at eye-watering multiples, or wait for a cheaper entry point and risk missing out on the year’s biggest bull run.
For a technology that promises to help businesses cut costs, artificial intelligence has had a big problem with being so costly.
Recent macroeconomic and geopolitical developments, along with shifting AI sentiment, have raised concerns over whether strong headline returns, low volatility, and persistent mega cap tech leadership can continue as we look ahead.
On the latest edition of Market Week in Review, Investment Strategist BeiChen Lin and ESG and Active Ownership Analyst Zoe Warganz discussed key takeaways from recent central bank meetings. They also provided an update on how U.S. small cap companies are performing during second-quarter earnings season.
Cryptocurrencies reeled from a bout of risk aversion in global markets on Monday, at one point sending Bitcoin down more than 16% and saddling second-ranked Ether with the steepest fall since 2021.
A fifth of Americans are on the hook for an 833% jump in the cost to ensure the lights stay on. The folks being paid that premium, mostly electricity generators in this instance, face that most welcome of problems: What to do with a windfall.
Today’s passive index investing requires active choices, as customization and innovations in index funds have resulted in new considerations for investors and the potential for greater control.
Official recession calls are the responsibility of the NBER Business Cycle Dating Committee, which is understandably vague about the specific indicators on which they base their decisions. This committee statement is about as close as they get to identifying their method.
I chaired an international economics conference in Canada earlier this month. Delegates from all over the world attended to discuss the issues of the day. Following is an abridged version of the meeting summary that I offered during the closing session.
Canadian entrepreneur Andrew Wilkinson’s early decision to ditch a career as a journalist and teach himself web design has proved lucrative, making him the majority owner of a technology investment firm worth more than $300 million.
Listen to enough politicians and it won’t take long to hear about the lack of “affordable” healthcare, drugs, daycare, and housing. This was going on long before inflation returned after COVID. Everyone wants affordable things.
It's been another strong first half for the U.S. ETF industry, with overall flows set to challenge or surpass historic records.
Following the historic decision by President Biden to drop out of the 2024 race, Raymond James CIO Larry Adam provides insight into his team's economic and market outlook.
This week's commentary reflects a mixture of political, economic, and technical challenges facing investors. Let’s begin with the political landscape which continues to heavily influence sentiment.
A recent Financial Times opinion piece laid out how illiquidity makes private equity hazardous for investors. The Bank of England’s Nathanaël Benjamin warns private equity illiquidity is a systemic risk to the financial system.
By starting the AI adoption process now and prioritizing education and training for their workforce, companies can better prepare themselves for the AI-driven future.
The incorporation of artificial intelligence in the crypto space could push AI-focused exchange-traded funds even higher.
As Microsoft, Meta Platforms, chipmakers, and others prepare to report earnings, the AI-driven cloud and chip industries may continue to dominate the technology storyline.
Welcome to the second installment of our new blog series, “Navigating Earnings Season,” where I examine the world of earnings reports from major companies — giants like JP Morgan and Pepsi, as well as niche players in various sectors.
Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. lifted projections for 2024 revenue growth after quarterly results beat estimates, reflecting its confidence in the longevity of the global AI spending boom.
It's important to understand the true meaning behind the names of investment funds, especially when it comes to those labeled "tax-managed"
There has long been talk of a new wave of biotech mergers and acquisitions activity coming to life.
Artificial intelligence and generative AI remain the proverbial hype trains of thematic investing this year.
In this episode of Dear Ficomm, I help a financial advisor in New York elevate his website’s flow through better CTAs and word choice.
At Institutional Investor, keeper of Wall Street’s version of the Oscars for financial analysts, the winner in one category this year is — nobody.
Diverse stakeholders shared perspectives at AB’s Advancing Retirement Income symposium.
Leveraging essential tools will energize teams, streamline operations, and drive growth. Financial advisors should actively promote education, training, networking, and personal development to foster a net wealth-supporting environment.
The case for beginning to recalibrate rates in the S. is on a winning streak for getting stronger with each data print
In seasoned investment circles, nearly everyone reads the memos from Howard Marks, the co-chairman of Oaktree Capital Management, which he’s been writing for his clients since 1990. The most widely read of these memos, “Something of Value,” is foundational reading for anyone serious, or anyone who wants to get serious, about investing.
History suggests that it is better to embrace progress than hinder it.
With the S&P 500 index up almost 18 percent since the beginning of this year, now may be a good time to check how well your retired or near retired clients’ household assets match up with their expected spending liabilities.
As many of you are no doubt aware by now, France’s left-wing New Popular Front alliance thwarted Marine Le Pen’s National Rally party in a stunning upset, leaving the country without a clear majority in parliament.
Bain Capital and Reverence Capital Partners have agreed a deal to take Envestnet Inc., a provider of wealth-management software, private.
No investor wants to miss the wave of a massive, transformational technology. Spot these big shifts early, and you have a chance at Nvidia-like returns.
A strategic alignment within the workplace is an opportunity for financial advisors, employers and retirement savers seeking financial planning advice. See Kevin Murphy’s views on emerging trends in workplace savings.
AI and automation will revolutionize the financial advisory industry. These technologies enhance efficiency, improve client communication, and enable data-driven decision-making. By 2035, AI will be integral to most advisory firms.
Over the last four years, we have maintained that the U.S. middle-class consumer is on firmer ground than many believe. The first wave of inflation that seems to be receding is just that—the first wave of a set—and oil and gas companies are fundamentally well-positioned for the next decade.
Implementing the net wealth mindset in practice involves developing detailed financial plans that align with each client's needs and priorities, and crafting a client-centered service model.
Hedge funds piled into short bets against Tesla Inc. right before the electric vehicle maker unveiled a set of numbers that triggered a hefty share-price rally.
The reason I mention silver, oil and gold is because they were the top performing commodities in the first half of 2024. Let’s dive into what’s driving these trends and what they might mean for investors.
As part of our annual tradition, we’ve reached out to Russell Investments’ associate base to come up with four recommended books for this year’s summer reading list. Below are our choices, which cover a wide variety of topics, including leadership development, diversity and inclusion and the artificial intelligence revolution.
We’re borrowing from the upcoming Paris Summer Olympics for our quarterly theme – with a twist. Instead of using the most popular events (like gymnastics, swimming, and track & field) to express our views, we’ll go beyond the spotlight.
Diversity & Inclusion
Risks Facing Bullish Investors As September Begins
Since the end of the “Yen Carry Trade” correction in August, bullish positioning has returned with a vengeance, yet two key risks face investors as September begins. While bullish positioning and optimism are ingredients for a rising market, there is more to this story.
Health Check: How Is the U.S. Economy Holding Up?
On the latest edition of Market Week in Review, Investment Strategist BeiChen Lin assessed the state of the economy, including the health of the services and manufacturing sectors, and the likelihood of a big rate cut at the upcoming Federal Reserve meeting.
Voters Love No Tax on Tips, But Split Over $25,000 Housing Help
Former President Donald Trump’s proposals for targeted tax breaks are resonating with battleground-state voters, who overwhelmingly approve of his ideas to eliminate taxes on tipped income and retirement benefits.
Why Singapore Is Bringing Blockchain Into Mutual Funds
Most people see “blockchain” and “funds” in the same sentence and immediately think of pools of money betting on cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ether. That isn’t how Singapore sees the utility of distributed ledgers.
American Drivers Signal a Top in Gasoline Demand
Labor Day weekend, marking the end of the US summer driving season, is typically the year’s last hurrah for gasoline producers. This year, the high-fives were reserved for drivers (and White House occupants): The average pre-long weekend pump price was down 13% from last year after gasoline refining margins collapsed in August. Pump prices have eased further this week.
It's Time … For a Fed Pivot
Investors should be careful what they wish for in hoping for an aggressive Fed rate cutting cycle, given stocks tend to do better when cuts are slow and steady.
Small Wonders: Overlooked Japan Small Caps Poised for Resurgence
After a decade of consistent outperformance, Japanese small caps began underperforming their large cap peers in 2018, a trend that has accelerated since 2023.
The S&P 500, Dow and Nasdaq Since Their 2000 Highs
Here is a look at real (inflation-adjusted) charts of the S&P 500, Dow 30, and Nasdaq composite since their 2000 highs. We've updated this through the August 2024 close.
The Problem with Human Beings
Few human activities are more central to historiography than war, and yet historians are poorly equipped to understand its evolutionary and psychological roots: Why War? attempts, with only partial success, to close this gap.
Wall Street Strategists Face Their Own Short Squeeze
Since the pandemic, Wall Street strategists have repeatedly underestimated the performance of the US stock market in their annual projections, leading to a mad dash to boost their outlooks in the back end of the year.
Your Portfolio and the Election
I asked my great friend and business partner David Bahnsen, who is about as politically wired as anyone and one of the truly great economic and investment minds, to reflect on the intersection of politics and markets. It is a quick, balanced, and reasonable read...
Two Measures of Consumer Attitudes: August 2024
Consumer attitudes are measured by two monthly surveys: the University of Michigan’s Consumer Sentiment Index (MCSI) and the Conference Board’s Consumer Confidence Index (CCI). In August, the MCSI rose for the first time in 5 months, inching up to 67.94. Meanwhile, the CCI increased to 103.3, its highest level in 6 months.
The Big Four Recession Indicators: Real Personal Income Up 0.2% in July
Personal income (excluding transfer receipts) rose 0.32% in July and is up 4.1% year-over-year. However, when adjusted for inflation using the BEA's PCE Price Index, real personal income (excluding transfer receipts) was up 0.16% month-over-month and up 1.6% year-over-year.
Nvidia Discusses Joining OpenAI’s Latest Funding Round
Nvidia Corp., the world’s biggest chipmaker, has discussed joining a funding round for OpenAI that would value the artificial intelligence startup at more than $100 billion, according to people familiar with the matter.
Nvidia Tumbles After Disappointing Forecast, Blackwell Chip Snags
Nvidia Corp. failed to live up to investor hopes with its latest results on Wednesday, delivering an underwhelming forecast and news of production snags with its much-awaited Blackwell chips.
8 Ways DC Plans Are Likely to Change by 2030
Will 2030 DC plans perform better at preparing U.S. workers for retirement?
Where It Pays to Get Choosy: A Case Study in Stock Selection
The healthcare sector offers a compelling mix of defensive characteristics and growth potential driven by innovation. It also features ample dispersion that presents stock pickers with an opportunity to parse potential leaders and laggards in pursuit of above-market return.
Growth Advice: When to Revamp Your Website (and When to Wait)
Watch the video above to get specific recommendations for how to think about a website revamp as a financial advisor, and when to redirect your attention to other initiatives.
Big Tech Dominance Is Forcing Index Superpowers to Rethink Rules
The Big Tech boom is causing headaches for all-powerful index providers on Wall Street, who can send billions of benchmark-tracking dollars on the move with just a stroke of the pen.
Let’s Get Real (Rates)!
The most glaring uncertainties today, which contributed to early August seeing some of the largest market moves in the last several years, are the risks associated with the Federal Reserve’s dual mandate.
‘Recession Dashboard’ Update: US Remains Resilient
With US payroll and unemployment data surprising to the downside two Fridays ago, Treasury markets quickly repriced the probability of impending recession, helping set off a volatility spike in stocks across the world. According to Bloomberg, economists’ consensus probability of a US recession in the next twelve months is now approximately 30%.
S&P Case-Shiller Home Price Index: Hits New Record High in June
Home prices continued to trend upwards in June as the benchmark 20-city index rose for a sixteenth consecutive month to a new all-time high. The S&P Case-Shiller Home Price Index revealed seasonally adjusted home prices for the 20-city index saw a 0.4% increase month-over-month (MoM) and a 6.4% increase year-over-year (YoY). After adjusting for inflation, the MoM was reduced to 0.1% and the YoY was reduced to 0.9%.
AI, Natural Gas & Midstream’s Emerging Opportunities
Midstream’s second quarter earnings calls reinforced the positive outlook for US natural gas demand driven in part by expected power demand from data centers. This note discusses the advantages of natural gas for data centers, additional factors contributing to demand growth, and how midstream is uniquely positioned to benefit from these trends.
PDD’s $55 Billion Stock Crash Sends Warning on China Economy
One of the last remaining bright spots for Chinese consumption is rapidly fading, as the nation’s economic malaise takes a toll on demand for even the most accessible of goods.
Five Lessons Learned as Summer Comes to an End
Happy National Cheap Flight Day! Yes, you heard that right—there is a national celebration day to mark the start of a lull in travel demand. Who knew this would be a day to celebrate? Regardless, it’s good news for consumers as airfares should continue their recent downward trend!
Nvidia to Keep Surfing Tech Spending Wave: Earnings Week Ahead
Expectations heading into Nvidia Corp.’s Wednesday report are high, with analysts anticipating another strong consensus beat that could prompt the chipmaker to raise its profit guidance.
Why Use Model Portfolios? So Advisors Can Focus on What Matters Most
Over nearly three decades, I’ve been dedicated to the sport of running. For the last five years, I chased the elusive goal of qualifying for the Boston Marathon, my ultimate aspiration. It wasn’t until I sought the expertise of a professional coach that I finally achieved this dream.
Big Tech Dominance Is Forcing Index Superpowers to Rethink Rules
The Big Tech boom is causing headaches for all-powerful index providers on Wall Street, who can send billions of benchmark-tracking dollars on the move with just a stroke of the pen.
Tactical Rules Turn Bullish
Since our last update of the Three Tactical Rules on June 25, 2024, equity markets have retraced most of the rally from the spring. The change in market sentiment came abruptly, due to the labor market showing signs of weakness as the number of jobs available per unemployed worker fell to 1.2 and the unemployment rate rose to 4.3%. The recent market volatility has had a dramatic impact on our tactical rules.
August 2024 Active Management Insights: Positive Outlook for Cyclical and Value-Oriented Stocks
Amid expectations of rate cuts from major central banks, managers are increasing their exposure to more cyclical and value-oriented names, including autos, transportation, and short-cycle industrials.
Nvidia Eyes Return to Record as AI Spending Bonanza Continues
With questions swirling around Federal Reserve policy, the state of the economy and the US presidential race, at least one thing seems clear on Wall Street: spending on artificial intelligence remains a central priority.
In an AI Arms Race, Investors Should Focus on Profit Potential
As the AI halo begins to fade, equity investors are seeking companies that can profit from—and not just pontificate about—artificial intelligence.
A Rebuttal to an Energy Transition “Realist”
Ethical Capital's Sloane Ortel marshals the data to counter the arguments against aggressively fighting climate change laid out in Larry Siegel's recent article.
Should Retirement Income Planning Be “Do It Yourself” or “Just Do It for Me”?
Most DC plan participants pursue retirement readiness unassisted, but few grasp what’s required, according to our latest survey.
Latin America's Long-Term Potential
Portfolio Manager Jeremy Sutch, CFA, and Chief Investment Officer Sean Taylor assess the issues besetting the region’s key markets—from domestic challenges to geopolitical headwinds—as well as their structural strengths, and whether prospects may brighten with the onset of a U.S. rate-cutting cycle.
Wall Street Just Got Its Most Volatile ETF as Risky Bets Boom
In a part of the US market for exchange-traded funds that has become known for increasingly risky products, a new offering has debuted that stands out in the crowd.
Man Group Quants Are Riding Private Boom for Public Stock Trades
Quant traders at Man Group Plc are betting that unlocking the secrets of private markets will give them an edge in trading public stocks.
Value of an Advisor: C is for Customized Experience and Family Wealth Planning
Advisors are offering customized holistic wealth management to their clients and their families to help ensure an orderly transition of wealth
Golden Age for Fixed Income at BlackRock
The BlackRock Flexible Income ETF (BINC) launched less than 15 months ago and is already approaching $4 billion in AUM.
The Big Four Recession Indicators: Real Retail Sales Up 0.8% in July
Nominal retail sales in July were up 0.97% month-over-month (MoM) and up 2.66% year-over-year (YoY). However, after adjusting for inflation, real retail sales were up 0.81% MoM and down 0.25% YoY.
Empire State Manufacturing Survey: Activity Declines Slightly in August
Manufacturing activity declined slightly in New York State, according to the Empire State Manufacturing August survey. The diffusion index for General Business Conditions was little changed at -4.7. The latest reading was better than the forecast of -5.9.
Can AI and Technology Stocks Keep on Keeping On? An Expert Take
Technology stocks led the market for much of this year, with AI euphoria in full effect. Recent cracks in the momentum caused some investors to question whether the enthusiasm has been exhausted. Technology investors and active stock pickers Tony Kim and Reid Menge offer answers ― and an optimistic outlook.
Diversify Your Income Portfolio Without Sacrificing Yields
The KraneShares Sustainable Ultra Short Duration Index ETF (KCSH) offers low risk income investing with notable yields and diversification.
De-Risking? Get Your Transition Management Plan in Place First
For plan sponsors, the trend toward de-risking often leads to a simplification of the equity manager lineup in the return-seeking portion of the portfolio.
Franklin Templeton’s David Mann on Stocks, Bonds, & Crypto
Franklin Templeton’s David Mann highlights the firm’s diverse ETF lineup and offers perspective on stocks, bonds, and crypto. VettaFi’s Zeno Mercer goes in-depth on the “Magnificent Seven” stocks.
Janus Henderson Announces Acquisition of Global Private Credit Manager Victory Park Capital
The acquisition further expands Janus Henderson’s private credit capabilities and complements Janus Henderson’s existing highly successful securitized credit franchise and expertise in public asset-backed securitized markets, and further expands our capabilities into the private markets.
From Sports Car to Minivan: Direct Indexing Can Help You Give Your Clients the Ride They Want
When I was in high school, I really wanted a car. My loving parents took every situation as an opportunity to teach. They told me that if I wanted a car, I would have to earn it.
Dynamic Landscape for Multi-Asset Income Seekers
Multi-asset strategies must adapt to a promising—but changeable—environment for generating income.
Big Tech Traders Struggle to Find Reasons to Buy This Dip
For months investors have faced a dilemma — pay through the nose for technology giants trading at eye-watering multiples, or wait for a cheaper entry point and risk missing out on the year’s biggest bull run.
AI Is Getting Cheaper. That Won’t Fix Everything
For a technology that promises to help businesses cut costs, artificial intelligence has had a big problem with being so costly.
Systematic Equity Outlook: Decoding Upside and Downside Risks
Recent macroeconomic and geopolitical developments, along with shifting AI sentiment, have raised concerns over whether strong headline returns, low volatility, and persistent mega cap tech leadership can continue as we look ahead.
Fed Signals Rate Cuts Could Begin in September
On the latest edition of Market Week in Review, Investment Strategist BeiChen Lin and ESG and Active Ownership Analyst Zoe Warganz discussed key takeaways from recent central bank meetings. They also provided an update on how U.S. small cap companies are performing during second-quarter earnings season.
Bitcoin Plunges, Ether Has Worst Drop Since 2021 as Crypto Sinks
Cryptocurrencies reeled from a bout of risk aversion in global markets on Monday, at one point sending Bitcoin down more than 16% and saddling second-ranked Ether with the steepest fall since 2021.
Power Plants’ 833% Windfall May Unleash a Political Firestorm
A fifth of Americans are on the hook for an 833% jump in the cost to ensure the lights stay on. The folks being paid that premium, mostly electricity generators in this instance, face that most welcome of problems: What to do with a windfall.
Index Investing as an Active Decision: Implications for Equity Investors
Today’s passive index investing requires active choices, as customization and innovations in index funds have resulted in new considerations for investors and the potential for greater control.
The Big Four Recession Indicators
Official recession calls are the responsibility of the NBER Business Cycle Dating Committee, which is understandably vague about the specific indicators on which they base their decisions. This committee statement is about as close as they get to identifying their method.
The View From Canada
I chaired an international economics conference in Canada earlier this month. Delegates from all over the world attended to discuss the issues of the day. Following is an abridged version of the meeting summary that I offered during the closing session.
Ackman-Backed Tech Founder Tries to Fulfill His ‘Berkshire 2.0’ Promise
Canadian entrepreneur Andrew Wilkinson’s early decision to ditch a career as a journalist and teach himself web design has proved lucrative, making him the majority owner of a technology investment firm worth more than $300 million.
Want Affordable Housing? Build Homes, Cut Government
Listen to enough politicians and it won’t take long to hear about the lack of “affordable” healthcare, drugs, daycare, and housing. This was going on long before inflation returned after COVID. Everyone wants affordable things.
U.S. ETF Flows: Investors Are Getting Polarized
It's been another strong first half for the U.S. ETF industry, with overall flows set to challenge or surpass historic records.
After Biden: What Comes Next?
Following the historic decision by President Biden to drop out of the 2024 race, Raymond James CIO Larry Adam provides insight into his team's economic and market outlook.
Politics, Economy, and Tech Impacting Sentiment
This week's commentary reflects a mixture of political, economic, and technical challenges facing investors. Let’s begin with the political landscape which continues to heavily influence sentiment.
Private Equity Is Illiquid by Design. Why Worry About It?
A recent Financial Times opinion piece laid out how illiquidity makes private equity hazardous for investors. The Bank of England’s Nathanaël Benjamin warns private equity illiquidity is a systemic risk to the financial system.
Overcoming Real-World Barriers to AI Usage in Finance
By starting the AI adoption process now and prioritizing education and training for their workforce, companies can better prepare themselves for the AI-driven future.
AI Adoption in the Crypto Space Can Push This ETF Even Higher
The incorporation of artificial intelligence in the crypto space could push AI-focused exchange-traded funds even higher.
AI Remains Focus of Second-Quarter Tech Earnings
As Microsoft, Meta Platforms, chipmakers, and others prepare to report earnings, the AI-driven cloud and chip industries may continue to dominate the technology storyline.
Navigating Earnings Season: The Death of Price over Volume
Welcome to the second installment of our new blog series, “Navigating Earnings Season,” where I examine the world of earnings reports from major companies — giants like JP Morgan and Pepsi, as well as niche players in various sectors.
TSMC Hikes Revenue Outlook to Reflect Heated AI Demand
Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. lifted projections for 2024 revenue growth after quarterly results beat estimates, reflecting its confidence in the longevity of the global AI spending boom.
What’s in a Name? Understanding Tax-Managed Funds and Strategies
It's important to understand the true meaning behind the names of investment funds, especially when it comes to those labeled "tax-managed"
Patent Cliffs Could Spark Wave of Biotech M&A
There has long been talk of a new wave of biotech mergers and acquisitions activity coming to life.
Goldman Sachs On Generative AI: It’s Complicated
Artificial intelligence and generative AI remain the proverbial hype trains of thematic investing this year.
Growth Advice: Guiding Prospects Through Your Website Can Increase Conversion Immediately
In this episode of Dear Ficomm, I help a financial advisor in New York elevate his website’s flow through better CTAs and word choice.
Wall Street Starts Calling Time on ESG Labels After Backlash
At Institutional Investor, keeper of Wall Street’s version of the Oscars for financial analysts, the winner in one category this year is — nobody.
Charting a Collective Path Forward on Retirement Income
Diverse stakeholders shared perspectives at AB’s Advancing Retirement Income symposium.
The Power of Employee Investment and Net Wealth Mindset
Leveraging essential tools will energize teams, streamline operations, and drive growth. Financial advisors should actively promote education, training, networking, and personal development to foster a net wealth-supporting environment.
The Case for Recalibrating Rates Gets a Winning Streak
The case for beginning to recalibrate rates in the S. is on a winning streak for getting stronger with each data print
Step One to Becoming a Better Investor
In seasoned investment circles, nearly everyone reads the memos from Howard Marks, the co-chairman of Oaktree Capital Management, which he’s been writing for his clients since 1990. The most widely read of these memos, “Something of Value,” is foundational reading for anyone serious, or anyone who wants to get serious, about investing.
Automation and Anxiety
History suggests that it is better to embrace progress than hinder it.
Good Time to Check Your Clients’ Funding Buckets
With the S&P 500 index up almost 18 percent since the beginning of this year, now may be a good time to check how well your retired or near retired clients’ household assets match up with their expected spending liabilities.
France’s Uncertain Future And Biden’s Leadership Crisis Shake Investor Confidence
As many of you are no doubt aware by now, France’s left-wing New Popular Front alliance thwarted Marine Le Pen’s National Rally party in a stunning upset, leaving the country without a clear majority in parliament.
Bain, Reverence Near $3.5 Billion Deal for Envestnet
Bain Capital and Reverence Capital Partners have agreed a deal to take Envestnet Inc., a provider of wealth-management software, private.
The Next Chance at Nvidia-like Returns
No investor wants to miss the wave of a massive, transformational technology. Spot these big shifts early, and you have a chance at Nvidia-like returns.
Workplace to Wealth: Transforming Retirement Through Meaningful Action
A strategic alignment within the workplace is an opportunity for financial advisors, employers and retirement savers seeking financial planning advice. See Kevin Murphy’s views on emerging trends in workplace savings.
What Your Advisory Firm Will Look Like in 2035 (If It Still Exists)
AI and automation will revolutionize the financial advisory industry. These technologies enhance efficiency, improve client communication, and enable data-driven decision-making. By 2035, AI will be integral to most advisory firms.
Cantillon Marries the Red Queen
Over the last four years, we have maintained that the U.S. middle-class consumer is on firmer ground than many believe. The first wave of inflation that seems to be receding is just that—the first wave of a set—and oil and gas companies are fundamentally well-positioned for the next decade.
Boosting Your Advisory Business With a ‘Net Wealth’ Mindset
Implementing the net wealth mindset in practice involves developing detailed financial plans that align with each client's needs and priorities, and crafting a client-centered service model.
Hedge Funds That Piled Into Big Tesla Short Stung by Rally
Hedge funds piled into short bets against Tesla Inc. right before the electric vehicle maker unveiled a set of numbers that triggered a hefty share-price rally.
Commodities Halftime Report: Silver, Oil And Gold Were The Top Performers
The reason I mention silver, oil and gold is because they were the top performing commodities in the first half of 2024. Let’s dive into what’s driving these trends and what they might mean for investors.
Unwind and Broaden Your Mind With Our 2024 Summer Reading List
As part of our annual tradition, we’ve reached out to Russell Investments’ associate base to come up with four recommended books for this year’s summer reading list. Below are our choices, which cover a wide variety of topics, including leadership development, diversity and inclusion and the artificial intelligence revolution.
City of Lights, Market of Opportunities
We’re borrowing from the upcoming Paris Summer Olympics for our quarterly theme – with a twist. Instead of using the most popular events (like gymnastics, swimming, and track & field) to express our views, we’ll go beyond the spotlight.