Viewpoint

Bear markets do not send advance warnings. But investors can pay attention to red flags. Valuation multiples are well above the long-term average and consensus estimates are bullish on earnings growth. The good news is that investors can prepare for macro uncertainty and minimize capital loss.

Can iPhone growth keep up after a super cycle? What will be Apple’s next major new product? With a mixed track record of launching new services, regulatory risks to the current App Store model, and a valuation that is not compelling, investors should be concerned around Apple’s future growth.

Given the twin pressures of inflation and volatility, we believe the inherent strengths of short term bonds can give investors some comfort through this uncertain phase of the cycle.

Central banks must temper inflation at a time of geopolitical crisis, historically high valuations, slowing economic growth, declining equity markets, and a flattening yield curve – clearly not an environment for the faint of heart. Quality growth stocks, relative winners during times of persistent inflation, can be a portfolio stabilizer in challenging times.

Global bond markets have moved sharply in the wake of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine as investors have tried to assess the impact of an unprecedented raft of financial and economic sanctions.

What do Tiffany jewelry, Gerber baby food, and Milwaukee power tools have in common? They are all iconic American consumer brands owned by non-US based companies. In our view, US index funds and active managers that invest only in US-based companies are missing out on some American gems.

What does Russia’s invasion of Ukraine portend for China and Taiwan? How do you identify quality companies amid unpredictable regulatory and political environments? How should you consider absolute risks on a country level? Cheryl Gedvila, Client Portfolio Manager, addresses these difficult questions to help investors navigate markets today.

Last year the Fortune 500 had a record 41 women CEOs. Yet US women earned just $83 for each $100 by men on average, reflecting the corporate ladder’s ‘broken rungs.’ This blog looks at female led company profiles, workplace headwinds for women, and ways to improve the flow of meritocracy.

Unglamorous stock research, resisting the whims of the markets, and preparing for the worst can be downright boring. But it’s a great way to find quality international companies that can help reduce portfolio risk and improve downside protection – exciting results during these uncertain times.

With inflation soaring and the economic recovery looking more fragile, we look at three famous central bank policy errors to demonstrate why they can be so dangerous for investors, and consider how a fixed income portfolio can be strengthened against the risk.

Inflation was the dominant theme across financial markets in 2021, and we think it is likely to be a big driver of returns again in 2022.

High-yield bonds can boost fixed income returns in strong markets but can create a drag for investors in downturns. Strategic income strategies give investors more options, allowing them to switch into lower risk securities to access positive returns whatever the road ahead.