Blog

October 20, 2023

Attractive Savings Rates? Let's Take a Deeper Look.

Over the last year, some investors have been turning to cash investments. This is understandable considering that cash and equivalents are offering some of their best rates in over a decade. Yet while some amount of cash and equivalents can play an important role in any investor’s portfolio, don’t overlook the other investment opportunities that today’s higher rates could create.

August 23, 2023

Bonds vs GICs

As interest rates have risen sharply over the past 18+ months, we’ve seen a significant uptick in client interest for GICs and cash equivalents. Though GICs do have a place in investor portfolios (especially now given their attractive rates), there is also an opportunity cost to utilizing them long-term as a replacement for bond funds.

January 8, 2023

Don't Give Up on the 60/40 Portfolio

In 2022, the correlation between the two turned overwhelmingly positive. Many areas of the bond market faired worse than equities and naturally investors are questioning if the gold standard 60/40, 60% global equity - 40% fixed income, barbell approach to investing is dead. Read on.

December 2, 2022

The S&P 500 is Not the Economy

One of the biggest misconceptions investors have is the notion that investment markets are directly tied to the health of the economy. In other words, these two subject matters should perfectly correlate. Most of the time the stock market and the economy are moving in the same direction, but they also diverge on occasion.

December 1, 2022

How Many Years Does It Take for Investment Returns to Matter More Than Savings?

When it comes to building net worth as it pertains to your investment portfolio, have you ever wondered at what point investment returns matter more than your contributions? 

November 3, 2022

U.S Central Banks Raise Rates by 75 bps

On November 2nd, the U.S Central Bank announced another rate increase, lifting the overnight policy interest rate by 75basis points (bps) to 4%. The rate hike was consistent with market expectations. The Fed’s statement offered a limited view on the pace of the hikes going forward and acknowledged the lagged effect of monetary policy, which suggests that the Fed is perhaps becoming more patient.

October 21, 2022

With markets down, is now the time for young people to invest?

A common question investors are constantly asking me surrounds "is it safe to invest right now?" While in the short term there is always uncertainty, history has shown 'time over time' that when markets are at these discounted levels an investor with the medium to longterm time horizon will benefit immensely from putting money to work. Check out this great article from one of our partners.

October 19, 2022

Investors Should Think Twice Before Selling

Jurrien Timmer, Director of Global Macro for Fidelity Investment Management, discusses where markets could potentially go from here based on valuation and the potential of less-hawkish Fed. Read on.

September 12, 2022

Understanding Bonds

You might not think you care about bonds. But if you’re an investor, you probably care about bonds even while you’re not caring about bonds. Especially now. 

August 31, 2021

Answers to Your 5 Biggest Investment Concerns

Even with markets at all-time highs, investors have plenty on their minds. The Capital Group investment team provides perspective on the most pressing questions of the year

April 23, 2021

The Emerging Markets opportunity (part 2) — These aren’t your parents’ emerging markets

While the emerging markets asset class has been mostly overlooked by Canadian investors, we believe exposure to this asset class in an investor’s portfolio is likely to enhance diversification benefits and improve long-term returns. 

April 13, 2021

One Year Since COVID Crash: How Far We've Come

It’s been one full year since the stock market crash on March 23rd, 2020, and a few months more since the novel coronavirus, COVID-19, was first identified. Little did we know how much the world, our daily habits, and our portfolios, would be changed. Here, through our partner at Y-Charts, we reflect on the past year through data and visuals that illustrate the extent of COVID-19’s impact on the market and our lives.

April 13, 2021

Forgetting the lessons of 2020 – 1st quarter, 2021

George Droulias, investment analyst at Edgepoint, put together a great article discussing the stock market and how it displayed some unusual behaviours in 2020. Read on to see how the Edgepoint approach has benefitted longterm unit holders.

April 8, 2021

The World in 2030

The world in 2030 may seem a long way off, but helping clients invest we must always be looking into the distant future.

March 31, 2021

Roaring '20s - How Pent Up Demand Could Fuel Recovery

Could pent-up demand for travel and leisure drive a Roaring ‘20s today? There is lots of aspects at this point to be excited about in investment markets and as this year progresses, the theory of the "Grand Re-Opening" will become clearer and most likely extend through 2022.

March 8, 2021

The Emerging Markets Opportunity (part 1) — Demographics

Asian Emerging Markets are a rapidly growing area of the world that I believe will only continue to grow in terms of economic importance. While often overlooked by Canadian investors, exposure to the EM asset class in an investor’s portfolio is likely to enhance diversification benefits and shouldn’t be viewed as a “niche” investment.

March 4, 2021

Investment Planning

Unfortunately financial and investment markets don't trend up in a smooth linear path. If they did, my job would be much easier! Volatility is something we have to learn to become comfortable with as there is always benefit for those who remain focused on their long term investment goals.

February 19, 2021

Valuation? No, its not on thin ice.

Far more money has been lost by investors preparing for corrections, or trying to anticipate corrections, than has been lost in corrections themselves.– Peter Lynch There has been much discussion these days about valuations within equity markets, specifically as it pertains to the trailing price/earnings (P/E) ratio of the S&P 500. At the time of writing, the trailing P/E sits at 32 times, well above its longer-term average of closer to 18. However, does that mean an immediate reversal is warranted?

June 8, 2021

Does Getting Vaccinated Effect Your Life & Health Insurance???

In light of misinformation circulating through various social media channels claiming that individuals who receive the vaccine will not be able to get life insurance or may be denied their disability or life insurance benefits the Canadian Life and Health Insurance Association (CLHIA) has stressed: “Receiving a COVID-19 vaccine will have no effect on the ability to obtain coverage or benefits from life insurance or supplementary health insurance.”‍

February 25, 2020

Insurance Planning

Working from home might mean your spare room, your basement, maybe even your dining room has become your office space. You’ve adapted to your individual situation. The same goes for insurance – it’s not a one‑size fits all approach and often requires a custom fit based on your clients’ needs… especially permanent insurance. 

April 22, 2024

Week in Review: Apr.15.2024 - Apr.19.2024

‍The S&P 500 index fell 3% last week, led by the technology and consumer discretionary sectors, as investors digested a mixed round of quarterly financial results and escalating turmoil in the Middle East. The market benchmark ended Friday's session at 4,967.23, the third straight weekly decline.

April 15, 2024

Week in Review: Apr.8.2024 - Apr.12.2024

‍The S&P 500 index fell 1.6% last week as higher-than-expected CPI data and cautious guidance from JPMorgan Chase (JPM) added to market jitters. The market benchmark ended Friday's session at 5,123.41, its lowest closing level since mid-March but remains firmly in positive territory for the year despite the rocky start to Q2.

April 9, 2024

April Market Perspectives & WYNTK

In a special Q1 edition of ‘Market Perspectives’, I highlight the events of March, the robust first quarter, highlight North American stock markets, address the attention the momentum we have experienced, the volatility- or lack thereof- as of recent and comment on the Federal Reserve’s latest impacts on financial markets. Enjoy the read.

April 8, 2024

Week in Review: Apr.1.2024 - Apr.5.2024

‍The S&P 500 fell last week to start Q2 on a sour note as Federal Reserve officials indicated they were in no rush to cut interest rates. Market sentiment fluctuates virtually daily on this very topic. The benchmark equity index ended Friday's session at 5,204.34, down from last week's record-high close of 5,254.35.

April 1, 2024

Week in Review: Mar.25.2024 - Mar.29.2024

‍The S&P 500 index edged up 0.4% last week to a fresh record close notching its 22nd all-time record high for the year as the market benchmark wrapped up its strongest Q1 in five years. The S&P 500 ended Q1 up 10% which marks the largest percentage increase the index has achieved in the first quarter of any year since a 13% rally in 2019.

March 25, 2024

Week in Review: Mar.18.2024 - Mar.22.2024

‍The S&P 500 index rose to new highs last week as officials from the Federal Reserve's policy-setting committee indicated they still expect to cut rates several times this year. The market benchmark ended Friday's session at 5,234.18, up 2.3% from last Friday's close.

March 18, 2024

Week in Review: Mar.11.2024 - Mar.15.2024

In the backdrop of the steepest rally in the S&P 500 in 50 years, the index traded cautiously last week as inflation data, both CPI and PPI, came in less than perfect. Investors have been fending off this information but in the end the index edged down 0.1% for the week and closed at 5,117.09, its second consecutive weekly loss. Despite this, the market benchmark is still up 0.4% for the month and 7.3% for the year.

March 11, 2024

Week in Review: Mar.4.2024 - Mar.8.2024

‍The S&P 500 index eased 0.3% last week as investors sifted through mixed February employment numbers as the benchmark ended the week at 5,123.69. This marks the first Friday in several weeks that the S&P 500 hasn't ended a week at a fresh record close. This week, all focus will be on the February CPI reading on Tuesday and PPI reading on Thursday.

March 11, 2024

March Markets Perspectives

The month of February rewarded investors as the S&P 500 advanced over 5%. This is only the 11th time in the index's history to have this level of gain since 1928. Read on as I recap financial markets in February, discuss the concentration of the U.S. equity market, and discuss the probabilities of where we go from here.

March 4, 2024

Week in Review: Feb.26.2024 - Mar.1.2024

The S&P 500 index rose to a fresh record close last week as a technology-driven rally helped the market benchmark end February and kick off March on a positive note. The major index ended Friday's session at 5,137.08, up from the previous Friday's closing level of 5,088.80. As of Friday's close the benchmark is +7.7% YTD and off to a great start.

February 26, 2024

Week in Review: Feb.19.2024 - Feb.23.2024

‍The S&P 500 index rose 1.7% last week to a new record close as stronger-than-expected quarterly results from retailer Walmart (WMT) and chipmaker NVIDIA (NVDA) boosted investor sentiment. The market benchmark ended Friday's session at 5,088.80, its highest closing level on record. The index is now up 5% for the month and up 6.7% for the year to date.

February 20, 2024

Week in Review: Feb.12.2024 - Feb.16.2024

The S&P 500 index slipped 0.4% last week, ending a winning streak amid mixed economic data and quarterly results. Although the index set new record closes on Monday and Thursday, the 0.5% loss on Friday took it below the week-earlier close ending at 5,005.57, down from the previous week's closing level of 5,026.61. Despite the minor pullback, the index is still up 4.9% for the year to date.

February 12, 2024

Week in Review: Feb.5.2024 - Feb.9.2024

‍The S&P 500 index closed above the 5,000 level for the first time, rising 1.4% last week to a fresh record, as a round of better-than-expected quarterly results boosted investor sentiment. The market benchmark ended the week at 5,026.61 and hit a fresh intraday high on Friday at 5,030.06. The S&P 500 has risen for five straight weeks and is now up 5.4% in 2024.

February 12, 2024

February Market Perspectives & WYNTK

The bull market for US stocks that began in October 2022 was re-confirmed on January 19th when the S&P 500 closed and made a new all-time intraday high. For investors, this has been a long-time coming dating back to the very first day of 2022. Since then, 512 trading days have passed since we have been able to celebrate this milestone. Enjoy the read. AP

February 5, 2024

Week in Review: Jan.29.2024 - Feb.2.2024

‍The S&P 500 index rose 1.4% last week to fresh ATH boosted by better-than-expected monthly jobs data and quarterly corporate earnings marking the benchmarks fourth consecutive week of gains. The index also reached a new intraday high on Friday at 4,963.99, surpassing its prior intraday record reached on Tuesday at 4,931.09.

January 29, 2024

Week in Review: Jan.22.2024 - Jan.26.2024

The S&P 500 index rose for a third consecutive week as the first reading of Q4 economic growth came in stronger than expected and some earnings topped estimates ending Friday's session at 4,890.97. The market benchmark is now up 2.5% for the month and year-to-date.

January 22, 2024

Week in Review: Jan.15.2024 - Jan.19.2024

‍The S&P 500 rose 1.2% last week to, YES, ALL TIME HIGHS, amid strong gains in the technology sector and a bullish outlook from a chip-industry bellwether. The index ended Friday's session at 4,839.81 after reaching an all-time intraday high of 4,842.07, surpassing its prior record reached two years ago (512 days for those counting) of 4,818.62. The previous record close, reached in January 2022, was 4,796.56.

January 15, 2024

Week in Review: Jan.8.2024 - Jan.12.2024

‍The S&P 500 index rose 1.8% last week, erasing the previous week's decline and putting the market benchmark into positive territory for the new year to date. The S&P 500 ended Friday's session at 4,783.83, up from last Friday's closing level of 4,697.24. It is now up 0.3% for the month and year to date following a healthy jump in 2023.

January 15, 2024

2024 Market Outlook ‘Uncovering the Potholes & Express Lanes of the Journey’

After bouncing beautifully off the autumn mini correction, the fourth quarter of 2023 felt the effects of optimism kick in as inflation continued to show signs of cooling and central bankers signalled not only a pause but opened the door for rate cuts in 2024. Let's uncover what we see for financial markets as we head into 2024.

January 9, 2024

December & Year-End 2023 Market Perspectives

After an awful year like 2022 – you either get a bounce-back recovery, or the misery continues. Luckily, 2023 was the former. Recession fears slowly faded as inflation cooled and central bankers toned down their hawkish tone on rates. As a result, treasury yields fell off a cliff, resulting in both the stock and bond markets rejoicing. 2023 was the recovery we envisionned and perhaps the goldilocks scenario will play out.

January 8, 2024

Week in Review: Jan.1.2024 - Jan.5.2024

A‍fter 9 consecutive weeks, the winning streak on the S&P 500 was snapped as the index slipped 1.5% during the holiday shortened week marking a bumpy start to the new year. The market benchmark ended Friday's session at 4,697.24. Perhaps some profit taking and rebalancing as investors weigh the Feds next move.

December 18, 2023

Week in Review: Dec.11.2023 - Dec.15.2023

Marking its longest winning streak since 2017, the S&P 500 made positive gains for the 7th consecutive week that was highlighted by the Federal Reserve which held its monetary policy steady and indicated rate cuts for next year. The benchmark equity index ended Friday's session at 4,719.19, . This Santa Claus Rally  should help make Christmas gatherings more light-hearted in comparison to last year!

December 11, 2023

Week in Review: Dec.4.2023 - Dec.8.2023

‍The S&P 500 rose for the sixth straight week, the longest rally since November 2019, as markets parsed hotter-than-projected November jobs data and awaited this week's key Federal Reserve meeting and inflation reports. The benchmark equity index ended Friday's session at 4,604.37, up from the previous week's close of 4,594.63. 

December 11, 2023

December Market Perspective and WYNTK

It’s incredible what a difference a few months can have on investors’ mentalities and sentiment. With the extreme perceived negativity, one thing investors didn’t see coming was a historical rally across equity and bond markets that would develop through the month of November as the S&P 500 notched its 18th largest monthly advance dating back to 1950. What a Rally!

December 4, 2023

Week in Review: Nov.27.2023 - Dec.1.2023

‍The S&P 500 rose for a fifth consecutive week as the index rose 0.8% last week after the market benchmark concluded its strongest month, with an 8.9% jump, in more than a year! The S&P 500 ended Friday's session at 4,594.63 which marks the highest closing level of 2023. The S&P 500 is now beginning the final month of the year with a year-to-date gain of almost 20%.

November 27, 2023

Week in Review: Nov.20.2023 - Nov.24.2023

During the shortened, holiday trading week in the U.S., the S&P 500 index rose just over 1% last week, extending the market benchmark's winning streak to a 4th week. The S&P 500 ended the week at 4,559.34 and continues to be on track for its largest monthly gain this year if it can sustain the climb through the end of the month.

November 20, 2023

Week in Review: Nov.13.2023 - Nov.17.2023

Extending the benchmarks winning streak, the S&P 500 index rose 2.2% last week, as investors were encouraged by cooler-than-expected October inflation data and stronger-than-expected quarterly results from some retailers. The index is now up 8.7% for the month of November, putting the S&P 500 on track for its largest monthly gain this year if it can sustain the climb through the end of the month.

November 14, 2023

November Market Perspectives

Global equity markets fell over October as geopolitical tensions, relatively weak economic data and the possibility of higher-for-longer interest rates weighed on investor sentiment. Inflation continued to show signs of easing in October, which prompted central banks to hold steady. Not to worry, we have good reason to believe equity markets will rally into the end of the year. Read on.

November 13, 2023

Week in Review: Nov.6.2023 -Nov.10.2023

The S&P 500 index rose 1.3% last week, led by the technology and communication services sectors. The market benchmark ended Friday's session at 4,415.24 and is now up 15% for the year to date. Comments by Fed Reserve Chair Powell and a weaker-than-expected October jobs report have helped ease investor worries about rate policy and has been a big contributor to the recent relief rally.

November 6, 2023

Week in Review: Oct.30.2023 -Nov.3.2023

‍The S&P 500 index climbed 5.9% last week, the market benchmark's largest weekly increase of the year, as comments by Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell and a weaker-than-expected October jobs report helped ease investor worries about future rate policy. The S&P 500 ended the week at 4,358.34, up from last Friday's closing level of 4,117.37. 

October 30, 2023

Week in Review: Oct.23.2023 - Oct.27.2023

The S&P 500 fell 2.5% last week, sending the index into correction territory as a broad decline led by communication services and energy sent the benchmark more than 10% below its July 31 closing high. The market benchmark ended Friday's session at 4,117.37, down from last Friday's closing level of 4,224.16. 

October 23, 2023

Week in Review: Oct.16.2023 - Oct.20.2023

‍The S&P 500 index fell 2.4% last week, ending its October weekly winning streak as comments by Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell raised investors' concerns about rate policy. The S&P 500 ended the week at 4,224.16, down from last Friday's closing level of 4,327.78. This week will be packed with Q3 earnings reports from a number of heavyweight companies.

October 16, 2023

Week in Review: Oct.9.2023 - Oct.13.2023

‍The S&P 500 index edged up 0.45% last week, its second consecutive weekly gain, as big banks began the Q3 reporting season on a positive note. Investors and markets seem to be in a tug of war weighing a resilient economy against persistent inflation and Middle East turmoil. The index is now up 0.9% in October and almost 13% this year.

October 10, 2023

October Market Perspectives and WYNTK

Volatility was the story of Q3 as equity markets trended higher in July, stalled out in August, before pulling back in September, ultimately, leading to minor losses virtually across the board for the period. With that being said, year-to-date we are still nicely in positive territory and we remain on track for the recovery we envisioned as the year commenced. 

October 9, 2023

Week in Review: Oct.2.2023 - Oct.6.2023

The S&P 500 index edged up 0.5% last week, starting the new month and quarter on a slightly more positive snapping four consecutive weeks of losses. The market benchmark ended Friday's session at 4,308.50, up from last Friday's closing level of 4,288.05. Despite the recent struggles, the index is still in positive territory on the year, +12%. This week it will be all eyes on the CPI data being released on Thursday.

October 2, 2023

Week in Review: Sep.25.2023 - Sep.29.2023

The S&P 500 index fell 0.7% last week, capping September trading with the market benchmark's largest monthly loss since December 2022 and its first quarterly loss in a year amid rate policy worries. The S&P 500 ended Friday's session at 4,288.05, down from last week's closing level of 4,320.06. This marks its 4th consecutive week in the red, putting its September return at a 4.77% loss.

September 25, 2023

Week in Review: Sep.18.2023 - Sep.22.2023

‍The September slump continued last week as the S&P 500 index fell 2.9% last week, as a boost to the Federal Open Market Committee's median rate outlook for 2024 and 2025 added to investors' rate policy worries. The market benchmark is now down 4.2% for the month to date. However, the S&P 500 is still solidly in positive territory for 2023.

September 18, 2023

September Market Perspectives and WYNTK

After several months of strength, equity markets were more hesitant in August. Whether we are already there or not, we are getting close to the end of the rates hiking cycle in North America. Transition periods always come with volatility. Markets will be looking for more visibility on the delayed impact of the hikes that have occurred but also on what it will take for central banks to begin reversing course. 

September 18, 2023

Week in Review: Sep.11.2023 - Sep.15.2023

‍The S&P 500 index edged down 0.2% last week, ending the week nearly flat as losses in the technology, industrial and materials sectors managed to slightly outweigh gains across all other sectors. The week's slight move came as investors digested data showing annual consumer inflation accelerated at a faster pace than expected in August and producer prices rose more than projected.

September 11, 2023

Week in Review: Sep.4.2023 - Sep.8.2023

The S&P 500 index fell 1.3% last week as interest-rate concerns weighed on investor sentiment. The market benchmark ended Friday's session at 4,457.49, down from last Friday's closing level of 4,515.77. The weekly move came in just four sessions as the US market was closed on Monday for the Labor Day.

September 5, 2023

Week in Review: Aug.28.2023 - Sep.1.2023

‍The S&P 500 ticked up for the second consecutive week helping to pair some of the losses from earlier in the month. All of the major US stock indices ended the week with a broad rally, fueled by investors’ optimism regarding jobs data that signaled the Federal Reserve is close to ending its tightening cycle. The S&P 500 ended Friday's session at 4,515.77, up from the previous week's close of 4,405.71.

August 28, 2023

Week in Review: Aug.21.2023 - Aug.25.2023

The S&P 500 rebounded this week after three straight losses as traders assess the latest remarks by Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell and anticipate official jobs data for August due next Friday. The benchmark index ended Friday's session at 4,405.71, up from last week's close of 4,369.71.

August 21, 2023

Week in Review: Aug.14.2023 - Aug.18.2023

The S&P 500 index fell 2.1% last week, extending the market benchmark's losing streak to a third consecutive week as bond yields climbed to highs not seen in years. The U.S. benchmark ended Friday's session at 4,369.71, down from last Friday's closing level of 4,464.05. Although the index is down 4.8% for the month it is still solidly in positive territory for the year, +14%.

August 14, 2023

Week in Review: Aug.7.2023 - Aug.11.2023

‍The S&P 500 index fell slightly, losing 0.3%, this week as data showed US consumer prices rose modestly in July and the tech and materials sectors lost ground. The index is now down 2.7% for the month of August so far but still solidly in positive territory for 2023 with a year-to-date gain of 16%.

August 10, 2023

August Market Perspectives and WYNTK

Stock markets across the board continued to perform well in July, as the wall of rate hikes seems to be successfully curbing inflation without overshadowing economic growth. Read on as we discuss the economy and financial markets in July and discuss some topical viewpoints.

August 7, 2023

Week in Review: July 31.2023 - Aug.4.2023

The S&P 500 index fell 2.3% last week, starting August on a negative note as Fitch Rating downgraded its credit rating on the US to one notch below the top AAA grade, citing an "erosion of governance," and July nonfarm payrolls missed expectations.

July 31, 2023

Week in Review: July 24.2023 - July 28.2023

The S&P 500 index rose 1.0% this week, led by the communication services sector, amid stronger-than-expected Q2 earnings while US economic growth for Q2 also surpassed expectations. The market benchmark ended the week at 4,582.23, up from last Friday's close of 4,536.34. The S&P 500 is now up 3% for July and is up 19% YTD.

July 24, 2023

Week in Review: July 17.2023 - July 21.2023

‍The S&P 500 index rose 0.7% this week, led by the energy, health care and financial sectors as Q2 earnings reports came in mostly above analysts' estimates. The market benchmark ended the week at 4,536.34, up from last Friday's closing price of 4,505.42. The index is now up 1.9% for the month to date and up 18% YTD

July 18, 2023

Q2 & July Market Perspectives

The 2023 recovery continued in June as the highly anticipated ‘Midterm Miracle’ delivered again! Read on as we discuss the monthly market developments and highlight what I believe should be the focus for investors as we move into the back half of the year.

July 17, 2023

Week in Review: July 10.2023 - July 14.2023

‍The S&P 500 rebounded this week amid growing signs that inflation was easing ahead of the Federal Reserve's next interest-rate decision scheduled for later this month, while JPMorgan Chase (JPM) and Wells Fargo's (WFC) Q2 results topped Wall Street's views. The benchmark index rose 2.4% to 4,505.42 from last week's close of 4,398.95.

July 10, 2023

Week in Review: July 3.2023 - July 7.2023

‍The S&P 500 index slipped 1.2% in the first week of 2023's second half as minutes from the latest Federal Open Market Committee meeting and mixed June Jobs data kept a July rate increase on the table. The market benchmark ended Friday's session at 4,398.95.

July 3, 2023

Week in Review: June 26.2023 - June 30.2023

‍The S&P 500 index rose 2.3% last week, boosting the market benchmark's June increase to 6.5% as investors were encouraged by data showing stronger-than-expected US economic growth and lower-than-expected weekly jobless claims. The S&P 500 ended Friday's session at 4,450.38, up from last Friday's closing level of 4,348.33. It reached a fresh 52-week intraday high on Friday at 4,458.48.

June 26, 2023

Week in Review: June 19.2023 - June 23.2023

‍The S&P 500 index shed 1.4% this week as Federal Reserve officials indicated more interest rate increases ahead despite the central bank's recent decision to hold rates steady.The market benchmark ended Friday's session at 4,348.33, down from the previous week's close of 4,409.59. Despite the weekly decline, the index is still up 4% in June and 13% this year.

June 19, 2023

Week in Review: June 12.2023 - June 16.2023

‍The S&P 500 index rose 2.6% this week and reached fresh 52-week highs amid stronger-than-expected retail sales and as Federal Reserve officials opted not to raise interest rates for the first time in 11 policy meetings.The market benchmark closed Friday's session at 4,409.59, up from last week's close of 4,298.86.

June 12, 2023

Week in Review: June 5.2023 - June 9.2023

The S&P 500 index notched a fourth consecutive weekly gain on an improved economic growth outlook as investors look forward to the consumer inflation report and the Federal Reserve's policy decision due next week. The benchmark index ended Friday's session at 4,298.86, up 0.4% from last Friday's closing level of 4,282.37. 

June 7, 2023

June Market Perspectives

Read on as I recap the month of May in financial markets, discuss the breadth of the rally in the S&P 500, and what this means for investors. While there are several reasons to think stocks can end the year higher than where they are now, we recognize the risks in the short-term. 

June 5, 2023

Week in Review: May 29.2023 - June 2.2023

‍The S&P 500 posted a 3rd straight weekly gain as the US Senate passed a bill to increase the debt ceiling, preventing a potential default, and markets evaluated a hotter-than-expected May jobs report. The benchmark index ended Friday's session at 4,282.37, up 1.8% from last Friday's closing level of 4,205.45. All sectors notched gains for the week.

May 29, 2023

Week in Review: May 22.2023 - May 26.2023

US stocks closed higher on Friday as progress was made in talks to raise the US debt ceiling, while chip stocks jumped for the second day amid optimism about artificial intelligence. The S&P 500 index closed up narrowly higher on the week, 0.32% at 4,205.46 points.

May 22, 2023

Week in Review: May 15.2023 - May 19.2023

‍The S&P 500 index rose 1.6% this week as gains led by the technology, communication services and consumer discretionary sectors brought the market benchmark to a fresh 2023 high. The climb came amid encouraging guidance from some companies and hopes that Congress will reach an agreement on the US debt ceiling soon.

May 17, 2023

May Market Perspectives

Despite lingering uncertainty, markets remained relatively quiet in April, with most assets and indices closing the period slightly positive. After a little more than a year of rate hikes and roller coaster rides for investors - U.S. stocks and bonds are essentially at the same levels as they were a year ago. Now, a turning point seems to be looming as the Fed is visibly preparing to a call a time-out on hikes

May 15, 2023

Week in Review: May 8.2023 - May 12.2023

The S&P 500 index edged down 0.3% this week as investors weighed concerns about the US debt ceiling against data indicating inflation may be slowing. The market benchmark ended Friday's session at 4,124.08, down from last week's closing level of 4,136.25. The index is now up 7.4% for the year to date.

May 8, 2023

Week in Review: May 1.2023 - May 5.2023

‍The S&P 500 closed lower despite ending on a strong note with an assist from Apple (AAPL) as mounting pressure on the banking system and a hawkish Federal Reserve continued to overpower a late-week rally. The benchmark index closed 0.8% lower at 4,136.25 from last week's close of 4,169.48 with nine of the 11 sectors negative for the week.

May 1, 2023

Week in Review: Apr.24.2023 - Apr.28.2023

The S&P 500 index edged up 0.9% this week as stronger-than-expected quarterly earnings boosted the communication services and technology sectors and helped the market benchmark end April with a monthly increase of 1.5% and is now up 8.6% for the year.

April 24, 2023

Week in Review: Apr.17.2023 - Apr.21.2023

‍The S&P 500 index slipped 0.1% this week despite many companies posting Q1 earnings beats, as some weaker-than-expected guidance and executives' warnings of expected challenges weighed on investor sentiment.The market benchmark ended the week at 4,133.52, down from last Friday's closing level of 4,137.64; it is now up 0.6% for April and up 7.7% for 2023.

April 18, 2023

April Market Perspectives

Investors had lots to cheer by the end of Q1 as stocks rallied, bond yields fell, central bank hiking slowed and inflation cooled again. It’s a promising start to 2023 but there were a few shocks along a way.

April 17, 2023

Week in Review: Apr.10.2023 - Apr.14.2023

‍The S&P 500 index rose 0.8% this week amid a strong start to Q1 bank earnings and milder-than-expected US consumer and producer price data.The market benchmark ended Friday's session at 4,137.64, up from last week's closing level of 4,105.02. The index is now up 0.7% for the month of April and up 7.8% for the year to date.

April 10, 2023

Week in Review: Apr.3.2023 - Apr.7.2023

‍The S&P 500 index shed 0.1% last week as investors began the new month and quarter on a cautious note amid weaker-than-expected private-sector job gains for March, but gains led by utilities and health care helped minimize the overall drop.

April 3, 2023

Week in Review: Mar.27.2023 - Mar.31.2023

‍The S&P 500 closed in the green for a third straight week amid easing pressures on the banking sector coupled with rising energy prices.The index closed 3.5% higher at 4,109.31 from last week's level of 3,970.99 with every sector in positive territory. For the month of March, the index increased more than 3% led by gains in the technology and communication sectors.

March 27, 2023

Week in Review: Mar.20.2023 - Mar.24.2023

The S&P 500 index rose 1.4% last week, led by the communication services and energy sectors, as comments from the Federal Reserve's Federal Open Market Committee sparked hopes for a slower pace of rate increases.

March 20, 2023

Week in Review: Mar.13.2023 - Mar.17.2023

‍The S&P 500 index rose 1.4% last week, recovering some but not all of last week's tumble, as some investors saw the recent stock market declines as presenting buying opportunities while a show of support among big banks for First Republic Bank (FRC) also provided some relief.

March 13, 2023

Week in Review: Mar.6.2023 - Mar.10.2023

The S&P 500 index fell 4.5% last week as a larger-than-expected rise in February jobs added to rate worries while investors also were spooked by the collapse of SVB Financial Group's (SIVB) Silicon Valley Bank.

March 10, 2023

March Market Perspectives

Investors hoping for a less volatile experience in 2023 were reminded in February that ‘hope is not an investment strategy’. Read on as I discuss the economy, financial markets and take a deep dive on topics that aren't widely discussed that should help keep long term investors optimistic moving forward.

March 6, 2023

Week in Review: Feb.27.2023 - Mar.3.2023

‍The S&P 500 index rose 1.9% last week, led by the materials sector, as investors were encouraged by stronger-than-expected services sector data and a Fed official's comments supporting a "slow and steady" approach to monetary policy.

February 27, 2023

Week in Review: Feb.20.2023 - Feb.24.2023

‍The S&P 500 extended its losing streak to a third consecutive week as heightened concerns surrounding the Federal Reserve's campaign against inflation and its effect on the economy weighed on Wall Street.

February 20, 2023

Week in Review: Feb.13.2023 - Feb.17.2023

The market benchmark ended Friday's session at 4,079.09, down from last week's closing level of 4,090.46. The index is almost flat for the month with a February-to-date gain of almost 0.1%. It's up 6.2% for the year to date.The slim movement for the week came as data showed the producer price index rose 0.7% last month, surpassing the consensus estimate. 

February 13, 2023

Week in Review: Feb.6.2023 - Feb.10.2023

The S&P 500 index fell 1.1% last week, with the communication services sector leading a broad decline as Q4 earnings continued to come in mixed and rate concerns persisted. The market benchmark ended Friday's session at 4,090.46, down from last Friday's closing level of 4,136.48. It is still up 6.5% for the year-to-date.

February 10, 2023

January "Market Perspectives"

What a start to the year! Equity markets across the board finished the month of January strongly in the black, and so did bonds. Read on as we recap financial markets in January and address topics that are likely on your mind

January 17, 2023

2023 Market Outlook

Notwithstanding December weakness, Q4 brought some relief from 2022’s troubles with some reasonably healthy returns for global equities which also extend the long history of post-midterm positivity that I wrote extensively about last year. It remains too soon to know if the bear market has ended. Time will tell as turning points are impossible to predict and are only clear in hindsight. 

January 9, 2023

Invasion, Inflation, Recession? 2022 in Charts

The Russian invasion of Ukraine, record inflation, potential recession on the horizon – it’s fair to say that 2022 was challenging on many fronts. For investors, this context has resulted in pullbacks for both stocks and bonds in the first half of the year, followed by a six-month period of ups and downs with no clear direction.

December 13, 2022

December Market Perspectives

The correlation of returns with Presidential election cycles, coupled with seasonality & the historical pattern of market action following a 25% market decline introduces compelling arguments for adding risk to your portfolio. While there will be bumps in the road and volatility may be heightened, the historical evidence supports an attractive outlook for stocks and other risk assets as we move into 2023

November 3, 2022

October Market Update - WYNTK

After a trying month in September, investors’ risk appetite strengthened in October, with equity markets in large part beginning the 4th quarter with a sharp rebound. Moving forward, with the US Midterms approaching next week does this play a role in investment markets? History would show that markets love political gridlock.

October 12, 2022

Market Update - WYNTK

While there may be continued short-term volatility and additional downside risk, it’s impossible to time the bottom. The good news is the consensus across the board is we have more clarity today than we did 6-8 months ago and in turn I am much more positive than at any time in 2022. 

October 11, 2022

Market Update Webinar w/ Kevin Headland

On October 11th I had the pleasure to have Kevin Headland join me on an interactive market update webinar with clients. The information was so insightful I felt compelled to share it with everyone! Check it out as Kevin discusses the 2022 Q4 Market Outlook, What to expect heading into 2023, some Potential opportunities and risks before closing out with a brief Q&A. Hope you enjoy.

September 15, 2022

September Market Update

The tug-of-war between bulls and bears continued throughout July & August, with U.S. equities initially trending higher, only to pull back towards the end of the month. All in all, it was still the more bullish investors who gained the upper hand over the hot summer months. Read on to what I think is driving today's markets.

July 7, 2022

Market Insights - Patience and Perspective

As we wrap up the first half of 2022 it has been rather turbulent, to say the least, and this time calls for patience and perspective. 

June 15, 2022

Market Perspectives

This has undoubtably been the worst start of a calendar year for both stocks and bonds in over 50 years and investors are looking for answers. The most difficult conversations have been with conservative and balanced investors as equity markets in general are down 20% YTD, but the bond market has not been the standard gatekeeper and ballast in the portfolio it has been in the past, down 12% YTD.

May 6, 2022

How to Survive a Bear Attack

Are we entering a bear market? We have four simple rules that we use as a framework during these periods of heightened volatility. They are loosely based on advice in the event one comes face to face with a bear in the wild. 

April 26, 2022

Understanding Recession Indicators

While there has been no shortage of news and internet headlines discussing the headwinds we have faced thus far such as interest rate hikes, soaring CPI, yield curves (inverting?) and the war in Ukraine, it is important to always get back to the fundamentals.

April 11, 2022

Q1 2022 Market Perspectives

Q1 has been difficult for equity and bonds markets. Discussions to begin the year surrounded ‘the pace in which global central banks’ would increase interest rates, which transitioned into the impact of the Russia-Ukraine war on risk assets and now has moved on to ‘whether the odds of a recession have increased’ spurred by the very brief inversion of the U.S. Treasury 10 – 2 year interest rate curve. 

March 8, 2022

Monthly Market Perspectives

The start of 2022 has been incredibly exhausting for investors. Oil prices are sky-rocketing & global markets are down across the board. The S&P 500 and Dow Index have entered correction territory (down -10% from peak) while the Nasdaq, Russell 2000 and European indexes have entered or are getting near bear market territory. Where do investors go from here?

March 4, 2022

Seeking Clarity in the Fog of War

Uncertainty is the name of the game; risk premiums are rising – equity markets are see-sawing on the volatile situation. Bond yields are stable, providing some risk protection to balanced investors. And other safe-haven assets like the U.S. dollar and gold are also rallying.

February 17, 2022

Quick Macro: Ukraine/Russia

How does geopolitical risk play in markets?‍ With the current news headlines circulating surrounding the possible invasion of Ukraine by Russia we have seen geopolitical tensions or issues in the past. While markets typically have a risk-off attitude they have been market disrupters and not destroyers.

February 13, 2022

Market Perspectives

What's driving market weakness? The US stock market has suffered its worst start to the year since the global financial crisis, as the threat of rising interest rates, slowing corporate earnings growth and geopolitical tensions have sent stocks tumbling across the board. 

January 11, 2022

2022 Outlook - A Mid-Cycle Market

With 2021 in the rear-view mirror, we turn our attention to the new year and capital markets as we continue to navigate through the headwinds/tailwinds 2021 and this pandemic have provided. Keeping the short-term headline noise in context, I still have reason to believe we're still in the secular bull market we have been in since 2009. 

December 9, 2021

November Market Commentary & WYNTK

Read my latest "Market Commentary" as we reflect on capital markets for the month of November and topics that are top of mind for investors including Omicron, Q3 Earnings and Monetary Policy.

November 5, 2021

U.S. Economy

Are indicators pointing boney fingers towards a scary recession? The Capital Markets Strategy Team at Manulife put together an interesting piece dissecting this topic and looking at the key indicators of a recession in the U.S.

November 4, 2021

October Capital Markets Recap

After a disappointing September, the month of October welcomed vulnerable equity investors with open arms to kick off the 4th quarter of the year. I believe the month of October had three key topics; corporate Q3 earnings season, increased talk of US recession risks, and the Bank of Canada’s very hawkish tilt. We uncover these issues in the October Monthly Market Comments.

October 8, 2021

September Market Update: Q3 Recap, Q4 & Beyond Outlook

In this month’s monthly roundup of market commentary we reflect on how financial markets performed in Q3, how September lived up to its historic reputation as being the weakest month of the year, and some interesting economic points as we move into the final quarter of 2021 and into 2022. 

September 10, 2021

Back to School Market Update

As we escape from the summer doldrums and life starts resuming back to normal I address capital markets and what you need to know as we enter into a historical volatile period.

July 20, 2021

Recent Market Volatility

After yesterday’s broad selloff here's a quick note for our valued investors to help put this into context. Although we are seeing a strong rebound today, the question remains “is the volatility expected to be more frequent ahead?”