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IPI Market Update for the week of March 11th, 2022

Last week was pretty schizophrenic, where a highly volatile equity market churned alongside a surge higher in interest rates, a strong USD, and
weaker commodity markets (with the exception of spot nickel +44%). For the week, U.S. equity markets were down nearly 3% while developed
international markets, particularly Europe (+4.5%), held up better. U.S. Treasuries took a notable step down as interest rates moved sharply
higher across the curve while broad based weakness across the commodity spectrum was paired with a strong USD.  Click the link below to read more.

TKA 3.14.22

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What History Tells us About US Presidential Elections and the Market

Our colleagues at Dimensional Funds shared these stats with us, so we thought it a prudent time to share the information here,  on our weekly blog.

  • It’s natural for investors to look for a connection between who wins the White House and which way stocks will go. But as nearly a century of returns shows, stocks have trended upward across administrations from both parties.
  • Shareholders are investing in companies, not a political party. And companies focus on servicing their customers and growing their businesses, regardless of who in the White House.
  • US presidents may have an impact on market returns, but so do hundreds, if not thousands, of other factors – the actions of foreign leaders, a global pandemic, interest rate changes, rising and falling oil prices, and technological advances, just to name a few.
  • Stocks have rewarded disciplined investors for decades, through Democratic and Republican presidencies. It’s an important less on the benefits of a long-term investment approach. 

Continue reading “What History Tells us About US Presidential Elections and the Market”

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Turbulent Times: Bear Markets Come and Go

The longest bull market in history lasted almost 11 years before coronavirus fears and the realities of a seriously disrupted U.S. economy brought it to an end.1

Bear markets are typically defined as declines of 20% or more from the most recent high, and bull markets are sustained increases of 20% or more from the bear market low. But there is no official declaration, so often there are different interpretations and a fair amount of debate regarding when these cycles begin and end.  Continue reading “Turbulent Times: Bear Markets Come and Go”

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Coping with Market Volatility: Cash Can Help Manage Your Mindset

Cash Can Help Manage Your Mindset

Holding an appropriate amount of cash in a portfolio can be the financial equivalent of taking deep breaths to relax. It could enhance your ability to make thoughtful investment decisions instead of impulsive ones. Having a cash position coupled with a disciplined investing strategy can change your perspective on market volatility. Knowing that you’re positioned to take advantage of a downturn by picking up bargains may increase your ability to be patient.  Continue reading “Coping with Market Volatility: Cash Can Help Manage Your Mindset”

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Coping with Market Volatility: Continuing to Invest May Help You Stay on Course

Coping with Market Volatility: Continuing to Invest May Help You Stay on Course

https://www.finra.org/investors/insights/cares-act-2020-retirement-fund-access-and-student-loan-relief

In the current market environment, the value of your holdings may be fluctuating widely — and it’s natural to feel tentative about further investment. But regularly adding to an account that’s designed for a long-term goal may cushion the emotional impact of market swings. If losses are offset even in part by new savings, the bottom-line number on your statement might not be quite so discouraging. And a basic principle of investing is that buying during a down market may help your portfolio grow when the market turns upward again.  Continue reading “Coping with Market Volatility: Continuing to Invest May Help You Stay on Course”

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Coping with Market Volatility: Avoid Rash Decisions

During periods of market volatility,  avoid making investment decisions based on emotions.

If you’ve been watching the market lately, perhaps the first question on your mind is, “Should I make a big change in my investments?” In reality, a volatile market isn’t the best time to do a complete makeover of your portfolio, especially if you have long-term financial goals you’re trying to address. Even if you feel that your portfolio needs adjusting, maintaining a firm grasp on your fundamental investment strategy can help you be more thoughtful about making any changes. Continue reading “Coping with Market Volatility: Avoid Rash Decisions”