What Actually Matters For Markets During Geopolitical Shocks?

Geopolitical tensions, particularly in the Middle East, have raised new questions for investors as energy prices, inflation expectations, and interest rates respond in different ways. While headlines can drive short-term volatility, markets are ultimately reacting to how these events influence the broader economic backdrop—leading to a more nuanced and sometimes conflicting set of signals beneath the surface. In our latest Quarterly Investment Perspective, we explore how markets process geopolitical risk and what tends to matter most over time.

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Narrow Market Leadership and Higher Expectations — Are We in a Bubble?

Stock market gains have become increasingly concentrated in a small group of companies, raising questions about how sustainable today’s market leadership really is. At the same time, strong earnings, innovation, and easing financial conditions continue to support investor confidence, creating a tension between optimism and caution. In our latest Quarterly Investment Perspective, we explore whether current market dynamics reflect excess—or a more nuanced phase of the market cycle—and what it means for long-term investors.

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Why Are Investors Buying Both AI Stocks and Gold?

From artificial intelligence to gold, two very different themes are shaping investor behavior. Optimism about AI’s growth potential is driving enthusiasm for technology stocks, while concerns over rising deficits, currency debasement, and geopolitical risk are fueling renewed demand for gold. In our latest Quarterly Investment Perspective, we explore what’s behind these competing forces—and how investors can stay balanced amid shifting market sentiment.

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Quarterly Market Review — Q3 2025: Stocks Reach New Highs as Rate Cuts Begin

The third quarter saw both stocks and bonds climb as the Federal Reserve delivered its first rate cut of the year and inflation continued to moderate. In our latest Quarterly Market Review, we look at how resilient economic growth, easing monetary policy, and broadening investor optimism shaped performance—and what it all means heading into year-end.

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Q2 2025 Market Review: Stocks Rebound, Bonds Hold Steady Amid Trade Policy Volatility

Global markets delivered strong returns in the second quarter of 2025 despite a rocky start. After selling off sharply in April following the announcement of sweeping new U.S. tariffs, stocks rebounded as policy uncertainty eased. The U.S. stock market ended the quarter with a double-digit gain, while the international stock market slightly outpaced the U.S., bolstered by a sharp decline in the U.S. dollar.

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