The year 2022 has started off painfully with equities selling off amid slowing growth prospects, Federal Reserve hinting at rate hikes, persistent inflation, and looming COVID dislocations. Even though US growth rates for 2021 were the highest since 1984, the broader equity market continues to sell off with the S&P 500 Index approaching correction territory (YTD). In tangent, the broader bond market continues to feel the convexity pains of increasing interest rates while commodity prices hit some of the highest levels since 2014. Market volatility remains at the forefront as markets continue to quest for equilibrium.
If you were a commodities-focused investor and had success over the last decade, iron probably had something to do with your performance. Indeed, according to this chart from S&P Global Platts below, iron ore futures "drastically" outperformed most other metals and mining equities since 2015.
If you were a commodities-focused investor and had success over the last decade, iron probably had something to do with your performance. Indeed, according to this chart from S&P Global Platts below, iron ore futures "drastically" outperformed most other metals and mining equities since 2015.
"Wipe Out" is an appropriate description of what is happening beneath the calm surface of the bull market.
As we head into the end of the year, many are hoping for "Santa to visit Broad and Wall." However, those hopes are not just about adding to this year's already excessive annual gains. Instead, for many, it's the hope to recover some brutal losses.
"Wipe Out" is an appropriate description of what is happening beneath the calm surface of the bull market.
As we head into the end of the year, many are hoping for "Santa to visit Broad and Wall." However, those hopes are not just about adding to this year's already excessive annual gains. Instead, for many, it's the hope to recover some brutal losses.
The market is disconnected from everything. Throughout history, there are correlations you would expect to hold constant between the market, consumer confidence, and the economy. Currently, after a decade of zero interest rate policy, massive amounts of liquidity, and financial supports, the market has become detached from reality.
The recent shift in tariff policies has added a layer of complexity to the economic landscape, potentially influencing market sentiment and investment decisions.
There are several powerful mega-trends happening around the world. One of these trends is happening in the financial services industry and is still a game in the early innings.