The Living Market Podcast

The bond market's new reality

U.S. bonds took centre stage again this week, says Philip Petursson, Chief Investment Strategist at IG Wealth Management. This was due to President Trump’s Big Beautiful Bill, which is expected to add $3.3 trillion to the U.S. deficit over the next decade. Philip says that U.S. Treasury bonds are now considered almost as risky as Microsoft’s; he explains how we got to this unusual situation and what it means for investors. 

Do credit ratings still matter?

Philip Petursson, Chief Investment Strategist at IG Wealth Management, discusses the recent downgrade of U.S. debt by Moody’s and Fitch, and why these downgrades matter more symbolically than financially. He explains the market's reaction to past downgrades and the underlying reasons why Treasuries remain a safe haven, despite the ratings.

Trade truce brings relief for global markets

Ashish Utarid, Assistant Vice-President, Investment Strategy at IG Wealth Management delves into the recent 90-day mutual tariff reduction deal between the U.S. and China and its immediate impact on global markets. He explains how the reduction in tariffs has provided much-needed relief, leading to a surge in equities, but also cautions that deeper issues in the trade relationship remain unresolved. Ashish discusses the potential long-term implications and why investors should maintain a balanced perspective, despite the current market optimism.

Estate planning: avoiding common pitfalls

In this special edition of The Living Market, Aurèle Courcelles Vice-President, Tax and Estate Planning at IG Wealth Management and Dan Britton, Assistant Vice-President, Tax and Estate Planning at IG Wealth Management, discuss the key elements of a comprehensive estate plan and why it's crucial for Canadians. They explore the common misconceptions about estate planning, the importance of having a will and the potential pitfalls of not considering joint ownership and beneficiary designations. Dan also provides practical advice on how to get started with estate planning and the critical role of communication with your chosen executor.

From drop to pop: what’s driving the market rally?

Ashish Utarid, Assistant Vice-President, Investment Strategy at IG Wealth Management, discusses the recent market turnaround and the shift in sentiment from negative to positive. He explains why this positive stance is more about technical factors and market structure, rather than improved fundamentals. Ashish also explores the potential tailwinds and underlying risks, including the impact of trade tensions on the real economy.

What’s next for Canadian investors after the election?

Philip Petursson, Chief Investment Strategist at IG Wealth Management, discusses the implications of the election on the Canadian market and currency. He explores the potential impacts on trade policy, energy and resources, and fiscal measures, and explains why the election results are likely to bring more stability and less uncertainty for investors.

What’s driving the Canadian dollar’s strength?

Philip Petursson, Chief Investment Strategist at IG Wealth Management discusses the unexpected strengthening of the Canadian dollar. He explores the conflicting narratives driving this trend, from the U.S. Federal Reserve’s potential rate cuts to the broader implications of U.S. political policies, and what it all means for investors.

When doing nothing is the smartest move

 
The Bank of Canada gave us no hike, no cut and no forecasts for growth or inflation, says Philip Petursson, Chief Investment Strategist at IG Wealth Management. He says the bank’s recent decision to stand firm at 2.75% reflects a cautious “wait and see” approach in the face of global and domestic uncertainties. Philip delves into the bank's well-balanced statement, the clashing forces of economic slowdown and tariff-driven cost increases, and why staying put might be the best strategy in such a volatile environment.

When should we lean into volatility?

This is a very different environment compared to other historical periods of volatility, says IG Wealth Management’s Chief Investment Strategist, Philip Petursson. This one was caused by political policy, rather than a financial shock, so it should be temporary. If that’s the case, how do we know when to jump back into equities? Philip outlines three pieces of market data (including the CBOE Volatility Index, elevated one- and two-day drops in market value, and investor pessimism) that suggest that now may be the time to capitalize on lower equity prices. 

Is this the end of U.S. exceptionalism?

For nearly 15 years, the U.S. stock market has been the standout performer, but is that about to change? Philip Petursson, Chief Investment Strategist at IG Wealth Management, explores the economic implications of U.S. government deficits, the rise of European fiscal spending and the recalibration of tech giants' growth narratives. Philip discusses the potential shift in global investment trends and the opportunities in commodities and Chinese equities.