The Living Market Podcast

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.

We’re now in a correction: what next?

With the market officially in correction territory, IG Wealth Management’s Chief Investment Strategist, Philip Petursson says that the big question on most investors’ lips now is: when will the market rally begin? Philip explains what defines corrections and bear markets, and discusses the statistics that market analysts use to help them predict the timing of market recoveries. While having the odds on your side is no guarantee of winning, the CBOE Volatility Index has successfully predicted most recent market upturns.

Beyond politics: the economic effects of tariffs

IG Wealth Management’s Chief Investment Strategist, Philip Petursson delves into the economic and market implications of President Trump’s trade policies. By focusing on empirical data and practical outcomes, Philip examines how tariffs have affected consumer prices, employment, the trade deficit, and international relations. Despite the intended protective measures, the data suggests that tariffs have led to higher costs for consumers, job losses in certain sectors, and increased economic uncertainty.

The Bank of Canada's rate cut: a response to tariffs

The Bank of Canada has cut interest rates, but not for the reasons you might think, says IG Wealth Management’s Chief Investment Strategist, Philip Petursson. Governor Macklem emphasized the recent strength of the Canadian economy and labour market, making it clear that the cut was a direct response to the tariffs imposed by President Trump. Philip explores the implications of this decision and the balancing act the bank faces.

Why this madness won’t last

While the U.S.’s 25% tariffs will undoubtedly have negative impacts on both the U.S. and Canadian economies, it’s not all bad news, says IG Wealth Management’s Chief Investment Strategist, Philip Petursson. He discusses three key outcomes, including the opportunities to be had as tariff chaos knocks the markets. As Philip says, now is the time to be a hunter, not a sheep.

Navigating the Trump market: rules for resilience

In a world of constant political and market uncertainty, IG Wealth Management’s Chief Investment Strategist, Philip Petursson, revisits the rules he developed during the global financial crisis to help investors navigate today’s volatile environment. From vanquishing fear and panic to understanding the economic landscape and keeping a long-term perspective, Philip provides practical advice to stay resilient and capitalize on opportunities. Join us as we explore how to survive a Trump attack and maintain a level head in the market.

Who’s buying stocks in this environment?

The markets are up probably more than anyone expected so far this year, says Ashish Utarid, IG Wealth Management’s Assistant Vice-President, Investment Strategy. In spite of ongoing threats of trade tariffs, AI and growth stocks continue to perform well, and even last year’s worst-performing stocks are bouncing back. Ashish covers the three main reasons behind the markets’ current momentum and discusses how long we can expect to see it continue.