The Living Market Podcast

Are we missing the bigger picture?

It’s easy for market participants to get obsessed with tiny details, says IG Wealth Management’s Chief Investment Strategist, Philip Petursson. Right now, it’s an obsession with the U.S. Federal Reserve’s next move on cutting rates, which would require an acceptance that the economy is weakening. At the same time, however, markets expect earnings to grow by 10% over the next 12 months, suggesting a strong economy. Given this paradox, Philip says that now is the time to step back from the minute details and focus on what is currently crucial for investment portfolios.

How a carry trade works and why it’s causing such volatility

On Monday, Japan’s Nikkei index saw its worst two-day drop ever, having reached an all-time high just three weeks ago, says Ashish Utarid, Assistant Vice-President, Investment Strategy. While several factors were in play, one in particular seemed to spark this extreme volatility: the carry trade. Ashish explains how a carry trade works, how it’s at risk from currency fluctuations and what you can do to help protect your portfolio from this kind of volatility.

Is the Fed making a policy mistake?

The U.S. Federal Reserve has decided to stay put and follow market expectations by not cutting rates. However, by changing its statement, the Fed set expectations for a September cut, saying that job gains have moderated and that inflation was now only “somewhat elevated.” Ashish Utarid, IG Wealth Management’s Assistant Vice-President of Investment Strategy, asks, “Will the Fed’s eventual rate cut come too late?”

A pivot from inflation-fighting to economic support

Having just announced a second interest rate cut that quickly followed the first, what’s next for the Bank of Canada? asks IG Wealth Management’s Chief Investment Strategist, Philip Petursson. The bank has clearly switched its priorities from fighting inflation (a battle it has surely won) to supporting the Canadian economy. Philip discusses the probable rate cuts ahead, the likely timing for the U.S. Federal Reserve to start following Canada’s lead, and what this will all mean to consumers and the economy.

Is the big companies’ overperformance a problem?

Some commentators are worried about a market recovery where most gains are coming from a small percentage of companies, says IG Wealth Management’s Chief Investment Strategist, Philip Petursson. There is a fear that many of these large companies are very expensive, with overly high expectations. However, Philip explains that in this weird bull market — where most companies have underperformed so far — if the big companies start seeing a correction, another sector will be ready to step in to take its place.

Labour: the currency that keeps the world spinning

Labour has been traded for food, shelter and clothing for thousands of years, says IG Wealth Management’s Chief Investment Strategist, Philip Petursson. It’s the currency that keeps the world spinning and plays an important role in our understanding of the economic landscape. Philip explains why the most recent labour statistics raised some eyebrows and what they mean for the economy and your investments.

The challenges and opportunities of in-between seasons

The economy can be similar to those moments in-between old and new seasons, says Ashish Utarid, AVP, Investment Strategy at IG Wealth Management. Similar to how the transition from spring to summer can bring hot days followed by cooler periods, the economy can also show signs of this dual nature, with some sectors thriving far more than others. Ashish says that these moments can deliver hidden gems, and it’s crucial to position your portfolio to benefit from the unique opportunities available.  

How equities help fight inflation

Inflation increased slightly in May, to 2.9%. Not only is this disappointing, but it also suggests that it will be a long road ahead to getting inflation down to 2%, says IG Wealth Management’s Chief Investment Strategist, Philip Petursson. He explains why bonds are not the answer to counteracting the effects of inflation, and how, historically, equities have been effective in growing your money’s value when inflation is high.

Has the market gone too far, too fast?

While U.S. equities are flirting with all-time highs, there is some concern that they may be hitting a peak, says IG Wealth Management’s Chief Investment Strategist, Philip Petursson. Has the market gone too far, too fast? Philip outlines the telltale signs to watch out for that typically signal when a bull market is running out of steam. These include the yield curve, manufacturing activity, employment levels and stock price value. He also answers the question: is it better to sell early or late when the market is peaking?

Optimistically cautious: our look ahead

Macroeconomic data is mixed across the board, says IG Wealth Management’s Chief Investment Strategist, Philip Petursson. Consumer spending is inconsistent, and unemployment is rising, yet company earnings are still growing. Philip discusses the kinds of companies and sectors that are likely to do well in this environment and makes suggestions for how you can help make sure your portfolio is well-positioned for what’s in store.