The S&P 500 hit new all-time highs again in the third quarter as investors looked past a resurgence of COVID-19 cases in the U.S. and instead focused on the positive combination of a resilient economic recovery, ongoing historic support from the Federal Reserve, and strong corporate earnings. Market volatility did pick up notably during the final few weeks of September however, reminding investors that the transition to a post-pandemic “new normal” isn’t always going to be smooth. We dig deeper into performance and outline the actions we took in McKinley Carter portfolios, plus provide our best-thinking on what's ahead.
Looking back, the S&P 500 had a strong second quarter thanks to numerous positive developments that led to a “Goldilocks” economic environment. We dig deeper into performance and outline the actions we took in McKinley Carter portfolios, plus provide an outlook for the remainder of 2021.
The first quarter of 2021 was marked by several macro- and micro-economic surprises that resulted in increased market volatility compared to the fourth quarter of 2020, but additional economic stimulus combined with accelerating COVID-19 vaccine distribution and a decline in coronavirus cases helped stocks start the new year with solid gains. Take a look back with us at the first quarter of 2021. Review what actions we took on client portfolios as market dynamics changed. And learn what we expect for this year in our 2021 economic outlook.
This is the first in a two-part series of blogs around Sustainable Investing. Here, we review the origins of Sustainable Investing and define what ESG means from a portfolio perspective.
2020 continues to be one of the most unpredictable years in memory, as markets rose to new all-time highs in the third quarter despite a resurgence in coronavirus cases, as stocks rallied thanks to a combination of an even more accommodative Fed policy, hopes for a COVID-19 vaccine, and a stronger-than-expected economic rebound, before markets declined moderately from those highs in mid-September.
Your bonds are facing challenges not seen in our lifetimes – historically low interest rates have benefitted current bondholders as their prices have risen sharply in value; but the low current rates leave bonds exposed to losses, assuming rates rise in the future. Wondering if you should sell your bonds? Here are some strategies to consider.
While 2Q2020 began with much despair and angst over COVID-19's impact on world economies, it ended with a sense of hope and optimism about global recovery.
