Insights

Brexit Update

The historic milestone reached when the white smoke emerged from Brussels and London on 24 December 2020 represents the end of the beginning in the establishment of the new relationship between the UK and EU, rather than an end in itself. Nonetheless, with the lingering threat of a tumultuous no-deal exit now removed, the headwind that this represented to the performance of UK assets has now subsided.

February 2021

Are Hedge Funds at Risk from Retail-Driven Disorder in Equity Markets?

No, we do not believe that is generally the case. While the recent wild ride of a few companies’ share prices was novel in that it was coordinated by retail investors on the social media platform Reddit, the short coverings that contributed to the price spikes were all too familiar to long-time investors.

February 2021

Should Investors Be Concerned About the Degree of Concentration in US Equity Markets?

Yes, because rising concentration reflects rising valuations for the largest stocks, which are likely to serve as a headwind to index returns. Further, the growing market share of these companies increases the potential for rising regulatory oversight.

February 2021

Playing Defense in a Low-Rate Environment

Investors have predominantly relied on developed markets sovereign bonds for defense in balanced portfolios, but low rates have diminished their diversification characteristics.

January 2021

VantagePoint: Modern Portfolio Diversification

Investors are facing a challenging period for earning what they spend and achieving adequate portfolio diversification. With most DM sovereign bond yields near or below zero, expected returns for bonds are at all-time lows and diversification qualities are constrained. In this edition of VantagePoint, we evaluate defense and diversification options to identify a modern approach to diversification in this low-yield era.

January 2021

Case Study: Building an enduring partnership with entrepreneurs after the sale of their business

Over the course of 35 years, Laura and Ian Duncan turned a unique opportunity they saw in their industry into a privately owned global enterprise. As they approached their 60s, they were ready to step away from the business to focus on new pursuits, and Laura particularly wanted to devote more time to helping women […]

January 2021

Will the US Political Backdrop Be Supportive of Risk Assets in 2021?

As Joe Biden is inaugurated as the 46th president of the United States, and his party holds a majority—albeit slim—in Congress, we believe his key policy initiatives will provide a supportive backdrop for risk assets in 2021.

January 2021

Healthcare Systems: Recalibrating for 2021 and Beyond

Healthcare systems appear to have navigated the most severe financial impact of the pandemic. We believe the present time provides an opportunity to reset investment strategy and recalibrate portfolios as necessary.

January 2021