Insights

The investment landscape during the past couple of years has looked a bit like that of a road trip, complete with detours and bumps along the way.

One of the best examples of eternal optimism is author J.K. Rowling’s success story. Her original Harry Potter novel was rejected 12 times before it was published. Despite these setbacks, Rowling never stopped believing in her idea. She was ultimately rewarded for her perseverance, and more often than not, investors are rewarded for their optimism...

The global economy led by the U.S. continues its gradual recovery—supported by economic reopening and COVID-19 vaccine distribution. Stronger consumption is expected through 2021 fueled by consumers with excess savings and pent-up demand for goods and services...

March 23 marked the one-year anniversary of the market low brought on by the pandemic. Since then, the S&P 500 has seen its largest 12-month gain since 1936, exceeding the recovery in 2010 from the global financial crisis. Equity markets performed well through the first quarter, extending the gains made since March last year.

While that ideal bottom of the market investment opportunity has passed, we’re still optimistic about the year ahead. There’s reason to believe that the economic environment in Canada, the U.S. and internationally will be much improved from 2020.

Here’s a look at some of the issues that made their mark this quarter.

Frances Donald, Managing Director, Global Chief Economist, and Global Head of Macroeconomic Strategy explains why she believes the pandemic will play out in three stages and will accelerate macrotrends already at work.

The stock markets in 2020 have resembled riding a wild roller coaster for investors. Despite a very weak economic outlook earlier in the year due to uncertainty surrounding the coronavirus, major global stock markets have recovered most of their losses for the year.

Investing during times of economic downturn is often challenging for the fearful investor. At the same time, others may look for opportunities. But now is not the time for greed. Now is the time for calculated decision making.

The market’s negative response to health crises is nothing new. How will coronavirus impact the market and your personal finances?

Equity markets around the world are falling as investors react to the increased economic risk posed by the spread of the Coronavirus, We can’t predict risk, nor what may spur a market correction. It’s our job to manage risk.

Despite escalating trade tensions between the United States and China, Brexit uncertainty, and a slowdown in the global economy, the year progressed in an unexpectedly pleasant fashion.