24 January, 2023

The Outlook Remains Uncertain

In his Q4 update, Wayne Gillespie offers his perspectives on a tough year in the markets and why he is optimistic about a recovery in 2023.

 

"Economic shocks are still rippling through global economies, meaning that any forecasts for 2023 are going to remain uncertain."

Here are a few highlights:

  • The most aggressive monetary tightening cycle in decades shook global markets in 2022 on concerns that central bank efforts to rein in inflation will cause a recession.
  • He sees three factors that continue to weigh on the markets: Continued rate increases, a slowing global economy, and elevated stock valuations.
  • A strengthening of core bond holdings has occurred. After a period where bonds failed to provide meaningful diversification, a modest increase in duration through higher-quality investment grade issues and a reduced exposure to high-yield debt appear justified.
  • Economic shocks are still rippling through the global economy meaning any forecasts for 2023 remains uncertain.
  • Accordingly, we are maintaining an underweight position in equities and overweight fixed income. We are lowering our short-term bond exposure to add duration.
  • We expect an opportunity to increase equity exposure within the next 6-8 months.
  • The recent deceleration in interest rate increases suggests there's now light at the end of the tunnel in 2023.