The Federal Reserve remains in a holding pattern over interest rates after the latest FOMC meeting. Bond investors now balance the potential risks and rewards of taking on longer-duration exposures in the current environment. Short-duration bonds remain a popular haven for many investors while the yield curve stays inverted as rate risk lingers. However,...

Our global markets watchlist tracks eight prominent indexes from economies around the world. The list includes the S&P 500 from the United States, the FTSE 100 from England, the DAXK from Germany, the CAC 40 from France, the Nikkei 225 from Japan, the Shanghai from China, the Hang Seng from Hong Kong, and the BSE [...] The post World Markets Watchlist:...

Our Cash Indicator methodology acts as a plan in case of an emergency. This is analogous to the multiple safety systems in a modern automobile, which includes an airbag. Importantly, each of these systems work together to potentially help smooth the ride. We manage risk within our strategic, long-term allocations based on diversification across equity,...

Municipal bonds are known for their tax advantages and low default rates¹. Right now they have a lot to offer investors. However, that particular slice of the market is also quite complex due to the number of securities and issuers in the space representing myriad municipalities. The fact that the U.S. is in an election [...] The post Franklin’s Muni...

Once again, the received wisdom for the markets around interest rates has changed. Now, the narrative has turned to a higher for longer regime for rates after starting the year with several rate cuts on the cards. With high interest rates set to stick around, then, how should ETF investors respond? It may be time [...] The post As High Interest Rates...

Investors continue flocking to ultra-short and short-duration bonds this year on interest rate uncertainty. Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell’s latest commentary after the May FOMC meeting indicates investors would do well to buckle in for higher for longer rates looking ahead. Recent market volatility spikes on lower-than-expected first-quarter real...