HIGHLIGHTS OF THE CURRENT EDITION
Both equity and fixed income markets experienced a rather challenging start into the new year. Initially, the US central bank dominated market headlines with a sudden change in its monetary policy outlook. However, central bank politics took a backseat in late February as the war between Russia and Ukraine moved into the limelight.
The Fed gave the green light for monetary tightening in its March meeting. With the first rate hike since December 2018, Powell rolled out the red carpet for a new era of monetary policy, which outlines six more rate hikes until the end of 2022.
The conflict between Russia, Ukraine, and, indirectly, NATO has attracted all flashes this quarter. The most recent military escalation reflects a painful continuation of a bloody and bitter conflict that had started in February 2014.
There is a fair chance that the Eurozone will slide into stagflation, an economic regime marked by low growth and high inflation. However, it is essential to understand that we currently do not foresee a recession in Europe. Overall, the economic situation remains fairly solid.
In times of increased market uncertainty, a flexible asset allocation combined with asymmetric option strategies can significantly reduce market risk while preserving a portfolio’s upside potential. Thus, we highly recommend that investors employ an adaptive risk management and portfolio construction mindset.
