The financial markets have been on a rollercoaster ride since the end of summer, as investors grapple with the rapid repricing of government bonds. This shift has been driven by a fundamental reassessment of expectations regarding interest rates and inflation in the current economic environment. The landscape of investing is changing, and it’s becoming increasingly clear that we are entering a world that is different from what we’ve grown accustomed to. In this blog post, we will explore the changing dynamics of bond yields, equities, and alternatives in this new investment landscape.
One of the key shifts in the bond market has been the divergence between short and long-dated bonds. Long-dated gilts, typically seen as a safe haven in times of recession, are losing their appeal. According to Philip Collins, Chief Investment Officer at Sarasin, this is because there is less expectation of a severe economic downturn, and holding cash, with its 5% yield, is now more attractive.
Chris Iggo, Chief Investment Officer for core investments at Axa Investment Managers, points out that the bond market’s recent volatility is largely due to the transition from a period where bonds yielded very little to a new era where bond yields are more attractive. This change is driven by factors such as high bond issuance and concerns about inflation. The challenge lies in understanding where inflation will ultimately settle and determining the neutral rate of interest.
The equity market has not been immune to these changes. The U.S. economy has outperformed the rest of the world, but there is scepticism about whether this trend can continue. Guy Miller, Chief Market Strategist at Zurich, suggests that the Federal Reserve may continue raising rates, potentially impacting corporate earnings. The gains in the S&P 500 have been driven by a handful of stocks, and as rates rise, the broader market may face challenges.
On the other hand, Dean Cook, a multi-asset investor at Aviva Investors, sees potential in Japanese equities. He believes that corporate reforms in Japan, fuelled by inflation and higher bond yields, are creating opportunities for investors.
In a world with higher interest rates, it is crucial to make informed investment choices. Chris Iggo suggests avoiding companies with high levels of debt or those that require constant capital injections. Technology companies, with their self-sustaining nature, become attractive options. Conversely, mining companies often require periodic capital infusions to develop new mines, making them less appealing in this environment.
Amid these shifts, the role of alternative investments becomes increasingly important. Vincent McEntegart at Aegon has reduced his alternatives exposure as bond yields have risen, moving back into fixed income investments. He notes that many alternative investment trusts carry high levels of debt, making them less attractive as interest costs rise.
David Storm, Chief Investment Officer at RBC Wealth Management, emphasizes the importance of maintaining some exposure to alternatives. These investments can provide true portfolio diversification independent of interest rate movements. Diversification is particularly valuable during periods of heightened uncertainty.
The investment landscape is evolving rapidly, with bond yields, equities, and alternative investments all responding to changing economic conditions. As we move into a world of higher interest rates, it is crucial for investors to adapt their strategies to navigate this new environment. Whether it’s reassessing the appeal of traditional assets like long-dated bonds, finding opportunities in specific equities markets, or revaluating the role of alternative investments, staying informed and adaptable is key to making wise investment decisions in these dynamic times.
(Source: FT)