As 2019 approaches, and with US stocks outperforming non-US stocks in recent years, some investors have again turned their attention towards the role that global diversification plays in their portfolios. For the five-year period ending October 31, 2018, the S&P 500 Index had an annualized return of 11.34% while the MSCI World ex USA Index returned 1.86%, and the MSCI Emerging Markets Index returned 0.78%. As US stocks have outperformed international and emerging markets stocks over the last … [Read more...] about Why Should You Diversify?
The Flat-Out Truth
Bond yields change as markets digest news and events around the world, which also causes yield curves to move and change shape over time. What is a yield curve, and why are stock investors interested in its shape? A yield curve gives a snapshot of how yields vary across bonds of similar credit quality, but different maturities, at a specific point in time. For example, the US Treasury yield curve indicates the yields of US Treasury bonds across a range of maturities. Bond yields change as … [Read more...] about The Flat-Out Truth
Midterm Elections: What Do They Mean for Markets?
While surprises can and do happen in elections, the surprises don't always lead to clear-cut outcomes for investors. It's almost Election Day in the US once again. For those who need a brief civics refresher, every two years the full US House of Representatives and one-third of the Senate are up for reelection. While the outcomes of the elections are uncertain, one thing we can count on is that plenty of opinions and prognostications will be floated in the days to come. In financial circles, … [Read more...] about Midterm Elections: What Do They Mean for Markets?
A Question of Equilibrium
"Sellers were out in force on the market today after negative news on the economy." It's a common line in TV finance reports. But have you ever wondered who is buying if so many people are selling? Click HERE to read "A Question of Equilibrium", by Dimensional Fund Advisors Vice President Jim Parker. … [Read more...] about A Question of Equilibrium
Total Cost of Ownership
Mutual funds have many costs, all of which affect the net return to investors. Costs matter. Whether you're buying a car or selecting an investment strategy, the costs you expect to pay are likely to be an important factor in making any major financial decision. People rely on a lot of different information about costs to help inform these decisions. When you buy a car, for example, the sticker price indicates approximately how much you can expect to pay for the car itself. But the costs of … [Read more...] about Total Cost of Ownership
The Happiness Equation
As an investor, your happiness depends on having realistic expectations about returns and viewing market events in proper context. These two factors can drive your sense of financial well-being and influence your financial outcome. Click HERE to read "The Happiness Equation", by Dimensional Fund Advisors Vice President Brad Steiman. … [Read more...] about The Happiness Equation