Stocks Could Easily Plunge 20% Or More In 2025 | David Hay & Jeff Dicks
Oct 27, 2024
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David Hay, Chief Investment Officer at Evergreen Gavekal, and Jeff Dick, Managing Director there, dive into the shifting market landscape. They unpack the implications of rising long-term bond yields despite central banks cutting interest rates. The duo discusses potential market volatility in 2025, raising concerns over high valuations and geopolitical risks. With insights on government spending and emerging market debt, they emphasize the need for diverse investment strategies and the importance of adapting portfolios for current economic uncertainties.
The historical pattern of market performance indicates a potential peak-to-trough decline of 21.4% following strong years, urging caution.
Current economic indicators suggest a stable near-term outlook under a 'no landing' scenario, supporting ongoing consumer purchasing power and growth.
High price-to-earnings ratios raise concerns about overpriced equities, highlighting the necessity for cautious investment strategies in the current climate.
Deep dives
Market Performance Trends
The discussion notes a trend where markets usually finish the year strong following strong performances, as seen in past years like 2014, 2018, and 2020. However, the episode highlights the average peak-to-trough decline of approximately 21.4% that often follows such strong years, suggesting the possibility of increased volatility in the upcoming year. The experts emphasize the importance of being prepared for a potential downturn, especially considering the historical patterns observed in equity markets. Therefore, while optimism exists for the current market momentum, caution is advised for future asset allocation strategies.
Current Economic Indicators
The experts assess current economic indicators as suggesting a 'no landing' scenario, wherein economic growth persists without contraction. Key data points include a robust ISM services PMI near 54.9 and retail sales hitting all-time highs, which are generally not associated with recessionary conditions. Additionally, positive real wage growth over the past 17 months supports consumer purchasing power, with inflation running lower than wage growth. These factors suggest a stable economic outlook for the near term, as central banks cut interest rates and ease financial conditions globally.
Equity Market Valuation Concerns
A clear concern emerges regarding the elevated price-to-earnings ratios within the S&P 500, indicating that equities may be overpriced. The discussion reflects on how a significant portion of stock market growth has come from valuation expansion rather than corresponding earnings growth, hinting at potential stagnation in future returns. The historical analysis shows that when starting from elevated multiples, expected returns over the next five years tend to be significantly lower. Investors are encouraged to approach equity investments with caution, particularly considering how rich valuations could adversely affect future performance.
Attractiveness of Bond Markets
Bond markets are currently characterized by relatively attractive valuations, with yields hovering around 5%, offering a compelling alternative to equities. The discussion includes the potential for high-quality bond portfolios and strategies that capitalize on the nuanced movements in interest rates and credit spreads. Experts believe that while there may be a temporary stabilization in bond values, long-term strategies that focus on high-quality and diversified income-generating securities could yield greater stability and returns. Given current market conditions, these approaches allow investors to navigate a landscape where long-duration treasuries remain volatile.
Opportunities in Emerging Markets and Income Strategies
The conversation touches upon promising opportunities in emerging markets, where government debts are typically lower than those in developed countries. Countries like Brazil and Mexico offer attractive government bond yields, despite perceived risks, highlighting a disparity in investor sentiment regarding these markets. Furthermore, various income-generating strategies, including midstream energy investments and agency mortgage-backed securities, are presented as ways to capitalize on current conditions for longer-term gains. This insight emphasizes the importance of active management and adaptability in navigating evolving global markets and optimizing returns.
It's certainly an interesting time in the markets.
The world's major central banks have returned to cutting interest rates. Yet bond yields are rising on the long end.
Meanwhile, risk on assets are in rally mode. Stocks are back at all-time highs.
Yet so is gold, the grand-daddy of risk off assets.
To make sense of all of this, we're fortunate to speak today with capital managers David Hay and Jeff Dick of Evergreen Gavekal. David is its Chief Investment Officer & Principal and Jeff is a Managing Director and Partner there.
WORRIED ABOUT THE MARKET? SCHEDULE YOUR FREE PORTFOLIO REVIEW with Thoughtful Money's endorsed financial advisors at https://www.thoughtfulmoney.com
#bearmarket #volatility #marketcorrection
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