Equity markets declined this week after discovery of a new COVID variant on Friday. Economic fundamentals
were mixed, with PMI readings continuing to show expansion but coming in under expectations. The PCE deflator
index came in at analyst expectations, revealing inflation that is still running too hot for comfort. While
economic progress continues its long slog toward recovery, residual effects of the pandemic lockdowns continue
to plague the global economy, as shortages of everything from microprocessors to natural gas persist. Supply
chains remain the number one obstacle to a more robust recovery, and they have struggled to get back on track
in spite of progress against COVID-19. Overall, markets have performed well YTD, but headwinds continue to
fiercely resist further progress.
Overseas, developed markets underperformed emerging markets, with both indices returning negative
performance. European indices were negative, while Japanese markets finished the week with negative
performance as well. Improving prospects against the pandemic as well as improved prospects for economic
recovery should continue to help lift markets globally over time, but macroeconomic factors such as inflation
and supply shortages threaten markets everywhere.
Equity markets were negative this week as investors continue to assess the state of the global economy. While
fears concerning global stability and health overall appear to be in decline, the recent volatility serves as
a great reminder of why it is so important to remain committed to a long-term plan and maintain a
well-diversified portfolio. When stocks were struggling to gain traction last month, other asset classes such
as gold, REITs, and US Treasury bonds proved to be more stable. Flashy news headlines can make it tempting to
make knee-jerk decisions, but sticking to a strategy and maintaining a portfolio consistent with your goals
and risk tolerance can lead to smoother returns and a better probability for long-term success.
Chart of the Week
Investors bought up Treasuries Friday as a new variant of COVID-19 was discovered in South Africa. Not much
is known about the variant at this stage, but its discovery was enough to spark a market reaction.
Market Update
Equities
Broad market equity indices finished the week down with major large cap indices outperforming small cap.
Economic data has been mostly encouraging, but the global recovery has a long way to go to recover from
COVID-19 lockdowns. S&P sectors were mostly negative this week. Energy and consumer staples outperformed,
returning 1.62% and -0.23% respectively. Communications and consumer discretionary underperformed, posting
-3.26% and -3.61% respectively. Energy has the lead in 2021 with a 46.29% return.
Commodities
Oil fell this week as crude oil inventories rose. Energy markets have been highly volatile in the COVID era,
but it appears that higher oil prices may be more of the norm given recent market fundamentals. Demand is down
compared to early 2020, but as global economies are continuing to improve, oil consumption is recovering
rapidly. On the supply side, operating oil rigs are still well under early 2020 numbers, but trending upwards.
In addition to supply and demand, a volatile dollar is likely to have a large impact on commodity prices.
A new dimension has emerged recently in energy markets. China recently has been unable to produce the energy
needed to keep its power grid running without interruption. Additionally, Europe and other regions have
struggled to acquire enough supply of natural gas to meet anticipated heating needs for winter. Many analysts
are anticipating high and possibly rising natural gas prices as countries desperately try to fill shortfalls
before the weather turns too cold. Additionally, concerns over manufacturing operations in China could remain
for some time.
Gold fell this week as the U.S. dollar strengthened. Gold is a common “safe haven” asset, typically rising
during times of market stress. Focus for gold has shifted again to include not just global macroeconomics
surrounding COVID-19 damage and recovery efforts, but also inflation and its possible impact on U.S. dollar
value.
Bonds
Yields on 10-year Treasuries fell this week from 1.5462 to 1.4731 while traditional bond indices rose.
Treasury yield movements reflect general risk outlook, and tend to track overall investor sentiment. Expected
increases in future inflation risk have helped elevate yields since pandemic era lows in rates. Treasury
yields will continue to be a focus as analysts watch for signs of changing market conditions.
High-yield bonds fell this week as spreads loosened. High-yield bonds are likely to have stabilized for the
short term as the Fed has adopted a remarkably accommodative monetary stance and major economic risk factors
subside, likely helping stabilize volatility.
A headwind could be on the horizon for fixed income assets, as the Fed has begun tapering its asset purchases
which could raise yields. Tapering will undoubtedly have an impact on yields, but the degree of impact is
uncertain.
Lesson to be Learned
Know what you own, and know why you own it.”
– Peter Lynch
StockPointDigital Indicators
StockPointDigital has two simple indicators we share that help you see how the economy is doing (we call this the
Recession Probability Index, or RPI), as well as if the US Stock Market is strong (bull) or weak (bear).
In a nutshell, we want the RPI to be low on a scale of 1 to 100. For the US Equity Bull/Bear indicator, we
want it to read at least 66.67% bullish. When those two things occur, our research shows market performance is
typically stronger, with less volatility.
The Recession Probability Index (RPI) has a current reading of 26.96 forecasting a lower potential for an
economic contraction (warning of recession risk). The Bull/Bear indicator is currently 100% bullish, meaning
the indicator shows there is a slightly higher than average likelihood of stock market increases in the near
term (within the next 18 months).
It can be easy to become distracted from our long-term goals and chase returns when markets are volatile and
uncertain. It is because of the allure of these distractions that having a plan and remaining disciplined is
mission critical for long term success. Focusing on the long-run can help minimize the negative impact
emotions can have on your portfolio and increase your chances for success over time.
The Week Ahead
This week will see Fed Chair Powell testify before the senate banking committee, as well as the most recent
nonfarm hiring figures. More to come soon. Stay tuned.