There has been a lot happening in the markets and economies around the world this year, and especially during this 4th quarter. Equity markets have been bouncing in and out of correction territory, defined as a -10% pullback from their highs, and we have seen much larger point swings, both the positive and negative, in other words, more normal market volatility is back.
Bond markets have not been immune to volatility and pullback. The US Aggregate Bond ETF (AGG) is down for the year, -3.34%, as of 12/17/2018.
There are both positive and negative headlines driving this.
The primary uncertainties of the market continue to be: 1. Trade talks between the U.S. and China. 2. The Federal Reserve and interest rates. 3. Energy/Commodity prices 4. Overall Global Slowdown concerns.
In evaluating the underlying fundamentals and following several indicators and economists, we still believe the overall U.S. Markets are in relatively good shape and have room for growth.
With that said, now might be a good time to reassess your overall risk tolerance and make sure your portfolio is in line with your risk, goals, time horizon, and expectations. If you would like a “Free Portfolio Risk Analysis,” please contact our office to find out more.