Beyond Bulls & Bears

Quick Thoughts: China’s New Regulatory Cycle
Emerging Markets

Quick Thoughts: China’s New Regulatory Cycle

China is in the midst of a tightening regulatory cycle which has led to some investor uncertainty and heightened market volatility. Our Chief Market Strategist, Stephen Dover, discusses China’s aspirations to increase economic growth while also providing social fairness and stability.

Quick Thoughts: Living on “COVID” Time
Equity

Quick Thoughts: Living on “COVID” Time

The coronavirus has forced a number of behaviour changes throughout societies across the globe, including how we work, shop and interact with others. Our Head of Equities Stephen Dover discusses how it has impacted investor decisions, too.

Quick Thoughts: Pessimists May Miss the Up Market—Don’t Become One
Equity

Quick Thoughts: Pessimists May Miss the Up Market—Don’t Become One

In the midst of uncertainty, many investors act out of fear. As an alternative approach to responding to recent market turmoil, our Head of Equities Stephen Dover urges investors not to panic and consider the long-term view.

Quick Thoughts: The Other 99%
Equity

Quick Thoughts: The Other 99%

Thoughts on the stock market correction from our Head of Equities Stephen Dover and some reasons to consider jumping in—or reassessing your portfolio.

Volatile Markets: Are High-Frequency Traders to Blame?
Equity

Volatile Markets: Are High-Frequency Traders to Blame?

“In our view, high-frequency trading plays a role in market meltdowns or melt-ups, which could be exacerbated when stocks or markets have low levels of liquidity.” – Stephen Dover, Head of Equities

Convertible Securities: Don’t Believe Everything You Hear
Equity

Convertible Securities: Don’t Believe Everything You Hear

“As long-term investors, our view on convertible securities doesn’t change from quarter to quarter or during periods of market volatility.” - Alan Muschott, Franklin Equity Group

What Will a US Government Shutdown Mean for Investors?
Equity

What Will a US Government Shutdown Mean for Investors?

US members of Congress are finding themselves at a stand-off over the creation of a border wall between the United States and Mexico. President Trump’s threats to shut down the government if the bill is not passed raise questions and uncertainty that will contribute to increased political risks for investors to consider. Stephen Dover, Head of Equities for Franklin Templeton Investments, shares his perspective about the potential impacts.

Convertible Securities: a Versatile Asset Class
Equity

Convertible Securities: a Versatile Asset Class

“Given the run we’ve seen in the US equity market over the past few years, many investors may be concerned about stock valuations and their equity exposures. In this environment, some investors may want to consider select exposure to convertible securities.” – Alan Muschott, Franklin Equity Group

Time to Reset Expectations?
Perspectives

Time to Reset Expectations?

Global markets have been relatively calm this summer despite many uncertainties. Geopolitical risks have continued across the globe, and in some areas, looming monetary policy changes also appear likely. A key question for many investors is whether the sleepy summer period of low volatility will give way to a more turbulent autumn. Franklin Templeton’s senior investment leaders offer their perspective on the markets and discuss where they see opportunities and risks ahead.

An Opportune Time to Change Investors’ Perception of Investing in Europe
Equity

An Opportune Time to Change Investors’ Perception of Investing in Europe

“Gross domestic product growth in the euro area has quietly overtaken that of the United States so far this year. But the risks once associated with political uncertainty, populism and fears over the possible break-up of the European Union (EU) have not proven as potent as they initially appeared.” Robert Mazzuoli, portfolio manager, Franklin Local Asset Management

Union Budget 2017-18: Key Takeaways
Equity

Union Budget 2017-18: Key Takeaways

In our view, the 2017-18 Union Budget struck a balance in regard to projected government spending—tackling the deficit, while supporting sector growth through public spending.

Want to Create Value? Dig Deep and Adjust Your Expectations

Want to Create Value? Dig Deep and Adjust Your Expectations

In this current environment with elevated valuations (by historical standards), a trade-off exists between earnings risk and valuation risk. These are the decisions that some investors will want to consider as they strive to produce acceptable returns.