Beyond Bulls & Bears

Liz Truss to be new British prime minister
Fixed Income

Liz Truss to be new British prime minister

David Zahn, Franklin Templeton's Head of European Fixed Income, offers some initial thoughts on the market implications of the election of new UK Prime Minister Liz Truss. 

On Central Bank Tapering and European Fixed Income
Fixed Income

On Central Bank Tapering and European Fixed Income

As markets try to look past the COVID-19 pandemic, the question of when central bank support will be withdrawn is a critical one. David Zahn, our Head of European Fixed Income, discusses the implications of potential tapering of asset purchase programmes, and what it means for fixed income investors.

European Fixed Income Finds Central Bank Support
Fixed Income

European Fixed Income Finds Central Bank Support

As Europe’s economy continues to recover from COVID-19, it appears the central bank will remain accommodative, but for how long? Our Head of European Fixed Income David Zahn shares his views.

Coming Out of COVID-19: A Look at Interest Rates and Inflation in Europe
Fixed Income

Coming Out of COVID-19: A Look at Interest Rates and Inflation in Europe

There is hope that economies will see a more sustainable and robust recovery this year, given unprecedented levels of monetary and fiscal stimulus and as more individuals are vaccinated against COVID-19. But one question for investors is what happens next—will inflation and higher interest rates be a consequence? Our Head of European Fixed Income David Zahn shares his views.

European Fixed Income in 2021: Focused on Recovery, and Politics
Fixed Income

European Fixed Income in 2021: Focused on Recovery, and Politics

While the calendar has turned to a new year, many of the same uncertainties of 2020 still linger—namely the COVID-19 pandemic. However, David Zahn, our Head of European Fixed Income, sees reasons to be optimistic the picture will look brighter for Europe by year-end, and is poised to take advantage of potential opportunities that arise.

Brexit Deal Finally Struck as 2020 Comes to a Close
Fixed Income

Brexit Deal Finally Struck as 2020 Comes to a Close

The United Kingdom and European Union finally put Brexit to bed, striking a deal in the final days of 2020. While the deal may not be perfect for either side, David Zahn, our Head of European Fixed Income, says the markets welcomed the removal of uncertainty.

US 2020 Election Investment Pulse: Positive for Europe
Perspectives

US 2020 Election Investment Pulse: Positive for Europe

Global markets embraced the removal of uncertainty surrounding the US elections, and many European leaders in particular welcomed a renewed relationship with the world’s largest economy under President-elect Joe Biden. Our Katrina Dudley and David Zahn discuss the implications for European equities and fixed income of a new US administration, including the “green” agenda Europe has prioritised. They also touch on the impact of COVID-19 on the region and recent news of an effective vaccine.

Amid Brexit Stalemate, Could a New Scottish Referendum Be on the Cards?
Fixed Income

Amid Brexit Stalemate, Could a New Scottish Referendum Be on the Cards?

Issues still remain unresolved between the United Kingdom and the European Union, with continued posturing on both sides. David Zahn, our Head of European Fixed Income, weighs in on the latest developments, and ponders whether we could see some disharmony within the United Kingdom—potentially leading to another Scottish referendum.

European Union Launches Social Bonds
Fixed Income

European Union Launches Social Bonds

The coronavirus pandemic has created many challenges for individuals, businesses and governments around the world. In Europe, there’s a new vehicle to help finance the economic recovery there—social bonds. David Zahn, our Head of European Fixed Income, discusses this exciting new bond issuance, earmarked for funding employment initiatives.

Green Bonds Growing in Europe
Fixed Income

Green Bonds Growing in Europe

Growing concerns about climate change have caused an explosion in “green” bonds amongst environmentally conscious investors. David Zahn, our Head of European Fixed Income, highlights some exciting developments in the green bond market, including new issuance from Germany.

Brexit Saga Meets Trade Roadblocks
Fixed Income

Brexit Saga Meets Trade Roadblocks

The United Kingdom officially left the European Union in January of this year, but issues remain in the Brexit saga, namely trade relations. David Zahn, our Head of European Fixed Income, weighs in on the odds no deal will be reached by year-end—and the market implications.

US Election: Implications across the Pond
Fixed Income

US Election: Implications across the Pond

This November’s US presidential election pits Donald Trump against Democratic nominee Joe Biden, a longtime politician who represents a more progressive policy approach. Our Head of European Fixed Income David Zahn breaks down the implications of the US election for Europe, and why many of Biden’s policies line up more closely with European views.