Beyond Bulls & Bears

Eurovision: Scores of Return Potential
Equity

Eurovision: Scores of Return Potential

Mutual Series Portfolio Managers Katrina Dudley and Mandana Hormozi discuss why Europe deserves renewed attention. They believe newfound stability and unity of the region, its pioneering use of regulation and environmental initiatives and accelerating vaccine rollout provide Europe scores of return potential.

Getting Ready for EU SFDR: Impact of Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation
Alternatives

Getting Ready for EU SFDR: Impact of Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation

We recently assembled a panel to discuss the European Union’s Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation, which represents part of a plan to reorient capital towards a more sustainable economy, to mainstream sustainability into risk management, and foster transparency. Here, we share highlights from the panel.

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.

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.

EU’s €750 Billion Rescue Plan a Strong Affirmation of European Integration
Fixed Income

EU’s €750 Billion Rescue Plan a Strong Affirmation of European Integration

After much debate, the ink is now dry on Europe’s €750 billion coronavirus fiscal rescue package, initially proposed in May. David Zahn, our Head of European Fixed Income, says it marks a strong affirmation of European integration and support for beleaguered countries—good news for investors.

EU Delivers Comprehensive Fiscal Rescue Package
Fixed Income

EU Delivers Comprehensive Fiscal Rescue Package

The European Commission has unveiled a sweeping new €750 billion coronavirus fiscal rescue package, including the issuance of new bonds. David Zahn, our Head of European Fixed Income, calls it groundbreaking.

The UK Has Left the EU. What’s Next Post-Brexit?
Fixed Income

The UK Has Left the EU. What’s Next Post-Brexit?

It’s been 3-1/2 years since the United Kingdom voted to leave the European Union, and the process known as Brexit has been far from smooth. Now that the deadline to leave has passed, what’s next for the United Kingdom, and for Europe? Our Head of European Fixed Income David Zahn says that while there’s no turning back, there are still quite a few kinks to be worked out, including the all-important trade agreements.

The EU: Singing from 28 Hymn Sheets
Fixed Income

The EU: Singing from 28 Hymn Sheets

What’s the investment lesson in Europe’s recent parliamentary elections? Our Fixed Income CIO Sonal Desai says it’s differentiation. Read more of what’s on her mind about this topic. 

Why We Think Most “Brexit Panaceas” Are Ill-Thought-Through or Unviable
Equity

Why We Think Most “Brexit Panaceas” Are Ill-Thought-Through or Unviable

“It is symptomatic of the level of debate that the options which tend to get offered as panaceas for Brexit are rarely thought-through or viable.” Sandy Nairn, Chairman of Templeton Global Equity Group and CEO of Edinburgh Partners

Theresa May Holds on, but What Does This Mean for Investors?
Fixed Income

Theresa May Holds on, but What Does This Mean for Investors?

Theresa May has survived a leadership challenge called by Eurosceptic members of her own party and will continue to lead the United Kingdom as it heads towards Brexit. But David Zahn, Franklin Templeton Fixed Income Group’s head of European Fixed Income, warns May’s troubles are not over yet. He predicts further volatility ahead for financial markets, but argues there may be opportunities for shrewd active managers.

How Angela Merkel’s Future Could Influence European Markets
Fixed Income

How Angela Merkel’s Future Could Influence European Markets

Markets have largely brushed off speculation about the future of German Chancellor Angela Merkel as she stood down as leader of the Christian Democratic Union party. However, our Head of European Fixed Income David Zahn believes her decision could have ramifications, both politically and economically, in the not-so-distant future.

A Global Macro Perspective: Populism, Trade and Emerging-Market Volatility
Fixed Income

A Global Macro Perspective: Populism, Trade and Emerging-Market Volatility

Templeton Global Macro Chief Investment Officer Dr. Michael Hasenstab and Vice President and Deputy Director of Research, Dr. Calvin Ho, discuss emerging-market turbulence, the persistent concerns around trade policy and divergent growth trends in the developed world.