Beyond Bulls & Bears

What’s Next For Europe as Merkel Is Re-elected
Alternatives

What’s Next For Europe as Merkel Is Re-elected

"We think the level of support for AfD does reflect a protest vote from people who have been unhappy with the direction things have been going in Germany. That could have an influence on Merkel’s approach as she looks past her election victory.” - David Zahn, Franklin Templeton Fixed Income Group

Why Gold-Mining Stocks Could Regain Some Luster
Equity

Why Gold-Mining Stocks Could Regain Some Luster

“It seems to us that gold’s inability to hold a rally over the last 18 months has created fatigue with investors. As a result, many investors have felt they should sell into rallies. However, given the overall global macroeconomic backdrop, this view may be creating an interesting opportunity for longer-term investors.” – Steve Land, Franklin Equity Group

Global Economic Perspective: September
Fixed Income

Global Economic Perspective: September

In this month’s Global Economic Perspective, Franklin Templeton Fixed Income Group examines the potential impact of recent storms on the US economy, Europe’s monetary policy path and whether the global economy’s upturn is sustainable.

The Fed’s Balancing (Sheet) Act
Fixed Income

The Fed’s Balancing (Sheet) Act

The Federal Reserve’s September policy meeting played out largely as expected, as US monetary policymakers left the central bank’s benchmark short-term interest rate unchanged. The Fed did clarify when it would begin to unwind its hefty balance sheet, and updated its economic forecasts and interest-rate projections. Chris Molumphy, Franklin Templeton Fixed Income Group CIO, says the communication from the latest Fed meeting should not rattle the markets much, and that the next interest-rate hike now seems most likely to come in December.

How the German Election Could Dictate Europe’s Future Direction
Fixed Income

How the German Election Could Dictate Europe’s Future Direction

"These are optimistic times in Europe, in general. In contrast to what many observers might have expected nine months ago, the political structure in Europe is probably the most stable it’s been in 10 years.” - David Zahn, Franklin Templeton Fixed Income Group

Meet the Manager: James Conn
Fixed Income

Meet the Manager: James Conn

At Franklin Templeton, our people are passionate about investing, and James (Jim) Conn is no exception. His father boasts an impressive career in investment management, so you might even say it’s in his blood. Here, we get to know Franklin Templeton Fixed Income Group’s Jim Conn and discover the three words he uses to describe his approach as an investment manager.

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.

Is France on the Cusp of a Thatcher Moment?
Equity

Is France on the Cusp of a Thatcher Moment?

French President Emmanuel Macron is preparing to take on France’s powerful unions as he attempts to overhaul the country’s labor code. Here, Philippe Brugere-Trelat, Franklin Mutual Series executive vice president and portfolio manager, explains why a Macron victory on this front could open up opportunities for investing in French equities.

Why ECB Tapering Could Prompt a Change in Bond-Market Philosophy
Fixed Income

Why ECB Tapering Could Prompt a Change in Bond-Market Philosophy

“While some commentators may question whether the ECB should embark on tapering when it still doesn’t see itself hitting its inflation target within its time horizon, I would say that’s exactly what the central bank should do.” - David Zahn, Franklin Templeton Fixed Income Group