Beyond Bulls & Bears

Global Economic Perspective: February
Fixed Income

Global Economic Perspective: February

“The opening months of 2018 have seen volatility return to global financial markets, but we think it is important to stress US economic fundamentals have remained broadly the same. After an unusually long period of calm in many markets, the reappearance of volatility at some point seemed likely, even if the speed of market gyrations has been unsettling for investors.” - Franklin Templeton Fixed Income Group®

Italian Election Outlook and Why We Don’t See an ECB Rate Hike Before 2020
Fixed Income

Italian Election Outlook and Why We Don’t See an ECB Rate Hike Before 2020

The upcoming Italian election is not attracting the same sort of attention among investors as votes last year in France and Germany. For that very reason, David Zahn, Franklin Templeton’s head of European Fixed Income, believes an unexpected result might provoke an outsized market reaction. And while investors seem more preoccupied with the trajectory of eurozone monetary policy, Zahn believes there are good reasons to think the European Central Bank will hold off until 2020 before pushing interest rates up.

1-on-1 With Michael Hasenstab: Market Changes and Challenges
Fixed Income

1-on-1 With Michael Hasenstab: Market Changes and Challenges

Take an around-the-world market tour with Templeton Global Macro CIO Michael Hasenstab in our latest “Talking Markets” podcast. Hasenstab shares his thoughts on navigating today’s market challenges. He covers recent market volatility, inflationary threats in the United States, upcoming elections in Latin America, potential “fault lines” in Europe and credit risk in China.

Fundamental Changes That No Muni Investor Should Ignore
Fixed Income

Fundamental Changes That No Muni Investor Should Ignore

The investment landscape for municipal bonds has changed in a number of ways. What was true in the past for this asset class may not be anymore, according to Rafael Costas and Sheila Amoroso, co-directors of Franklin Templeton Fixed Income Group’s Municipal Bond Department.

Seeing the Big Picture in Market Corrections
Equity

Seeing the Big Picture in Market Corrections

While we don’t know when the equity market’s recent volatility will settle down, it’s important to consider the big-picture, fundamental backdrop for the market, and not get caught up in short-term sentiment swings, according to Franklin Templeton’s head of equities, Stephen Dover. And, he believes the fundamental backdrop still looks solid.

Keeping Calm When Volatility Strikes
Perspectives

Keeping Calm When Volatility Strikes

While volatile markets occasionally present a challenge for global investors, a knee-jerk reaction is rarely the best response. With careful consideration, the benefit of experience and an active approach, we believe periods of market turmoil can often be a time of great opportunity.