Beyond Bulls & Bears

Quick Thoughts: Making sense of SVB, a unique bank with a classic problem
Equity

Quick Thoughts: Making sense of SVB, a unique bank with a classic problem

Why did Silicon Valley Bank fail? And what are the implications for investors? Stephen Dover, Head of Franklin Templeton Institute, provides his latest update on the unfolding situation.

Quick Thoughts: Silicon Valley Bank failure ripples through the market
Perspectives

Quick Thoughts: Silicon Valley Bank failure ripples through the market

Here’s an update on the latest news involving Silicon Valley Bank and the implications for the Fed and markets, from Stephen Dover, Head of Franklin Templeton Institute.

PODCAST Anatomy of a Recession: Economic reacceleration in perspective
Equity

PODCAST Anatomy of a Recession: Economic reacceleration in perspective

It shouldn't be a surprise that the US economy is seeing some latent economic strength at this point, says Jeff Schulze of ClearBridge Investments. Learn why in this Anatomy of a Recession update.

2022 ESG engagement report
Alternatives

2022 ESG engagement report

Transparency should be the bedrock of sustainable finance, while engagement is the essence of a transparent flow of information between issuers, investors and other market participants. Hear from David Zahn as he introduces the 2022 ESG engagement report. He believes that through our engagements, we are committing to the development of a sustainable finance ecosystem that delivers the best results for everyone involved.

Muni bond update: Credit quality still looks strong
Fixed Income

Muni bond update: Credit quality still looks strong

While 2023 has started on shaky ground for the municipal bond market, there are reasons to be optimistic for more stability ahead, according to Jennifer Johnston, Franklin Templeton Fixed Income’s Director of Municipal Bond Research. She explains why California’s issues don’t reflect all states, and offers reasons for optimism.

International equities: Poised for recovery
Equity

International equities: Poised for recovery

Making the case for international value investing—thoughts from Templeton Global Equity Group on why now’s the time to consider expanding one’s investment horizons.

Dimensions & Insights: The US$1.7 trillion economic bloc that many miss
Perspectives

Dimensions & Insights: The US$1.7 trillion economic bloc that many miss

Filling consumers’ needs can bridge communities with entrepreneurs and companies, but biases can cause missed opportunities. Chief Diversity Officer Regina Curry discusses the increasing financial strengths of Black and African American communities, a projected US $1.7 trillion economic bloc in 2030. Companies and entrepreneurs will find that serving Black and African American consumers, investors, and communities will cultivate markets that may seem invisible.

Quick Thoughts: Is normal really what we want?
Equity

Quick Thoughts: Is normal really what we want?

Tighter monetary policy can lead to inverted yield curves, but is a recession inevitable? Thoughts from Head of Franklin Templeton Institute Stephen Dover.

Outlook for US fixed income and equities amid tighter financial conditions
Multi-Asset

Outlook for US fixed income and equities amid tighter financial conditions

Following the 25 basis-point (bp) increase that the Fed announced on February 1, 2023, Franklin Income Investors Chief Investment Officer Ed Perks answered questions about his outlook on US interest rates as well as fixed income and equity securities for the rest of 2023.

Anatomy of a Recession: The Fed’s job problem
Equity

Anatomy of a Recession: The Fed’s job problem

A review of the US economy with focus on the Federal Reserve (Fed), labor and housing with Jeff Schulze, investment strategist at ClearBridge Investments.

Financial independence remains a top priority despite employee feelings of financial anxiety
Retirement

Financial independence remains a top priority despite employee feelings of financial anxiety

US workers are clearly feeling the strain of economic uncertainty, according to Franklin Templeton’s third annual “Voice of the American Worker” study. The study revealed that financial anxiety has reversed the pandemic’s “Great Resignation” to “the Great Return” and is reshaping employee benefits expectations. Our Jacquelyn Reardon shares findings from the survey, and potential action items for employers.

ECB hikes rates—one more to come?
Fixed Income

ECB hikes rates—one more to come?

The European Central Bank hiked rates 50 basis points. Curious about what that means for investors? David Zahn, Head of European Fixed Income shares his thoughts.