Beyond Bulls & Bears

ECB jumps on the bandwagon to start hiking rates
Fixed Income

ECB jumps on the bandwagon to start hiking rates

The European Central Bank held its June meeting this past week, and while it didn’t raise interest rates this time, it signaled rate hikes would begin in July. David Zahn, our Head of European Fixed Income, offers his take on the meeting, noting the central bank has turned more hawkish than many expected.

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: Coming Out of Crisis
Fixed Income

European Fixed Income: Coming Out of Crisis

As European economies slowly start to come out of coronavirus lockdowns, it could be some time before growth returns to pre-crisis levels, according to David Zahn, our Head of European Fixed Income. He says the crisis has been another test for the European Union as the coronavirus has affected some countries moreso than others. But he sees this as perhaps the best time in years to invest in European fixed income.

The Impact of the ECB’s Coronavirus Rescue Fund and BoE Rate Cut on European Bonds
Fixed Income

The Impact of the ECB’s Coronavirus Rescue Fund and BoE Rate Cut on European Bonds

This week, both the European Central Bank and Bank of England took further measures to help contain the financial fallout from the coronavirus and alleviate pressure on strained public finances. Our David Zahn, Head of European Fixed Income, shares his views on what it means for European bonds.

On My Mind: The Fed Speaks Loudly and Carries a Big Stick
Fixed Income

On My Mind: The Fed Speaks Loudly and Carries a Big Stick

The US Fed just announced a number of new measures to help the economy as the coronavirus spreads. Our Fixed Income CIO Sonal Desai weighs in.

Closing the European Performance Gap
Equity

Closing the European Performance Gap

Although European equities performed well in 2019, there’s still a significant value and performance gap compared to US stocks, according to Franklin Mutual Series Portfolio Manager Katrina Dudley. Here, she gives reasons why she’s optimistic about the backdrop for European value stocks and discusses some potential market-moving events she’s monitoring.

What We Think Could Drive European Markets in the Coming Months
Fixed Income

What We Think Could Drive European Markets in the Coming Months

As European investors and market practitioners return from their summer vacations and prepare for the final third of 2019, our Head of European Fixed Income David Zahn highlights the issues he thinks will drive markets in the coming months.

Why We’re Positive About Lagarde’s ECB Nomination
Fixed Income

Why We’re Positive About Lagarde’s ECB Nomination

Christine Lagarde may have emerged as a surprise candidate to take the helm of the European Central Bank (ECB), but David Zahn, our Head of European Fixed Income, sees it as a positive choice. Here he explains why both her experience, and lack of it, could prove positive if she does secure the job. And he shares his conviction that, whoever is in charge, the ECB is likely to remain steadfast on its easing path.

Global Economic Perspective: October
Fixed Income

Global Economic Perspective: October

In this month’s Global Economic Perspective, our Fixed Income Group discusses whether optimism about the US economy is justified, and whether Italy’s budget talks could lead to looser fiscal policy elsewhere in the eurozone.

Global Economic Perspective: September
Fixed Income

Global Economic Perspective: September

In this month’s Global Economic Perspective, our Fixed Income Group discusses the spread of populism in Sweden, whether US economic momentum appears sustainable and what’s behind recent emerging-market woes.

Global Economic Perspective: August
Fixed Income

Global Economic Perspective: August

“We think the ECB is wise to retain some flexibility over the timing of its transition to more conventional monetary policies. The central bank has voiced concerns over the impact of the Turkish crisis on some European lenders. Additionally, volatility can be exaggerated at this time of year.” – Franklin Templeton Fixed Income Group®