Topic: Economic Outlook
JUN 18
Concerns Over Fed Policy Appear Overwrought
Daily Stat | Topics: Economic Outlook
0.1%: Growth in industrial production in May
JUN 17
Investor Caution Increases, but a Quick Fed Shift Remains Unlikely
Russ Koesterich | Topics: Economic Outlook, Equities, Fixed Income
Volatility persisted as investors remain concerned over Fed policy, but BlackRock Chief Investment Strategist Russ Koesterich believes Fed tapering will be gradual and that the impact will be modest.
JUN 17
It's All in the Number
Russ Koesterich | Topics: Economic Outlook
In a world of many economic indicators, it is often difficult to determine which to focus on. Chief Investment Strategist Russ Koesterich reveals the number he pays the most attention to and offers recommendations on what investors should do.
JUN 15
Good Economic News is Bad?
Russ Koesterich | Topics: Fixed Income, Economic Outlook, Equities
Why does good economic news seem to be bad for markets? In the latest Investment Directions, the Investment Strategy Group provides its take and explains its recent downgrade of global utilities and upgrade of Spain.
JUN 13
After April Flowers, May Flounders
Peter Hayes & James Schwartz | Topics: Fixed Income, Economic Outlook, Investing for Income
April's positive muni momentum failed to carry into May as attention turned away from the improving market backdrop and toward Fed rhetoric. Peter Hayes and James Schwartz discuss this and more in their monthly market update
JUN 10
Lending and the Outlook for Inflation
Jeff Rosenberg | Topics: Economic Outlook, Fixed Income
Consumer lending remains challenged but has seen some improvements. Given lending’s role in the outlook for inflation, Jeff Rosenberg discusses what it will take to see the creation of inflation.
JUN 10
Rating Bond Returns
Chart of the Week | Topics: Economic Outlook, Fixed Income
Long-term bond returns have historically mirrored interest rates.
JUN 3
What Area of the Municipal Market Worries You the Most?
Peter Hayes | Topics: Economic Outlook, Fixed Income
While the overall health of the municipal market remains sound, there are some areas that continue to struggle. Peter Hayes, Head of the Municipal Bonds Group, reveals what worries him the most.
MAY 28
BOJ Monetary Policy and the Implications for Markets
Jeff Rosenberg | Topics: Economic Outlook, Fixed Income
In April, the Bank of Japan announced its 60 to 70 trillion yen intervention per year for the next two years, making it a historic day in monetary policy history. In this week’s video, Jeff Rosenberg discusses the implications of this decision.
MAY 24
ViewPoint on Emerging Markets with Jeff Shen
Jeff Shen | Topics: Equities, Economic Outlook, Alternatives
Our view on EMs? In a nutshell, we like 'em. Read more here.
MAY 20
Is Risk Reflected in the Price of the Market?
Russ Koesterich | Topics: Economic Outlook
When looking at valuations, the challenge is always to identify the risks and determine to what extent those risks are reflected in the price of those assets. In this week's video, Russ Koesterich discusses four scenarios.
MAY 15
New World Wisdom: Winning More by Losing Less
BlackRock | Topics: Equities, Economic Outlook, Investing for Income
When it comes to investing, the fastest sprint doesn't necessarily make you a winner. Portfolio managers of the BlackRock Equity Dividend Fund discuss why they believe slow and steady wins the investing race - particularly during volatile times.
MAY 13
High-Yield Bonds in a World of Low Rates
Peter Hayes | Topics: Economic Outlook, Fixed Income
Over the past few years, high-yield bonds have been one of the best performing asset classes. But now that spreads have compressed and prices have gone way up, what should investors do? Peter Hayes, Head of the Municipal Bonds Group, shares his views.
MAY 6
Will Municipals’ Tax-Exempt Status Change?
Peter Hayes | Topics: Economic Outlook, Fixed Income
A cap on municipals’ tax exemption remains in the budget proposal, but will this change actually go through? Peter Hayes, Head of the Municipal Bonds Group, weighs in with his views.
MAY 1
High Yield: Why You Still Need It
James Keenan | Topics: Investing for Income, Fixed Income, Economic Outlook
After a solid four-year run, many investors are asking whether it’s time to lock in profits in high yield and move on. Jim Keenan, head of Leveraged Finance at BlackRock, explains why high yield stills deserve a central place in investor portfolios.
APR 30
Blessed with Long Life. Hit by Low Yields. Time to Make a Change.
Topics: Fixed Income, Retirement, Economic Outlook
Living longer is a blessing, but it’s an expensive one. More years in retirement means your money needs to last longer and stretch. The old ways of investing won’t get you to where you need to be. It’s time for a new strategy.
APR 29
Understanding Gold’s Value in a Portfolio
Russ Koesterich | Topics: Economic Outlook
Gold is a difficult commodity to value, and many investors are asking if now is the time to buy or sell the precious metal. Russ Koesterich, Chief Investment Strategist, shares his views in this week’s BlackRock Answers video.
APR 22
Positioning Your Portfolio for a Fed Exit
Jeff Rosenberg | Topics: Economic Outlook, Fixed Income
When will the Fed begin to pull back on its quantitative easing program? Jeff Rosenberg, reveals his thoughts on a timeline and discusses how investors should position their portfolios for a potential Fed exit.
APR 15
Exercise Caution with Small-Cap Stocks
Russ Koesterich | Topics: Economic Outlook, Equities
Small-cap stocks have been performing well, but our Chief Investment Strategist recommends exercising caution with them. Find out why in this week’s BlackRock Answers video.
APR 12
What's Next: The Critical Answers Spring Update
BlackRock | Topics: Fixed Income, Equities, Investing for Income, Economic Outlook
BlackRock's senior strategists discuss their views on key market and investment topics, answer the critical questions on investors' minds and point to where they see opportunities in the market.
APR 12
What’s Next: Spring Update Investment Actions
BlackRock | Topics: Fixed Income, Equities, Economic Outlook, Investing for Income
BlackRock's best recommendations for the current investing environment.
APR 8
The Sequester's Impact on the State and Local Level
Peter Hayes | Topics: Economic Outlook, Fixed Income
Many investors are wondering how the federal sequester will impact the state and local level. Peter Hayes, Head of the Municipal Bonds Group, discusses this and more.
APR 4
Emerging Markets: There's More Than One Way to Play
BlackRock | Topics: Equities, Economic Outlook
Emerging markets have been the dominant growth story of the past generation. As the cycle evolves, so must the investment approach. The BlackRock Global Allocation team offers five thoughts for investing in emerging markets today.
APR 1
Market Correction: What Could Cause One?
Russ Koesterich | Topics: Economic Outlook
Many investors are anticipating a market correction this year. Russ Koesterich, Chief Investment Strategist, reveals three catalysts that have the potential to cause one.
MAR 11
Traditional Fixed Income No Longer Compensates for Risks
Jeff Rosenberg | Topics: Economic Outlook, Fixed Income
Traditional fixed income investments no longer compensate investors for the risks that they are taking. Jeff Rosenberg, Chief Investment Strategist for Fixed Income, shares his recommendations for how investors can generate income with their fixed income portfolios.
MAR 8
State of the States & Local Governments
BlackRock | Topics: Fixed Income, Investing for Income, Economic Outlook
Investors in municipal bonds have kept a close watch on how state and local governments have fared in the Great Recession and era of austerity. This report takes a comprehensive look at the current state of states and locals.
MAR 4
Tapping Into the Strength of Emerging Markets
Russ Koesterich | Topics: Economic Outlook, Equities
As emerging markets continue to march along, investors are wondering how they can take advantage of this growing opportunity. Russ Koesterich, Chief Investment Strategist, discusses two ways you can tap into the strength of emerging markets.
FEB 25
Harness the Power of Tax Exemption with Munis
Peter Hayes | Topics: Fixed Income, Economic Outlook
In light of recent tax hikes, many investors are wondering how they can keep more of what they earn. Peter Hayes, Head of the Municipal Bonds Group, explains how you can harness the power of tax exemption with municipals.
FEB 21
High-Potential Investments Don't Require High Price Tags
Bart Geer | Topics: Equities, Economic Outlook
Value remains an important priority for Americans today. BlackRock's Bart Geer believes that same mentality should apply when constructing an investment portfolio.
FEB 19
Time to Buy Japanese Stocks?
Dennis Stattman | Topics: Economic Outlook, Equities
Several unique factors are contributing to the momentum behind the Japanese equity market. Dennis Stattman, Head of the Global Allocation Team, reveals why he is bullish on Japanese stocks.
FEB 11
Where Will Interest Rates Go in 2013?
Jeff Rosenberg | Topics: Economic Outlook, Fixed Income
January's backup in the 10-year treasury yield has many investors wondering if interest rates will rise further. Jeff Rosenberg, Chief Investment Strategist for Fixed Income, shares his interest rate outlook and recommendations for how investors should position their fixed income portfolios this year.
FEB 4
Mega Caps Well-Positioned for 2013
Russ Koesterich | Topics: Economic Outlook, Equities
Mega caps rallied in 2012 and this year may not be that different. Russ Koesterich, Chief Investment Strategist, discusses why mega caps are well-positioned for 2013.
JAN 24
Hungry for Yield? Loans May Satisfy
Leland Hart | Topics: Investing for Income, Fixed Income, Economic Outlook
Seeking to enhance yield in your portfolio without appreciably increasing risk? BlackRock's Leland Hart says floating rate bank loans may be the answer.
JAN 23
New Year, New (and Old) Reasons to Like Munis
Peter Hayes | Topics: Fixed Income, Investing for Income, Equities, Economic Outlook
Munis have long been a source of high-quality, low-volatility income. That's true to this day, but BlackRock's Peter Hayes explains why 2013 will not be exactly like 2012...or 2011.
JAN 22
Keep More of What You Earn with Munis
Peter Hayes | Topics: Fixed Income, Economic Outlook
Municipals have had quite a run but they still remain an attractive investment in 2013. Peter Hayes, Head of the Municipal Bonds Group, explains how you can keep more of what you earn with municipals.
JAN 14
Positioning Your Fixed Income Portfolio in 2013
Jeff Rosenberg | Topics: Economic Outlook, Fixed Income
Now that the new year has begun, how should you position your fixed income portfolio? Jeff Rosenberg, Chief Investment Strategist for Fixed Income, discusses opportunities in the fixed income market in 2013.
JAN 11
Fixed Income Outlook for 2013
Jeff Rosenberg | Topics: Economic Outlook, Fixed Income
Jeffrey Rosenberg, BlackRock's Chief Investment Strategist for Fixed Income, discusses his themes for 2013, including the outlook for interest rates and fixed income sectors, as well as perspectives on China and Japan.
JAN 10
Consider This Equity Opportunity in 2013
Dennis Stattman | Topics: Economic Outlook, Equities
As 2013 begins, consider a new investment opportunity. Dennis Stattman, Head of the BlackRock Global Allocation team, reveals where you can find great value this year.
JAN 7
Fiscal Cliff Deal: What It Means for Investors
Russ Koesterich | Topics: Economic Outlook, Investing for Income
A fiscal cliff deal has been reached, but what does it mean for investors? Russ Koesterich, Chief Investment Strategist, identifies opportunities in 2013.
JAN 2
US Fiscal Cliff Deal: A Stopgap, Not a Solution
Russ Koesterich | Topics: Equities, Economic Outlook, Fixed Income
With Washington finally coming to a limited agreement to prevent (or delay) the fiscal cliff, BlackRock offers our thoughts about the economic and investment implications.
DEC 24
The Benefits of a Long/Short Strategy in Emerging Markets
Rodolfo Martell | Topics: Economic Outlook, Investing for Income
Opportunities in emerging markets are plentiful but knowing how to best capitalize on them is important. Learn how a long/short strategy can help you mitigate volatility and benefit from inefficiencies in these markets.
DEC 17
Fiscal Cliff: Good News for Fixed Income Markets?
Jeff Rosenberg | Topics: Economic Outlook, Fixed Income
Jeff Rosenberg, Chief Investment Strategist for Fixed Income, reveals why going over the fiscal cliff may be good news for some areas of the fixed income market.
DEC 10
Worried about Muni Credit? Understand the Fiscal Cliff Impact
Peter Hayes | Topics: Economic Outlook, Fixed Income
Peter Hayes, Head of the Municipal Bonds Group, discusses the fiscal cliff and the potential impact on municipal credit.
NOV 26
The Impact of Tax Policy Changes on Municipals
Peter Hayes | Topics: Economic Outlook, Fixed Income
Peter Hayes, Head of the Municipal Bonds Group, discusses the potential impact that pending tax policy changes may have on the municipal bond market.
NOV 26
Taking Stock: Market Views From the Go-Anywhere Team
BlackRock | Topics: Economic Outlook, Equities, Fixed Income
The go-anywhere BlackRock Global Allocation team offers insight into today's markets and discusses how they're navigating an uncertain world.
NOV 21
Opportunities in the Post-Election Credit Markets
Josh Tarnow | Topics: Economic Outlook, Alternatives
Josh Tarnow, Portfolio Manager with the Leveraged Finance Portfolio Team, discusses opportunities for long/short strategies in the credit markets following the US election.
NOV 14
State of California Update
Peter Hayes & Jack Erbeck | Topics: Fixed Income, Investing for Income, Economic Outlook
After capturing its fair share of news flow in 2012, California enters the second quarter of its fiscal year headline-free and with a notable budget win after voters approved a meaningful tax measure on Election Day.
NOV 8
Now for the Hard Part: Investing After the US Elections
BlackRock | Topics: Economic Outlook, Investing for Income, Equities, Fixed Income
The votes have been cast; now the hard work begins. In a new report, BlackRock discusses the key challenges and other market implications of the US elections.
OCT 24
Beyond the Ordinary: Credit Opportunities for Yield and Return
Rick Rieder | Topics: Fixed Income, Economic Outlook
Rick Rieder, Co-Chair of BlackRock's Special Credit Opportunities Investment Committee, discusses the unprecedented credit-related opportunities being created in the post-crisis fixed income world.
OCT 1
2012 Elections: Implications, Insights and Investments
Peter Hayes & Jeff Rosenberg | Topics: Economic Outlook, Investing for Income, Equities, Fixed Income
In our pre-election analysis, BlackRock offers suggestions as to where investors can find value in the current markets.
There is no insight available for the selections you've made.
Click here to view all insight.Now for the Hard Part: Investing After the US Elections
BlackRock
The votes have been cast; now the hard work begins. In a new report, BlackRock discusses the key challenges and other market implications of the US elections.
Jeffrey Rosenberg, Chief Investment Strategist for Fixed Income
Peter Hayes, Head of the Municipal Bonds Group & Lead Portfolio Manager of the Municipal Bond Management Committee