News & Updates

Peeking Out of the Woods

Scott Blair
January 27, 2023

As we know, 2022 was a tough year in both the bond and equity markets. There were several events that created this environment, including: a wave of cash from COVID benefits drove spending, resulting in inflation and causing central bankers to raise interest rates rapidly; the war in Ukraine sent a shock around the world; and the continued lockdowns in China wreaked havoc on supply chains worldwide.

Some of these issues are dissipating or are having less of an impact on the markets. Inflation is coming back down (although not yet visible in grocery stores), relieved by improved supply chains and the reopening of China.

For these reasons, we are optimistic in outlook for 2023.

Looking forward, consensus seems to believe that there will be a recession this year, but it will be softer, milder, and shorter than originally expected, propped up by a robust labour market. We do believe that the housing market may have continued pressure on it, but that it will not necessarily spill over to the equity markets. It could also be argued that the recession has already been priced into the equity markets and should provide a faster path to recovery. There has been some evidence of this. At time of writing, the TSX is up 6.2%, the S&P 500 up 4.3%, and the Nasdaq is up 8.1%, and we’re not even through January. It already feels better than last year.

We expect inflation to continue to decline from current levels. At the peak, US inflation reached 9%+; it is currently 6.5%, and we expect that it will look more like 3.5% by mid-year. Canada’s trends are similar. The bond markets are forecasting a drop in interest rates over the year – we’ll see if central banks follow those indicators. This would not only be good for borrowing but also give a lift to bonds and bond funds.

We are currently in favour of Canada and even Europe over the US equity markets, which are currently valued higher (i.e., It’s less on sale). In Canada, at least growth will likely continue to be dependent on energy and materials. Banks also benefit from positive commodities markets because oil and gas producers, along with miners and lumber companies, boost production when commodities prices are high. To do so, they need money. To get it, they typically go to the banks to borrow. All around a good environment for Canada.

We are glad to put 2022 behind us and look forward to coming up for a breath of fresh air in 2023.

The information contained herein has been provided for information purposes only. The information has been drawn from sources believed to be reliable. Graphs, charts and other numbers are used for illustrative purposes only and do not reflect future values or future performance of any investment. The information does not provide financial, legal, tax or investment advice. Particular investment, tax, or trading strategies should be evaluated relative to each individual’s objectives and risk tolerance. This does not constitute a recommendation or solicitation to buy or sell securities of any kind. Market conditions may change which may impact the information contained in this document. Wellington-Altus Private Wealth Inc. (WAPW) does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information contained herein, nor does WAPW assume any liability for any loss that may result from the reliance by any person upon any such information or opinions. Before acting on any of the above, please contact your financial advisor. WAPW is a member of the Canadian Investor Protection Fund and the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada.

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The opinions contained herein are the opinions of the author and readers should not assume they reflect the opinions or recommendations of Wellington-Altus Private Wealth. Assumptions, opinions and information constitute the author’s judgement as of the date this material and subject to change without notice. We do not warrant the completeness or accuracy of this material, and it should not be relied upon as such. Before acting on any recommendation, you should consider whether it is suitable for your particular circumstances and, if necessary, seek professional advice. Graphs and charts are used for illustrative purposes only and do not reflect future values or future performance of any investment. The information does not provide financial, legal, tax or investment advice. Particular investment, tax, or trading strategies should be evaluated relative to each individual’s objectives and risk tolerance. All third party products and services referred to or advertised in this presentation are sold by the company or organization named. While these products or services may serve as valuable aids to the independent investor, WAPW does not specifically endorse any of these products or services. The third party products and services referred to, or advertised in this presentation, are available as a convenience to its customers only, and WAPW is not liable for any claims, losses or damages however arising out of any purchase or use of third party products or services. All insurance products and services are offered by life licensed advisors of Wellington-Altus. Wellington-Altus Private Wealth Inc. is a member of the Canadian Investor Protection Fund and the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada. All trademarks are the property of their respective owners.