{"id":1600,"date":"2025-06-13T17:46:10","date_gmt":"2025-06-13T17:46:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/advisor.wellington-altus.ca\/trivestwealthcounsel\/?p=1600"},"modified":"2025-06-13T17:46:10","modified_gmt":"2025-06-13T17:46:10","slug":"june-2025-breaking-bonds","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/advisor.wellington-altus.ca\/trivestwealthcounsel\/june-2025-breaking-bonds\/","title":{"rendered":"June 2025: Breaking Bonds"},"content":{"rendered":"<h3><span style=\"font-size: 10pt;color: #000000\"><b>INSIDE<\/b><\/span><\/h3>\n<h3><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\"><strong>Bond Market Breakdown: A Historic Shift<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">This month we highlight the unprecedented stress in global bond markets, with U.S. Treasuries experiencing their longest drawdown in history\u201458 months and counting. The traditional role of bonds as a safe haven has been upended by persistent inflation, rising interest rates and waning demand from key buyers like foreign governments and central banks. This \u201chigher for longer\u201d rate environment challenges the conventional 60\/40 portfolio model, urging investors to rethink fixed income strategies and embrace more dynamic, diversified approaches.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\"><strong>Housing Headwinds and Bank Stability<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">We explore growing risks in Canada\u2019s housing market, particularly in Ontario and British Columbia, where mortgage delinquencies and inventory levels are rising. Despite these challenges, Canadian banks have shown resilience, supported by strong capital positions and disciplined risk management. However, the looming \u201cmortgage renewal wall\u201d and elevated interest rates could test their stability. Investors are advised to monitor these developments closely while maintaining diversified exposure to sectors and instruments that can weather economic turbulence.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\"><strong>Strategic Adaptation: Portfolio Resilience<\/strong><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">In response to the shifting landscape, we have made a strategic pivot towards asymmetric profile instruments which have delivered strong, risk-adjusted returns while offering downside protection and tailored exposure. Our TWC Risk-Managed Balanced Growth Fund now allocates over a third of its assets to structured notes, with additional exposure to commodities, private equity and alternatives. This reflects a broader philosophy of building portfolios that are flexible, forward-looking and resilient in the face of volatility and fiscal uncertainty.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-size: 14pt\"><strong>June 2025: Breaking Bonds<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">Welcome to this month\u2019s Market Strategy. In this edition we share our latest views on the market along with how we\u2019re positioned strategically.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">This month we dive deeper into the domestic and global bond market as it\u2019s a risk few seem to be talking about despite being in uncharted territory. According to market strategist Charlie Bilello of Creative Planning, it has now been in a drawdown for 58 consecutive months\u2014by far the longest such stretch in recorded history. Over this period, the bond market has endured a peak-to-trough decline of -17.2 per cent, a staggering figure for an asset class traditionally viewed as a safe haven.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/x.com\/charliebilello\/status\/1929528329100488716\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-1601\" src=\"https:\/\/advisor.wellington-altus.ca\/trivestwealthcounsel\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/119\/2025\/06\/Picture1.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"441\" height=\"335\" srcset=\"https:\/\/advisor.wellington-altus.ca\/trivestwealthcounsel\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/119\/2025\/06\/Picture1.png 441w, https:\/\/advisor.wellington-altus.ca\/trivestwealthcounsel\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/119\/2025\/06\/Picture1-300x228.png 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 441px) 100vw, 441px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">For decades, bonds\u2014especially U.S. Treasuries\u2014have served as the cornerstone of diversified portfolios. They\u2019ve offered stability, income and a reliable counterbalance to equity market volatility. Historically, bond market drawdowns have been relatively short-lived and shallow. But the current environment has flipped that narrative on its head.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\"><strong>What\u2019s driving the drawdown.<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">Several forces have converged to create this prolonged period of stress. Chief among them is the Federal Reserve\u2019s interest rate policy in response to the risk of persistent inflation. As rates rise, bond prices fall\u2014particularly for longer-duration bonds, which are more sensitive to changes in interest rates. The result has been a steady erosion of bond values, with little relief in sight. Adding to the pressure are concerns about inflation itself. While headline inflation has moderated from its post-pandemic peaks, underlying price pressures remain sticky. Recent tariff threats and ongoing geopolitical tensions have only added to inflationary fears, further undermining confidence in fixed income as an asset class.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">But perhaps the most concerning development is the shifting landscape of bond market demand. According to former Federal Reserve senior trader Joseph Wang, the major buyers of U.S. Treasuries over the past five years have included the Fed itself, foreign governments, hedge funds and domestic banks. Today, that picture is changing <em>(<\/em><a href=\"mailto:martin.pelletier@wellington-altus.ca?subject=Finding%20Balance%20Sheet%20request\"><em>email Martin<\/em><\/a><em> if you would like a copy of Joseph\u2019s report).<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/fedguy.com\/finding-balance-sheet\/\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-1602\" src=\"https:\/\/advisor.wellington-altus.ca\/trivestwealthcounsel\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/119\/2025\/06\/Picture2.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"480\" height=\"276\" srcset=\"https:\/\/advisor.wellington-altus.ca\/trivestwealthcounsel\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/119\/2025\/06\/Picture2.png 480w, https:\/\/advisor.wellington-altus.ca\/trivestwealthcounsel\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/119\/2025\/06\/Picture2-300x173.png 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 480px) 100vw, 480px\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">With the Federal Reserve reducing its balance sheet and foreign appetite for Treasuries waning, the burden of absorbing new bonds being issued\u2014expected to exceed US$2 trillion annually due to ongoing fiscal deficits\u2014will increasingly fall on hedge funds and banks. This shift raises serious questions about who will step in to support the market, and at what price.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\"><strong>Does this mean higher for longer?<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">All signs point to a world where interest rates remain elevated for an extended period. This \u201chigher for longer\u201d environment poses a direct challenge to conventional portfolio construction strategies, particularly the traditional 60\/40 stock-bond allocation. Investors who once relied on bonds for downside protection have found themselves exposed to simultaneous declines in both equities and fixed income. The implications are far-reaching. For individual investors, it means rethinking the role of bonds in their portfolios. For institutions\u2014pension funds, insurance companies, endowments\u2014it raises concerns about meeting long-term liabilities and income targets. Bonds, once the bedrock of capital preservation, are now a source of volatility and uncertainty.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">This historic bond market drawdown is more than just a statistical anomaly; it\u2019s a wake-up call. It underscores the need for a more dynamic approach to portfolio construction, one that accounts for the possibility of prolonged inflation, fiscal imbalances and shifting demand. Diversification beyond traditional asset classes is becoming increasingly important. Investors are exploring alternatives such as private credit, infrastructure, real assets and structured products to help mitigate risk and generate income. Active management, once out of favour, is regaining relevance as markets become more complex and less forgiving.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\"><strong>The investor rule book has changed.<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">The bond market\u2019s longest drawdown in history is a stark reminder that even the most stable-seeming assets are not immune to structural shifts. As the financial landscape evolves, so too must the strategies we use to navigate it. For investors, the message is clear: the old rules may no longer apply, and adaptation is not optional\u2014it\u2019s essential.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">Fortunately, our use of structured notes as a bond replacement has not only met expectations\u2014it has exceeded them. These instruments have proven to be a powerful tool in helping clients navigate a world where traditional fixed income no longer offers the same protection or yield. Structured notes allow us to tailor risk and return profiles to specific market conditions, offering downside buffers, enhanced income and asymmetric upside potential.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">For example, we were recently asked to present an institutional proposal on structured notes. As part of our preparation, one of our capital markets partners provided a performance summary of the notes we\u2019ve implemented since April 2021. The results were compelling: across a range of market environments, these notes consistently delivered attractive risk-adjusted returns, often outperforming traditional bonds while offering built-in protection against drawdowns.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-1603\" src=\"https:\/\/advisor.wellington-altus.ca\/trivestwealthcounsel\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/119\/2025\/06\/Picture3.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"344\" height=\"209\" srcset=\"https:\/\/advisor.wellington-altus.ca\/trivestwealthcounsel\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/119\/2025\/06\/Picture3.png 344w, https:\/\/advisor.wellington-altus.ca\/trivestwealthcounsel\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/119\/2025\/06\/Picture3-300x182.png 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 344px) 100vw, 344px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">We\u2019ve deployed a variety of strategies, including accelerator notes with look-back features, contingent income notes on defensive sectors and buffered equity-linked notes. One of our more innovative structures locked in the lowest point of a Canadian equity basket six months into the term and offered 1.18x the upside from that level, with a 30 per cent downside buffer. Another U.S.-dollar-denominated note offered 1.55x upside participation, capitalizing on higher U.S. interest rates.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">These strategies have become a core component of our registered account allocations, where tax efficiency is critical. In many cases, we allocate up to 100 per cent of a client\u2019s RRSP or TFSA to structured notes, allowing for enhanced returns without sacrificing protection. And because these notes are designed to mature with defined outcomes, they provide clarity and confidence in an otherwise uncertain market.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">In a world where traditional bonds are no longer the safe haven they once were, structured notes offer a compelling alternative. They allow us to stay invested, manage risk proactively and align portfolios with our clients\u2019 long-term goals. As we continue to navigate this evolving landscape, we believe structured notes will remain a vital part of our toolkit\u2014helping us deliver stability, income and growth in a way that traditional fixed income simply can\u2019t.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">Thank you for reading, and please feel free to reach out to any of our team members should you have any comments or questions about markets, your portfolio or just wanting to catch up. All the best, and keep investing wisely!<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-872 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/advisor.wellington-altus.ca\/trivestwealthcounsel\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/119\/2024\/10\/Screenshot-2024-10-28-081020.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"232\" height=\"39\" srcset=\"https:\/\/advisor.wellington-altus.ca\/trivestwealthcounsel\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/119\/2024\/10\/Screenshot-2024-10-28-081020.png 338w, https:\/\/advisor.wellington-altus.ca\/trivestwealthcounsel\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/119\/2024\/10\/Screenshot-2024-10-28-081020-300x51.png 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 232px) 100vw, 232px\" \/><\/h2>\n<h2><span style=\"font-size: 14pt\"><strong>How Sovereign Debt Stress Is Reshaping Global Markets<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">The global bond market is facing increasing turmoil, with long-term yields rising across major economies and governments struggling to manage growing debt burdens. Many investors remain unaware of the scale of this unfolding crisis, but recent developments suggest the next phase of financial instability may be driven by weakness in sovereign debt markets.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">Japan\u2019s 30-year government bond yield surged to an all-time high last week of 3.14 per cent, following a weak bond auction that highlighted investor concerns over the country\u2019s fiscal stability. The 40-year yield also hit a record 3.6 per cent, reflecting broader unease about Japan\u2019s ability to manage debt without causing market disruptions.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">The Bank of Japan (BOJ) is now stuck in a dilemma. If the BOJ raises interest rates to defend the yen or combat inflation it risks increasing debt servicing costs, which could exceed 30 trillion yen (about $289 billion USD) in fiscal 2025 if rates rise just one per cent beyond expectations. Conversely, keeping rates low risks destabilizing Japan\u2019s bond market, as investor demand for long-term Japanese government bonds has weakened significantly.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">This may have implications reaching beyond its borders as Japan holds about US$1.13 trillion in U.S. Treasuries, making it the largest foreign holder of U.S. debt. Japanese institutions had already sold off US$119.3 billion worth of U.S. Treasuries in just one quarter, marking the steepest quarterly decline since 2012. This suggests Japan may be offloading U.S. debt to fund domestic obligations or defend the yen, potentially triggering broader market shocks.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\"><strong>U.S. Treasury demand weakens<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">The situation in Japan is mirrored in the United States, where Treasury auctions are also showing signs of strain. A US$16 billion auction of 20-year Treasury bonds last month saw weaker-than-expected demand, forcing yields higher. The 30-year Treasury yield breached five per cent, reflecting concerns over rising deficits and long-term borrowing capacity.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">As a result, Moody\u2019s downgraded its U.S. debt rating, which has intensified investor skepticism. The Federal Reserve\u2019s uncertain monetary policy and growing fiscal instability have further contributed to higher risk premiums for U.S. long-term Treasuries. As confidence in government debt declines, borrowing costs could rise, further exacerbating deficit concerns.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\"><strong>Governments\u2019 spending problem<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">Despite growing pressure from bond markets, governments continue to resist spending cuts. The U.S. leads in deficit spending, with a deficit that was equivalent to 6.4 per cent of GDP in 2024, according to the U.S. Congressional Budget Office. This is compared to other larger economies, according to Trading Economics, such as France (5.8 per cent of GDP in 2024), the United Kingdom (4.8 per cent in 2024) and Germany (2.8 per cent in 2024). Canada\u2019s deficit to GDP ratio was two per cent, according to the government\u2019s 2024 Fall Economic Statement. Interestingly some countries have moved toward budget surpluses, such as Norway, with -13.20 per cent of GDP in 2024 according to Trading Economics, showing that fiscal discipline is possible despite global headwinds.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">There is growing concern that trade uncertainty, particularly in the wake of policy shifts by the Trump administration, could serve as an excuse for governments to maintain large deficits. The spectre of new tariffs, trade wars and economic retaliation could add further pressure to already fragile bond markets.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\"><strong>What this means for investors<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">Bond markets are applying increasing pressure on governments to confront their fiscal realities, but policymakers seem unwilling to rein in spending. This means that sovereign debt markets will continue to dictate economic conditions in the months ahead, making it critical for fixed-income investors to adapt before the landscape shifts even further.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">Rising long-term yields translate to lower returns for bondholders, threatening the traditional 60\/40 balanced portfolio. Investors may need to reassess their fixed-income strategies, but caution is required as shifting entirely into equities introduces substantial risks.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">Additionally, with governments potentially using inflation as a stealth tool for debt repayment, investors should consider having some exposure to real assets such as commodities to protect purchasing power. Dividend-paying companies in stable sectors such as Canadian utilities can offer defensive income, though volatility will remain elevated.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">The unfolding crisis in global bond markets is not something investors can afford to ignore. As debt burdens expand and fiscal discipline remains elusive, adaptability will be the key to preserving wealth. Investors must embrace diversification, balancing fixed income, real assets, structured products and select equities to shield their portfolios from mounting risks. While volatility may continue to dominate markets, strategic positioning can help navigate these turbulent times with confidence.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-size: 14pt\"><strong>The Mortgage Wall: Why Canada\u2019s Housing Market Could Test Bank Resilience<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">Despite a challenging economic backdrop, Canada\u2019s major banks continued to deliver decent results, underscoring the strength of their oligopolistic market structure and operational discipline. Yet, beneath the surface of earnings beats and dividend hikes, a growing undercurrent of risk is emerging\u2014particularly in the housing market.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">We\u2019ve noticed that the phrase \u201ccautiously optimistic\u201d has become a staple in the forward guidance of Canadian banks in 2025. While earnings remain robust, management teams are clearly aware of the mounting pressures facing consumers and the broader economy. The banks\u2019 ability to maintain profitability is largely thanks to their scale, pricing power and relentless focus on what they&#8217;ve been calling &#8220;operational efficiencies.&#8221; These advantages have allowed them to weather rising credit costs and margin compression better than many global peers.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">However, there is a looming risk that we\u2019re keeping a very close eye on: Ontario\u2019s real estate market. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.mpamag.com\/ca\/mortgage-industry\/market-updates\/ontario-delinquencies-reach-alarming-highs-amid-mortgage-renewal-surge\/537201\">According to Equifax<\/a>, the province\u2019s 90-plus-day mortgage delinquency rate surged by 71.5 per cent year-over-year in the first quarter of 2025, the highest level since\u00a0mortgage\u00a0tracking began in 2012. In total, 1.4 million Canadians, or roughly 1 in 22, missed at least one credit payment during the quarter. These figures point to a growing strain on household finances, particularly in regions where home prices and debt levels soared during the pandemic.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">\u00a0The situation is further complicated by what the Bank of Canada has dubbed <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bankofcanada.ca\/2024\/11\/canadas-mortgage-market-a-question-of-balance\/\">the \u201cmortgage renewal wall.\u201d<\/a> About 60 per cent of all outstanding mortgages in Canada are set to renew in 2025 or 2026. Many of these loans originated during the pandemic at historically low fixed rates, often below two per cent. Even with recent rate cuts, renewal rates remain in the four to five per cent range.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">\u00a0The impact on borrowers could be significant.\u00a0 A indicated\u00a0that 57 per cent of renewing mortgage holders expect higher monthly payments, with 22 per cent anticipating a substantial increase. Alarmingly, 81 per cent of those facing higher payments say they will experience financial strain, and 34 per cent describe it as \u201csignificant.\u201d This wave of refinancing risk could lead to further delinquencies and a potential softening in home prices, especially in overheated urban markets.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">\u00a0And it\u2019s not just Ontario. British Columbia is showing signs of a sluggish market as well.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">\u00a0In Metro Vancouver, inventory levels have surged to some of the highest in more than a decade, with more than 15,000 listings in April alone. Realtors are reporting that buyers are hesitant, and properties are sitting longer on the market. Sales are down roughly 24 per cent year-over-year and remain well below 10-year seasonal averages, reflecting a broader buyer hesitation amid economic and political uncertainty. In a telling anecdote, <a href=\"https:\/\/globalnews.ca\/news\/11190458\/sign-of-the-times-new-indicator-bc-sluggish-real-estate-market\/\">a local signpost company<\/a> is now offering credits to realtors who return used signposts\u2014because demand for new listings has outpaced supply of signage.\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">That said, Canadian banks continue to remain a pillar of stability in an uncertain economic environment. Their ability to manage costs, maintain capital strength and deliver shareholder returns is commendable, especially when viewed against the backdrop of financial volatility. These institutions benefit from a well-regulated financial system, conservative lending practices and a diversified revenue base that includes retail banking, wealth management and capital markets.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">One of the key strengths of Canadian banks is their disciplined approach to risk management. Even as credit conditions tighten, most banks have proactively increased their loan loss provisions, bolstered capital buffers and maintained strong liquidity positions. This prudence has helped them absorb shocks from rising interest rates and slowing economic growth without compromising their core operations.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">\u00a0However, not all banks are equally positioned. Institutions with greater international diversification, such as the Bank of Nova Scotia with its Latin American footprint or Toronto-Dominion Bank and Bank of Montreal with their U.S. exposure, may be better insulated from domestic housing market volatility. Conversely, banks with heavier exposure to Canadian consumer lending and real estate, particularly in Ontario and British Columbia, could face more pronounced headwinds.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">Investors would be wise to monitor several key indicators in the months ahead.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-size: 14pt\"><strong>Asset Allocation &amp; Performance Update<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">As retail investors continue to bet on a return to the momentum-driven rallies of the past two years\u2014particularly in U.S. equities\u2014we remain cautious. While recent market strength has been encouraging, we believe fragility persists beneath the surface, especially in sovereign bond markets where long-term yields are rising and fiscal imbalances are becoming harder to ignore. The global bond market is no longer the stabilizing force it once was. With the U.S. bond market in its longest drawdown in history and Japan\u2019s long-term yields hitting record highs, the traditional 60\/40 portfolio is under pressure. Investors must be prepared for a world where fixed income no longer provides the same protection or predictability.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">In this environment, portfolios built on quality, balance and adaptability are best positioned to weather volatility and capitalize on recovery. Rather than chasing yesterday\u2019s winners, we believe investors should use recent rallies as opportunities to rebalance and prepare for what may be a more structurally complex market cycle ahead.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">Our current positioning reflects this view. Within our TWC Risk-Managed Balanced Growth Fund, we maintain a diversified allocation that emphasizes flexibility and downside protection. Equity-based structured notes now represent the largest allocation at 35.7 per cent, reflecting our conviction in their ability to deliver asymmetric returns and income with embedded risk management features. Fixed income remains a core component at 25.4 per cent, though we are highly selective in duration and credit quality. Canadian and U.S. equities are held at 13.8 per cent and 10.5 per cent respectively, with a continued emphasis on dividend-paying and value-oriented names. We also maintain exposure to private equity (3.4 per cent) and alternatives (3.0 per cent) to diversify return streams. We recently boosted our commodities exposure (3.0 per cent), buying gold on its dip a month ago as a hedge against the unfolding global debt instability. Our cash and money market holdings total 5.1 per cent, providing liquidity and optionality in a volatile environment.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-1604\" src=\"https:\/\/advisor.wellington-altus.ca\/trivestwealthcounsel\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/119\/2025\/06\/Picture4.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"2147\" height=\"1269\" srcset=\"https:\/\/advisor.wellington-altus.ca\/trivestwealthcounsel\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/119\/2025\/06\/Picture4.png 2147w, https:\/\/advisor.wellington-altus.ca\/trivestwealthcounsel\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/119\/2025\/06\/Picture4-300x177.png 300w, https:\/\/advisor.wellington-altus.ca\/trivestwealthcounsel\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/119\/2025\/06\/Picture4-1024x605.png 1024w, https:\/\/advisor.wellington-altus.ca\/trivestwealthcounsel\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/119\/2025\/06\/Picture4-768x454.png 768w, https:\/\/advisor.wellington-altus.ca\/trivestwealthcounsel\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/119\/2025\/06\/Picture4-1536x908.png 1536w, https:\/\/advisor.wellington-altus.ca\/trivestwealthcounsel\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/119\/2025\/06\/Picture4-2048x1210.png 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 2147px) 100vw, 2147px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">From a performance standpoint, our TWC fund is up 0.8 per cent year-to-date (as at May 31, 2025), which is in line with our global passive balanced index (composed of 10 per cent S&amp;P\/TSX Composite, 50 per cent MSCI Global Equity and 40 per cent Vanguard Global Bond). More importantly, our five-year annualized return stands at 7.8 per cent\u2014well ahead of the 5.7 per cent delivered by the passive benchmark. This outperformance reflects our commitment to active risk management, strategic diversification and disciplined execution.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">The key takeaway is that we remain vigilant, flexible and prepared. Rather than overcommitting to short-term narratives or lagging indicators, we are focused on building portfolios that can adapt to a wide range of outcomes. In today\u2019s market, resilience is the new alpha\u2014and that starts with thoughtful, forward-looking asset allocation.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-size: 14pt\"><b>Research, reads of the month<\/b><\/span><\/h2>\n<div class=\"c-stack b-video-custom__metadata__stack\" data-style-direction=\"vertical\" data-style-justification=\"start\" data-style-alignment=\"unset\" data-style-inline=\"false\" data-style-wrap=\"nowrap\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-1605 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/advisor.wellington-altus.ca\/trivestwealthcounsel\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/119\/2025\/06\/Picture5.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"624\" height=\"384\" srcset=\"https:\/\/advisor.wellington-altus.ca\/trivestwealthcounsel\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/119\/2025\/06\/Picture5.png 624w, https:\/\/advisor.wellington-altus.ca\/trivestwealthcounsel\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/119\/2025\/06\/Picture5-300x185.png 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 624px) 100vw, 624px\" \/><\/div>\n<div data-style-direction=\"vertical\" data-style-justification=\"start\" data-style-alignment=\"unset\" data-style-inline=\"false\" data-style-wrap=\"nowrap\"><\/div>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\"><strong>Understanding the scale of unfolding bond crisis<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">Martin Pelletier, senior portfolio manager for TriVest Wealth at Wellington-Altus Private Counsel, shares his analysis of the bond crisis unfolding. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.bnnbloomberg.ca\/video\/shows\/morning-markets\/2025\/05\/26\/understanding-the-scale-of-unfolding-bond-crisis\/\">Watch Here<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\"><strong>Dimon<\/strong>\u2014<strong>I am not a buyer of credit today<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">Bonds: I think credit today is a bad risk. Equities: an extraordinary amount of complacency. <a href=\"https:\/\/x.com\/MPelletierCIO\/status\/1927015312538345748\">Watch Here<\/a>. The price of credit default swaps on U.S. Government Debt is rising to its highest level since 2023 and one of the highest levels since 2008. <a href=\"https:\/\/x.com\/Barchart\/status\/1926837635303059774\">See Here<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\"><strong>It\u2019s Over<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">Efforts to push yields lower can lead to other problems such as a weakening currency and higher inflation. In the U.S., a weaker currency would likely lead to significant declines in the equity market as overexposed foreign investors exit. In any case, the era of big deficits ends when it becomes painful either through higher yields, higher inflation or lower asset prices. Market price action is looking like the end is in sight, and what ultimately follows is a painful period of austerity. <a href=\"https:\/\/fedguy.com\/its-over\/\">Read Here<\/a> <em>(<\/em><a href=\"mailto:martin.pelletier@wellington-altus.ca?subject=copy%20of%20IT'S%20OVER%20please\"><em>email Martin<\/em><\/a><em> if you wish to receive a copy.)<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\"><strong>Analysts making larger earnings cuts than average <\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">Q2 EPS estimates for S&amp;P 500 companies according to FactSet. <a href=\"https:\/\/x.com\/MikeZaccardi\/status\/1928484744095834599\">See Here<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\"><strong>This is the LARGEST bubble in human history<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">Bitcoin\u2019s whole story is a staged illusion, scripted by insiders to convince you governments and institutions are \u201call in\u201d\u2014and that this market is booming on real demand. <a href=\"https:\/\/x.com\/JacobKinge\/status\/1929798518744449522\">Read Here<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\"><strong>The sky is the limit<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">Worth a read of Cisco\u2019s Letter to Shareholders in the 2000 Annual Report. <a href=\"https:\/\/x.com\/PauloMacro\/status\/1927828594425725198\">Read Here<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\"><strong>Apollo: The bubble in AI valuations was simply the result of a long period with zero interest rates <\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">With upward pressures on inflation coming from tariffs, deglobalization and demographics, interest rates will remain high and continue to be a headwind to tech and growth for the coming years. <a href=\"https:\/\/x.com\/chigrl\/status\/1927072882963661159\">See Here<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\"><strong>Canaries<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">I&#8217;ve always watched the RV market for signs of things to come. <a href=\"https:\/\/x.com\/VladTheInflator\/status\/1927396459822842280\">See Here<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\"><strong>U.S. housing market now has 500,000 more home sellers than homebuyers<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">That\u2019s the most homebuyers have outmatched home sellers in over a decade, according to Redfin. <a href=\"https:\/\/x.com\/NewsLambert\/status\/1928277302351384705\">See Here<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\"><strong>Ron Butler: Condo Crash Meets Housing Crisis<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">In this episode of the Missing Middle podcast, mortgage broker Ron Butler sits down with conservative pundit Sabrina Maddeaux and economist Mike Moffatt to discuss the current crisis in the Toronto condo market. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=9xD5veEsB3U\">Watch Here<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\"><strong>Housing isn\u2019t a home anymore<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">They lined up overnight in the rain\u2026not for shelter, not for food, but for condos that lost 25% of their value before even opening. Metro Vancouver has 2,000+ unsold units and investors still call it a \u201cbooming market.\u201d \u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/x.com\/i\/status\/1929714862227353776\">Watch Here<\/a>. In case you don&#8217;t know yet, here&#8217;s what&#8217;s wrong with the Canadian real estate market in one chart. <a href=\"https:\/\/x.com\/JonFlynnREstats\/status\/1927725367214715285\">See Here<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\"><strong>The latest federal immigration data<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">Canada took in 817,000 new immigrants in first four months of 2025.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\"><strong>Important especially to Canadian investors<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">Buried deep in the more than 1,000-page tax-and-spending bill that U.S. President Donald Trump is muscling through Congress is an obscure tax measure that\u2019s setting off alarms on Wall Street and beyond.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #000000\"><strong>On the Positive <\/strong>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone wp-image-1606 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/advisor.wellington-altus.ca\/trivestwealthcounsel\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/119\/2025\/06\/Screenshot-2025-06-13-104127.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"1012\" height=\"366\" srcset=\"https:\/\/advisor.wellington-altus.ca\/trivestwealthcounsel\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/119\/2025\/06\/Screenshot-2025-06-13-104127.png 1012w, https:\/\/advisor.wellington-altus.ca\/trivestwealthcounsel\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/119\/2025\/06\/Screenshot-2025-06-13-104127-300x108.png 300w, https:\/\/advisor.wellington-altus.ca\/trivestwealthcounsel\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/119\/2025\/06\/Screenshot-2025-06-13-104127-768x278.png 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1012px) 100vw, 1012px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\"><strong>Mindset is Everything<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">Mathematician George Dantzig was late to class one day in college and copied down a few problems he saw on the board. Thinking they were homework, he completed and turned them in not realizing they were actually two famous unsolved problems in statistics.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\"><strong>Changing your perspective<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">You can choose to live a reactive life or a creative life. So many of us choose to live a reactive life. <a href=\"https:\/\/x.com\/i\/status\/1929049620262310112\">Watch Here<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\"><strong>An 8-step formula for creating a life of alignment and fulfillment<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">We don\u2019t agree with everything entrepreneur Vishen Lakhiani says, but there are some interesting gems. <a href=\"https:\/\/open.spotify.com\/episode\/6nQdv5lAVfSwzbnf2KJgbe?si=eBNIAxeXRr-QJZ1THTiIzw&amp;context=spotify%3Ashow%3A4FSiemtvZrWesGtO2MqTZ4&amp;nd=1&amp;dlsi=c63d343cf5c649cf\">Listen Here<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\"><strong>How&#8217;d I do, Joe? Is that your ATM PIN code?<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">Podcaster Joe Rogan clearly uncomfortable after &#8216;mentalist&#8217; Oz Pearlman successfully guesses his ATM PIN code on his recent show. <a href=\"https:\/\/x.com\/i\/status\/1930398532604977543\">Watch Here<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-size: 14pt\"><b>Thanks for visiting <\/b><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">To find out more about the TriVest team and how we manage wealth, follow us on <a href=\"https:\/\/trivestwealth.benchmarkurl.com\/c\/l?u=EAD5967&amp;e=155B670&amp;c=26A57&amp;t=1&amp;l=14EDCEC2&amp;email=14EQZVVJkTquuucOV2pnHcUwVYmFuk0yJTjeawJ2Q4s%3D&amp;seq=1\"><i>Twitter<\/i>, <\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/trivestwealth.benchmarkurl.com\/c\/l?u=EAD5968&amp;e=155B670&amp;c=26A57&amp;t=1&amp;l=14EDCEC2&amp;email=14EQZVVJkTquuucOV2pnHcUwVYmFuk0yJTjeawJ2Q4s%3D&amp;seq=1\"><i>LinkedIn<\/i><\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/trivestwealth.benchmarkurl.com\/c\/l?u=EAD5969&amp;e=155B670&amp;c=26A57&amp;t=1&amp;l=14EDCEC2&amp;email=14EQZVVJkTquuucOV2pnHcUwVYmFuk0yJTjeawJ2Q4s%3D&amp;seq=1\"><i>Facebook<\/i><\/a>\u00a0.\u00a0Please <a href=\"mailto:trivestwealth@wellington-altus.ca\">email us<\/a> if you want to find out more about our services.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-838\" src=\"https:\/\/advisor.wellington-altus.ca\/trivestwealthcounsel\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/119\/2024\/09\/Screenshot-2024-09-10-133259.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"1117\" height=\"544\" srcset=\"https:\/\/advisor.wellington-altus.ca\/trivestwealthcounsel\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/119\/2024\/09\/Screenshot-2024-09-10-133259.png 1117w, https:\/\/advisor.wellington-altus.ca\/trivestwealthcounsel\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/119\/2024\/09\/Screenshot-2024-09-10-133259-300x146.png 300w, https:\/\/advisor.wellington-altus.ca\/trivestwealthcounsel\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/119\/2024\/09\/Screenshot-2024-09-10-133259-1024x499.png 1024w, https:\/\/advisor.wellington-altus.ca\/trivestwealthcounsel\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/119\/2024\/09\/Screenshot-2024-09-10-133259-768x374.png 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1117px) 100vw, 1117px\" \/><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">The information contained herein has been provided for information purposes only.\u00a0 The information has been drawn from sources believed to be reliable.\u00a0 Graphs, charts and other numbers are used for illustrative purposes only and do not reflect future values or future performance of any investment.\u00a0 The information does not provide financial, legal, tax or investment advice.\u00a0 Particular investment, tax, or trading strategies should be evaluated relative to each individual\u2019s objectives and risk tolerance.\u00a0 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. \u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">Transactions of the type described herein may involve a high degree of risk, and the value of such instruments may be highly volatile. Such risks may include without limitation risk of adverse or unanticipated market developments, risk of issuer default and risk of illiquidity. In certain transactions counterparties may lose their entire investment or incur an unlimited loss.\u00a0 This brief statement does not disclose all the risks and other significant aspects in connection with transactions of the type described herein, and counterparties should ensure that they fully understand the terms of the transaction, including the relevant risk factors and any legal, tax, regulatory and accounting considerations applicable to them, prior to transacting.\u00a0 This report may contain links to third-party websites. WAPC is not responsible for the content of any third-party website or any linked content contained in a third-party website. The inclusion of a link in this report does not imply any endorsement by or any affiliation with WAPC.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">Structured Notes are not suitable for all investors. The notes do not pay dividends, and any dividends paid on the underlying constituent\u2019s may not factor into the return calculation that determines your return. The protection and potential augmented returns on these notes are only available when held to maturity.\u202fThese notes do not offer any protection if they are sold before the maturity date. If sold before the maturity date, returns may be positive or negative. These examples are for illustrative purposes only and should not be construed as an estimate or forecast of the performance of the Index or the return that an investor might realize on the Notes.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">Wellington-Altus Private Counsel Inc. (WAPC) does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information contained herein, nor does WAPC assume any liability for any loss that may result from the reliance by any person upon any such information or opinions.\u00a0 Before acting on any of the above, please contact your financial advisor.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">All trademarks are the property of their respective owners.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">\u00a9 2025, Wellington-Altus Private Counsel Inc.\u00a0 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-size: 10pt\">NO USE OR REPRODUCTION WITHOUT PERMISSION. <a href=\"http:\/\/www.wellington-altus.ca\">www.wellington-altus.ca<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Welcome to this month\u2019s Market Strategy. In this edition we share our latest views on the market along with how we\u2019re positioned strategically. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":229,"featured_media":1608,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_oasis_is_in_workflow":0,"_oasis_original":0,"_oasis_task_priority":"","_exactmetrics_skip_tracking":false,"_exactmetrics_sitenote_active":false,"_exactmetrics_sitenote_note":"","_exactmetrics_sitenote_category":0,"footnotes":""},"categories":[22],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-1600","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-monthly-market-research"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/advisor.wellington-altus.ca\/trivestwealthcounsel\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1600","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/advisor.wellington-altus.ca\/trivestwealthcounsel\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/advisor.wellington-altus.ca\/trivestwealthcounsel\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/advisor.wellington-altus.ca\/trivestwealthcounsel\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/229"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/advisor.wellington-altus.ca\/trivestwealthcounsel\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=1600"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/advisor.wellington-altus.ca\/trivestwealthcounsel\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1600\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":1607,"href":"https:\/\/advisor.wellington-altus.ca\/trivestwealthcounsel\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1600\/revisions\/1607"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/advisor.wellington-altus.ca\/trivestwealthcounsel\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1608"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/advisor.wellington-altus.ca\/trivestwealthcounsel\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1600"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/advisor.wellington-altus.ca\/trivestwealthcounsel\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=1600"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/advisor.wellington-altus.ca\/trivestwealthcounsel\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=1600"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}