Why you might want to lock in higher yields now, given real interest rates are the highest they have been in 15 years. Topics covered include: What was covered this year at the Federal Reserve Jackson Hole Symposium What are the primary policy actions central banks take, and how do they influence interest rates What is the neutral real rate of interest, and why is it important Why new ideas are central to an increasing standard of living What would drive interest rates … [Read more...]
403 Plus: Is This Normal? Rate Increases, Negative Returns, and Owning Short-term versus Long-term Bonds
In Plus Episode 403, we consider whether the current market volatility is normal compared to earlier periods of rising interest rates. We review the latest leading economic indicators to see if recession risk is rising. Finally, we discuss what factors to consider if deciding about selling longer-term bonds and investing in short-term bonds. … [Read more...]
246: What Central Banks Don’t Know Should Concern You
Why an inverted yield curve is disconcerting given such low interest rates. Why those low rates could lead to radical central bank policies during the next recession. In this episode you’ll learn: What is an inverted yield curve and does it signal a recession is coming.What determines interest rates.What is the neutral equilibrium real rate of interest and why it matters.Why is the Federal Reserve considering make up strategies that allow inflation to rise up its 2% target and what … [Read more...]
MNY148 Plus: Model Portfolio Changes, Moving Averages and Central Banks
This week March 11, 2017 on Money For the Rest of Us Plus we review the rationale for the model portfolio changes that reflect more defensiveness regarding fixed income. We look at how an investor who is an entirely in cash should decide what to do in the current market environment. We also review what it means to say central banks are accommodative and how the stock market has performed when rates are rising and when momentum is bearish. Finally, we look at how to interpret trend data … [Read more...]