While the global economy picked up again in the third quarter, economists remain divided about the nature of the recovery and, thus, the best course of action for policymakers. This research report looks at the arguments behind the debate.
Critical to the future success of wealth advisors is a solid understanding of how, and to what degree, the meltdown in financial markets affected investor attitudes, behaviors and needs. Rothstein Kass' Business Consulting Group assesses changes and their implications for other planning disciplines, such as philanthropy, wealth transfer and tax management.
This PriceWaterhouseCoopers study of global private banking and wealth management provides insight into the themes and trends affecting the world of wealth management as well as practical suggestions for actions wealth managers should be taking. The study is conveniently divided into six sections covering performance, client service, products and services, talent, operations and technology, and risk management.
During extraordinary market conditions of all kinds – good and bad – it is usual to hear people say, "It's different this time." Of course, every market environment is different from every other market environment, but what these people are saying is that market conditions today are so exceptional, so completely unprecedented, that investors will need to reassess everything they thought they knew about the investment process – or face serious consequences.
Compared to the maelstrom that unfolded in the 4th quarter of 2008, the first 90 days of this year felt like a veritable walk in the park. There was no lack of negative news but, as the quarter progressed, there were signs that the economy was at or approaching a bottom.
A new market analysis from Fortigent LLC assesses international currency trends and offers recommendations for sophisticated investors looking to mitigate risks to their portfolios over both short- and long-term time horizons.
Look for new drivers of economic growth in China once the current stimulus package loses steam in two to three years, say analysts for Trusted Sources. They predict an accelerated transfer of rural labor into the cities, driving development of service industries and new investments in all types of urban infrastructure.
In a new research report from Deutsche Bank, analysts examine the causes and effects of what is likely to become Germany's worst economic downturn of the post-war period. Looking ahead, analysts believe stabilization could set in gradually in the second half of this year, but they do not expect an upturn until 2010.
While British investors are more cautious and pessimistic than they were six months ago, their confidence has not declined as much as might be expected given the severity of market sell-offs. A biannual survey by the Investment Management Association also finds there is a growing group of investors who see the credit crunch as providing good investment opportunities.
European firms have grown into formidable carbon competitors, due to the establishment of the EU Emissions Trading Scheme. That makes North American companies the new kids on the block in the global carbon market. This article from Natsource highlights market strategies employed by companies in the early stages of the EU ETS and offers insights for new entrants into the market.