If you have teenagers, you have undoubtedly experienced the joy of a roller coaster ride. If you are anything like me, the actual joy is found in getting off the roller coaster with a sigh of relief that the experience is over. In many ways, 2023 was the financial equivalent of a roller coaster ride. Last year was one of unexpected twists and turns for financial markets. The year began with lingering anxieties from 2022’s inflation surge and aggressive central bank rate hikes. However, a surprising turn of events unfolded, leading to a surprisingly strong performance across major asset classes.

Key Highlights:

• Equity Markets: The S&P 500 soared 25%. This growth was driven by several factors incluing receding inflation fears and a dovish pivot from the Fed. Growth stocks, notably the “Magnificent 7”, led the charge, with the Nasdaq Composite surging 45%. Though not as pronounced, the Dow Jones Industrial Average still managed a respectable 11% gain. While this run-up was exhilarating for many investors, there is a reason to remain diversified and not become a slave to concentrated stock positions.
• Bonds: Bond yields, which had been rising sharply in 2022, began to fall as inflation eased and the Fed slowed its rate hikes. The 10-year Treasury yield dropped from a peak of 4.6% in October to 3.5% by year-end, providing a much-needed boost to fixed-income investors.
• Macroeconomic backdrop: Inflation, the main villain of 2022, gradually cooled throughout 2023, thanks to a combination of factors like supply chain improvements, easing energy prices, and the Fed’s tightening measures. However, economic growth remained tepid, with concerns about a potential recession looming in 2024.

Forward-Looking Commentary:

While 2023 ended on a positive note, several uncertainties remain for 2024.

The “Fed Pivot”: The central bank’s dovish turn raises questions about its future policy path. Will it continue to raise rates, or will it cut them in response to slowing economic growth? The answer will significantly impact financial markets. In addition, we face continued Geopolitical risks. The ongoing war in Ukraine and rising tensions between the US and China pose potential threats to global economic stability and market sentiment. In addition to these concerns, there are recessionary fears in the air. These fears lead many to worry that corporate earnings growth could take a hit in 2024, impacting stock prices. Overall, 2023 offers a valuable lesson in the unpredictability of financial markets. While the year ended on a high note, investors should remain cautious and prepared for potential turbulence in 2024.  

As we review 2023 and enter 2024, perhaps the most important lesson that we can learn is to remain committed to a long-term financial plan. While turbulence is not comfortable, it is easier to weather when you maintain a long-term financial perspective.

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