Q2 2018 Market Commentary + Outlook
Aldrich Wealth Shares a Look at the Market
The tension between pro-growth and protectionist policies controlled investor sentiment throughout the quarter. Strong domestic growth and expectations of further Fed tightening were met by an escalating trade war and fears of an imminent recession.
Despite the pronounced volatility, domestic market equities, as measured by the S&P 500 Index, ended the quarter in positive territory with a 3.4% increase. Small-cap stocks outpaced their large-cap brethren, while growth generally bested value. Smaller companies with their U.S. centric orientation have been supported by strong earnings, protectionist rhetoric and a strengthening dollar.
Trade tensions reverberated across non-U.S. markets as well, inflicting the greatest damage on the emerging markets. Non-U.S. markets, as measured by the MSCI EAFE Index, declined 1.2% amid weakness in Japan and Germany. Emerging markets, as measured by the MSCI Emerging Markets Index, dropped nearly 8.0%, with significant weakness emanating out of Latin America. With trade retaliation between the U.S. and China heating up, China’s currency and stock market dropped to fresh lows.
The Federal Reserve raised the Fed Funds rate another 25 basis points in June and remain on pace for a total of four hikes in 2018. Additionally, the Fed has outlined plans for three more hikes in 2019, as economic activity and unemployment data remain robust.
Watch our market commentary video below, featuring Nicole Rice interviewing Chief Investment Officer Darin Richards, to hear more about the market trends this quarter.
Download our full market commentary here.
Meet the Authors
Darin has been the CIO of Aldrich Wealth since 2004, where he spearheads the development and implementation of the firm’s investment philosophy, guides the investment committee, and co-manages the private wealth team. Darin has made over 50 appearances as a guest on CNBC Power Lunch and has been quoted in several publications, including The Wall…
Darin's EXPERTISE
- Series 7 and 63 security exams
- Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA®)
Nicole has dedicated her entire professional career to helping business owners and corporate executives achieve their wealth accumulation and preservation goals. In her role as chief growth officer, Nicole identifies and fosters new opportunities that align with Aldrich Wealth’s strategic growth initiatives, continuing the firm’s established positive trajectory and long-standing entrepreneurial spirit. Nicole’s prowess spans…
Nicole's EXPERTISE
- Developing strategic growth initiatives
- Individual wealth management
- Certified public accountant
- Retirement planning
- Series 65 securities exam
