October’s better-than-expected retail sales figures are certainly another sign that the US economy is likely to avoid tipping back into recession. But a look behind the numbers reveals a major risk facing the US economy.
Why US Equities Look Expensive, but Japan Does Not
In this week’s market call, learn why Russ is downgrading his view of US equities but upgrading his view of Japanese stocks.
Dispatch from Milan: The Most Likely Scenario for Italy
That Russ’ long-planned trip to Milan this week coincided with political turmoil in Italy has turned out to be been a lucky coincidence. Here, Russ explains what that country’s political turmoil means for markets and why the next 72 hours are critical.
Tipping into Recession? Not yet
“If you think this is a bad economy, you haven’t seen anything yet.” That’s what the Economic Cycle Research Institute recently said when it warned investors that the US economy is tipping into a recession. But here’s why Russ does not agree.
Mapping Risk Today
A picture is worth a thousand words. Check out the chart in this blog to see how the market’s perception of the riskiness of emerging markets and developing markets has shifted.
Using ETFs to Navigate Volatile, Low-Return Markets (Video)
Jennifer Grancio, head of Global Business Development for iShares, explains how investors are using ETFs to manage portfolio cost and risk, while also executing tactical moves – like shifting into higher-income products.
Corporate Bonds: Figuring out a Fair Price
Q: How can you determine if corporate bonds are cheap or expensive? A: By looking at the spreads to Treasury bonds, relative to the state of the economy. Why you should care: Corporate bonds look reasonably priced compared with Treasuries.
3 Reasons Why the Recent Rally Can Continue
The big question on everyone’s mind: Is the recent stock market rally justified? In this week’s market call, Russ explains why he believes the answer to this question is yes. Plus, an update on REITS.
The Fatal Flaw of Deficit Reduction Efforts
As the saying goes, “garbage in, garbage out.” Russ Koesterich explains why the Congressional super committee’s deficit reduction plan has a slim chance of resolving the United States’ fiscal problems.
Backing Brazil and Avoiding Indian Inflation (Video)
iShares Chief Investment Strategist Russ Koesterich takes investors to Latin America and explains why Brazil is his favorite spot in the region. But for investors who might be interested in India, Russ has some words of caution.
