Tag Archives: debt

Corporate Bonds not out of the woods yet!

We’ve watched a bit of a bear market rally in stocks, but also saw the same short term narrowing of corporate bond spreads (the difference between the yield offered by corporate bonds versus the virtually risk-free government bonds or treasuries).  … Continue reading

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Private Equity/Debt Cockroaches emerging.

I published here (in late January) and on SeekingAlpha.com a warning that the surge in private equity (with with emphasis on “private” or illiquid) in the past decade would reek havoc for institutional and individual investors alike.  We’re beginning to … Continue reading

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REIT’s may not be a bargain; distributions depend on rent being paid.

The Real Estate Investment Trust (REIT) has had a marvelous decade as property values just kept rising.  It inspired large institutional investors (pension funds for e.g.) to get directly involved.  The Canada Pension Plan has 12.1% invested in real estate.  … Continue reading

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It’s Another Credit Crisis!

The recession (we’re undoubtedly in already) is not the worst of our woes.  It’s unlikely the FED would have taken such drastic measures because of the coronavirus or even the prospect of recession.  I’ve mentioned in previous articles that corporate … Continue reading

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Are markets in denial? Recent history in one chart!

Are we and the stock market in denial?  Talk of a ‘double-dip’ recession seemed to grow quieter once the correction I predicted back in January ran its course and the market headed to new highs.  I still adhere to my … Continue reading

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The Day After – Catalyst for resumption of Bull Market will be a surprise!

I provided a rather winded explanation in my previous discussion about why the current correction was inevitable.  Since then, the S&P 500 has declined roughly 3%.  It is likely to get worse before it gets better? My own estimation was … Continue reading

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China’s Catch-22

I considered the title “bad news is good news” but it seems the phrase ‘Catch-22’ from Joseph Heller’s book is more appropriate. A dictionary describes it as “a problematic situation for which the only solution is denied by a circumstance … Continue reading

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Beware a German Bund Fight!

I’d like to revisit a recurring phenomenon – and a reliable contrarian indicator – that befuddles the logical mind yet regularly creates investment opportunities. I’m inspired (again) by this comment I received from a fellow investment professional: “I have read … Continue reading

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Is the end near? For yield it just might be!

A huge believer that what we read in the press is always the exact opposite of what we should expect, the universal agreement by pundits that interest rates will remain at rock bottom levels must be a signal.  And the … Continue reading

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Fund flows point to continued strength in global equity markets!

Back in September I suggested that my favourite contrary leading indicator – the weighting devoted to equities by institutional investors – was pointing to an imminent rally in stock markets. Once again it proved robust. But what’s happened since then? … Continue reading

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