My last post talked about how the market is now taking its cues from bond yields (less so the Fed) Don’t get me wrong… what the Fed does (or says) matters. We will hear more from Chair Jay Powell at the end of the week. Expect hawkish tones. To recap on what I shared earlier this week – globally long-term bond yields trade at their highest levels in 15 years. However, what’s interesting is the shorter-end (e.g. 2-year and below) is not keeping pace. This has net the effect of “steepening” the all-important 10/2 yield curve. Question is – will that be a problem? History may offer some clues.
Market History
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Bulls & Bears Can Make a Solid Case
It’s fair to say this is one of the more hated stock market rallies. Why? Rarely have I seen so many caught on the wrong side of the trade. Sentiment is overwhelmingly negative. And yet the S&P 500 is up ~20% from its October low. This missive outlines both the bull and bear case. Either side can make valid arguments. This is what makes things so interesting. In short, you must have exposure to this market. However, you should do so with your eyes wide open.
Remain Wary of Permabears
Jeremy Grantham is a well known permabear. This week – he called for a possible 50% correction. Sure… it’s probable we see something in the realm of 20%… but 50%? I decided to look at Grantham’s track record against the S&P 500 over 25 years. Guess what – he has woefully underperformed the market. Hardly surprising. Beware of doomsday ‘crash callers’ like Grantham… and he is not alone. They are dangerous.