This past week, many of the big-name mega-cap technology companies (companies with market capitalization exceeding $200 billion which represents the total value of all outstanding shares) that have driven the indexes to record heights all year long lost favour with investors. In fact, much of this past week’s declines can be attributed to these same companies. This includes Alphabet (NASD: GOOGL), Amazon.com (NASD: AMZN), Apple (NASD: AAPL), Microsoft (NASD: MSFT) and Nvidia (NASD: NVDA).
Tag: cco
Weekly Update for the week ending May 3, 2024
This past week, the US Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) convened to set monetary policy, most notably the US benchmark interest rate. These decisions have a profound influence on investors in both Canada and the United States. Generally, lower interest rates can lead to higher stock prices and a calmer market environment, and happier investors 😊. Conversely, higher rates can introduce volatility and encourage a shift towards more conservative investments.
Beyond investor sentiment, the FOMC’s decisions on the US benchmark interest rate can significantly influence the actions of the Bank of Canada (BoC) with regards to Canada’s interest rate. The relationship between these rates is critical because a substantial difference can have several repercussions on the Canadian economy.
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Weekly Update for the week ending April 5, 2024
Navigating the world of investing often mirrors the emotional rollercoaster experienced by hockey fans as the season nears its end and the draft lottery looms. The dilemma? To wholeheartedly support your team’s victories or, paradoxically, hope for losses if it secures a superior draft spot. This dichotomy is strikingly similar in the realm of investments, where economic news can simultaneously herald positive developments and trigger investor apprehension. Take, for example, the recent labour report from the US: It showed job growth and wage increases surpassing expectations—a testament to a thriving economy and a win for the workforce. Yet, for those keen on seeing interest rates decline, this was a setback. Rising wages, after all, can exacerbate inflationary pressures. The statement by a Federal Reserve official that it is “much too soon to think about cutting interest rates” effectively quashed any hopes for an imminent rate cut, epitomizing the scenario where robust economic health can dampen prospects for those favoring lower interest rates. ☹
Weekly Update for the week ending January 12, 2024
The markets kicked off 2024 with a stumble the previous week but recovered nicely this past week. While December often sees a surge due to year-end bonuses and holiday spirit (the “Santa Claus rally”), January can bring a return to normalcy with potential pullbacks. This week’s rebound shows the market’s inherent fluctuations, emphasizing the importance of a long-term perspective for investors.
Investing can be like planting an acorn – through careful selection, nurturing, and patience our portfolios will grow big and resilient. Remember, investing is a long-term game, and focusing on quality companies can help you reach your financial goals, even with the occasional dip along the way.
Weekly Update for the week ending August 4, 2023
tems that may only interest or educate me ….
Canadian Economic news, US employment news, US credit rating surprise … topic n,
Over the last 30 years, August and September have been the worst two months for the markets, according to Bloomberg News. Will August be a reality check after the bullish June and July or more room for the bulls to run? Based on this past week, so far it seems to be a reality check. Let us hope this week was just a pothole on the upward path the markets have been on for the last few months.
Weekly Update for the week ending July 21, 2023
Canadian Economic news, US Economic news, Magnificent Seven, An AI primer, …