Q4 2018 |Capital Markets Outlook
Equities face skepticism over rates and trade
Economic strength is offset by trade risk, a flattening yield curve, and weakness in housing and autos
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ESG and sustainability investing
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Headlines you need to know this week — December 11, 2018
More ESG-focused indexes to launch in 2019 Some well-referenced benchmarks, including Russell 1000, Russell 2000, and Russell 3000 indexes, will have new “sustainable versions” beginning in 2019. The indexes will be produced by FTSE Russell and Sustainalytics, a research firm focused on sustainable investing. The indexes will include risk ratings calculated by Sustainalytics, based on a company’s focus on environmental, social, and governance issues.
Mobile apps likely to transform advice business Mobile technology will be the top game changer in the financial advice industry according to a recent Financial Planning survey. A full 40% of the 307 advisors surveyed noted that mobile apps were most likely to transform wealth management. Another 39% of respondents cited behavioral finance software as a disrupter. Respondents were less optimistic about robo advice, with only 27.5% of advisors citing it as transformative, compared with 37% in last year’s survey.
Investors who work with advisors are more confident A recent survey found that 87% of investors with a financial plan had a high level of confidence about their finances and 75% reported a positive outlook for their financial future. Respondents noted they felt confident by planning early, taking a long-term view on investing, and meeting often with a financial advisor. Still, the survey noted that only 55% had a formal financial plan.
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We're honored to receive the Total Client Experience Award from @DalbarInc for the 7th year, and the Mutual Fund Se… https://t.co/wc9QUPSavh
Congress can and should act now on the opportunity to extend workplace savings options to millions more workers by… https://t.co/FnkgsfrRta
Fixed-income indices are dominated by interest-rate risk. Putnam's always active approach looks beyond for more att… https://t.co/MXv32TKsAo
Not itemizing charitable deductions? Retirees have an option to donate an RMD directly to charity for a tax break.… https://t.co/5mPmzQhQIi
Putnam's focus is always on our clients. Proud of our incomparable team as Putnam was the sole recipient of the Tot… https://t.co/ZxPR4Bpzch
Advisors: Our webcast will discuss opportunities created by tax reform to engage with business owners, and actionab… https://t.co/ImTGxzvruM
Advisors: Estate planning should be part of a year-end review. Here are five elements to include in your conversati… https://t.co/xiMR8bOZ77
Thank you to @CompeteNow for inviting me to #2018NCF to raise the profile of America's $28T in retirement savings a… https://t.co/QAigmAkmFN
Today we honor the legacy of George H. W. Bush. A brave warrior, a true patriot, and a kind and gentle man. Few hav… https://t.co/5BwRCWa5Wt
Higher contribution limits and the potential for bigger tax refunds could mean greater 401(k) savings in 2019.… https://t.co/VvlVzBzD9J
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Year-end planning strategies under tax reform