Iran, the Strait of Hormuz, and Market Impacts for Investors

The Strait of Hormuz has been effectively closed for a month—the first time in modern history. Its impact on the global economy and markets at large has been broad, its resolution remains uncertain, and the range of possible outcomes is unusually wide. This report is aimed at helping make sense of what the Iran conflict […]
Market Minutes, May 2026

Despite a still-shuttered Strait of Hormuz causing a snare in global commodity trade, equity markets staged an impressive rebound in April. The nations at war are technically bound by a ceasefire at the time of writing. But that agreement is fragile at best; progressing toward peace and backsliding into open conflict seem to trade headlines […]
Market Minutes, June 2026

While geopolitical uncertainty continues in the Middle East and high energy prices have dampened the economic outlook, near-record earnings growth was May’s defining feature. Led by the technology sector, equities drew applause while bonds did the more honest accounting. In our view, bond markets are being more forthright about latent and emerging risks. Equities, by […]
Market Minutes, March 2026

The past few weeks have been particularly eventful, with many headlines seemingly at odds with one another. As investors are buffeted by crosswinds, some market segments have fared better than others. Global equities trended higher overall, yet the S&P 500 declined in February. The Canadian economy contracted by 0.6% in the most recent quarter, while […]
Market Minutes, May 2026

Global conflict, closed shipping lanes, rising energy costs…and yet stock markets surged in April. What gives?In this month’s Market Minutes, Craig Ellis breaks down what’s actually driving markets right now — and why the disconnect between headlines and returns may not last.
Market Minutes, June 2026

The Strait of Hormuz has been closed for over three months — and the ripple effects are hitting closer to home than you think. In June Market Minutes, we break down how the Middle East conflict is reshaping energy markets.
Market Minutes, March 2026

Oil prices are rising again as geopolitical tensions escalate in the Middle East. But why are markets staying surprisingly calm? In this Market Minutes update, we break down the potential impact on inflation, interest rates, and global markets.
Market Minutes, February 2026

Markets have started the year on a high note, with both equities and credit securities delivering positive returns. Impressive fourth-quarter earnings, potentially lower interest rates in the United States, abundant liquidity, capital parked in money market funds—investors have focused their attention here, overlooking geopolitical flashpoints for the time being. The notably absent response highlights an […]
Market Minutes, February 2026

Markets started 2026 strong — but cracks are beginning to show. From AI infrastructure spending and tech volatility to shifting sector leadership and central bank uncertainty, investors are navigating a rapidly changing landscape.
2026 Market Outlook: Clues from 2025 & Key Stories to Watch

“Informed by the past, engaged with the present, and looking towards the future.” – Anonymous Markets delivered impressive returns in 2025, but the journey was anything but smooth. AI breakthroughs, shifting tariff policy, and evolving central bank strategies shaped a year that rewarded discipline and patience alike. This recap is designed as a pre‑event primer […]