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, 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, 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 […]
Market Minutes, May 2025
In this market update, we unpack one of the strongest Mays in market history, explore the impact of U.S. trade tensions under President Trump, and explain why short sellers and the “TACO trade” contributed to the recent rally.
Quarterly Insights, First Quarter 2026
In this Q1 2026 quarterly update, Bellwether Chairman Bob Sewell and CIO Craig Ellis have a candid conversation on what’s really happening behind the Iran War headlines — and how our portfolios are positioned through the uncertainty.
Market Minutes, September 2025
September rewarded investors with another exceptional month of equity returns. Many of the world’s leading stock indices climbed by roughly 5% despite what is historically a weak month of the year—a sound reminder that seasonal patterns shouldn’t be the basis for investment decisions. North America’s two largest economies found relief through interest rate reductions, which […]
Canada Federal Budget 2025 Economic & Market Analysis
“The global uncertainty we are facing demands bold action to secure Canada’s future. Budget 2025 is an investment budget.” — François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Finance and National Revenue Quick Summary The Carney government has passed its first official budget under subpar conditions. Finding itself in the middle of a trade dispute hampering economic growth, the […]