Can Bolsonaro Unite Brazil?

30 September 2018 Brazil will go to the polls next weekend in perhaps the most wide-open, consequential election in its history. I will leave it to more clever pundits to predict the outcome (especially after Brexit and the US election results!).  Rather, following recent volatility in emerging markets,  I will outline the challenges the next … Continue reading Can Bolsonaro Unite Brazil?

Strategy 2019: Turning (Even More) Defensive!

19 September 2018 As analysts return from summer holidays, they tend to extend their earnings forecasts into the next year.  In this spirit, I am casting my strategic gaze into 2019 as well.  In order to set the stage, a brief review of our 2018 strategic themes may be helpful.  In our December essay "Aging … Continue reading Strategy 2019: Turning (Even More) Defensive!

EM Contagion: Who’s Next??!!

10 August 2018 In the wake of the turmoil in Turkey, markets are considering which Emerging Market currencies potentially could be vulnerable if a broader EM contagion develops.  A couple of my favourite Charts may provide some clues. What has provoked the dramatic run on the Turkish lira?  Chart 1 illustrates the Turkish currency  was … Continue reading EM Contagion: Who’s Next??!!

Germany: It’s Time to Act Boldly!

22 July 2018 President Trump has taken aim at Europe. In reality, however, most of his ire has been directed at Germany. The President objects to America's $66bn bilateral trade deficit (the fourth largest amongst US trading partners), as well as Germany's failure to meet its NATO spending commitment.  During his recent European trip, he … Continue reading Germany: It’s Time to Act Boldly!