Commentaries

Timely market commentaries from leading investment firms

June 2025’s Most Innovative ETF Launches

Three ETF strategies that launched in June stand out, bringing something interesting to the table for investors.

Are Small Caps Next in Line to Shine?

The valuation of small-cap stocks relative to large caps remains historically attractive, and small-cap recoveries in the past have resulted in meaningful periods of outperformance.

Multi-Asset Income Midyear Outlook: Income and Resilience Among the Bumps

Compelling bond yields and diverging equity returns offer building blocks for effective strategies.

No Rate Cut for You…At Least Not Yet

One of the more storied headlines this year has been President Trump’s disappointment with the Fed for not cutting rates. We should all know by now that the President cannot fire a Fed Chair simply because he/she is not lowering interest rates to their liking.

CoinShares Channel Share Bitcoin Unusually Calm, But That Won’t Last Long

Considering the spate of sizable inflows into spot bitcoin ETFs and the recent ebullience surrounding equities, some investors are vexed by recent lethargy displayed by the largest cryptocurrency. However, sluggishness is in the eye of the beholder. Bitcoin gained about 3.3% for the week ending June 26, but HODLers wanted more.

Active Tax Loss Harvesting in Fixed Income: Checking In at Midyear

As we reach the midpoint of 2025, we reflect on the notably volatile trajectory of bond yields so far this year, considering the potential opportunity for tax-aware fixed income investors to harvest losses.

Q2 Bank Earnings Preview: A Dimmer Light?

After mid-level performance in Q1, financials sector earnings are seen slowing in Q2, according to analysts, though favorable signs like the yield curve could help margins.

Stay Cautious as Markets Turn Greedy

We are in a period of market greed right now, even if you haven’t noticed it.

Fundamentals Are a Lighthouse in the Storm

Franklin Mutual Series shares its mid-year outlook, focusing on corporate fundamentals as a catalyst to unlock value in the midst of ongoing market volatility.

Buybacks Reach Record Highs as Q2 Earnings Season Approaches

As we head into the second half of the year, expect record stock buyback activity for companies in the S&P 500.

At the Midway Point: Returning to the Fundamentals

Liberation Day seems like a lifetime ago. But the 90-day pause is almost over, and—thus far—there are few deals that have been consummated.

Midyear Commodity Outlook: Better for Commodities than Consumers

We expect tariff policy to remain a key part of the narrative pushed by the administration.

Emerging Markets Insights: Seeking Clarity on Tariffs

In this month’s issue, Franklin Templeton Emerging Markets Equity explains how markets in many regions are weathering US policy uncertainty and offers an upbeat assessment of Vietnam after a recent research visit.

Charting Commodity Markets

In the weeks leading up to last month’s Israeli and U.S. strikes on Iran, oil prices climbed – not due to actual supply disruptions, but in response to a geopolitical risk premium.

How to Choose a Crypto ETF: A Practical Guide for Financial Advisors

In this article, you’ll learn how to evaluate crypto ETFs with the same rigor you apply to traditional investment products.