Commentary

With headlines related to the economy and COVID-19 news coming so quickly, it makes for difficult short- term investment conditions.

I trust all of you are keeping safe and staying at home. Your health is so important, and we are hoping and praying that you are doing well in this challenging time.
 
This week’s video update focuses exclusively on investment strategy, markets, and the economy. I wanted to answer a few questions that I have received and share more detail on our investment thinking in this challenging environment.
 
The questions I will be answering are as follows:

As we continue to fight through the health consequences of this virus pandemic, our thoughts are with those on the front lines fighting the fight for all of us.

The world continues to move forward through an unprecedented crisis striking the global community. It does appear as if the viral outbreak in the United States is following the same path as other countries which means the peak could very well occur in the next 14 days. We pray that will be the case.

Questions and Answers

In this update I will answer the following questions:

The United States economy is currently going through a financial shock that is unprecedented. Policymakers have implemented actions to help shave off a deeper financial downturn and we believe this is appropriate and necessary.

Federal Reserve Action

The world continues to be uncertain. Who knows what disease news will look like? The economics of it all is a bit more understandable. But still; incredible.

What is clear is that the Federal Government and the Federal Reserve are ramping up their efforts to help the economy maintain its footing. While there is some delay in legislative action, you can most likely expect to see something in the next couple days which will be dramatic.

I was asked about this last night by CNBC London. Here are a few of my thoughts.

Why So Much Volatility?

Why are the financial markets so troubled right now? It’s very simple; the markets are assuming higher unemployment, lower earnings, negative GDP growth, and lower corporate and consumer spending. These conditions are characteristic of a recession.

This Week’s Video Update

I thought it might be instructive to provide answers to questions that I am commonly asked during this unprecedented situation. I think you will find it helpful in understanding our viewpoint regarding today’s current crisis.

Based on the dramatic action of the Federal Reserve this Sunday, I was asked by KCBS what these policies means for the economy and consumers. You can find that interview here (I will add link here).

Topic 1: DWM Operational Plan (We Are Open and Watching Out for You)

It’s a crazy world right now as I’m sure you see from the news headlines. I myself have been asked to talk to TV and radio countless times as the world is concerned about the unknown during this health crisis. I understand that this is scary.

The volatility continues as news changes rapidly. It’s a scary roller coaster to be sure. I know it’s unsettling. Still, it’s important to try to see past headlines and market charts and see the big picture. 

As I’ve said many occasions, there is always another crisis that impacts the market. Often times it is unexpected, and I believe the virus crisis is not one many of us imagined would be the next big anxious moment for markets.