Knowledge and Insight - Economics

Rathbones’ co-chief investment officer Ed Smith explains that worsening economic data suggests that an American recession is now more likely than not.

Rathbones’ co-chief investment officer Edward Smith explains how we see reasons for optimism, but remain vigilant.

US tech firms have played a dominant role in driving stock market returns for several years. Co-chief investment officer Ed Smith asks: will future innovation continue to be concentrated in America? And where should investors look to for the next wave of tech innovation?

Modern recording technology and digital streaming have changed the economics of the music industry. Have they made it easier or harder to become a wealthy pop star?

Over the longer term, it can have significant effects on the purchasing power of a portfolio. This is particularly pertinent for personal injury and Court of Protection (PI/COP) clients who usually have an irreplaceable pot of money which needs to support them for life.

Breaking the inertia of old habits can be revitalising. Brits are up for a change and that could spark a regional economic revival.

Inflation concerns aren’t receding despite policymakers’ best efforts. Expect more inflation scares to trigger further stock and bond market volatility.

Inflation is all investors can think about right now, causing stock markets to wobble a bit. More focus should be on the steady march to recovery. There’s fun to be had.

Recovery hopes are a shot in the arm for the UK stock market

The average American family has received $11,400 of government cheques since the pandemic began. That’s a big windfall for people and a difficult economic puzzle for the US Federal Reserve to decipher.

Caution is needed in the active versus passive debate

More stimulus spending now, with the largest tax hike in decades to follow