MARKET UPDATE | THIRD QUARTER 2021
Despite COVID-19 causing the most severe economic shock since the Great Depression, the U.S. has experienced one of the fastest recoveries since World War II (WWII). With a strengthening labor market and inflation running hot, the Federal Reserve (Fed) plans to begin reducing monetary stimulus (i.e., tapering asset purchases) in the coming months. U.S. equity markets outperformed international markets during the third quarter, as both were constrained by global supply chain disruptions. In the months ahead, we could see increased market volatility. Bonds have not performed well this year and will likely continue to face pressure from the Fed, inflation, and rising rates. However, bonds play an integral role in a well-diversified portfolio and are key to managing and mitigating risk.
