Greetings…

Market CommentaryStout Bowman & Associates

EPISODE 4Q2016
Global Growth Concerns

Global growth continues to be a concern as we end 2016 and look into the new year. The U.S. still leads the way in this slow growth environment. It may take a little while longer for Europe, Asia and the rest of the world to bounce back and assist in improving global growth. Patience is important as the world works through this situation. We do believe that conditions will continue to improve, barring any major international or political hiccups.

We are in an extended bull (good) market run that is nearly eight years old, helped by the central banks’ accommodative monetary policy, which seems to be coming to an end. However, we do not believe that rates will increase rapidly, which will allow for continued opportunities in select stocks and certain types of bonds. Corporate earnings will be the focus if the bull market is to continue.

Lastly, as the election approaches, volatility in the markets will likely increase. We await further clarity as to the results of our presidential election but believe that investment value will ultimately persist as markets digest this change in leadership. Therefore, it’s important to continue our focus on diversification in order to meet our long-term investment goals.

If you have any questions about your portfolio, or if you wish to schedule an appointment, please do not hesitate to reach out to us via email or by calling us at (717) 761-2040. We thank you for your continued loyalty and friendship, and we wish you the best as we enter the holiday season!