The economy picked up modestly in 2021 but then took a turn for the worse in 2022 as problems began to emerge. In the second quarter of this year, global output fell due to declines in China and Russia, while US consumer spending disappointed expectations. A world economy already weakened by the pandemic has already been buffeted by several blows. COVID-19 epidemics and lockdowns are causing a worse-than-anticipated slowdown in China. The higher-than-expected worldwide inflation—particularly in the United States and major European nations—is resulting in tighter financial conditions. Adding to the gloom are the negative effects of the Ukraine war.
Oxford Economics has lowered its forecast for global growth by 0.2 percent points to 2.8% this year and by an additional 0.1 percent point to 2.3% in 2023 due to increased global economic uncertainty over the past month. Next year’s growth prospects are now at the lowest levels since 2008, outside of recession years.
Investing during uncertainty
For those investors who stay ahead of the trends, 2022 and 2023 look to be full of opportunities despite market volatility, according to financial services executive Rani Jarkas. There are strategies that will allow you to take advantage of this instability and actually grow your earnings while still staying on track to hit all your financial goals. Here are some of them:
- Re-evaluate your portfolio strategy – Think of the recent market activity as a chance to re-assess your risk tolerance and confirm that your cash reserves are adequate. Determine whether now is a good time to consider strategically rebalancing your portfolio. Consider how you can stay ahead of the curve in a world where interest rates are always changing. Take advantage of this year’s relatively large pullbacks in specific sectors of the market to pursue new possibilities. Consider whether alternative investments are worth it.
- Rethink your cash management strategies – With new interest rates comes the opportunity to make money from cash reserves. There are many different options for what to do with your cash, and it is crucial that you find one whose features line up with your goals. Even money market funds within a brokerage account offer varying yields; some even come with liquidity risks. Re-assess if you’re comfortable with both the yield and the financial products producing that yield.
- Take advantage of current estate tax exemptions – Develop and implement your wealth transfer plan now if you want to take advantage of the current estate exemption. The estate tax landscape will dramatically change by 2026, so transferring wealth sooner rather than later may help minimize future tax bills.
Not sure where to start?
As with any financial tips, these guidelines shouldn’t be considered individual advice. Your advisory team can help you handpick strategies that apply to your overall plan.
Cedrus Investments, founded by financial services executive Rani Jarkas, strives to provide the best possible experience for its clients. With a myriad of investment options available on the market today, it can be difficult to choose which ones are right for you. That’s where Cedrus comes in. By focusing only on the investments that best serve your interests and objectives, Rani Tarek Jarkas of Cedrus Investments helps simplify the process so that you can make an informed decision about your finances.
