Optimize Wealth Management

In case you missed our Weekly Market Recap for September 3, here is a quick summary:

The July U.S. PCE price index increased by 2.6%, bolstering the argument for a Fed rate cut in September. U.S. Q2 GDP growth of 3.0% exceeded expectations, supported by strong consumer spending, reflecting economic resilience. Meanwhile, Canada’s Q2 GDP grew by 2.1%, surpassing forecasts due to robust government and business spending.

(Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, Statistics Canada)

Looking at sector performance, Financials and Industrials notched the largest gains, while Technology and Consumer Discretionary lagged the most.

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Wishing you a rejuvenating Labour Day long weekend! As we take this time to honour the dedication and commitment that drive progress, let’s also recognize the importance of rest and renewal. May this break provide the opportunity to recharge and return with a fresh perspective and renewed energy for the path ahead.

In case you missed our Weekly Market Recap for August 26th, here is a quick summary:

Federal Reserve Chair Powell signaled possible interest rate cuts at the Jackson Hole Symposium, with the timing dependent on incoming data, while noting progress in inflation control and a focus on supporting full employment. U.S. jobless claims slightly rose, indicating a gradual easing of the labour market and supporting the case for a September rate cut. In Canada, inflation slowed to 2.5% year-over-year, the lowest since 2021, reinforcing expectations for further rate cuts in 2024.

(Source: U.S. Federal Reserve, U.S. Department of Labor, Statistics Canada)

Looking at sector performance, all S&P 500 sectors were higher on the week with the exception of energy. Real estate and consumer discretionary notched the largest gains, while technology and energy lagged by the most.

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In case you missed our Weekly Market Recap for August 15th, here is a quick summary:

Value stocks are gaining traction, with Real Estate, Utilities, and Financials leading in July. Anticipated Federal Reserve rate cuts in September could boost further stock gains.

Long-duration government bonds performed well, with the iShares Core Canadian Government Bond Index ETF up 5% in July. Expected rate cuts should further increase bond prices.

Manulife’s stock is up 18% year-to-date and 33% over the past year, outpacing the TSX. With robust global growth and strong Q1 results, it remains a key holding.

(Source: Bloomberg, Refinitiv).

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In case you missed our Weekly Market Recap for August 6th, here is a quick summary:

The July U.S. employment report revealed fewer new jobs and a slight rise in the jobless rate, fuelling speculation about a potential 50 basis point rate cut by the Federal Reserve in September. Despite keeping its rate at 5.5%, Fed Chair Powell hinted that a cut could be considered if inflation continues to ease. In Canada, the GDP by industry report exceeded expectations with a 0.2% monthly increase, signalling stronger economic growth for the second quarter.
(Source: Refinitiv)

Looking at sector performance, Utilities and Real Estate notched the biggest gains, while Technology and Energy lagged the most.

Subscribe to our YouTube channel to get weekly video updates where we provide you with the latest insights and analysis on the ever-changing landscape of financial markets.

In this edition of the Optimize Weekly Market Recap, Portfolio Manager David Ferreira discusses U.S. employment data hinting at larger rate cuts ahead, the Fed holding rates steady while suggesting a potential September cut, and Canada's GDP growth exceeding expectations with a positive 20 basis point increase
(Source: Refinitiv)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lXy4vs-rsJM

Fed Holds Rate Steady, Signals Possible September Cut | Weekly Market Recap August 6, 2024 In this edition of the Optimize Weekly Market Recap, Portfolio Manager David Ferreira discusses U.S. employment data hinting at larger rate cuts ahead, the F...

Happy August Long Weekend! This is the perfect time to relax, explore, and create lasting memories with family and friends. Take a break, breathe in the summer air, and savour every moment. Wishing you a fantastic long weekend!

In case you missed our Weekly Market Recap for July 29th, here is a quick summary.

Lower inflation in the U.S., with the PCE index rising just 2.5% year-over-year, has fuelled hopes for rate cuts, boosting stocks. U.S. economic growth exceeded expectations at 2.8% in Q2, driven by consumer spending and business investment. In Canada, the Bank of Canada cut its benchmark rate to 4.5%, aiming to boost the economy amid easing inflation.
(Source: Refinitiv)

Looking at sector performance, Utilities and Health Care notched the biggest gains, while Consumer Discretionary and Technology lagged the most.

Subscribe to our Youtube channel to get weekly video updates where we provide you with the latest insights and analysis on the ever-changing landscape of financial markets.

In this edition of the Optimize Weekly Market Recap, Portfolio Manager David Ferreira, discusses how slower U.S. inflation and strong economic growth are fuelling hopes for Fed rate cuts, while the Bank of Canada’s second consecutive rate cut aims to boost spending and suggests the possibility of further reductions.
(Source: Refinitiv)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GceVaImFSco

Bank of Canada’s Second Rate Cut Boosts Equity Optimism | Weekly Market Recap July 29, 2024 In this edition of the Optimize Weekly Market Recap, Portfolio Manager David Ferreira discusses how slower U.S. inflation and strong economic growth are fuel...

In case you missed our Weekly Market Recap for July 22nd, here is a quick summary.

Federal Reserve Chair Powell announced that the central bank would not wait for inflation to reach its 2% target before reducing interest rates, prompting a positive reaction in the stock market and increasing the likelihood of a rate cut as early as September. Additionally, stronger-than-expected retail sales for June suggest a potential ‘soft’ landing for the economy. In Canada, consumer inflation fell to a lower-than-expected 2.7% in June, further fueling investor optimism for additional rate cuts this year.
(Source: Refinitiv - Optimize)

Looking at sector performance, Energy and Real Estate notched the biggest gains, while Information Technology and Consumer Discretionary lagged the most.

Subscribe to our Youtube channel to get weekly video updates where we provide you with the latest insights and analysis on the ever-changing landscape of financial markets.

In this edition of the Optimize Weekly Market Recap, our Portfolio Manager, David Ferreira, discusses Federal Reserve Chair Powell's indication that interest rates might be cut sooner than expected, leading to a positive market reaction, while in Canada, declining inflation continues to boost investor optimism for further rate cuts this year.
(Source: Refinitiv - Optimize)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=546lLkx86x8

Canadian Inflation Trends Fuel Hopes for Rate Cut | Weekly Market Recap July 22, 2024 In this edition of the Optimize Weekly Market Recap, our Portfolio Manager, David Ferreira, discusses Federal Reserve Chair Powell's indication that interest...

In case you missed our Monthly Snapshot for June, here is a quick summary:

In June, Statistics Canada’s GDP report showed a 0.3% increase for April and a 0.4% gain for Q1, signaling easing inflation and potential rate cuts to support the economy. With the onset of global interest rate cuts, we see opportunities in government bonds with attractive rates. Highlighting Walmart, the company’s stock rose 84% over five years with consistent dividend growth and efficient operations, indicating strong overall performance.
(Source: Refinitiv - Optimize)

Subscribe to our Youtube channel to get weekly video updates where we provide you with the latest insights and analysis on the ever-changing landscape of financial markets.

At Optimize, we tailor your accounts to meet your unique needs and objectives. We consider factors like time horizon, risk tolerance, return goals, company stock plans, and your existing financial position. Our Portfolio Management Process emphasizes three key components to enhance the potential for investors to build wealth over time. Contact us today to start optimizing your financial future.

In this edition of the Optimize Monthly Snapshot for June, our Portfolio Manager, David Ferreira, discusses Statistics Canada's recent report on the Canadian economy's rebound, easing inflationary pressures and Walmart's robust performance with consistent dividend growth and impressive e-commerce gains.
(Source: Refinitiv - Optimize)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dM03pArLYT4

Optimize Monthly Snapshot | July 17, 2024 In this edition of the Optimize Monthly Snapshot, our Portfolio Manager, David Ferreira, discusses Statistics Canada's recent report on the Canadian economy'...

In case you missed our Weekly Market Recap for July 15th, here is a quick summary.

A broader-based rally led the Nasdaq and S&P 500 to new record highs, with the TSX also reaching record levels. Positive key jobs data and cooler inflation last week supported stocks. This week, investors will focus on U.S. retail sales and insights from the Fed’s Beige Book, along with Canadian inflation data. U.S. consumer inflation fell unexpectedly in June, bolstering hopes for a Fed rate cut. In Canada, housing market activity increased in June for the first time since January, with a mild rise in average home prices indicating easing home price inflation.
(Source: Refinitiv - Optimize)

Looking at sector performance, Real Estate and Utilities notched the biggest gains, while Communication Services and Consumer Staples lagged the most.

Subscribe to our Youtube channel to get weekly video updates where we provide you with the latest insights and analysis on the ever-changing landscape of financial markets.

In this edition of the Optimize Weekly Market Recap, our Portfolio Manager, David Ferreira, discusses stocks rallying on Fed Chair Powell's comments about high interest rates, a decrease in U.S. inflation bolstering rate cut hopes, and increased Canadian housing market activity, indicating easing home price inflation.
(Source: Refinitiv - Optimize)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J5tANhW1CFA

TSX Hits Record High on Jobs Data and Cooler Inflation | Weekly Market Recap July 15, 2024 In this edition of the Optimize Weekly Market Recap, our Portfolio Manager, David Ferreira, discusses stocks rallying on Fed Chair Powell's comments about hi...

Enjoy the highlights from our Island Day at the Royal Canadian Yacht Club in Toronto! Our team gathered for an unforgettable day filled with fun, games, and camaraderie. Watch the video to see all the excitement!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zrt1GVfDWIQ

Optimize Island Day Enjoy the highlights from our Island Day at the Royal Canadian Yacht Club in Toronto! Our team gathered for an unforgettable day filled with fun, games, and ...

In case you missed our Weekly Market Recap for July 8th, here is a quick summary.

In June, the U.S. economy added 206,000 jobs, surpassing expectations. While the unemployment rate slightly increased to 4.1%, this may prompt a Fed rate cut as early as September. Additionally, lower-than-expected consumer sentiment data support this potential rate cut. In Canada, the rise in unemployment rate to 6.4% suggests the Bank of Canada might cut interest rates again at their July 24th meeting.
(Source: Refinitiv - Optimize)

Looking at sector performance, Technology and Consumer Discretionary were the strongest performers, while Healthcare and Energy were the weakest.

Subscribe to our Youtube channel to get weekly video updates where we provide you with the latest insights and analysis on the ever-changing landscape of financial markets.

In this edition of the Optimize Weekly Market Recap, Portfolio Manager David Ferreira discusses June's U.S. job growth of 206,000 surpassing expectations, the potential for a Bank of Canada rate cut due to Canada’s employment data, and the close watch on U.S. big bank earnings reports this Friday.
(Source: Refinitiv - Optimize)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ACDfr49ZXfc

June Job Growth & Employment Data Signal Potential Rate Cut | Weekly Market Recap July 8, 2024 In this edition of the Optimize Weekly Market Recap, Portfolio Manager David Ferreira discusses June's U.S. job growth of 206,000 surpassing expectations, th...

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Happy Canada Day to everyone from our dedicated team at Optimize! We asked our team members about their thoughts on Canada and what being part of this great nation means to them. We'd love to hear your answers in the comments below!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qtDu6XeZZrk

Celebrating Canada Day with Optimize Happy Canada Day to everyone from our dedicated team at Optimize! We asked our team members about their thoughts on Canada and what being part of this great ...

Empower your financial journey with us at Optimize Wealth Management. Let’s navigate towards your dreams and secure your future with tailored financial strategies. Together, let’s transform aspirations into achievements.

Interested to learn more about how you can take control of your financial future? Visit our website to receive a complementary financial plan!

In case you missed our Weekly Market Recap for June 24th, here is a quick summary.

U.S. initial jobless claims rose slightly, indicating a softening labour market and bolstering the case for a potential Fed rate cut, positively affecting equities. U.S. retail sales grew at a slower pace, easing inflationary pressures and providing more evidence for the Fed’s consideration. In Canada, Producer Price Inflation held steady in May, below market expectations, supporting the trend of easing inflationary pressures and positively received by markets.

Looking at sector performance, Energy and Consumer Discretionary were the strongest performers, while Utilities and Real Estate were the weakest.

Subscribe to our Youtube channel to get weekly video updates where we provide you with the latest insights and analysis on the ever-changing landscape of financial markets.

In this edition of the Optimize Weekly Market Recap, our Portfolio Manager, David Ferreira, discusses the slight increase in U.S. initial jobless claims, indicating a softening labour market. This, along with slower-than-expected retail sales growth and stable Canadian Producer Price Inflation, strengthens the case for a potential Fed rate cut, creating a positive outlook for equities.
(Source: Refinitiv - Optimize)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ivdh1Apfdok

Retail and Employment Data Drives Rate Cut Probability Higher | Weekly Market Recap June 24, 2024 In this edition of the Optimize Weekly Market Recap, our Portfolio Manager, David Ferreira, discusses the slight increase in U.S. initial jobless claims, ind...

As we commemorate National Indigenous Peoples Day, we honour the profound heritage and resilience of Indigenous cultures in Canada. We have the privilege of working with charities such as Water First and Kocihta, dedicated to addressing critical issues like clean drinking water and bridging the education and employment gap within Indigenous communities.

As we honour National Indigenous Peoples Day, let's renew our commitment to supporting these vital initiatives and fostering positive change.

Navigating the path to wealth while effectively managing debt presents a difficult challenge.

Check out our latest blog post on our website to learn about the 4 ways to manage debt while building wealth to achieve your financial goals.

https://optimize.ca/insights/pathway-to-prosperity-harnessing-debt-for-wealth-building

We're thrilled to share that Optimize joined the 2024 Heatwave Beach Volleyball Tournament, marking its 30th anniversary, in support of SickKids and their fight against children with cancer. Held at Woodbine Beach, the event brought together teams for a day of spirited competition and fundraising. Our team, The Optimizers, enjoyed a fun-filled day under the sun while raising vital funds for SickKids, recognized as the world's leading hospital in pediatric care.

Watch our video to catch the event's highlights and stand with us in supporting SickKids' ongoing mission to combat childhood cancer.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VakBFUrABWs

HeatWave 2024: Beach Volleyball Charity Event x SickKids Hospital We're thrilled to share that Optimize joined the 2024 Heatwave Beach Volleyball Tournament, marking its 30th anniversary, in support of SickKids and their fi...

In case you missed our Weekly Market Recap for June 17th, here is a quick summary.

The recent U.S. Federal Reserve meeting maintained the policy rate unchanged, with Chair Powell acknowledging positive inflation trends. U.S. CPI data showed inflation easing to 3.3%, its lowest since February, primarily due to lower costs in food and shelter. In Canada, Statistics Canada's report highlighted improving household balance sheets, with the average debt service ratio declining for the fourth consecutive quarter, reflecting resilience amidst higher interest rates.

Tech and Real Estate were the strongest performers, with Energy and Financials being the weakest.

Subscribe to our Youtube channel to get weekly video updates where we provide you with the latest insights and analysis on the ever-changing landscape of financial markets.

In this edition of the Optimize Weekly Market Recap, our Portfolio Manager, David Ferreira, discusses the central banks decision to maintain its policy rate, the declining inflation trends in the U.S., and the new Statistics Canada report on the decrease in the average household debt service ratio, indicating promising financial health of Canadian consumers.
(Source: Refinitiv - Optimize)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8zvx4RYtKfY

U.S. Fed Holds Rates Steady | Weekly Market Recap June 17, 2024 In this edition of the Optimize Weekly Market Recap, our Portfolio Manager, David Ferreira, discusses the central banks decision to maintain its policy rate,...

Happy Father’s Day weekend! Our team celebrates the extraordinary fathers and father figures within our ranks, whose boundless love and guidance enrich not only their families' lives but also the lives of everyone around them.