The set of factors and circumstances which together produced 2017's robust investment returns might be described as a "Goldilocks" scenario, one in which the positive forces pressing on the global economy and financial markets were warming noticeably, but not so hot already as to prompt dramatic cooling efforts from central bankers. A...
From news out of Washington, to improving global growth and strong corporate profits, a number of factors could shape the markets in 2018, including the impact of the recent Tax Reform Bill may have on your portfolio. Christopher Hyzy, Chief Investment Officer for Bank of America Global Wealth & Investment Management, provides important insight...
The number and scope of women-owned businesses have risen at an unprecedented rate. In an era of new opportunities, this paper profiles eight courageous and resilient women who share their personal stories and the lessons they learned building successful businesses. One theme that emerged from these women’s stories was the critical role of mentorsh...
When looking beyond the short-term demand factors, there are several long-term secular themes that are positive for specialty assets. Most notably among them, growing populations, increasing spending power of the emerging market middle class, and rising urbanization. Since real assets (farmland, timberland, commercial real estate, and energy relate...
Countless hours are spent training employees to provide excellent service, and it is this helpful nature that con artists use to get privileged information through deception. This tactic is called Social Engineering and can be attempted via any of the ways that people communicate with each other. It is a highly effective weapon in the hacker's ...
In 2017, investors experienced the best of all possible worlds—uncommon synchronized global growth, strong acceleration in corporate earnings and continuing unprecedented monetary support—that fueled capital market appreciation across the globe. However, investors face a looming milestone in 2018, as they approach Peak Central Bank. The...
Until recently, many families filled key governance roles associated with their trust and estate planning with trusted friends, colleagues, or advisors who were flattered to be asked and honored to serve. But many are now ready to retire and there is a shift in who is recruited—and willing—to take over. Top-caliber directors and t...
Despite highly publicized handwringing over geopolitical uncertainty, corporate misbehavior, and the job-killing potential of artificial intelligence, the 21st CEO Survey reveals surprising faith and optimism among chief executives in the economic and business environment worldwide. Ironically, it is the CEOs who have been in office longer—11...
When it comes to preparing their people for the future, U.S. CEOs know there’s work to do. They’re increasingly concerned about finding the right skills for growth. And workers are worried about the effects of automation and other technologies on their jobs. Key findings from the 21st CEO Survey show that while leaders are making some strides in pr...
There is great responsibility when serving the ultra-high net worth clients, especially those who are concerned about preserving a family legacy and the successful transfer of their wealth and/or business. In this issue of Family Wealth Advisors Insights, three areas of concerns are addressed for the advisors and their families: maximizing their fo...
Innovation doesn’t happen in a straight line. A wide diversity of perspectives and experiences is needed to spark the new connections so critical to innovation. Organizations have the greatest chance for truly groundbreaking innovation when they tear down silos, cross boundaries and be intentional about learning from the unfamiliar, unknown a...
With the current volatility in the global economy and ongoing technological innovation and disruptions, gender diversity is more important than ever. Business leaders around the world recognize that gender diversity—one that is rooted in an inclusive culture—is a competitive differentiator with many advantages, including commercial succ...
Diversity of perspectives, experiences, cultures, genders and age is essential to any U.S. organization’s success today. It’s that collection of differences that pushes a company’s ability to innovate and grow in a fast-paced, competitive environment. Learn where they stand, what they’re doing now and what they can do to mov...
U.S. economic momentum, already positive, will increase further due to the tax package. Interest rates are likely to rise throughout the year posing a headwind for longer duration core bonds. Equity valuations are underpinned by the interest rate and macro environment, but continued increases would become more concerning if inflation makes a comeba...
Bitcoin looks here to stay, but will it be a niche or something more? The analogy to gold is useful, but with notable differences. At present, bitcoin is difficult to sell short, which can lead to near-term upward price pressure. That hedge funds, private equity firms, and other institutional investors are currently taking positions in bitcoin will...