When Bad News is Good News

Financial markets can be challenging to understand. But when markets enter a “bad news is good news” cycle, it becomes even more difficult to follow along.

At its November meeting, the Fed outlined its plan to taper monthly bond purchases, which will end this pandemic-era policy response by July 2022.1

Bad news, right? The bond purchases were one of the ways the Fed supported the economy. Stopping the program would be like removing the punchbowl just as the party was getting going.

Not so fast. This time around, the financial markets said that bad news was good news. Ending the program signaled that the Fed had confidence in the economic recovery, and it no longer needed to support the financial markets.

But just a month ago, the bad news was still bad news. The financial markets hit a rough patch in late September after the Fed said it was preparing to reduce its bond-buying program as soon as November.2

If you have been investing for any period of time, it should come as no surprise to hear that the financial markets changed their mind. So remember, we’re here to help you keep focused on your investing goals while the financial markets sort out what’s good news and what’s bad.

1. CNBC.com, November 3, 2021

2. WSJ.com, September 29, 2021

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The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG Suite, LLC, is not affiliated with the named representative, broker-dealer, state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security.