Viewpoints by Alex Grassino, at Manulife Investment Management
Alex co-leads the macro strategy team, which forecasts macroeconomic and financial trends and analyzes the economy and capital markets for potential opportunities and risks. He’s also a key contributor to thought leadership both within the firm and externally. In addition to his work on the multi-asset solutions team’s returns forecast process, Alex provides portfolio and positioning views, directs thematic research, contributes to and coordinates internal and external publications, and is an active participant in various internal investment and risk committees. Prior to joining Manulife, Alex worked as a macro research analyst with Standard Life Investments and, before that, he held various roles at Laurentian Bank Securities that include equity research analyst and a financial markets economist.
- Education: M.Sc., Financial Services Management, University of Surrey; B.A., Economics and History, McGill University
- Joined the company: 2015
- Began career: 2001
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Rising uncertainty amid tariff threats―what does it mean for Canadian investors?
The Trump Administration announced that the United States was imposing significant tariffs on its largest trading partners. What does this mean for Canadian investors?
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Here come the tariffs: why it’s too soon to draw conclusions
The recent announcement of U.S. tariffs on key global trade partners has perhaps raised more questions than it answered.
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Five Macroeconomic Themes For 2024
A new economy rising: we dive into the five major forces that will drive global economies and markets in 2024. Come back to this page for updates, insight, and resources to help guide you throughout the year.
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Beyond the Fed’s hawkish “pause”: three macro elements to consider
The U.S. Federal Reserve kept rates steady at its June meeting. But looking deeper, there are implications for investors.
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A framework for navigating a massive uncertainty shock
The closure of tech-focused lenders in the United States has left investors on tenterhooks even as policymakers work hard to contain potential spillover effects. Find out how recent events could affect the U.S. economy.
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2023 Q1 Global Macro Outlook—The Year Ahead
We expect 2023 to be a year of two halves: H1 could be defined by a material slowdown in growth as the effects of aggressive monetary tightening kick in, while H2 could see an easing in macroeconomic conditions. Read our economic growth forecast for 2023.
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Asset allocation update: Foresight November 2022
Our multi-asset solutions team examines how recent developments have shaped expected returns across different asset classes.
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Q4 2022 Global Macro Outlook
Rising inflation, enduring supply chain disruptions, and rising uncertainty—hardly a strong start to 2022; however, our macroeconomic strategy team believes that global growth prospects will become brighter as the year progresses.
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The Fed remains hawkish, but easing could occur in 2023
The U.S. Federal Reserve's decision to hike rates by 0.75% shouldn't surprise anyone—it was widely expected; however, the bank's latest economic projections caught markets off guard. Read more.
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Inflation’s impact on retirement portfolios: quantifying the future cost today
Small increases in inflation can have outsized consequences for retirees’ portfolios. How do you plan for retirement in a new inflation reality? We quantify how much rising prices can impact investors’ retirement plans, and the changes that can be made to increase the odds of reaching their goals.
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