The Issue at Hand by Madison Investments

In fixed income, as in all investing, returns are generated by assuming some level of risk. Selecting a fund manager that outperforms similar managers or a benchmark index can feel satisfying, but how do you know if the level of risk that manager took on to achieve those returns was appropriate for your clients’ objectives? In this episode, Chris and Mike discuss how advisors can evaluate fixed in...

The Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) held interest rates steady at their June meeting as inflation remains above the Fed’s target and the labor market continues to show resilience. While the policy decision itself was widely expected, investors were more focused on the outlook and messaging from the first policy meeting of new Chair Kevin Warsh. In this Market Brief, Chris Aleman and Mike Sand...

When the Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) convenes for its June 16-17 meeting, all eyes will be on how new Fed Chair Kevin Warsh communicates policy amid a backdrop of economic and political uncertainty. The ongoing conflict with Iran has pushed energy prices higher, contributing to inflation concerns and largely extinguishing expectations for rate cuts. Meanwhile, a resilient labor market, im...

When does it make sense to use active management over bond ladders or index funds? And how should investors think about the tradeoff between fees, flexibility, and risk management? In this episode, Chris Aleman and Mike Sanders explore the debate around active versus passive fixed income investing. The discussion breaks down the tradeoffs between each approach, including duration exposure, reinves...

Most clients have a solid understanding of stock investing - you invest in equity ownership shares of a company for the potential of price appreciation or dividends. When the conversation turns to fixed income, investors and advisors have a harder time grasping the nuances. In our first episode, we break down the four key risks that shape fixed income outcomes: when you get your money back, if you...

Introducing The Issue at Hand – a new fixed income series focused on the questions shaping markets today. Meet your hosts, Regional Investment Director Chris Aleman, and Head of Fixed Income Mike Sanders, as they tackle one critical investment question each episode, breaking down what matters and how to talk about it. Episodes launch on the first Tuesday of each month! Subscribe: https://madisonin...