INVESTED: September Edition

Good morning! Discover the latest trends and insights in this month’s Invested newsletter! In this issue, we explore a myriad of topics from the Canadian Securities Administrators’ MRFP redesign, to trauma-informed spaces in mental health emergency rooms, to how the upcoming U.S. election could reshape markets. Also, look out for misconceptions about China’s economy in this month’s Podcast Pick, as well as emotional habits that can threaten a family business in our More to Explore highlights. Happy reading!

VIEWPOINT SPOTLIGHT

PAULA SEXSMITH BREAKS DOWN THE MRFP MAKEOVER: WILL INVESTORS FINALLY PAY ATTENTION?

Are You a Meerkat or an Ostrich?

Many investors overlook the Manufacturer Report on Fund Performance (MRFP) due to jargon and complexity. The Canadian Securities Administrators (CSA) are redesigning these reports to be clearer and more visual. But with only 46% understanding the new versions, will these changes make MRFPs investor-friendly? Find out if the CSA has cracked the code in this piece by CCO Paula Sexsmith!

INSIGHTS FROM THE VIEWPOINT FOUNDATION

EXPLORING PHILANTHROPIC TRENDS & IMPACTFUL INITIATIVES

Crisis to Care: The Role of Trauma-Informed Design in Mental Health Emergency Rooms

Jessica Ratushniak shares news about a new peer-led support space at Mount Royal University. Now, she shifts focus to transforming emergency rooms into trauma-informed spaces for those in crisis. Highlighting EmPATH units and Calgary’s efforts, she asks: can compassionate design revolutionize mental health treatment in hospitals? Read on to find out!

SEPTEMBER’S INVESTMENT PULSE

KEY TRENDS UNCOVERED

The Emerging “Harris Trade”—What Investors Need to Know

With the 2024 election approaching, Andrew Prochnow explores how a Kamala Harris victory could reshape markets. Her focus on renewable energy, healthcare, and housing may boost some sectors while challenging others like fossil fuels and financials. Can the “Harris trade” redefine the investment landscape? Read on to discover the potential winners and losers!

Here’s What Happens to Markets When Interest Rates Fall, in Charts

The Fed’s recent rate cuts have sparked market optimism, as stocks and bonds often perform well after such reductions. However, the outcome depends on the economy’s response—strong growth can boost profits, while a recession could lead to sharp declines. Will this time be different, or is a downturn looming on the horizon? Check out this Wall Street Journal article to explore what history suggests!

Equal Weight Indexing in Canadian Equities

The S&P 500 Equal Weight Index has consistently outperformed its market-cap-weighted counterpart by giving equal importance to all companies, boosting smaller ones. This trend is mirrored in Canada, where the S&P/TSX 60 Equal Weight Index shows stronger long-term returns and reduced concentration risk. Can equal weighting provide a better investment strategy than traditional indexing? This Indexology Blog post explores the benefits!

PODCAST PICK

UNLOCKING INSIGHTS, ONE EPISODE AT A TIME

Adam Tooze on the Big Misconceptions of the Chinese Economy

In this Bloomberg Oddlots podcast episode, Columbia Professor Adam Tooze challenges the notion of China’s “overcapacity” problem and questions whether the U.S. is misguided in its industrial revival strategy. He delves into the real weaknesses of the Chinese model and its global impact. Are Western countries targeting the wrong issue? Tune in to find out!

MORE TO EXPLORE

CURATED READS FOR THE INQUISITIVE

Energy Transition Will Be Much Longer and More Arduous Than They’re Telling You

The latest Energy Fact Book shows that transitioning from fossil fuels will be more challenging and slower than expected. With fossil fuels still dominating Canada’s energy mix, achieving a low-carbon future faces major hurdles. Can Canada meet its energy goals, or is a rapid transition unrealistic? The Fraser Institute explores this issue.

The Emotional Habits That Can Undermine a Family Business

We often repeat behaviours because they feel familiar, even when they don’t serve us. Franco Lombardo’s ACT framework—Awareness, Choice, and Transformation—helps leaders break these patterns by understanding their emotional roots. Curious how self-awareness can transform your family business and personal life? Read this Canadian Family Offices piece to discover how emotional governance can lead to lasting change.