Good morning! Discover the latest trends and insights in this month’s Invested newsletter! This month, we explore the psychological and economic forces shaping our world—from shrinking U.S. beef supplies just as grilling season begins, to a growing global retreat from U.S. assets, and the mounting pressure in bond markets. We also dive into the psychology of belief with a feature on cognitive dissonance, and unpack the energy implications of Canada’s recent election in our Podcast Pick. Happy reading!
INSIGHTS FROM THE VIEWPOINT FOUNDATION
EXPLORING PHILANTHROPIC TRENDS & IMPACTFUL INITIATIVES
When the World Tilts: Cognitive Dissonance & the Collapse of Belief Systems
Cognitive dissonance—when belief and reality collide—fuels everything from conspiracy theories to identity crises. This month’s article from Jessica Ratushniak explores how denial, trauma, and belonging shape our response to uncomfortable truths. From MAGA politics to cult recovery, understanding this tension is vital for resilience and healing. What happens when everything you believe turns out to be wrong?
VIEWPOINT SPOTLIGHT
SCOTT SMITH ON THE U.S. DOLLAR DECLINE
Smile-Turned-Snarl: Tariffs, Treasuries, & the Dollar’s Slide
Markets rebounded in April despite tariff turmoil and soft economic data, but risks remain. In this article, CIO Scott Smith explores how weakening U.S. fundamentals, a falling dollar, and shifting global capital flows are reshaping investor strategy. With stagflation risks rising and portfolio hedging in focus, global diversification is key. Is the dollar smile turning into a dollar frown?
MAY’S INVESTMENT PULSE
HIGH STEAKS & HIGHER STAKES: FROM BBQS TO BONDS, MARKETS ARE FEELING THE HEAT
U.S. Beef Supplies Are Shrinking as Grilling Season Begins
Beef supplies are tightening just as Memorial Day marks the start of grilling season. Cattle feedlots are at their lowest seasonal level since 2020, and beef in cold storage has dropped to its lowest April level since 2014. With dry pastures, costly herd expansion, and strong demand, cookouts will cost over 4% more than last year. This article from Bloomberg asks the question: Will burgers break the bank this summer?
Selling of Dollar Assets Signals Start of Longer-Term Shift, Warn Investors
Big investors are trimming U.S. assets, citing policy risks, trade tensions, and high valuations. European markets are drawing fresh capital, with fund outflows from U.S. equities hitting multi-year highs. While the U.S. remains dominant, the shift hints at fading confidence in American “exceptionalism” and a growing push for diversification. The Financial Times investigates: Is the global love affair with U.S. assets ending?
Many Investors Remain Unaware of the Scale of the Unfolding Bond Crisis
Global bond markets are under mounting stress as long-term yields rise and governments resist cutting deficits. Japan’s fiscal troubles and record bond yields highlight a broader sovereign debt crisis, with ripple effects hitting U.S. Treasuries and investor confidence. With higher borrowing costs and inflation risks looming, this article from the Financial Post explores how investors must rethink fixed income strategies and embrace diversification. Are bond markets the next domino to fall?
PODCAST PICK
UNLOCKING INSIGHTS, ONE EPISODE AT A TIME
It’s Time to Build Canada Into an Energy Superpower
Fresh off a Liberal election win, Prime Minister Mark Carney vows to make Canada an energy superpower. This episode of the ARC Energy Ideas podcast unpacks the results and what they mean for energy policy, from LNG and clean tech to carbon capture and Bill C-69 reform. Guest Greg Lyle offers insight on political surprises and legislative pathways ahead. Will Carney’s energy vision power Canada’s next chapter?
MORE TO EXPLORE
CURATED READS FOR THE INQUISITIVE
AI, Materials, and Fraud, Oh My!
A recent article from The BS Detector explores when MIT PhD student Aidan Toner-Rodgers wowed the academic world with a widely praised AI research paper—until it was exposed as fraudulent. Despite endorsements from top economists and major media, the data and methods didn’t hold up. With flawless results and fabricated details, the study became a cautionary tale about AI hype and academic scrutiny. Too good to be true—or just too easy to believe?
The Greatest Risks to Family Longevity: Four Advisors Weigh In
The old adage “shirtsleeves to shirtsleeves in three generations” is losing ground. Advisors say today’s families are investing in communication, education, and governance to preserve wealth and purpose across generations. From storytelling to shared values and professional guidance, intergenerational success depends on more than money—it requires intention and trust. This article from Canadian Family Offices explores the question: Can your family outsmart the three-generation curse?