FINANCIAL MATTERS

The U.K.’s FTSE 100 Index lagged other international markets (down 1.31% in U.K. pounds). European markets, as measured by the EuroStoxx 50 Index, returned a positive 1 95% (in euros)

International markets saw more modest gains, influenced by China’s growth underperforming expectations. The bright spot was Japan, with the TOPIX Index gaining 14.23% (in Japanese yen).

Fixed income

Bond yields rose after renewed interest rate increases by key central banks, including the Bank of Canada, U S Federal Reserve, Bank of England and European Central Bank. As a result, bond returns fell during the quarter (as bond yields rise, the price of bonds fall).

The Bloomberg Global Aggregate Index returned -1.53% (in U.S. dollars) while the Canadian Universe Bond Index retreated by0.69%.

U S high yield bonds fared better, with the ICE BoA US High Yield Index gaining 1.63% during the quarter in U.S. dollar terms (but0.63% in Canadian dollar terms).

Looking ahead to the rest of the year

Fears of a looming recession have led to lower commodity prices, which, along with rising interest rates, pose additional challenges to Canada's year-end outlook. However, the lower valuation of the S&P/TSX Composite Index would suggest these conditions may already be factored in Despite modestly rising rates during the quarter, bonds remain attractive for the immediate future. We still face stickier-than-expected inflation, increased central bank interventions and a slowing economy. While a cautious approach may be wise, we remain selective and cautiously optimistic about equities.

International and emerging markets remain promising for diversification benefits, while profit-taking in the highly valued U.S. markets could prove beneficial. It's essential to remember that investment decisions are not binary this past quarter is a testament to that.

Written and published by IG Wealth Management as a general source of information only Not intended as a solicitation to buy or sell specific investments, or to provide tax, legal or investment advice. Seek advice on your specific circumstances from an IG Wealth Management Consultant.

Jacob Gaudet is an Associate Consultant on the wealth advisory team Gaudet Group Private Wealth Management. He helps clients get more out of their money, so they can get more out of life. Jacob specializes in six key areas: Investment, Retirement, Estate, Tax, and Insurance, and Mortgage Planning. With more than 60 years of combined experience, Gaudet Group Private Wealth Management is committed to making clients’ interests their top priority Do you have questions you’d like Jacob to Answer? Email him at jacob gaudet@igpwm ca

Investors Group Financial Services Inc.

Aries: March 21 - April 19 (Fire) –

Everything is getting easier for you With every setback you face you come out stronger You do have to go through these hard times, but you could do some things to make it more bearable You have great friends, use them Find a way to relax, you will be calm and peaceful

Taurus: April 20 - May 20 (Earth) –

You do matter. You want to be appreciated in all areas of your life This week seems to come more in your career. Keep pushing for the respect you deserve You have been hiding your opinions a lot lately, but this is about to change when you decide to tell people what you really think. This will relieve stress

Gemini: May 21 - June 20 (Air) –

Your love life should be in the spotlight. But it is a big struggle for you to find the time for it this week People that care about you will be voicing their concerns about the choices you have been making lately. Do some soul searching and you will be back on track

Cancer: June 21 – July 22 22 (Water)

– You have been thinking about a love interest a lot lately. You also seem to have found your voice You are sticking up for yourself and have been speaking your mind more and more It is great to have this release and you do feel free but pick your battles or you will cause drama everywhere you go

Leo: July 23 - August 22 (Fire) –

You are going to have to balance yourself this week It is important to find a way to make more money, because what you are doing is not working for you You are not finding happiness in your career; this will start to affect all areas of your life You may want to sit your loved ones down and warn them of your upcoming emotional breakdowns.

Virgo: August 23 - September 22 (Earth) – You are healing from the inside out You are not healing fast enough for your liking. You're starting to shift focus on all negative things in your life You need to put yourself in a time out and heal This does not mean the whole week wasted, it will only take one day to realign your energy to the positive

Libra: September 23 - October 22 (Air) - Focus on your health. Take the time out and eat well and exercise You have decided you want to have a healthy mind, body and soul, so now comes the hard part Do some work to accomplish this. Conversation, exercise, meditation Do whatever it takes to find mental peace

Scorpio: October 23 - November 21 (Water) – Happiness is definitely attainable for you this week You have so many options coming at you from all walks of life Is the Universe trying to tell you something? Obviously open up your eyes This energy is great to have and use to make your life better

Sagittarius: November 22December 21 (Fire) – You have so many things to feel great about, so why are you feeling so sad? This week brings opportunities to you, to bring the happiness back into your life Once you choose a path there is no stopping you from completing your goals Choose wisely I suggest choosing your love life

Capricorn: December 22 - January 19 (Earth) – Having a crazy week? You just do not feel like you can complete anything successfully It would be a great week to be on vacation. If you're not able to take a break, then you will struggle with finding the energy to accomplish even the simplest of tasks. Find a way to release some stress

Aquarius: January 20 – February 18 (Air) – Great connections in work come to you this week You feel drawn to certain people in your career, follow this trail and see why that is You are seeking out true love, someone that can inspire you If you focus on this in your love life, you will form a magical bond

Pisces: February 19 - March 20 (Water) – You do not want to do anything Unfortunately, this week you find yourself doing so much, you feel like running away by mid-week Relationships begin to bloom and you are in love You must take your control back. By the time you figure out how to do this your week is over