Articles
The Great Wealth Transfer Is Here but Is the Next Generation Ready?
In our latest editorial, QBR Finance Editor Aaron Black explores the Great Wealth Transfer, a historic $84 trillion shift in assets from Baby Boomers to younger generations over the next two decades. This article delves into the challenges facing heirs, including financial illiteracy, changing investment priorities, and the lack of estate planning. While younger generations stand to inherit vast fortunes, Black emphasizes the importance of early financial education and thoughtful estate planning to ensure this transition is successful. As families prepare for this generational wealth shift, the article encourages proactive measures to navigate the complexities of managing new wealth.
Japan's Financial Odyssey: From Negative Interest Rates to Carry Trade Unwinds
In this editorial, QBR Finance Editor Reed Allen explores Japan’s unconventional monetary policy and its profound impact on global markets. Tracing the Bank of Japan's journey from zero interest rates to negative rates and yield curve control, this article analyzes the ripple effects of Japan’s recent rate hikes and the unwinding of the carry trade. As the central bank navigates normalization under Kazuo Ueda, there are profound implications for Japan’s stagnating economy, volatile yen, and global financial interconnectedness. Could this be the dawn of a new era for Japan's financial strategy?
Investing for Impact: How to Do Well by Doing Good
In this latest editorial, QBR Senior Finance Editor Chanelle Cai explores the potential of impact investing to create meaningful social and environmental change while also generating financial returns. Drawing on insightful statistics and real-world examples, Cai challenges the misconception that investors must choose between either profit or positive impact. She breaks down the key principles of impact investing, such as intentionality and rigorous impact measurement, urging future business leaders to rethink traditional investment strategies. This piece inspires readers to take action, highlighting the power of thoughtful, intentional investments to drive both financial success and lasting change.
Coca’s Role in Shaping South American Financial Markets
In this editorial, Queen’s Business Review’s Financial Markets Editor Ethan Chan delves into the paradoxical role of the coca leaf in South American economies. Once a revered traditional crop, it now straddles both legal and illegal markets, shaping economic policies and inflation while fueling the global drug trade. As legal uses expand, the coca leaf’s potential to transform rural economies offers a glimpse into the future of South American financial markets.
Navigating The Venture Debt Market Post-SVB Collapse
QBR Editor Aaron Black explores how SVB’s collapse in 2023 shook the venture debt market and created a large void in the early-stage lending ecosystem. Though non-bank lenders swiftly capitalized on the opportunity, traditional banks re-entered the scene, fostering a balanced coexistence in the market. The question emerged: would there ever be a new SVB? Now, over a year following the collapse, the answer seems unlikely, but only time will tell.
Unlocking Sustainable Success: How Productive are ESG Funds?
In this new article, QBR Editor Ethan Chan examines the productivity of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) funds, providing a comprehensive analysis of their financial performance and impact. It aims to explore the background and context of ESG investing, present arguments and content regarding their effectiveness, and finally, conclude with insights into the value and future potential of these funds.
Haunting of the Dot-Com Era: Comparing Yesterday’s Tech Bubble with Today’s AI Craze
Discussing the influence of AI in different financial markets, Reed Allen compares the preceding dot-com bubble to the current AI boom. The article outlines how established tech giants are driving AI growth with diverse revenue streams, suggesting a more stable and sustainable market, unlike the dot-com era.
How To Stop Living on Autopilot—and Other Lessons Learned
In our latest editorial, QBR Senior Finance Editor Ben Kavanagh unveils the transformative power of intentional living. Through personal anecdotes and a deep dive into self-help wisdom, Kavanagh challenges the notion that busyness equals success, advocating instead for a life led with purpose. He explores the significance of swift decision-making, the resilience found in embracing failure, and the strategic alignment of one's efforts with innate strengths. Highlighting the importance of community and genuine self-reflection, this piece encourages readers to step off autopilot and navigate towards a fulfilling, consciously chosen path.
How Canada’s Housing Inflation Numbers & Policy Ignores New Homeowners
In our latest finance editorial, QBR Editor Petar Mijacevic delves into the Bank of Canada's method for measuring inflation in housing, and how it has produced a disconnect between reporting housing inflation and the actual rise in housing costs for new and prospective Canadian homeowners and renters. Through the lens of the current inflationary and high interest rate environment, Mijacevic discusses how this has affected the Bank of Canada's monetary policy decisions and how to move forward in measuring housing inflation.
From Boardwalk to Wall Street: Monopoly’s Investment Lessons
In our latest editorial, QBR Editor Evan Marriott delves into the unexpected wisdom found within the iconic game of Monopoly, revealing its hidden lessons on investment and economics. Marriott uncovers how this beloved board game mirrors real-world financial strategies, teaching players about diversification, liquidity, risk management, and the importance of strategic planning. Through the game's simulated property market, players experience firsthand the principles of asset allocation and the balancing act between aggressive investment and financial prudence. Marriott articulates how Monopoly’s gameplay, from managing a portfolio of properties to navigating economic shifts, serves as a metaphor for the broader financial markets, offering insights into managing investments and understanding economic dynamics.