August 2025 Monthly Market Insights

Markets reached new highs in July, but beneath the surface, concentration risk and valuation concerns are growing—especially in the U.S., where the top 10 stocks now dominate index performance. Diversification across regions and sectors remains essential. Meanwhile, the Fed held rates steady, but political pressure and stronger- than-expected economic data have clouded the outlook. A dovish pivot seemed likely until late-month surprises— including robust GDP and jobs numbers—prompted markets to reassess. Equity indices pulled back, and yields rose, reflecting renewed uncertainty. On the trade front, Canada faces a 35% tariff on non-CUSMA goods starting August 1, yet markets have responded with surprising calm. While energy and potash are exempt, other sectors may feel the pinch in Q3. Overall, the environment remains supportive but fragile. Advisors should emphasize flexibility, diversification, and a long-term view as policy, politics, and pricing continue to evolve.

Markets reached new highs in July, with the S&P 500 and MSCI World Index continuing their upward momentum. While this can trigger investor hesitation, historical data shows that investing at all-time highs has often led to positive returns—over 80% of the time over the past three decades. The real concern isn’t the level of the market, but its composition. In the U.S., the top 10 stocks now account for over 35% of the S&P 500’s market cap, a level not seen since the early 2000s. These names—mostly tech giants—carry elevated valuations and dominate performance, raising concentration risk.

International markets offer a compelling contrast. Europe and Japan present more balanced sector exposure and trade at significantly lower valuations. For example, MSCI Europe’s forward P/E is around 13.2, compared to 20.1 for the U.S. Meanwhile, sector leadership continues to evolve. Canada’s index, once dominated by energy, now sees financials and tech playing a larger role. This shift underscores the importance of diversification—not just across asset classes, but across geographies and sectors.

Source: Bloomberg  

Bottom line: Market highs aren’t a signal to retreat—they’re a reminder to stay diversified. A globally balanced portfolio helps manage risk and capture opportunity, especially when leadership is narrow and valuations are elevated.

The Fed held rates steady at 4.25%–4.50% in July, but the decision came with growing tension. Chair Powell maintained a cautious tone, citing sticky services inflation and uncertainty around the impact of recent tariffs. Meanwhile, two Fed governors dissented in favor of a rate cut—the first dual dissent in decades—reflecting political pressure from former President Trump, who has called for lower rates to ease the $1 trillion interest burden on the government’s debt.

Initially, markets interpreted the Fed’s stance as supportive. But sentiment shifted dramatically in the final days of July. Stronger-than-expected Q2 GDP growth (3% annualized) and firmer inflation readings conflicted with negative revisions and a much weaker than expected jobs report on August 1, which raised the likelihood of rate cuts in September. Equity markets pulled back, Treasury yields fell, and the U.S. dollar weakened, reflecting renewed uncertainty about the Fed’s path forward.

Source: Bloomberg  

Bottom line: While inflation is cooling and political pressure is mounting, the Fed remains cautious. Recent   economic surprises have rattled markets, reminding investors that rate expectations can shift quickly. Advisors   should emphasize flexibility and risk management in portfolio strategy.  

On August 1, the U.S. imposed a 35% tariff on Canadian goods not covered by CUSMA. While key exports like energy and potash are exempt, sectors such as autos, machinery, and consumer goods are directly affected. Europe, by contrast, secured extensions and lower rates, avoiding the brunt of the tariff wave. Despite the headline risk, markets have responded with surprising calm. The Canadian dollar held steady, and equity indices showed little reaction.

This muted response may reflect the fact that many companies had already adjusted supply chains earlier in the year. However, the long-term impact could still be felt in corporate margins and pricing, particularly in manufacturing and retail. Canada’s government is reviewing potential countermeasures, but for now, the focus remains on monitoring sector-level fallout.

Source: Bloomberg  

Bottom line: Tariffs haven’t triggered broad market volatility, but risks remain under the surface. Advisors should   stay alert to earnings impacts and supply chain disruptions, especially in trade-sensitive industries.