Keep It Simple Blog

In January, the financial markets showcased promising beginnings, with the S&P 500 and NASDAQ-100 experiencing notable increases. Despite challenges in the AGG, the performance of private investments, particularly in private equity, real estate, and credit, painted an optimistic outlook. Private equity funds, despite reporting delays, revealed impressive gains for 2023, highlighting the resilience and potential for significant growth amidst market fluctuations. The real estate sector, despite a tough year, showed signs of out-performance and long-term promise, while private credit funds started 2024 on a strong note, outpacing traditional bond aggregates and underscoring the value they add to investor portfolios.

In 2023, private credit investments from Blackstone and Carlyle emerged as unexpected stars in portfolios. While the broader markets experienced volatility, these funds outperformed with returns exceeding 14% for the year. Their resilience and ability to benefit from rising interest rates make them essential components for investors seeking stability and attractive returns in uncertain times.

November saw a robust return of public markets, emphasizing the importance of private investments in smoothing portfolio volatility. While public markets have rebounded, private equity remains a crucial stabilizing factor. Private REITs have had a less favorable 2023 but continue to contribute to portfolio stability. On the other hand, Blackstone and Carlyle's private credit funds have excelled in 2023, leveraging rising interest rates for impressive gains, with promising prospects even in the face of potential rate decreases.

Explore the world of Structured Growth Notes in our latest investment case study. Discover how they can offer the potential for growth while providing a safety net to protect your principal investment. Join us as we dissect the mechanics, benefits, and risks of this intriguing financial instrument and determine if it aligns with your financial goals.

In a challenging October for investors, private credit and private real estate proved to be resilient assets, offering protection against inflation and delivering impressive dividends. Learn how these investments outshined traditional indexes and provided a non-correlation effect for portfolios.

Is it time to update your health insurance coverage? Starting November 1, you'll have a limited window to do so. Here's what to consider about changing your coverage.

Retirement marks the beginning of a new adventure, a chapter filled with endless opportunities for personal growth and fulfillment. Crafting your own retirement bucket list is the key to unlocking the treasures of this exciting phase. It's not just a list; it's a roadmap to live life to the fullest, embracing experiences, wellness, and cherished moments with loved ones. In this post, discover how to curate a retirement bucket list that reflects your dreams, aspirations, and the joys you want to embrace.

In September's volatile market, private investments demonstrated resilience, outshining public counterparts. iDirect PMF had strong growth, while Blackstone's BREIT and Nuveen GC REIT, despite minor dips, outperformed public benchmarks. Private credit, especially Blackstone and Carlyle funds, showcased remarkable returns above 10%. Contrastingly, major public indices like S&P (-4.87%) and NASDAQ-100 (-5.0%) faced significant declines. These non-correlated investments provide stability amid market turbulence, making them vital for diversified portfolios. For those seeking stability, these assets offer a secure refuge in uncertain times.