Four Themes for the Year Ahead

January 30, 2024
1 min read

Private Assets, Duraton, Factor Exposure and the Trump Question

This is not an outlook in the traditional sense of what we expect to transpire in 2024. Instead, we address the key portfolio allocation questions we think will need to be discussed this year, even if their effects may not play out for years.

  • Allocations to private debt look set to rise, driven by the trade-off of real return versus diversification and its role in supplying credit to the economy.

  • Investors have been increasing duration exposure as a reflection of higher yields. We distinguish between a tactical role of duration (in anticipation of interest rate cuts) and a potentially diminished strategic role.

  • Within equities, we see a strategic case for Japan and EM, with the UK market an attractive tactical opportunity. We emphasize quality as a theme underlying equity positioning. In terms of factors, this means tilting to quality/profitability and low volatility. EM equities and US small cap offer attractive opportunities for generating alpha through active management.

  • This is a year of elections, with the most significant one in the US. We discuss how a possible Trump victory may or may not impact allocation decisions.

Past performance, historical and current analyses, and expectations do not guarantee future results. There can be no assurance that any investment objectives will be achieved. The information contained here reflects the views of AllianceBernstein L.P. or its affiliates and sources it believes are reliable as of the date of this publication. AllianceBernstein L.P. makes no representations or warranties concerning the accuracy of any data. There is no guarantee that any projection, forecast or opinion in this material will be realized. Past performance does not guarantee future results. The views expressed here may change at any time after the date of this publication. This document is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. AllianceBernstein L.P. does not provide tax, legal or accounting advice. It does not take an investor’s personal investment objectives or financial situation into account; investors should discuss their individual circumstances with appropriate professionals before making any decisions. This information should not be construed as sales or marketing material or an offer or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any financial instrument, product or service sponsored by AB or its affiliates.

The views expressed herein do not constitute research, investment advice, or trade recommendations and do not necessarily represent the views of all AB portfolio-management teams.

MSCI makes no express or implied warranties or representations, and shall have no liability whatsoever with respect to any MSCI data contained herein. The MSCI data may not be further redistributed or used as a basis for other indices or any securities or financial products. This report is not approved, reviewed or produced by MSCI.


About the Authors

Additional Contributors

Robertas Stancikas, Harjaspreet Mand and Maureen Hughes