Non-Profit Perspectives

Helping non-profits in efficiently managing their charity, endowment, or foundation assets. Contact us to learn more.

 

Navigating the Next Decade: Investment Strategies For Current Market Realities

OECD Inflation outlook
GDP Growth

The first quarter of 2024 mirrored the trends seen in 2023, with a notable upswing in the US stock market and a corresponding decline in inflation concerns. However, despite the recent market rally amid decreasing inflation, lingering macroeconomic uncertainties continue to challenge equities. Amidst the possibility of intermittent inflation risks, it’s crucial to adopt a cautious yet proactive investment approach, as inflationary environments can lead to concurrent losses in both stocks and bonds, as observed in 2022.

In navigating these dynamics, a prudent investment strategy must prioritize delivering positive long-term returns while ensuring resilience during market downturns to protect portfolios from erosion. One option involves focusing on inflation-protected assets and stocks of companies with robust pricing power, capable of weathering economic fluctuations. Furthermore, alongside inflationary worries, the rapid expansion of US markets has heightened their prominence globally, reducing the diversification potential of global equity indices. 

Considering the US’s dominance in the MSCI All Country World Index and the concentration of US large-cap stocks reaching a peak in Q1 2024, it’s essential to evaluate the dispersion (valuation, capitalization, growth and so on) between geographies when constructing a diversified portfolio. Additionally, incorporating the expected inflation of major global geographies into investment strategies can provide valuable insights for crafting a resilient portfolio. Overall, successful investment planning for the next decade necessitates a diversified approach. Regular monitoring and adjustment based on prevailing economic conditions are vital for ensuring long-term investment success and resilience in the face of market uncertainties.

How much to “reserve”?

 

The work carried out by non-profits at both grassroots and higher levels holds great importance in shaping our changing world. We are deeply honored to support these organizations in their growth and assist in establishing a strong financial foundation. In this issue, we delve into a critical aspect of non-profit management: “Charting a course through the financial seas“.

 

As reported by urban.org, the United States is home to approximately 1.8 million non-profit organizations, encompassing public charities, private foundations, and various other entities. Of these, 501(c)(3) non-profits constitute approximately 75% of the sector and account for an estimated expenditure of around $1.94 trillion.

 

Data from urban.org indicates significant impacts on nonprofits in 2020, from the COVID-19 pandemic, with about 40% reporting decreased total revenue and an average reduction of 31% in revenue and 7% in paid staff.Read more…

 

 

Can non-profits self- manage investments, and when should they seek advisors?

 

 

Non-profit organizations often enlist the services of external advisors when decision making requirements surpass their in-house expertise. Two key facets warrant careful consideration. Advisors often offer insightful perspectives and also craft robust strategies aimed at safeguarding the organization’s long-term financial stability Next is mission alignment. Advisors can help harmonize investment strategies with the organization’s overarching values. Read More …

 

 

Can a non-profits “Theory of Change” map to investments?

 

 

The “theory of change” is a critical framework that non-profit organizations use to articulate their long-term goals, define their strategies, and measure their impact. It provides a structured roadmap for how an organization intends to create meaningful and sustainable change in the world. Is it essential to align this theory of change with investments that the organization makes? Read More …

 

The Allure of “Privates”

 

In the evolving world of investments, private strategies have garnered significant attention, attracting investors of all sizes with their promise of exclusivity and potential returns. At the heart of this landscape stands the Yale Model, celebrated for their leadership in alternatives and superior track record. Could smaller investment funds benefit from investing in private markets? Read more…