Seasoned market observers recognize that markets respond not only to what the Federal Reserve does, but how united it appears in doing it. While markets welcome the Feds latest cuts, a closer look beneath the headlines reveals growing dissent which can complicate the economic outlook. As Powell’s role is set to change, disagreement across the Fed signals that consensus is becoming harder to sustain. Reserve bank governors are diverging more openly on inflation risks and interest rate trade-offs. As monetary policy becomes less predictable, financial conditions can tighten unevenly.
Canadian real estate prices down as buyers remain on sidelines
The Canadian housing market remains weak on both sales and prices compared with a year ago. Activity softened further in November as seasonal factors and affordability challenges kept buyers sidelined, and sellers made modest price concessions to complete deals. While some leading indicators point toward stabilization, there’s no broad rebound yet – the market is in a pause and reset, not a recovery.
How Do You Replace Warren Buffett?
At 95, Warren Buffet is finally easing out of the spotlight and the investing world feels a little disoriented about it. This article asks the uncomfortable but inevitable question: How do you replace someone who never really had a template to begin with?
Howard Marks says AI Terrifying for Jobs, Queries Debt Cost
Howard Marks, Oaktree’s co-founder, offers a thoughtful reminder that the impacts of AI and its investments extend well beyond productivity gains. If you’re thinking about what this means for the next cycle, this is worth the read.
Investors are behaving in a “speculative” manner even though the demand growth for AI technology is “totally unpredictable”.
31% of Wealth Owned by People over 70 | Apollo
We avoid an overreliance on demographic snapshots, but this trend is nonetheless instructive. It doesn’t suggest capital is becoming risk-averse so much as more discerning – cautious in aggregate, yet willing to concentrate decisively where outcomes appear durable, with capital itself reinforcing that perception.
The 50 Best Places to Travel in 2026
The 2026 travel list delivers plenty of inspiration for the new year. From long-weekend escapes to bucket list trips, there is no shortage of places worth getting excited about.
Ending the Year Together
As 2025 ends, it has been a year of meaningful progress and reflection for our team. As we look ahead to 2026, Lauer Private Wealth continues to grow, welcoming new professionals to our team. It’s an exciting period of momentum. We wish you and your family a happy holiday season and thank you for your continued trust and support!
Lauer Private Wealth at RBC serves as the investment office for a select group of institutions and families. The practice is centered on multi-asset portfolio management, estate structuring, and intergenerational wealth architecture.
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Works cited: Apollo, Bloomberg, ChatGPT, The Daily Shot, The Globe and Mail, Travel and Leisure.