Market Decode: What’s unsettling the markets?

August has historically been a volatile month. This year, a confluence of factors is driving substantial market unrest. Watch this video for insights on how to keep the ups and downs in perspective.

MARKETS TOOK A DIVE at the start of August, with all three major indexes plummeting briefly in response to a variety of fears before stabilizing. But it’s likely the late-summer storms aren’t over, says Chris Hyzy, Chief Investment Officer for Merrill and Bank of America Private Bank. “We see the U.S. and global markets continuing to be volatile over the near term,” he says, “but we still believe in a more bullish future ahead.” In the video above, Hyzy outlines several factors causing current volatility and suggests several steps investors can consider taking now to help them weather the squalls through year end.

For more insights, read “The Ghosts of August Shall Fade,” from the Chief Investment Office (CIO) and tune in regularly to the CIO’s Market Update Audiocast series.

Important disclosures

The opinions expressed are as of 8/8/2024 and are subject to change.

Investing involves risk, including the possible loss of principal.

Past performance is no guarantee of future results.

Asset allocation and diversification do not ensure a profit or protect against loss in declining markets. Equity securities are subject to stock market fluctuations that occur in response to economic and business developments. This information should not be construed as investment advice and is subject to change. It is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to be either a specific offer by Bank of America, Merrill or any affiliate to sell or provide, or a specific invitation for a consumer to apply for, any particular retail financial product or service that may be available.

The Chief Investment Office (CIO) provides thought leadership on wealth management, investment strategy and global markets; portfolio management solutions; due diligence; and solutions oversight and data analytics. CIO viewpoints are developed for Bank of America Private Bank, a division of Bank of America, N.A., (“Bank of America”) and Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated (“MLPF&S” or “Merrill”), a registered broker-dealer, registered investment adviser and a wholly owned subsidiary of Bank of America Corporation (“BofA Corp.”).

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