TAG: Economy & Markets

DFA’s Emerging Markets Small Cap Fund (DEMSX) recently topped Bloomberg’s ‘Riskless Return Ranking’. We agree it’s a great fund, but for many reasons not captured in Bloomberg’s ranking.

According to bestselling author, Michael Lewis, “the stock market is rigged.” Lewis’ claims likely helped sales of his new book, Flash Boys, but shouldn’t cause long-term investors much despair.

Real estate prices can move sharply in both directions, providing an opportunity for savvy investors. Capitalizing on those opportunities, however, is difficult. For most, a house should be thought of primarily as a roof over your head and a great place to raise the kids.

In early February, investors withdrew record amounts from U.S. stock mutual funds, as fears spread over declining global growth, stubborn unemployment, and political and economic troubles in emerging markets. Such turbulence highlights the role safe bonds can play in a portfolio.

In the 1960’s, Professor Eugene Fama of the University of Chicago coined the term “efficient market” to describe a world in which no investor can consistently beat the market without taking greater risk. Today, he’s a Nobel Prize-winner.