Equity markets have delivered strong returns in recent years, prompting some investors to overlook the role of bonds in a portfolio. But periods of market stress consistently highlight the value of fixed income. When equities decline, bonds have historically helped preserve capital and stabilize portfolio outcomes.

Geopolitical tensions have lifted oil prices, sent U.S. stocks slightly lower and driven flows into the safety of the U.S. dollar, which has strengthened versus peers. While a weaker dollar previously supported international equity outperformance, dollar stabilization now suggests that tailwind is fading, underscoring the importance of diversification across regions and asset classes.

The BNY Mellon Global Credit Fund celebrates 10 years. Adam Whiteley, head of global credit at Insight Investment, reflects on the Fund’s success, key active calls, the case for global credit today and future positioning.

The Strait of Hormuz, which moves about 20% of global oil, has seen many ships that normally travel through it curtail their activity. Consequently, WTI oil was up over 36% in the five days after the oil supply shock began. Yet equities barely budged, signaling a temporary supply shock, not a larger crisis. Historically, after similar price spikes equities tend to move higher while oil prices decline — further evidence for avoiding emotion-driven investing.