Advisors Rethink Cash Ahead of Rate Cuts

Core Insights - Yields on the $7 trillion in money market funds are expected to decrease as the Federal Reserve is anticipated to cut its benchmark interest rate soon [1][2] - Advisors are rethinking strategies due to the potential for reinvestment risk as fixed-income markets are pricing in a Federal Funds rate that is a full percentage point lower than the current range of 4.25% to 4.50% [2][3] - High-quality fixed-income yields are historically attractive, with current yields close to 4.5%, placing them in the 70th percentile historically [5] Investment Strategies - Advisors are discussing various fixed-income options with clients, including certificates of deposit and corporate bonds [4] - Some advisors are waiting for the first Fed rate cut before making new investment positions, indicating caution due to previous market miscalculations regarding rate cuts [6] - Conservative investment strategies include building CD ladders and focusing on high-quality, short to intermediate duration bonds [6][7] Market Conditions - The effective Fed Funds rate is currently at 4.33%, and once cuts begin, they are expected to quickly impact short-term rates [3] - Advisors are utilizing ETFs for liquidity and to manage credit risks, focusing on high-quality options such as Vanguard Short-Term Treasury Index ETF and Vanguard Intermediate Corporate Bond Index ETF [7]