Stocks Are in a 'Junk Rally,' Says Manulife's Roland

Market Overview & Strategy - The market is experiencing a "junk rally" driven by momentum and sentiment, particularly in unprofitable stocks, meme stocks, and crypto-related assets [1] - The firm is allocating to higher quality stocks and drafting off the market, avoiding being the "lead race car" [2] - The strategy involves owning high-quality stocks that are producing earnings, following trends in those pockets of the market [3] Sector Allocation & Analysis - The firm is overweight in technology, considering it one of the highest quality parts of the market based on return on equity [4][5] - The firm uses the PEG ratio (P/E divided by earnings growth estimates) to avoid overpaying for earnings growth; consumer discretionary does not rank well [5] - Attractive opportunities are seen in communication services, technology, industrials, and utilities, driven by AI-related factors like power demand and earnings [6] Inter-Sector Dynamics - Gains in technology stocks are helping financials, particularly on the wealth management side, creating a symbiotic relationship [6] - A circular relationship exists where tech earnings power the economy and market, creating opportunities for financials [7]