Soundings

Taking Measure of the Markets

Drawing from the nautical practice of measuring depth, Soundings explores the underlying forces, risks, and opportunities beneath the market's surface.

Total Portfolio Approach

December 2025 | Kate Dumas, CFA

A challenger to traditional asset allocation gains ground. What it asks of governance and structure.

Thanksgiving

November 2025 | Kate Dumas, CFA

"The root of joy is gratefulness...It is not joy that makes us grateful; it is gratitude that makes us joyful.” ― David Steindl-Ras

The Rising Tide

November 2025 | Kate Dumas, CFA

Bonds are having their best year since 2020 — but the reward for active risk-taking has rarely been thinner.

How Many Lightbulbs Does It Take to Power AI?

November 2025 | Kate Dumas, CFA

What does an AI query actually cost in water and electricity? The honest answer: it's hard to say.

The Future is Female

November 2025 | Kate Dumas, CFA

Trillions in wealth are set to pass to women first. Are advisers ready to meet them where they are?

Concentration – Part Deux (et Trois)

October 2025 | Kate Dumas, CFA

Index funds now own half the market. A closer look at what that concentration really means.

How We Do It

October 2025 | Kate Dumas, CFA

A behind-the-scenes look at the Monday meeting that shapes every one of these posts.

Calling a Spade a Spade

September 2025 | Kate Dumas, CFA

Why Microsoft can borrow more cheaply than the U.S. government — and what that says about credit and trust.

What happens after a national mid-life crisis?

September 2025 | Kate Dumas, CFA

If the U.S. matures like Europe or Japan, here's what a 50-year portfolio might hold.