Two niche retailers with investor appeal

Many traditional bricks-and-mortar retailers continue to struggle against the pandemic-spurred onslaught of online shopping and the impact of past inflation on consumer spending. Still, we believe the unique markets of TJX and North West offer you the possibility of strong gains ahead.
THE TJX COMPANIES, $117.25, (New… Read More

Infrastructure gains from falling interest rates

Companies that own and operate unique infrastructure assets have characteristics such as stable profits and cash flows that make them attractive to long-term investors. And investors seeking exposure to these assets have several publicly listed options, including ETFs.
Indexes that track the performance of listed infrastructure… Read More

Japan must contend with its aging population

Japan’s population is getting older, and with an average age of 49.5 years, is the oldest population in the world. While people are living longer the fertility rate is declining—women are expected to bear only 1.3 children during their lifetimes.
Given the low fertility rate, the… Read More

Japan continues to overcome its challenges

The Japanese economy ranks third in the world and hosts some of the most-profitable global corporations.
The economy is, however, facing a declining and rapidly aging population. (See box next page.) Still, an older population also presents opportunities, and Japanese companies are already coming up with… Read More