- The collapse of Silicon Valley Bank, Silvergate Capital's liquidation, and takeovers of Signature Bank and Credit Suisse in March prompted market volatility and apprehension regarding the banking system's stability.
- Coordinated efforts by regulators and banks helped calm the markets and avert a domino effect of failing banks, which supported positive returns in all asset classes except for small caps.
- The Federal Reserve hiked interest rates by 0.25% in March, with Fed Chair Jerome Powell reassuring investors that the banking system is safe, and deposit flows have stabilized.
- Inflation remains a concern, however considering the U.S. economy's resilience, particularly in the labor market, investors are divided on whether the Fed will raise rates or pause at the May meeting.