Citi Strategists Predict Bright Future for Global Stocks

Citi's Positive Forecast for Global Stocks

Citi strategists are optimistic about the global stock market's performance in the year ahead, projecting a potential upside of around 10%. This positive outlook is largely founded on anticipated earnings growth, particularly for the MSCI All-Country World Equity Index.

Driving Factors Behind the Projection

The expected earnings growth is a key element supporting this forecast. According to Citi's analysis, the index’s 12-month forward price-to-earnings (PE) ratio is predicted to hover around its current level of approximately 18x.

Growth Insights from Citi

Earnings per share (EPS) growth is projected to play a crucial role, with predictions for a 10% global EPS expansion. This outlook is slightly below the 13% consensus among analysts.

Regional Growth Expectations

Citi has highlighted that the strongest earnings growth is anticipated in the US and emerging markets, with both regions expected to achieve approximately 15% EPS increases. The strategists have noted that earnings growth should become more widespread across various regions and sectors, leading to smaller disparities between growth outcomes.

Macro Factors Influencing Stock Performance

From a broader economic perspective, Citi is looking at near-trend global growth supported by declining inflation and ongoing central bank easing policies. The team underlined that political policies, particularly those from former President Trump, are a significant source of uncertainty, creating a complex blend of potentially positive and negative economic impacts.

Impact of US Policies

Despite the potential uncertainties, Citigroup maintains that the macro landscape appears favorable for corporate earnings growth and overall stock market gains. The analysis suggests that while solid growth alongside rate cuts usually favors cyclical markets outside the US, the concept of US exceptionalism is likely to continue in the short term.

Global Market Dynamics

Strategists are optimistic that clarity surrounding US policies, especially regarding tariff negotiations and sustained dollar weakness, could lead to stronger performance in international markets. They expect that global equity returns might be more evenly distributed across regions. However, wider market trends may require additional time to come to fruition, potentially extending into the post-inauguration period.

Investment Strategies and Outlook

Despite the rich valuations in markets such as the US, regions like Europe and Japan present comparatively attractive valuation setups. Citi's regional equity strategists foresee significant upside opportunities in Japan and Europe.

Core Investment Positions

Maintaining a balanced investment strategy, Citi's team follows a barbell approach. The US equities remain a core overweight position, benefiting from favorable US policies alongside a quality tilt and advancements in artificial intelligence.

Diversifying Investments

Recently, Citi upgraded Continental Europe to an overweight status, framing the region as an effective diversifier for US-centric investments. Conversely, they currently hold underweight positions in Japan and Australia.

Sector Strategy Adjustments

Citi's global sector strategy reflects a balanced approach: they've upgraded Health Care to an overweight position, aligning it with Communication Services and Financials. However, sectors like Consumer Discretionary, Utilities, and Industrials have been downgraded to underweight due to varying growth prospects.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the expected growth for global stocks in 2025?

Citi's strategists project a 10% upside potential for global stocks in 2025, driven by growth in earnings.

Which regions are expected to see the strongest earnings growth?

The strongest EPS growth is expected in the US and emerging markets, with projections of about 15% increases in these areas.

What macroeconomic factors support this positive outlook?

Declining inflation and supportive central bank policies are seen as critical factors contributing to the optimistic macroeconomic outlook.

How does US policy impact global market performance?

US political policies, particularly tariff negotiations, are significant uncertainties affecting the global market dynamics.

What sectors has Citi adjusted in its investment strategy?

Citi has upgraded Health Care to overweight while downgrading Consumer Discretionary, Utilities, and Industrials to underweight.

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