Stocks still look expensive and valuations look high – Morgan Stanley

Will the fourth quarter bring an end to the bear market? Morgan Stanley’s Global Investment Committee believes this bear market is far from over and recommends investors consider three key dynamics to inform their equity investments going forward.

Stock investors should demand a greater premium for taking on risk

“The paths for interest rates, inflation and corporate profitability all remain uncertain. That’s why stock investors should be demanding a greater premium for taking on risk. In other words, stocks still look expensive, and valuations look high, especially given that inflation-adjusted yields have moved up.”

“Investors could be in for more surprises as they continue to overlook the impact of tightening financial conditions. They should be cautious about investing in long-duration or growth-oriented equities, which currently may not offer fair compensation for the risks of rising rates, weakening operating leverage and the strong US dollar.” 

“Any bear-market rally that may occur in the seasonally strong fourth quarter should be used for rebalancing portfolios and tax-loss harvesting.”