One of the themes dear to this section is the absolutely unpredictable side of financial markets in the short term.

However, it is difficult to find a field where predictions are more numerous and intensely followed than in finance and economics.

As 2023 comes to a close, I’d like to revisit some predictions made a year ago. They cover a range of topics, including the trajectory taken by different stock markets, countries or economic sectors.

The idea here is not to make fun of bad predictions (OK, a little, anyway). It’s simply about ending the year on a lighter note. And to show that it is risky to give a lot of weight to predictions. Or – worse – to invest your money based on what they say.

Result: according to data available in December 2023, Canada was not in recession in 2023.

Result: As of December 15, the diversified fund that encompasses major U.S., Canadian and international indices iShares Core Equity ETF (XEQT) was up 16% for 2023, including dividend reinvestment. The Canadian fund specializing in energy iShares S

Result: As of December 15, the S

Result: As of December 15, the NASDAQ technology index was up 42% in 2023, the best performing stock index this year.

Result: as of December 15, the NASDAQ technology index had increased by 42% in 2023. The Canadian fund specializing in energy iShares S

Result: As of December 15, the diversified fund that encompasses the major US, Canadian and international indices iShares Core Equity ETF (XEQT) had seen an increase of 16% in 2023, including the reinvestment of dividends.

Result: As of December 15, the S

Bottom line: As of Dec. 15, the iShares Russell Small/Mid-Cap index (BSMAX) small-cap fund is up 14% year-to-date in 2023, including dividend reinvestment. For the energy sector, the Invesco S fund

With these thoughts, I wish you a Happy New Year 2024!