Meketa Investment Group explores the rare but consequential risk of stagflation—a simultaneous rise in inflation and stagnating growth—highlighting its historical rarity and costly market implications. The analysis notes how cost-push shocks disrupt policy trade-offs and hurt most asset classes, and discusses how a preparedness mindset, diversified inflation-hedge allocation, and scenario testing provide a robust defense.
Is the worst of both worlds returning? Understanding stagflation risk – a stagflation primer
Meketa
Research
15 Pages
Key Takeaways
Supply‑driven shock: Supply interruptions (e.g., energy, trade tariffs) are the primary catalysts of stagflation.
Market vulnerability: In stagflation, both equities and bonds tend to underperform, eroding traditional portfolio diversification.
Hedging build‑out: Inflation-linked bonds, commodities, real assets, gold, cash, and alternatives can help protect portfolios.