While 2018 ended with US and international equities selling off in the fourth quarter, 2019 has begun with equities bouncing back and fixed income posting its strongest quarterly return in three years. Despite the geopolitical uncertainties of “Brexit” and US-China trade relations, the US economy continues to demonstrate strength, evidenced by solid wage growth and low unemployment below 4%. Additionally, the Fed has helped calm markets by taking on a more dovish tone regarding rate hikes, due in part to subdued inflation.