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Diversify with Non-Correlated Assets: A Path to Resilient Portfolios
PLUS: China's LFP Battery Prices Plummet 51%
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China's LFP Battery Prices Plummet 51%
What about “Non-Correlated Assets”?
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Today, we're diving into the electrifying world of lithium-ion batteries, where prices are plummeting faster than a Tesla in Ludicrous Mode. But as the saying goes, there's no such thing as a free lunch. This rapid decline in prices raises critical questions about the industry's future and the investment opportunities it presents.
A Shocking 51% Drop: LFP Batteries Lead the Charge (Again)
As we highlighted in our previous newsletter, China has witnessed a staggering 51% decrease in the price of Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery packs. This is great news for consumers, as it makes electric vehicles more affordable. However, the implications for manufacturers are less clear-cut.
Margins Squeezed: A Double-Edged Sword

As the graph above shows, while LFP battery prices have fallen, manufacturing costs have not kept pace. This is creating a margin squeeze for battery producers. On one hand, lower prices could stimulate demand and lead to higher sales volumes, potentially offsetting the reduced profit margins. On the other hand, if prices fall too far, it could force some manufacturers out of business, leading to consolidation in the industry.

What's Driving This Electrifying Decline?
What’s going on with lithium-ion battery prices?
In short, they’re plummeting, and the implications are just starting to ripple out across the automotive and power sectors.
A short thread:
— Colin Mckerracher (@colinmckerrache)
6:38 AM • Jul 10, 2024
Several factors have conspired to create this battery bargain bonanza:
Increased Supply: The battery production boom in China has flooded the market, creating a surplus of cells.
Lower EV Demand: The Chinese economy's slowdown has dampened consumer enthusiasm for electric vehicles, reducing demand.
Technological Advancements: Ongoing research and development have led to more efficient and cost-effective battery production methods.
The Shockwaves Ripple Through the Market
This battery price plunge is sending shockwaves through the financial world. Albemarle, a leading lithium producer, has seen its stock price take a hit as investors grapple with the implications of lower battery costs. The automotive and energy sectors are bracing for impact, as cheaper batteries could disrupt existing business models and spark fierce competition.
Navigating the Battery Price Maze: An Investor's Guide
As savvy investors, you're probably wondering how to navigate this rapidly evolving landscape. Here are a few key considerations:
Focus on Companies with Differentiated Technology: Look for companies that are developing innovative battery technologies with the potential for higher margins.
Consider the Entire Supply Chain: The battery industry is complex, with multiple players involved in mining, refining, manufacturing, and recycling. Consider investing in companies that are well-positioned across the entire supply chain.
Be Prepared for Volatility: The battery market is still in its early stages, and prices are likely to remain volatile in the short term. Be prepared for ups and downs, and focus on the long-term growth potential of the industry.
The Road Ahead: Electrifying Opportunities and Challenges
The road to widespread EV adoption is paved with both opportunities and challenges. As battery prices continue to fall, the EV market is poised for significant growth. However, the margin squeeze facing battery manufacturers could lead to consolidation and increased competition. By staying informed and adapting to the changing landscape, you can position yourself to capitalize on the electrifying opportunities that lie ahead.
Dear Valued Member,
In today's ever-changing financial landscape, achieving a diversified investment portfolio is paramount to mitigating risks and achieving long-term financial stability. While many investors focus on traditional assets like stocks and bonds, incorporating non-correlated assets can significantly enhance your portfolio's resilience and performance.

Understanding the Power of Non-Correlation
Non-correlated assets are investments that don't move in lockstep with the broader market or each other. Their independent price movements offer a crucial buffer against market volatility and can help you weather economic storms. Diversifying with non-correlated assets reduces your portfolio's overall risk exposure and increases its potential for consistent returns, even when traditional markets experience downturns.
Why Diversification is Key
Spread risk: By investing in a mix of assets, you help to reduce the impact of any single investment's poor performance on your overall portfolio.
Help balance risk and reward: Diversifying can help you tap into various possible market opportunities, enhancing potential returns.
Access different growth drivers: Allocating across multiple asset classes exposes you to different economic cycles and prospective growth opportunities. This helps your portfolio to potentially benefit from diverse market conditions and trends.
Why Non-Correlation Matters
Risk Mitigation: When the stock market takes a hit, non-correlated assets can hold their value or even appreciate, safeguarding your overall portfolio. This diversification helps minimize the impact of market fluctuations on your investments.
Stable Returns: Non-correlated assets often offer more predictable returns than volatile stocks or bonds. This stability can be particularly beneficial during economic uncertainty, providing a reliable income stream even when other assets struggle.
Inflation Hedge: Certain non-correlated assets, like real estate and precious metals, have historically proven to be effective hedges against inflation. As the cost of living rises, these assets can help preserve your purchasing power and maintain the real value of your investments.
Exploring Non-Correlated Asset Classes
Let's delve into some of the most promising non-correlated asset classes available to investors:
Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs): These publicly traded funds invest in income-producing real estate properties, providing exposure to the real estate market without the need for direct property ownership. REITs typically offer attractive dividends and have a low correlation with the stock market.
Precious Metals (Gold, Silver, etc.): Historically considered safe-haven assets, precious metals like gold and silver often rise in value during times of economic turmoil or geopolitical uncertainty. Their lack of correlation with the stock market makes them a valuable diversification tool.
Cryptocurrencies: While known for their volatility, cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum operate in a market largely independent of traditional assets. Adding a small allocation to your portfolio can potentially enhance diversification, though it's essential to assess your risk tolerance carefully.
Commodities (e.g., Coffee): Commodities like coffee beans can offer diversification due to their unique supply and demand dynamics, often influenced by factors like weather patterns and global consumption trends.
Wine and Art: These collectibles can be appreciated over time and often hold their value well during periods of inflation. However, they require careful research and due diligence to ensure authenticity and potential for value appreciation.
Alternative Investments: Other non-correlated options include private equity, venture capital, litigation finance, and music royalties. These investments can offer unique diversification benefits but often require a longer investment horizon and may be less liquid than traditional assets.
How Can ETFs Help Diversify Your Portfolio?
Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) are a versatile tool for diversification, providing:
Broad Exposure: ETFs often track a basket of assets, offering instant diversification across various sectors, industries, or geographies.
Cost-Effectiveness: ETFs typically have lower fees than mutual funds, making them a more affordable way to diversify.
Liquidity: ETFs trade on stock exchanges like individual stocks, providing easy access and flexibility to buy or sell throughout the trading day.
Transparency: Many ETFs disclose their holdings daily, giving you a clear view of your investments.
Ease of Access: ETFs cover a wide range of asset classes, making it simple to build a diversified portfolio.
However, be mindful of potential drawbacks like variations in execution prices (spreads) and tracking errors that may cause deviations from the underlying index.
Important Considerations and Risks of Non-Correlated Assets
While non-correlated assets offer numerous advantages, it's important to be aware of their potential drawbacks:
Liquidity: Some assets, like collectibles or certain real estate investments, may be less liquid than stocks or bonds, making them harder to sell quickly if needed.
Volatility: Certain alternative assets, especially cryptocurrencies, can be highly volatile, experiencing significant price swings in the short term.
Due Diligence: Thorough research is crucial before investing in any asset class, especially non-correlated ones. Understanding the underlying risks and factors that drive their value is essential for making informed decisions.
Building a Resilient Portfolio
The key to a successful investment strategy is diversification. By incorporating a mix of traditional and non-correlated assets, you can create a more balanced and resilient portfolio that can withstand market fluctuations and deliver consistent returns over the long term.
Before venturing into non-correlated assets, assessing your risk tolerance, investment goals, and time horizon is crucial. Consult with a financial advisor to determine the optimal allocation for your specific situation.
Remember, diversification is not about eliminating risk entirely, but rather about managing it effectively. By strategically incorporating non-correlated assets, you can build a portfolio that not only protects your wealth but also opens up new avenues for potential growth and returns.
In the Investing Wise Academy's series of 9 Portfolio Strategies to Protect Your Portfolio, this exploration of non-correlated assets serves as a critical final step towards building a truly diversified and resilient investment approach. By understanding the power of non-correlation and incorporating these assets strategically, you can safeguard your wealth and pave the way for long-term financial success.
You can access the 9 Portfolio Strategies here:
Disclaimer: This newsletter is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Always consult with a qualified financial professional before making any investment decisions.
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Remember: Investing is a journey, not a destination. It's about making informed decisions, managing risk, and staying committed to your long-term goals. So, take the time to research, experiment, and find the perfect recipe for your balanced portfolio.
Cheers to wealth, wisdom, and a dash of madness!
The Investing Wise Academy Team
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