Don't fall into the 'rotation trap'

Inflation could pop up as the economy recovers. But here's why you shouldn't throw out all your ASX growth shares to buy into value stocks.

| More on:
A black and white vortex dragging down, indicating share holders falling into a rotation trap

Image source: Getty Images

You’re reading a free article with opinions that may differ from The Motley Fool’s Premium Investing Services. Become a Motley Fool member today to get instant access to our top analyst recommendations, in-depth research, investing resources, and more. Learn More

ASX growth shares may have deflated the last few weeks, but one expert has warned investors to not fall into the trap of going "all in" on value shares.

Overnight, the US Federal Reserve indicated interest rates would remain at zero until at least 2023, and it would tolerate inflation that may come in the meantime.

This boosted share investor confidence, pushing up US markets as well as the ASX in early trade Thursday.

DeVere Group chief Nigel Green said the Fed had a "tricky" two-day meeting this week.

"They had to communicate a balance between a COVID-scarred economy and a booming outlook.

"It was a fine line to walk and, clearly, they don't want to hamper a recovery that's just getting going."

Investors exhale, but where to invest now?

Now boosted by the confidence of low interest rates, Green expected investors to "top up" their portfolios with further purchases.

But he warned to avoid the "rotation trap".

"The danger is the massive hype surrounding rotation from growth stocks – those expected to grow sales and earnings at a faster rate than the market average – into value stocks," he said.

"It should not be a case of either value or growth stocks.  A properly diversified portfolio needs to have both."

According to Green, the post-COVID world will not return immediately – if ever – to the way life was before the pandemic.

"It's likely we'll maintain some lockdown habits like working from home more often, but we'll also be back in the gym. We'll travel and go to public events again, but we'll also be more conscious of the environment and hygiene procedures."

So value stocks might have roared the past few weeks, but it won't be a chronic downturn for growth shares.

"Does anyone suddenly seriously think Amazon.com Inc (NASDAQ: AMZN), Alphabet Inc (NASDAQ: GOOGL) (NASDAQ: GOOG) and Tesla Inc (NASDAQ: TSLA) are not companies of the future also?"

Inflation fears are overblown

Inflation is the friend of value shares but the enemy of growth stocks. 

Green expressed doubt against fears this would be a chronic problem.

"We can expect some price growth as economies re-open, but this is likely to be short-term," he said.

"I think, as it stands now, longer-term inflation fears due to pent-up demand are being overplayed. For example, people might book one trip away, but they are unlikely to book 5 or 6 in one hit."

Trying to time the market is a mug's game anyway. So Green recommended investors make hay while rates are low and the economy is on the way up.

"Investors should use this time to build their wealth by topping up their portfolios – but they must do so judiciously."

More on How to invest

Hands reaching high for a trophy with a sunset in the background.
How to invest

I'm taking Warren Buffett's advice for when ASX shares are at record highs

Would the Oracle of Omaha continue to buy shares when the market is at a record high?

Read more »

Beautiful young couple enjoying in shopping, symbolising passive income.
How to invest

If an investor puts $500 per month in an ASX shares portfolio, here's what they could have in 10 years

Harnessing the power of compounding can bring you great wealth...

Read more »

Man holding fifty Australian Dollar banknote in his hands, symbolising dividends, symbolising dividends.
How to invest

How much would I need in an ASX share portfolio to earn $500 a month?

Want a monthly income boost? Here's one way you could do it.

Read more »

A person holds their hands over three piggy banks, protecting and shielding their money and investments.
How to invest

I'm preparing for an ASX stock market crash in 2025

Whatever happens next year, my portfolio will be ready...

Read more »

Cheerful boyfriend showing mobile phone to girlfriend in dining room. They are spending leisure time together at home and planning their financial future.
How to invest

My ASX share portfolio is up 40% in 2024! Here's my strategy for 2025

Investing in quality companies paid off in 2024. Here's what I did.

Read more »

Young happy athletic woman listening to music on earphones while jogging in the park, symbolising passive income.
How to invest

Here's my $3 a day ASX passive income plan for 2025

ASX dividend stocks provide a unique path for building a passive income stream.

Read more »

A large transparent piggy bank contains many little pink piggy banks, indicating diversity in a share portfolio
How to invest

Is your ASX share portfolio too diversified?

Too much of a good thing can negatively impact your portfolio.

Read more »

A happy young couple lie on a wooden deck using a skateboard for a pillow.
How to invest

Concerned about ASX shares at all-time highs? Don't worry, you've got options

Investing in other asset classes can help mitigate the share market's highs...

Read more »