C
iti Global Wealth
Investments
INVESTMENT PRODUCTS: NOT FDIC INSURED · NOT CDIC INSURED ·
NOT GOVERNMENT INSURED · NO BANK GUARANTEE · MAY LOSE VALUE
CIO Strategy Bulletin
January 28, 2024
David Bailin
Chief Investment
Officer, Citi Global
Wealth
Steven Wieting
Chief Investment
Strategist and Chief
Economist
Joseph Kaplan
Senior Fixed Income
Investment Strategist
Cecilia Chen
Global Equity
Investment Strategist
Chadd Cornilles
Global Investment
Strategist
Global Trends, Countertrends and
Portfolio Blends
As we enter 2024, equities are outperforming bonds and US equities are outperforming
global shares, both in line with our asset allocation. US equities have returned +2.5% in
the year to date, US fixed income -1.2% vs 0.9% for global equity and -2.3% for global
fixed income
1
1
Source: Bloomberg as of January 26, 2024. MSCI USA is used as a proxy for US Equities. Bloomberg US Aggregate is used as a proxy
for US Fixed Income. MSCI ACWI is used as a proxy for Global Equities. Bloomberg Global Aggregate is used as a proxy for Global Fixed
Income. Indices are unmanaged. An investor cannot invest directly in an index. They are shown for illustrative purposes only and do not
represent the performance of any specific investment. Index returns do not include any expenses, fees or sales charges, which would
lower performance. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Real results may vary.
.
The normalization of the world economy is underway. But the global economy is not
growing uniformly and the potential opportunities in equity markets reflect this. The
“return to normal” has many features as we outline herein.
Even as corporate profits are rebounding, we expect US employment growth in 2024
to moderate. This reverses the unusual pattern of 2022-2023 where we saw strong
employment growth and declining earnings. This suggests an improvement in labor/capital
productivity in 2024 and 2025.
Our favored equities - quality growth shares in small and mid-caps, as well as equal-
weighted S&P 500 have been rising, with small cap growth outperforming the S&P 500
since November 2023. We continue to see opportunity in global equities markets through
broadening earnings and equity performance beyond large cap US tech.
Current drags on economic activity will not endure indefinitely. We see a reversal in
monetary policy tightening unfolding across the globe at different times and rates. More
importantly, in our view, will be the end of inventory corrections that will sustain a global
trade recovery. We believe this is likely to begin before the end of 2024. The US was harmed
least and will benefit less from the improvement in global trade.
In In terms of risks, global supply shocks remain our largest concern. Recent news
that the Red Sea has become practically impassable fits that narrative (see our
January 21, 2024 Strategy CIO Bulletin). As we discussed in our Wealth Outlook 2024, this
keeps us disposed to allocate slightly less aggressively toward equities and within equities,
toward sectors such as energy.
We recently published our Global Investment Committee January 2024 report, which left
the allocation unchanged in Equities at +2% with global Fixed Income and Cash -2%.
During the coming year, we expect the world economic expansion to regain strength
and several regions to commence recovery. If market yields drop modestly further while
cash returns are driven lower by the Fed, we would likely further shift up our global equity
exposures at the expense of certain fixed income instruments.
Citi Global Wealth Investments | CIO Strategy Bulletin | 2
Global Trends, Countertrends and Portfolio Blends
We recently published our Global Investment Committee January 2024 outcome, which left the allocation unchanged
in Equities at +2% with global Fixed Income and Cash -2%. During the coming year, we expect the world economic
expansion to regain strength and several regions to commence recovery. If market yields drop modestly further while
cash returns are driven lower by the Fed, we would likely further shift up our global equity exposures at the expense of
certain fixed income instruments.
As we enter 2024, equities are outperforming bonds and US equities are outperforming global shares, both in line with
our asset allocation. US equities have returned +2.5% in the year to date, US fixed income -1.2% vs 0.9% for global
equity and -2.3% for global fixed income.
The normalization of the world economy is underway. But the global economy is not growing uniformly and the
potential opportunities in equity markets reflect this. The “return to normal” has many features. Here are some
critical elements:
From Rates to Earnings
After two years of powerful interest-rate driven valuation improvements, we see corporate earnings as the decisive
factor to drive further equity returns in 2024.
Until such time as we have visibility on estimated Earnings Per Share (EPS) gains in 2025, realized corporate earnings
will be a main mover of markets in 2024.
A complex “dance” between management, analysts and investors is taking place. In the US, 4Q23 EPS estimates
are far weaker than any deterioration reported for the US economy. Even with lingering areas of weakness in the US
economy, this bodes well for future realization of 2024 profit estimates.
US Equities
Corporate earnings expectations look to be too conservative over the near term, very much in conflict with fears
that 2024 will be disappointing. Historic data suggest that companies take more restructuring and other one-time
charges in fourth quarters. We believe both the 4Q23 and 1Q24 periods should show positive earnings surprises vs
consensus in the US. Cyclical industries appear poised to bottom within 2024. Our estimates for mid-single digit EPS
gains in 2024 could prove too cautious, as many industry pressures lift (please see our January 2024 Quadrant for
further detail).
Even as corporate profits are rebounding, we expect US employment growth in 2024 to moderate. This reverses the
unusual pattern of 2022-2023 where we saw strong employment growth and declining earnings. This suggests an
improvement in labor/capital productivity in 2024 and 2025.
The dispersion of valuation within US equities, across market capitalization and sectors, remains near historic
extremes in many cases. The S&P 500 Equal Weight index lagged the market cap weighted index return last year by
12.4%. the largest shortfall since 1998 (see FIGURE 1). The fast growing, profitable small and mid-cap US shares are
still trading at historical discounts compared to their large cap peers, worthy of an overweight (see FIGURE 2). We
believe there are opportunities for outperformance, even as we expect single-digit gains for large cap US equities
in 2023.
Citi Global Wealth Investments | CIO Strategy Bulletin | 3
FIGURE 1: S&P 500 Equal Weight Underperformance
the largest since 1998
-20%
-15%
-10%
-5%
0%
5%
10%
15%
20%
25%
'91 '93 '95 '97 '99 '01 '03 '05 '07 '09 '11 '13 '15 '17 '19 '21 '23
Relative Performance
S&P 500 Equal Weight less Market Cap Weight Total Return
FIGURE 2: Small cap US shares are trading at
historical lows compared to large caps
0.6
0.7
0.8
0.9
1.0
1.1
1.2
1.3
1.4
'98 '00 '02 '04 '06 '08 '10 '12 '14 '16 '18 '20 '22 '24
Forward P/E
S&P 600 vs S&P 500 Relative Forward P/E
Source: Haver Analytics as of January 26, 2024. Indices are
unmanaged. An investor cannot invest directly in an index.
They are shown for illustrative purposes only and do not
represent the performance of any specific investment. Index
returns do not include any expenses, fees or sales charges,
which would lower performance. Past performance is no
guarantee of future results. Real results may vary.
Source: Factset as of January 26, 2024. Indices are
unmanaged. An investor cannot invest directly in an index.
They are shown for illustrative purposes only and do not
represent the performance of any specific investment. Index
returns do not include any expenses, fees or sales charges,
which would lower performance. Past performance is no
guarantee of future results. Real results may vary.
US Fixed Income
At 4.15%, 10yr US Treasury yields are roughly 100bps below the peak rate from 2023, however, are still 100bps above
the peak rate seen in the 2018 tightening cycle (FIGURE 3). In 2018 inflation dynamics were much different as inflation
then had already peaked just below 3%. Despite that, current 10yr nominal US yields relative to market breakeven
inflation rates are the highest levels seen in the last 15 years (FIGURE 4). A possible delay in Fed timing on rate cuts
could keep rates rangebound near-term, we see extending duration as an attractive relative yield opportunity in fixed
income in 2024.
FIGURE 3: 10yr US Treasury yields
FIGURE 4: Treasury yield less breakeven inflation rate
Source: Bloomberg as of January 26, 2024 Source: Bloomberg as of January 26, 2024
Citi Global Wealth Investments | CIO Strategy Bulletin | 4
Global Growth
The world economy is enduring drags in cyclical industries including trade, manufacturing and property. Asia, Europe
and Latin America are more trade dependent than the US. The impact of real estate and manufacturing activity
declines are 2-3x larger for China than for the US.
Current drags on economic activity will not endure indefinitely. We see a reversal in monetary policy tightening
unfolding across the globe at different times and rates. More importantly, in our view, will be the end of inventory
corrections that will sustain a global trade recovery. We believe this is likely to begin before the end of 2024. The US
was harmed least and will benefit less from the improvement in global trade.
China
The CSI 300 index remains near its five-year lows. China continues to report weak growth and deflationary pressures.
While the central government has undertaken numerous fiscal and monetary actions, none have been focused or
large enough to change economic or market behaviors decisively. Most recently, we have seen an announcement of 2
trillion yuan ($278.53 billion
2
) to stabilize the stock market. On its face, this would appear to be good news, but it does
not address root causes. In prior cycles, infrastructure and property investments have been used in a countercyclical
fashion to offset economic weakness. China appears to be steering clear of large measures in these areas in the hopes
of avoiding a future repeat of its housing debt woes. A rise in private consumption, driving aggregate demand, will
require more fiscal easing, not government purchases of equities.
2
Source: Bloomberg as of January 24, 2024
Broadening as a Theme
Equity markets have been riding momentum over the last three months. The S&P 500 has surged by 19% from the
low levels in October, when a premature Fed pivot has been aggressively pricing in by the markets. The bulk of that
performance still came from the so-called “Magnificent 7
3
US tech giants (FIGURE 5). These firms have historically
fast-growing profits despite their mega cap valuation (two are worth about $3 trillion). But we have seen signs of
improving market breadth as our tactical calls played out. Our favored equities - quality growth shares in small and
mid-caps, as well as equal-weighted S&P 500 have been rising (FIGURE 6), with small cap growth outperforming
the S&P 500 since November 2023. We continue to see opportunity in global equities markets through broadening
earnings and equity performance beyond large cap US tech.
3
The Magnificent 7 stocks include Amazon.com (AMZN), Apple (AAPL), Google parent Alphabet (GOOGL), Meta Platforms (META),
Microsoft (MSFT), Nvidia (NVDA) and Tesla (TSLA). The securities or company names included herein are for illustrative purposes only and
do not constitute a recommendation of or solicitation to purchase or sell any security.
Citi Global Wealth Investments | CIO Strategy Bulletin | 5
FIGURE 5: EBITDA growth of Magnificent 7 reached
47% y/y in 2023
FIGURE 6: Equal weight S&P 500 (6-month lead) vs
EPS Y/Y%
Source: Bloomberg as of January 26, 2023. The Magnificent
7 stocks include Amazon.com (AMZN), Apple (AAPL), Google
parent Alphabet (GOOGL), Meta Platforms (META), Microsoft
(MSFT), Nvidia (NVDA) and Tesla (TSLA). The securities or
company names included herein are for illustrative purposes
only and do not constitute a recommendation of or solicitation
to purchase or sell any security. Indices are unmanaged. An
investor cannot invest directly in an index. They are shown
for illustrative purposes only and do not represent the
performance of any specific investment. Index returns do not
include any expenses, fees or sales charges, which would lower
performance. Past performance is no guarantee of future
results. Real results may vary.
Source: Bloomberg as of January 26, 2023. Indices are
unmanaged. An investor cannot invest directly in an index.
They are shown for illustrative purposes only and do not
represent the performance of any specific investment. Index
returns do not include any expenses, fees or sales charges,
which would lower performance. Past performance is no
guarantee of future results. Real results may vary.
Sector Specificity as a Theme
Our stock and industry selections as outlined in our Wealth Outlook 2024 and favor thematic investing over regional
investing. As the peak of earnings season starts to kick in in the following days, some of our high conviction thematic
investments, including semiconductor equipment and cyber security, have outperformed the Magnificent 7 (“Mag 7)
YTD as companies realized turnaround in earnings reports and guidance (FIGURE 7). We see potential opportunities
in broadening healthcare investments to include equipment and biotech. We continue to see cyber security and
semiconductor equipment as particularly strong niches.
Citi Global Wealth Investments | CIO Strategy Bulletin | 6
FIGURE 7: Our high conviction investments, semi equipment and cybersecurity, have outperformed Mag
7 YTD
Source: Citi Global Wealth CIO, Bloomberg, as of January 26, 2024.First TrustNASDAQCybersecurity ETF used as a proxy for
Cybersecurity. Bloomberg Magnificent 7 Price Return Index used as a proxy for Mag 7. iShares U.S. Medical Devices ETF used as
a proxy for Medical Devices. Energy Select Sector SPDRFund used as a proxy for Energy Security. Invesco Global Listed Private
Equity ETF used as a proxy for Private Capital Markets. iShares Biotechnology ETF used as a proxy for Biotech. Invesco Aerospace
& Defense ETF used as a proxy for Defense Contractors. Global X Copper Miners ETF used as a proxy for Copper Miners. Indices
are unmanaged. An investor cannot invest directly in an index. They are shown for illustrative purposes only and do not represent
the performance of any specific investment. Index returns do not include any expenses, fees or sales charges, which would lower
performance. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Real results may vary.
Risks Remain
In terms of risks, global supply shocks remain our largest concern. Recent news that the Red Sea has become
practically impassable fits that narrative (see our January 21, 2024 Strategy CIO Bulletin). As we discussed in our
Wealth Outlook 2024, this keeps us disposed to allocate slightly less aggressively toward equities and within equities,
toward sectors such as energy.
Citi Global Wealth Investments | CIO Strategy Bulletin | 7
Important Information
In any instance where distribution of this communication (“Communication”) is subject to the rules of the US Commodity Futures Trading
Commission (“CFTC”), this communication constitutes an invitation to consider entering into a derivatives transaction under US CFTC
Regulations §§ 1.71 and 23.605, where applicable, but is not a binding offer to buy/sell any financial instrument.
This Communication is prepared by Citi Global Wealth Investments (“CGWI”) which is comprised of the Investments and Capital Markets capabilities
of Citi Private Bank, Citi Global Wealth at Work, Citi Personal Wealth Management and International Personal Bank U.S.
Citi Private Bank, Citi Global Wealth at Work, Citi Personal Wealth Management are businesses of Citigroup Inc. (“Citigroup”), which provide clients
access to a broad array of products and services available through bank and non-bank affiliates of Citigroup. Not all products and services are
provided by all affiliates or are available at all locations. In the U.S., investment products and services are provided by Citigroup Global Markets Inc.
(“CGMI”), member FINRA and SIPC, Citi Private Alternatives, LLC (“CPA”), member FINRA and SIPC, and Citi Global Alternatives, LLC (“CGA”). CPA
acts as distributor of certain alternative investment products to certain eligible clients’ segments. CGMI accounts are carried by Pershing LLC,
member FINRA, NYSE, SIPC. Investment management services (including portfolio management) are available through CGMI, CGA, Citibank, N.A.
and other affiliated advisory businesses. Insurance is offered by Citi Personal Wealth Management through Citigroup Life Agency LLC (“CLA”). In
California, CLA does business as Citigroup Life Insurance Agency, LLC (license number 0G56746). CGMI, CPA, CGA, CLA and Citibank, N.A. are
affiliated companies under the common control of Citigroup.
Outside the U.S., investment products and services are provided by other Citigroup affiliates. Investment Management services (including portfolio
management) are available through CGMI, CGA, Citibank, N.A. and other affiliated advisory businesses. These Citigroup affiliates, including CGA,
will be compensated for the respective investment management, advisory, administrative, distribution and placement services they may provide.
International Personal Bank U.S. (“IPB U.S.”) is a business of Citigroup which provides its clients access to a broad array of products and services
available through Citigroup, its bank and non-bank affiliates worldwide (collectively, “Citi”). Through IPB U.S. prospects and clients have access to
the Citigold® Private Client International, Citigold® International, International Personal, Citi Global Executive Preferred, and Citi Global Executive
Account Packages. Investment products and services are made available through Citi Personal Investments International (“CPII”), a business of
Citigroup which offers securities through CGMI, member FINRA and SIPC, an investment advisor and brokerdealer registered with the Securities
and Exchange Commission CGMI, and investment accounts are carried by Pershing LLC, member FINRA, NYSE, and SIPC. Insurance is offered by
CPII through CLA. In California, CLA does business as Citigroup Life Insurance Agency, LLC (license number 0G56746). Citibank, N.A., CGMI and CLA
are affiliated companies under common control of Citigroup Inc.
CGWI personnel are not research analysts, and the information in this Communication is not intended to constitute “research”, as that term is
defined by applicable regulations. Unless otherwise indicated, any reference to a research report or research recommendation is not intended to
represent the whole report and is not in itself considered a recommendation or research report.
This Communication is provided for information and discussion purposes only, at the recipient’s request. The recipient should notify CGWI
immediately should it at any time wish to cease being provided with such information. Unless otherwise indicated, (i) it does not constitute an
offer or recommendation to purchase or sell any security, financial instrument or other product or service, or to attract any funding or deposits, and
(ii) it does not constitute a solicitation if it is not subject to the rules of the CFTC (but see discussion above regarding communication subject to CFTC
rules) and (iii) it is not intended as an official confirmation of any transaction.
Unless otherwise expressly indicated, this Communication does not take into account the investment objectives, risk profile or financial situation
of any particular person and as such, investments mentioned in this document may not be suitable for all investors. Citi is not acting as an investment
or other advisor, fiduciary or agent. The information contained herein is not intended to be an exhaustive discussion of the strategies or concepts
mentioned herein or tax or legal advice. Recipients of this Communication should obtain advice based on their own individual circumstances from
their own tax, financial, legal, and other advisors about the risks and merits of any transaction before making an investment decision, and only make
such decisions on the basis of their own objectives, experience, risk profile and resources.
The information contained in this Communication is based on generally available information and, although obtained from sources believed by Citi
to be reliable, its accuracy and completeness cannot be assured, and such information may be incomplete or condensed. Any assumptions or
information contained in this Communication constitute a judgment only as of the date of this document or on any specified dates and is subject to
change without notice. Insofar as this Communication may contain historical and forward-looking information, past performance is neither a
guarantee nor an indication of future results, and future results may not meet expectations due to a variety of economic, market and other factors.
Further, any projections of potential risk or return are illustrative and should not be taken as limitations of the maximum possible loss or gain. Any
prices, values or estimates provided in this Communication (other than those that are identified as being historical) are indicative only, may change
without notice and do not represent firm quotes as to either price or size, nor reflect the value Citi may assign a security in its inventory. Forward
looking information does not indicate a level at which Citi is prepared to do a trade and may not account for all relevant assumptions and future
conditions. Actual conditions may vary substantially from estimates which could have a negative impact on the value of an instrument.
Views, opinions and estimates expressed herein may differ from the opinions expressed by other Citi businesses or affiliates and are not intended
to be a forecast of future events, a guarantee of future results, or investment advice, and are subject to change without notice based on market and
other conditions. Citi is under no duty to update this document and accepts no liability for any loss (whether direct, indirect or consequential) that
may arise from any use of the information contained in or derived from this Communication.
None of the financial instruments or other products mentioned in this Communication (unless expressly stated otherwise) is (i) insured by the Federal
Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other governmental authority, or (ii) deposits or other obligations of, or guaranteed by Citi or any other insured
depository institution.
Citi often acts as an issuer of financial instruments and other products, acts as a market maker and trades as principal in many different financial
instruments and other products, and can be expected to perform or seek to perform investment banking and other services for the issuer of such
financial instruments or other products. The author of this Communication may have discussed the information contained therein with others within
or outside Citi, and the author and/or such other Citi personnel may have already acted on the basis of this information (including by trading for Citi's
proprietary accounts or communicating the information contained herein to other customers of Citi). Citi, Citi's personnel (including those with
whom the author may have consulted in the preparation of this communication), and other customers of Citi may be long or short the financial
instruments or other products referred to in this Communication, may have acquired such positions at prices and market conditions that are no
longer available, and may have interests different from or adverse to your interests.
IRS Circular 230 Disclosure: Citi and its employees are not in the business of providing, and do not provide, tax or legal advice to any taxpayer outside
Citi. Any statement in this Communication regarding tax matters is not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used or relied upon, by any
taxpayer for the purpose of avoiding tax penalties. Any such taxpayer should seek advice based on the taxpayer’s particular circumstances from an
independent tax advisor.
Neither Citi nor any of its affiliates can accept responsibility for the tax treatment of any investment product, whether or not the investment is
purchased by a trust or company administered by an affiliate of Citi. Citi assumes that, before making any commitment to invest, the investor and
(where applicable, its beneficial owners) have taken whatever tax, legal or other advice the investor/beneficial owners consider necessary and have
arranged to account for any tax lawfully due on the income or gains arising from any investment product provided by Citi.
This Communication is for the sole and exclusive use of the intended recipients and may contain information proprietary to Citi which may not be
reproduced or circulated in whole or in part without Citi’s prior consent. The manner of circulation and distribution may be restricted by law or
regulation in certain countries. Persons who come into possession of this document are required to inform themselves of, and to observe such
restrictions. Citi accepts no liability whatsoever for the actions of third parties in this respect. Any unauthorized use, duplication, or disclosure of
this document is prohibited by law and may result in prosecution.
Other businesses within Citigroup Inc. and affiliates of Citigroup Inc. may give advice, make recommendations, and take action in the interest of
their clients, or for their own accounts, that may differ from the views expressed in this document. All expressions of opinion are current as of the
date of this document and are subject to change without notice. Citigroup Inc. is not obligated to provide updates or changes to the information
contained in this document.
The expressions of opinion are not intended to be a forecast of future events or a guarantee of future results. Past performance is not a guarantee of
future results. Real results may vary.
Although information in this document has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, Citigroup Inc. and its affiliates do not guarantee its
accuracy or completeness and accept no liability for any direct or consequential losses arising from its use. Throughout this publication where charts
indicate that a third party (parties) is the source, please note that the attributed may refer to the raw data received from such parties. No part of this
document may be copied, photocopied or duplicated in any form or by any means, or distributed to any person that is not an employee, officer,
director, or authorized agent of the recipient without Citigroup Inc.’s prior written consent.
Citigroup Inc. may act as principal for its own account or as agent for another person in connection with transactions placed by Citigroup Inc. for its
clients involving securities that are the subject of this document or future editions of the document.
RISKS
Investments in financial instruments or other products carry significant risk, including the possible loss of the principal amount invested. Financial
instruments or other products denominated in a foreign currency are subject to exchange rate fluctuations, which may have an adverse effect on the
price or value of an investment in such products. This Communication does not purport to identify all risks or material considerations which may be
associated with entering into any transaction.
Structured products can be highly illiquid and are not suitable for all investors. Additional information can be found in the disclosure documents of
the issuer for each respective structured product described herein. Investing in structured products is intended only for experienced and
sophisticated investors who are willing and able to bear the high economic risks of such an investment. Investors should carefully review and
consider potential risks before investing.
OTC derivative transactions involve risk and are not suitable for all investors. Investment products are not insured, carry no bank or government
guarantee, and may lose value. Before entering into these transactions, you should: (i) ensure that you have obtained and considered relevant
information from independent reliable sources concerning the financial, economic and political conditions of the relevant markets; (ii) determine
that you have the necessary knowledge, sophistication and experience in financial, business and investment matters to be able to evaluate the risks
involved, and that you are financially able to bear such risks; and (iii) determine, having considered the foregoing points, that capital markets
transactions are suitable and appropriate for your financial, tax, business and investment objectives.
This material may mention options regulated by the US Securities and Exchange Commission. Before buying or selling options you should obtain
and review the current version of the Options Clearing Corporation booklet
, Characteristics and Risks of Standardized Options. A copy of the booklet
can be obtained upon request from Citigroup Global Markets Inc., 390 Greenwich Street, 3rd Floor, New York, NY 10013.
If you buy options, the maximum loss is the premium. If you sell put options, the risk is the entire notional below the strike. If you sell call options,
the risk is unlimited. The actual profit or loss from any trade will depend on the price at which the trades are executed. The prices used herein are
historical and may not be available when you order is entered. Commissions and other transaction costs are not considered in these examples.
Option trades in general and these trades in particular may not be appropriate for every investor. Unless noted otherwise, the source of all graphs
and tables in this report is Citi. Because of the importance of tax considerations to all option transactions, the investor considering options should
consult with his/her tax advisor as to how their tax situation is affected by the outcome of contemplated options transactions.
Bonds are affected by a number of risks, including fluctuations in interest rates, credit risk and prepayment risk. In general, as prevailing interest
rates rise, fixed income securities prices will fall. Bonds face credit risk if a decline in an issuer’s credit rating, or creditworthiness, causes a bond’s
price to decline. High yield bonds are subject to additional risks such as increased risk of default and greater volatility because of the lower credit
quality of the issues. Finally, bonds can be subject to prepayment risk. When interest rates fall, an issuer may choose to borrow money at a lower
interest rate, while paying off its previously issued bonds. As a consequence, underlying bonds will lose the interest payments from the investment
and will be forced to reinvest in a market where prevailing interest rates are lower than when the initial investment was made.
(MLP’s) - Energy Related MLPs May Exhibit High Volatility. While not historically very volatile, in certain market environments Energy Related MLPS
may exhibit high volatility.
Changes in Regulatory or Tax Treatment of Energy Related MLPs. If the IRS changes the current tax treatment of the master limited partnerships
included in the Basket of Energy Related MLPs thereby subjecting them to higher rates of taxation, or if other regulatory authorities enact regulations
which negatively affect the ability of the master limited partnerships to generate income or distribute dividends to holders of common units, the
return on the Notes, if any, could be dramatically reduced. Investment in a basket of Energy Related MLPs may expose the investor to concentration
risk due to industry, geographical, political, and regulatory concentration.
Mortgage-backed securities ("MBS"), which include collateralized mortgage obligations ("CMOs"), also referred to as real estate mortgage
investment conduits ("REMICs"), may not be suitable for all investors. There is the possibility of early return of principal due to mortgage
prepayments, which can reduce expected yield and result in reinvestment risk. Conversely, return of principal may be slower than initial prepayment
speed assumptions, extending the average life of the security up to its listed maturity date (also referred to as extension risk).
Additionally, the underlying collateral supporting non-Agency MBS may default on principal and interest payments. In certain cases, this could cause
the income stream of the security to decline and result in loss of principal. Further, an insufficient level of credit support may result in a downgrade
of a mortgage bond's credit rating and lead to a higher probability of principal loss and increased price volatility. Investments in subordinated MBS
involve greater credit risk of default than the senior classes of the same issue. Default risk may be pronounced in cases where the MBS security is
secured by, or evidencing an interest in, a relatively small or less diverse pool of underlying mortgage loans.
MBS are also sensitive to interest rate changes which can negatively impact the market value of the security. During times of heightened volatility,
MBS can experience greater levels of illiquidity and larger price movements. Price volatility may also occur from other factors including, but not
limited to, prepayments, future prepayment expectations, credit concerns, underlying collateral performance and technical changes in the market.
Alternative investments referenced in this report are speculative and entail significant risks that can include losses due to leveraging or other
speculative investment practices, lack of liquidity, volatility of returns, restrictions on transferring interests in the fund, potential lack of
diversification, absence of information regarding valuations and pricing, complex tax structures and delays in tax reporting, less regulation and
higher fees than mutual funds and advisor risk.
Asset allocation does not assure a profit or protect against a loss in declining financial markets.
The indexes are unmanaged. An investor cannot invest directly in an index. They are shown for illustrative purposes only and do not represent the
performance of any specific investment. Index returns do not include any expenses, fees or sales charges, which would lower performance.
Past performance is no guarantee of future results.
International investing entails greater risk, as well as greater potential rewards compared to US investing. These risks include political and economic
uncertainties of foreign countries as well as the risk of currency fluctuations. These risks are magnified in countries with emerging markets, since
these countries may have relatively unstable governments and less established markets and economics.
Investing in smaller companies involves greater risks not associated with investing in more established companies, such as business risk, significant
stock price fluctuations and illiquidity.
Factors affecting commodities generally, index components composed of futures contracts on nickel or copper, which are industrial metals, may be
subject to a number of additional factors specific to industrial metals that might cause price volatility. These include changes in the level of industrial
activity using industrial metals (including the availability of substitutes such as manmade or synthetic substitutes); disruptions in the supply chain,
from mining to storage to smelting or refining; adjustments to inventory; variations in production costs, including storage, labor and energy costs;
costs associated with regulatory compliance, including environmental regulations; and changes in industrial, government and consumer demand,
both in individual consuming nations and internationally. Index components concentrated in futures contracts on agricultural products, including
grains, may be subject to a number of additional factors specific to agricultural products that might cause price volatility. These include weather
conditions, including floods, drought and freezing conditions; changes in government policies; planting decisions; and changes in demand for
agricultural products, both with end users and as inputs into various industries.
The information contained herein is not intended to be an exhaustive discussion of the strategies or concepts mentioned herein or tax or legal advice.
Readers interested in the strategies or concepts should consult their tax, legal, or other advisors, as appropriate.
Diversification does not guarantee a profit or protect against loss. Different asset classes present different risks.
COUNTRY DISCLOSURES
Citibank, N.A., Hong Kong / Singapore organized under the laws of U.S.A. with limited liability. This communication is distributed in Hong Kong
by Citi Private Bank operating through Citibank N.A., Hong Kong Branch, which is registered in Hong Kong with the Securities and Futures
Commission for Type 1 (dealing in securities), Type 4 (advising on securities), Type 6 (advising on corporate finance) and Type 9 (asset management)
regulated activities with CE No: (AAP937) or in Singapore by Citi Private Bank operating through Citibank, N.A., Singapore Branch which is regulated
by the Monetary Authority of Singapore. Any questions in connection with the contents in this communication should be directed to registered or
licensed representatives of the relevant aforementioned entity. The contents of this communication have not been reviewed by any regulatory
authority in Hong Kong or any regulatory authority in Singapore. This communication contains confidential and proprietary information and is
intended only for recipient in accordance with accredited investors requirements in Singapore (as defined under the Securities and Futures Act
(Chapter 289 of Singapore) (the “Act”) and professional investors requirements in Hong Kong(as defined under the Hong Kong Securities and Futures
Ordinance and its subsidiary legislation). For regulated asset management services, any mandate will be entered into only with Citibank, N.A., Hong
Kong Branch and/or Citibank, N.A. Singapore Branch, as applicable. Citibank, N.A., Hong Kong Branch or Citibank, N.A., Singapore Branch may sub-
delegate all or part of its mandate to another Citigroup affiliate or other branch of Citibank, N.A. Any references to named portfolio managers are for
your information only, and this communication shall not be construed to be an offer to enter into any portfolio management mandate with any other
Citigroup affiliate or other branch of Citibank, N.A. and, at no time will any other Citigroup affiliate or other branch of Citibank, N.A. or any other
Citigroup affiliate enter into a mandate relating to the above portfolio with you. To the extent this communication is provided to clients who are
booked and/or managed in Hong Kong: No other statement(s) in this communication shall operate to remove, exclude or restrict any of your rights
or obligations of Citibank under applicable laws and regulations. Citibank, N.A., Hong Kong Branch does not intend to rely on any provisions herein
which are inconsistent with its obligations under the Code of Conduct for Persons Licensed by or Registered with the Securities and Futures
Commission, or which mis-describes the actual services to be provided to you.
Citibank, N.A. is incorporated in the United States of America and its principal regulators are the US Office of the Comptroller of Currency and Federal
Reserve under US laws, which differ from Australian laws. Citibank, N.A. does not hold an Australian Financial Services License under the
Corporations Act 2001 as it enjoys the benefit of an exemption under ASIC Class Order CO 03/1101 (remade as ASIC Corporations (Repeal and
Transitional) Instrument 2016/396 and extended by ASIC Corporations (Amendment) Instrument 2023/588).
In the United Kingdom, Citibank N.A., London Branch (registered branch number BR001018), Citigroup Centre, Canada Square, Canary Wharf,
London, E14 5LB, is authorized and regulated by the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (USA) and authorized by the Prudential Regulation
Authority. Subject to regulation by the Financial Conduct Authority and limited regulation by the Prudential Regulation Authority. Details about the
extent of our regulation by the Prudential Regulation Authority are available from us on request. The contact number for Citibank N.A., London
Branch is +44 (0)20 7508 8000.
Citibank Europe plc (UK Branch) is a branch of Citibank Europe plc, which is authorised and regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland and the
European Central Bank. Authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority. Subject to regulation by the Financial Conduct Authority and limited
regulation by the Prudential Regulation Authority. Details about the extent of our regulation by the Prudential Regulation Authority are available
from us on request. Citibank Europe plc, UK Branch is registered as a branch in the register of companies for England and Wales with registered
branch number BR017844. Its registered address is Citigroup Centre, Canada Square, Canary Wharf, London E14 5LB. VAT No.: GB 429 6256 29.
Citibank Europe plc is registered in Ireland with number 132781, with its registered office at 1 North Wall Quay, Dublin 1. Citibank Europe plc is
regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland. Ultimately owned by Citigroup Inc., New York, USA.
Citibank Europe plc, Luxembourg Branch, registered with the Luxembourg Trade and Companies Register under number B 200204, is a branch of
Citibank Europe plc. It is subject to the joint supervision of the European Central bank and the Central Bank of Ireland. It is furthermore subject to
limited regulation by the Commission de Surveillance du Secteur Financier (the CSSF) in its role as host Member State authority and registered with
the CSSF under number B00000395. Its business office is at 31, Z.A. Bourmicht, 8070 Bertrange, Grand Duchy of Luxembourg. Citibank Europe plc
is registered in Ireland with company registration number 132781. It is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland under the reference number C26553
and supervised by the European Central Bank. Its registered office is at 1 North Wall Quay, Dublin 1, Ireland.
This document is communicated by Citibank (Switzerland) AG, which has its registered address at Hardstrasse 201, 8005 Zurich, Citibank N.A.,
Zurich Branch, which has its registered address at Hardstrasse 201, 8005 Zurich, or Citibank N.A., Geneva Branch, which has its registered address
at 2, Quai de la Poste, 1204 Geneva. Citibank (Switzerland) AG and Citibank, N.A., Zurich and Geneva Branches are authorised and supervised by the
Swiss Financial Supervisory Authority (FINMA).
In Jersey, this document is communicated by Citibank N.A., Jersey Branch which has its registered address at PO Box 104, 38 Esplanade, St Helier,
Jersey JE4 8QB. Citibank N.A., Jersey Branch is regulated by the Jersey Financial Services Commission. Citibank N.A. Jersey Branch is a participant
in the Jersey Bank Depositors Compensation Scheme. The Scheme offers protection for eligible deposits of up to £50,000. The maximum total
amount of compensation is capped at £100,000,000 in any 5-year period. Full details of the Scheme and banking groups covered are available on
the States of Jersey website www.gov.je/dcs
, or on request.
Citi may offer, issue, distribute or provide other services in relation to certain unsecured financial instruments issued or entered into by BRRD Entities
(i.e., EU entities within the scope of Directive 2014/59/EU (the BRRD), including EU credit institutions, certain EU investment firms and / or their EU
subsidiaries or parents) (BRRD Financial Instruments).
In various jurisdictions (including, without limitation, the European Union and the United States) national authorities have certain powers to manage
and resolve banks, broker dealers and other financial institutions (including, but not limited to, Citi) when they are failing or likely to fail. There is a
risk that the use, or anticipated use, of such powers, or the manner in which they are exercised, may materially adversely affect (i) your rights under
certain types of unsecured financial instruments (including, without limitation, BRRD Financial Instruments), (ii) the value, volatility or liquidity of
certain unsecured financial instruments (including, without limitation, BRRD Financial Instruments) that you hold and / or (iii) the ability of an
institution (including, without limitation, a BRRD Entity) to satisfy any liabilities or obligations it has to you. In the event of resolution, the value of
BRRD Financial Instruments may be reduced to zero and or liabilities may be converted into ordinary shares or other instruments of ownership for
the purposes of stabilisation and loss absorption. The terms of existing BRRD Financial Instruments (e.g., date of maturity or interest rates payable)
could be altered and payments could be suspended.
There can be no assurance that the use of any BRRD resolution tools or powers by the BRRD Resolution Authority or the manner in which they are
exercised will not materially adversely affect your rights as a holder of BRRD Financial Instruments, the market value of any investment you may have
in BRRD Financial Instruments and/or a BRRD Entity’s ability to satisfy any liabilities or obligations it has to you. You may have a right to
compensation from the relevant authorities if the exercise of such resolution powers results in less favourable treatment for you than the treatment
that you would have received under normal insolvency proceedings. By accepting any services from Citi, you confirm that you are aware of these
risks.
In Canada, Citi Private Bank is a division of Citibank Canada, a Schedule II Canadian chartered bank. References herein to Citi Private Bank and its
activities in Canada relate solely to Citibank Canada and do not refer to any affiliates or subsidiaries of Citibank Canada operating in Canada. Certain
investment products are made available through Citibank Canada Investment Funds Limited (“CCIFL”), a wholly owned subsidiary of Citibank
Canada. Investment Products are subject to investment risk, including possible loss of principal amount invested. Investment Products are not
insured by the CDIC, FDIC or depository insurance regime of any jurisdiction and are not guaranteed by Citigroup or any affiliate thereof.
This document is for information purposes only and does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any securities to any person
in any jurisdiction. The information set out herein may be subject to updating, completion, revision, verification and amendment and such
information may change materially.
Citigroup, its affiliates and any of the officers, directors, employees, representatives or agents shall not be held liable for any direct, indirect,
incidental, special, or consequential damages, including loss of profits, arising out of the use of information contained herein, including through
errors whether caused by negligence or otherwise.
CCIFL is not currently a member and does not intend to become a member of the Canadian Investment Regulatory Organization (“CIRO”);
consequently, clients of CCIFL will not have available to them investor protection benefits that would otherwise derive from membership of CCIFL
in the CIRO, including coverage under any investor protection plan for clients of members of the CIRO.
Bahrain: IN BAHRAIN, CITI PRIVATE BANK OPERATES UNDER SPECIFIC APPROVAL ISSUED ON THE BASIS OF CITIBANK, N.A., BAHRAIN
BRANCH’S BANKING LICENSE
Marketing and distribution of Investment Funds to clients in Bahrain requires Notification to the Central Bank of Bahrain and will be limited to
UHNWI as defined below. Minimum investment subscription criteria will apply for products for all subscriptions for Bahrain domiciled clients.
Ultra-high net worth investors are:
(a) Individuals who have a minimum net worth (or joint net worth with their spouse) of USD 25 million or more
(b) Companies, partnerships, trusts or other commercial undertakings, which have financial assets available for investment of not less than USD 25
million; or
(c) Governments, supranational organisations, central banks or other national monetary authorities, and state organisations whose main activity is
to invest in financial instruments (such as state pension funds).
GLOBAL CONSUMER BANK (Asia Pacific and EMEA):
“Citi analysts” refer to investment professionals within Citi Research (“CR”), Citi Global Markets Inc. (“CGMI”), Citi Global Wealth Investments
(“CGWI”) and voting members of the Citi Global Investment Committee. Citibank N.A. and its affiliates / subsidiaries provide no independent
research or analysis in the substance or preparation of this document.
The information in this document has been obtained from reports issued by CGMI and CGWI. Such information is based on sources CGMI and CGWI
believe to be reliable. CGMI and CGWI, however, do not guarantee its accuracy and it may be incomplete or condensed. All opinions and estimates
constitute CGMI and CGWI's judgment as of the date of the report and are subject to change without notice. This document is for general information
purposes only and is not intended as a recommendation or an offer or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security or currency. No part of this
document may be reproduced in any manner without the written consent of Citibank N.A. Information in this document has been prepared without
taking account of the objectives, financial situation, or needs of any particular investor. Any person considering an investment should consider the
appropriateness of the investment having regard to their objectives, financial situation, or needs, and should seek independent advice on the
suitability or otherwise of a particular investment. Investments are not deposits, are not obligations of, or guaranteed or insured by Citibank N.A.,
Citigroup Inc., or any of their affiliates or subsidiaries, or by any local government or insurance agency, and are subject to investment risk, including
the possible loss of the principal amount invested. Investors investing in funds denominated in non-local currency should be aware of the risk of
exchange rate fluctuations that may cause a loss of principal. Past performance is not indicative of future performance, prices can go up or down.
Investment products are not available to US persons. Investors should be aware that it is his/her responsibility to seek legal and/or tax advice
regarding the legal and tax consequences of his/her investment transactions. If an investor changes residence, citizenship, nationality, or place of
work, it is his/her responsibility to understand how his/her investment transactions are affected by such change and comply with all applicable laws
and regulations as and when such becomes applicable. Citibank does not provide legal and/or tax advice and is not responsible for advising an
investor on the laws pertaining to his/her transaction.
Citi Research (CR) is a division of Citigroup Global Markets Inc. (the "Firm"), which does and seeks to do business with companies covered in its
research reports. As a result, investors should be aware that the Firm may have a conflict of interest that could affect the objectivity of this report.
Investors should consider this report as only a single factor in making their investment decision.
For more information, please refer to https://www.citivelocity.com/cvr/eppublic/citi_research_disclosures
.
MARKET SPECIFIC DISCLOSURES
Hong Kong: This This communication is distributed in Hong Kong by Citibank (Hong Kong) Limited ("CHKL") and/or Citibank, N.A., Hong Kong
Branch (“CBNA HK”, Citibank, N.A. is organized under the laws of U.S.A. with limited liability). CHKL and CBNA HK provide no independent research
or analysis in the substance or preparation of this communication. Although information in this communication has been obtained from sources
believed to be reliable, CHKL and CBNA HK do not guarantee its accuracy or completeness and accept no liability for any direct or consequential
losses arising from its use.
This communication is for general information only, is not intended as a recommendation or an offer or solicitation for the purchase or sale of any
products or services and should not be relied upon as financial advice. The information herein has not taken account of the objectives, financial
situation or needs of any particular investor. Any person considering an investment should consider the suitability of the investment having regard
to their objectives, financial situation and needs, and should seek independent advice before making an investment decision. You should obtain and
consider the relevant product terms and conditions and risk disclosure statement, and consider if it’s suitable for your objectives, financial situation
or needs before making any investment decision. Investors are advised to obtain independent legal, financial and taxation advice prior to investing.
Investments are not deposits, are not protected by the Deposit Protection Scheme in Hong Kong and are subject to investment risk including the
possible loss of the principal amount invested.
This communication does not constitute the distribution of any information in any jurisdiction in which it is unlawful to distribute such information
to any person in such jurisdiction.
CHKL does not provide discretionary portfolio management services.
Singapore: This communication is distributed in Singapore by Citibank Singapore Limited (“CSL”) to selected Citigold/Citigold Private Clients. CSL
provides no independent research or analysis of the substance or in preparation of this communication. Please contact your Citigold/Citigold Private
Client Relationship Manager in CSL if you have any queries on or any matters arising from or in connection with this communication. Investment
products are not insured under the provisions of the Deposit Insurance and Policy Owners’ Protection Schemes Act of Singapore and are not eligible
for deposit insurance coverage under the Deposit Insurance Scheme.
This communication is for general information only and should not be relied upon as financial advice. The information herein has no regard to the
specific objectives, financial situation and particular needs of any specific person and is not intended to be an exhaustive discussion of the strategies
or concepts mentioned herein or tax or legal advice. Any person interested in the strategies or concepts mentioned herein should consult their
independent tax, legal, financial or other advisors, as appropriate. This communication does not constitute the distribution of any information or
the making of any offer or solicitation by anyone in any jurisdiction in which such distribution or offer is not authorized or to any person to whom it
is unlawful to distribute such information or make any offer or solicitation.
Before making any investment, each investor must obtain the investment offering materials, which include a description of the risks, fees and
expenses and the performance history, if any, which may be considered in connection with making an investment decision. Interested investors
should seek the advice of their financial adviser about the issues discussed herein as appropriate. Should investors choose not to seek such advice,
they should carefully consider the risks associated with the investment and make a determination based upon the investor’s own particular
circumstances, that the investment is consistent with the investor’s investment objectives and assess whether the investment product is suitable
for themselves. Although information in this document has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable, CSL does not guarantee its accuracy
or completeness and accept no liability for any direct or consequential losses arising from its use.
CSL does not provide discretionary portfolio management services.
UAE: This document is distributed in UAE by Citibank, N.A. UAE. Citibank N.A. UAE is licensed by UAE Securities and Commodities Authority (“SCA”)
to undertake the financial activity as Promoter under license number 602003.
Citibank N.A. UAE is registered with Central Bank of UAE under license numbers BSD/504/83 for Al Wasl Branch Dubai, 13/184/2019 for Mall of the
Emirates Branch Dubai, BSD/2819/9 for Sharjah Branch, and BSD/692/83 for Abu Dhabi Branch.
This is not an official statement of Citigroup Inc. and may not reflect all of your investments with or made through Citibank. For an accurate record
of your accounts and transactions, please consult your official statement. Before making any investment, each investor must obtain the investment
offering materials, which include a description of the risks, fees and expenses and the performance history, if any, which may be considered in
connection with making an investment decision. Each investor should carefully consider the risks associated with the investment and make a
determination based upon the investor’s own particular circumstances, that the investment is consistent with the investor’s investment objectives.
At any time, Citigroup companies may compensate affiliates and their representatives for providing products and services to clients.
United Kingdom: This document is distributed in the U.K. by Citibank UK Limited and in Jersey by Citibank N.A., Jersey Branch.
Citibank UK Limited is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential
Regulation Authority. Our firm’s Financial Services Register number is 805574. Citibank UK Limited is a company limited by shares registered in
England and Wales with registered address at Citigroup Centre, Canada Square, Canary Wharf, London E14 5LB, Companies House Registration No.
11283101.
Citibank N.A., Jersey Branch is regulated by the Jersey Financial Services Commission. Citi International Personal Bank is registered in Jersey as a
business name of Citibank N.A. The address of Citibank N.A., Jersey Branch is P.O. Box 104, 38 Esplanade, St Helier, Jersey JE4 8QB. Citibank N.A. is
incorporated with limited liability in the USA. Head office: 399 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10043, USA.
© 2024 Citigroup Inc. Citi, Citi and Arc Design and other marks used herein are service marks of Citigroup Inc. or its affiliates, used and registered
throughout the world.