Today, the European Central Bank (ECB) announced that it will begin to taper bond purchases to 30 billion euros per month (currently 60 billion) in January 2018. Though the move was expected, and largely priced in, the ECB clarified its intentions on some key points, which helped soften the message even more for markets. For starters, the central bank reiterated its intent to extend its purchases for an additional nine months (until September 2018); but rather than making this a hard cutoff, the ECB stated that purchases could continue beyond that date if necessary. It also added an element of guidance regarding the reinvestment of maturing debt, saying that it would continue for “an extended period of time after the end of net asset purchases, and in any case for as long as necessary.” This gave the overall message a dovish tilt relative to expectations, which led to a slight weakening in the euro and a move higher for European equity and debt markets (a small fall in yields). In his press conference, ECB President Draghi’s overall assessment of the economy seemed brighter than previous meetings, though he mentioned that below-target inflation remains a concern, as does the potential for a stronger euro, which could further constrain prices. In addition, he noted that the euro area still needs “ample” stimulus, where his previous statements indicated stimulus needs were “very substantial.” This small change in wording may not seem impactful, but central bank liquidity has been a major driver of markets since the financial crisis, and this shift in language implies that the ECB’s confidence in the ability of the European economy to sustain itself with less monetary stimulus is growing. So what does this all mean for markets moving forward? Continued accommodation from global central banks, including the ECB and the Bank of Japan currently outweigh the impact of the Federal Reserve’s (Fed) rate hike campaign and recently implemented balance sheet normalization program. But as the Fed’s program continues to accelerate, ECB purchases shrink, and other central banks such as the Bank of England shift toward more restrictive monetary policy, we believe that we may be moving closer to a time when central banks could begin to fade as the primary drivers of the markets, and fundamentals may return to the forefront.IMPORTANT DISCLOSURES The economic forecasts set forth in the presentation may not develop as predicted. The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide or be construed as providing specific investment advice or recommendations for any individual security. International and emerging markets investing involves special risks, such as currency fluctuation and political instability, and may not be suitable for all investors. International debt securities involve special additional risks. These risks include, but are not limited to, currency risk, geopolitical and regulatory risk, and risk associated with varying settlement standards. These risks are often heightened for investments in emerging markets. This research material has been prepared by LPL Financial LLC. To the extent you are receiving investment advice from a separately registered independent investment advisor, please note that LPL Financial LLC is not an affiliate of and makes no representation with respect to such entity. Not FDIC/NCUA Insured | Not Bank/Credit Union Guaranteed | May Lose Value | Not Guaranteed by any Government Agency | Not a Bank/Credit Union Deposit Securities and Advisory services offered through LPL Financial LLC, a Registered Investment Advisor Member FINRA/SIPC Tracking #1-660456 (Exp. 10/18)