In February, economic data led to higher bond yields and a weaker equity market, with developed market equity down 2.4% for the month due to a hawkish US Federal Reserve outlook. Silicon Valley Bank collapsed after investing large proceeds into long-term treasury bonds at lower interest rates, leading to losses as bond yields rose. Despite risks such as interest rate hikes and geopolitical tensions, positive economic data in developed regions and the re-opening of the Chinese economy offer room for optimism.