Market & Portfolio Update - July 2018
Market & Portfolio Update - July 2018
Share markets again rose moderately for the month, which saw investment fund returns resume their gradual upward path. Higher growth funds benefited more from good returns on shares in emerging markets, with Chinese shares now up 25% over the past six months.
While political posturing is heating up ahead of the New Zealand election, so far the likely effects for the NZ share market do not appear overly significant, and local shares have also continued to gain.
During July, Booster investment funds expanded their unlisted investments with the purchase of Waimea Estates, Nelson’s second-largest winery, and its associated vineyards. While still a relatively small part of overall portfolios, this further broadens their scope and provides a land-based investment at an attractive yield, as well the opportunity to grow Waimea’s established wine-making and marketing operations.
Disclaimer: This article has been prepared for the purpose of providing general information, without taking into consideration any particular investor’s objectives, financial situation or needs. Any opinions contained in it are held as at the report date and are subject to change without notice.
Market & Portfolio Update: July 2026
Early in the month, renewed tension in the Middle East briefly pushed Brent crude oil above US$100 a barrel, which lifted energy prices and brought inflation concerns back into focus.
Lifetime Book Club: Paradox of Choice by Barry Schwartz
In The Paradox of Choice, psychologist Barry Schwartz explores a curious feature of modern life: while freedom and choice are undoubtedly valuable, there can come a point where having more options makes decisions harder, increases our expectations and leaves us questioning whether we made the right choice at all.
From what to buy and where to eat to decisions about careers, relationships and money, Schwartz looks at the hidden mental cost of constantly comparing our options – and makes the case that sometimes, simplifying our choices can leave us better off.