Market & Portfolio Update - February 2022
Global share markets fell modestly in February (3%), with uncertainty regarding Ukraine tensions weighing on the market in the lead up to the invasion. While New Zealand and Australian share markets posted positive returns, being further from the conflict and experiencing the latest financial reporting season. Overall, the financial results have been positive, contributing to the 0.7% and 2% returns for the New Zealand and Australian sharemarkets.
The conflict has put upward pressure on oil prices, with the international benchmark Brent Crude rising above USD 100 for the first time since 2014. Russia is a major oil exporter, supplying around 25% of Europe’s oil. Oil and gas have not been included in sanctions to date, and it is still in the interests of Russia’s economy to continue exporting to Europe. However, as we know, this situation is dynamic, and oil prices could rise further if caught up in the conflict.
In New Zealand, the Reserve Bank hiked the Official Cash Rate 0.25% as expected – taking the rate to 1%. The Reserve Bank’s updated forecasts now show the OCR reaching 2.6% by the middle of next year. However, this is subject to how the Ukraine invasion develops.
Unlocking Financial Harmony: Navigating the Symphony of Life with Mindfulness
In the hustle and bustle of daily life, the concept of mindfulness often finds its place in discussions about mental health and stress reduction. However, its impact on financial wellbeing is a hidden gem worth exploring.
Research from the New Zealand Retirement Commission’s Money Matters 2025: The Power of Emergency Savings report highlights growing financial pressure among New Zealanders. The findings show that 56% of participants feel financially uncomfortable, while only 44% report feeling financially comfortable. Financial concerns are also increasing on a year-on-year basis, with 42% of people worried about managing finances from pay to pay this year, compared with 40% last year.
9 Financial Habits Of Successful People
Discover the secrets to financial success as we delve into the nine key habits practiced by prosperous individuals. From continuous learning and strategic investment to smart spending and insurance protection, this article offers invaluable insights to empower you on your journey towards financial freedom.