Market & Portfolio Update - July 2020
Global share markets continued to rise following the volatility we saw during March, up a further 3% in July. This continued the theme of previous months as share markets are looking through rising cases of Covid-19 in the United States to news of potential vaccine developments, higher profits from some tech companies relatively immune to the virus, and support from governments and central banks. Fixed Interest investments also made a good contribution to fund returns, with bonds rising in value amidst the continued stimulus from central banks.
In addition to the general rise in markets, the portion of global share investments that are managed in conjunction with Rothschild continued their strong performance. Standout returns came from Alibaba (Chinese e-commerce giant), Linde (multi-national industrial gas company), and Danaher (US-based conglomerate) which each gained more than 10%.
The rise in markets since March combined with the gains from our active management mean that returns over the last 12 months are now solidly positive for all of Booster’s core diversified funds. This positive gain despite the disruptions to world economies over this period is testament to the importance of sticking to an appropriate long-term financial plan during both rough and calm seas.
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.