Market & Portfolio Update - June 2019
Market & Portfolio Update - June 2019
Global share markets had a strong positive performance in June, rebounding from May’s weakness, but in a somewhat volatile fashion. While over the long-term companies are valued according to their earnings, in the short-term they can be driven by investor sentiment and the current period is no exception. Global share markets rose 6% in June where the US market experienced its strongest June since 1933. This completely offset May’s weakness (the weakest May since 1970) and supported fund's strong gains so far in 2019, with a typical balanced portfolio up 10% over the last six months.
Fixed Interest investments continued to perform well, as market interest rates declined around the world, and yields on NZ bonds fell to new lows. This is a helpful source of support for economic growth, by helping make financing more affordable for a wide range of borrowers.
NZ and Australian shares also performed positively. Our local markets continue to be supported by their relatively defensive characteristics and dividend yields, which are well above the global average. These healthy dividends are looked upon favourable by investors when global and local interest rates move lower as we have continued to see.
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. This document is solely for the use of the party to whom it is provided.
KiwiSaver is changing
Budget 2025 has introduced some significant updates to KiwiSaver. These changes are aimed at ensuring the scheme remains sustainable while helping New Zealanders grow their retirement savings. Whether you are just starting out, nearing retirement, or somewhere in between, here's what you need to know and how it might affect your financial plans.
Lifetime Book Club: Four Thousand Weeks by Oliver Burkeman
In a world obsessed with productivity hacks, endless to-do lists and squeezing more out of every day, Burkeman offers something radical: acceptance. Not of defeat – but of reality. Because when you really look at it, four thousand weeks (roughly 80 years) is all we’ve got. And no app or bullet journal is going to give us more.