Market & Portfolio Update - March 2022

26 April 2022 by Lifetime in Market Update

Market & Portfolio Update - March 2022

Global share markets gained 3% following strong economic data releases, investors understanding the economic implications of the Russian invasion better, and more clarity around the Federal Reserve’s hiking path over the remainder of 2022. The New Zealand share market gained as well, however, the Australian market was the strongest performer returning over 6% for the month. The Australian market has a higher allocation to commodity producers such as iron ore miners and natural gas, which have performed well as global commodity prices have risen since the war began.

The impacts of the war continue to keep commodity prices elevated, and inflation is rising globally. Here in New Zealand, the Reserve Bank’s job is to maintain price stability and inflation at 2% over the long term. With inflation running considerably higher than that at the moment, we are seeing an increased chance of the RBNZ raising interest rates by 0.5% at their next meeting.

Meanwhile, the US Federal Reserve raised its policy rate by 0.25%, with eight further hikes (2.2% in total) expected by the markets for the remainder of 2022. The Fed also discussed plans to reduce its $9 Trillion balance sheet over the coming months.

preview image - Market & Portfolio Update - April 2025

Market & Portfolio Update - April 2025

Global markets began April with some volatility as investors digested “Liberation Day” tariffs announced by the Trump administration. In particular, investors feared a tariff war would lead to higher inflation, lower global growth, and the potential erosion of the historic ‘safe haven’ status enjoyed by the US dollar. However, the markets recovered a significant portion of these losses following the announcement that all reciprocal tariffs except China’s would be delayed for 90 days. Due to the volatility, global markets were down -3.8% for the month.

13 May 2025 by Lifetime in Market Update
preview image - Staying Cyber Smart

Staying Cyber Smart

At Lifetime, looking after your financial wellbeing includes helping you stay safe online. Lately, we’ve seen an increase in online scam attempts across the financial sector here in New Zealand, so we thought this was a good time to share a few friendly reminders on how you can stay protected.

30 April 2025 by Tim Bakkenes