Market & Portfolio Update - May 2018
Market & Portfolio Update - May 2018
Global share markets added another 1% in May, amidst a background of solid economic growth spiced up with news of political instability in Italy. While change of governments can create volatility, ultimately markets are driven by economic growth and growth in companies’ earnings.
The change in Italian Government is the latest round of political uncertainty, and adds to a long line of changes following Britain’s vote to leave Europe almost two years ago. However, these have all turned out to be just bumps in the road – the Global Economy has grown by around US$10 trillion over the past two years!
New Zealand shares performed solidly, ahead of global markets in general for the month and with Booster’s NZ share investments up almost 20% over the past year. Our holdings in Restaurant Brands and aged care provider Summerset have particularly helped this result, with each up around 70%.
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.
Finding Your Financial Ikigai: The Japanese Art of a Balanced & Purposeful Life
In a world that often measures success in financial terms, the Japanese concept of Ikigai offers a refreshing perspective. Transcending the boundaries of culture and geography, this philosophy loosely translates as "a reason for being". Ikigai is a convergence of what you love, what you're good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for. It's an approach that represents a broader view of prosperity, encompassing joy, purpose, and contentment. As financial advisers, we find this particularly compelling. This article delves deeper into how Ikigai can not only enrich your life but also inform your financial decisions for a more fulfilling journey.
Lifetime Book Club: Intentional by Chris Bailey
In a world full of distractions, half-finished to-do lists, and “I’ll get to that later” energy, this book feels like a helpful nudge back to what really matters.
It’s not about doing more for the sake of it. It’s about doing the right things, with more purpose, more clarity, and a little less chaos.