Market & Portfolio Update - May 2019

4 June 2019 by Lifetime in Market Update, Investments

Market & Portfolio Update - May 2019

Market & Portfolio Update - May 2019

Most portfolios gave back a small portion of this year’s strong gains during May, with Balanced Portfolios down around 1% (compared to a 7% gain over the previous 12 months). This was driven by volatility in world share markets as trade tensions were again in the headlines, and some indicators of economic growth continued to weaken.

Global shares were the only major asset class to have negative returns for the month. The other 7 asset classes had a positive return.

With market interest rates also moving lower, fixed interest investments performed well, with both NZ and global bonds rising in value by 1% which helped support overall results.

NZ and Australian shares also performed positively, with our NZ share investments up almost 1%, and Australian shares buoyed by shares in the major banks. Banking shares returned 6% on average, after the Australian Liberal Party’s surprise election win cleared the way for continued favourable tax treatment on their dividends, and less regulatory pressure.

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.

preview image - Market & Portfolio Update – September 2024

Market & Portfolio Update – September 2024

The US equity markets ended the month +0.1%, ending the quarter up +1.8%. During September, the US Federal Reserve followed many other central banks and cut interest rates. Growing confidence that inflation is heading to 2% has allowed many central banks to reduce interest rates in the past few months.

16 October 2024 by Lifetime in Market Update
preview image - Maximise Your Miles: Financial Tips for Frequent Flyers

Maximise Your Miles: Financial Tips for Frequent Flyers

Whether you’re a young Kiwi planning your OE (overseas experience), a family about to embark on that long-awaited trip to Disneyland, or a seasoned business traveller hopping between meetings in Singapore and Sydney, the excitement of travel is unbeatable. But with every adventure comes a bit of financial planning to ensure your holiday memories aren’t clouded by an unexpected hit to the wallet.

7 October 2024 by Lifetime in Travel