Market & Portfolio Update - May 2020
Share markets across the world continued to recover solidly during May, looking ahead to a gradual loosening of restrictions, and have now recovered much of the March sell-off. The range of Booster’s core diversified funds have now delivered moderate gains over the past 12 months, a pleasing outcome given the volatility we have seen. While it would be premature to conclude that the world is out of the woods yet, the recent market recovery highlights the importance of sticking with a carefully chosen investment plan when markets are volatile.
However, the market recovery has not been even. The share market values of businesses that are more vulnerable to a period of disruption have still been most negatively affected. Our active investment choices in areas like healthcare firms, and a focus in our global shares on companies with solid cash income has helped support returns. Selectively supporting NZ companies looking to raise capital has also provided good opportunities at attractive prices. From here, we remain focused on staying adaptive, as worldwide policymakers tackle the balance between ongoing economic disruption, the pace of easing lockdown measures, and the length of economic support required to ultimately get the global economy moving again.
How much money do you really need to retire?
“How much do you think you will need to retire?” It’s the kind of question that can spark anything from a shrug to a nervous laugh around the dinner table. After all, most of us are so busy working hard, raising families, and paying the bills that it is easy to put retirement in the “future me will figure it out” basket.
But those dreams, whether it’s more time with the family, travelling, or simply slowing down, all come with a price tag. The real question is: how do you make sure you will have enough to live the retirement you picture?
Lifetime Book Club: Dare to Lead by Brené Brown
“Leaders are not necessarily those with titles, they are the ones who take responsibility for finding potential in people and processes.”
That is the heart of Dare to Lead. This is not your standard leadership guide filled with generic advice and motivational quotes. It is a thoughtful, research-based exploration of what it really takes to lead with courage and authenticity in today’s world.