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.
Lifetime Book Club: Same as Ever by Morgan Housel
It’s an old idea. But Morgan Housel brings it to life in a way that feels fresh, relevant, and surprisingly practical.
In a world obsessed with what’s next, new technology, market shifts, global uncertainty, Same as Ever flips the script.
Instead of asking “what will change?”, it asks a better question:
What won’t?
The Financial Realities of the Sandwich Generation
If you’re in your 40s, 50s or even 60s, chances are you’re juggling more than just your own goals right now. Maybe your kids still need your help financially – while at the same time, your parents are beginning to lean on you too.
Welcome to the Sandwich Generation – where you're caught between two sets of responsibilities, and still trying to plan for your own future. It’s not easy, but it is manageable. And the good news is, you don’t have to do it alone.