Market & Portfolio Update - October 2021
Global share markets rebounded and had their best month of the year – up 5.5% on average. A mix of positive economic data and company announcements continued to give investors confidence in the current cycle. Demand from consumers continues to be strong and supply chains are struggling to keep up, while also facing the challenges of Covid-disruptions.
Bonds prices fell slightly over the month as developed economies saw short term interest rates rise as inflation continues to surpass expectations. In New Zealand, the RBNZ raised the OCR by 0.25%, and market expectations are for a further increase in November. Similarly, central banks in England, Canada, and Australia are reducing their stimulus programmes and are hinting at raising interest rates to combat rising inflation.
The New Zealand share market ended the month down 1.3%, despite economic indicators remaining extremely strong. New Zealand unemployment rate fell to just 3.4% - equalling the reading in December 2007 and the lowest level since the early 1980s.
Market & Portfolio Update - January 2026
After strong gains in 2025, the global share market (represented by the MSCI World Gross Index) took a breather in January, returning 0.1% in NZ dollar terms. While the ‘Magnificent 7’ (the seven largest US-listed companies, including Google, Microsoft & Apple) have been large drivers behind the recent gains seen from the US share market, January told a different story. There appeared to be ‘catch-up’ trade where investors moved out of concentrated tech positions and into the rest of the market, with the Russell 2000 index (a widely regarded proxy for smaller US companies) having a strong month. This was generally seen as improving confidence in the broader US economy.
Interest Rate Averaging: A Smarter Way to Manage Mortgage Risk
When it comes to mortgages, most people focus on one thing, getting the lowest interest rate.
But the lowest rate today doesn’t always lead to the best outcome over time.
Interest Rate Averaging is a strategy designed to reduce risk, smooth cashflow, and create flexibility, rather than trying to perfectly time interest rates, which no one can do consistently.