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 - May 2022
Volatility in global share markets continued in May as investors focused on inflation and rising interest rates. Despite the volatility, global share markets rebounded to end the month flat, with the energy sector leading the way (up 13.5%). The energy sector includes oil producers which benefitted from oil prices rising to $123/barrel. The European Union agreed to a partial ban on Russian oil. The ban is expected to cover 90% of Europe’s Russian oil imports by the end of this year.
9 Financial Habits Of Successful People
1. They keep learning
Once they’ve identified areas in which they want to gain wealth, they start educating themselves in those fields.
Invest in your self-knowledge by reading the relevant books, following the right bloggers and spokespeople, and keeping up to date with policy changes in the news. A lot of websites in New Zealand even send daily or weekly updates to your mailbox. There are tons of resources out there (although it’s important to first check their credibility) that will help educate your financial decisions.