Market & Portfolio Update - September 2020
Global share markets eased modestly in September, after performing very well since March. Markets were weighed down by investors locking in some profits from companies that have performed well in previous months. Examples include Apple in the US, and Fisher & Paykel Healthcare and a2 Milk in New Zealand.
Bond markets meanwhile were up 0.50% on average, as demand for ‘safe-haven assets’ rose. They were supported by comments from the US Federal Reserve that they will continue to support economic growth through a policy of low interest rates which directly benefit the price of bonds.
In general, investments have continued to perform well, despite the unfortunate circumstances that this year has brought. Stimulus from governments and central banks has helped support financial markets.
Consilium Joins FirstCape: What It Means for Lifetime Clients
You may have read recently that FirstCape, a major player in the New Zealand financial services sector, has agreed to acquire Consilium, the independent advisory services and platform provider that Lifetime partners with to manage client portfolios.
While headlines may signal a big change, for you as a Lifetime client, it’s important to know that when it comes to your investment portfolio, it’s business as usual.
Market & Portfolio Update - April 2025
Global markets began April with some volatility as investors digested “Liberation Day” tariffs announced by the Trump administration. In particular, investors feared a tariff war would lead to higher inflation, lower global growth, and the potential erosion of the historic ‘safe haven’ status enjoyed by the US dollar. However, the markets recovered a significant portion of these losses following the announcement that all reciprocal tariffs except China’s would be delayed for 90 days. Due to the volatility, global markets were down -3.8% for the month.