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.
Lifetime Book Club: Stolen Focus by Johann Hari
"The truth is, we are not losing our ability to focus because we are lazy or undisciplined. We are losing it because our attention has been stolen."
That is the central idea of Stolen Focus. This is not a typical productivity guide filled with tips to switch off notifications. It is a thoughtful, well-researched investigation into why so many of us are struggling to concentrate and what can be done about it.
Market & Portfolio Update - October 2025
The global share market (represented by the MSCI World Gross Index) was up +3.5% in NZ dollar terms in October. The relatively strong month was underpinned by signs of easing trade tensions between the US and China and another solid US corporate earnings season.