Market & Portfolio Update - September 2022
September was another volatile month for global financial markets, as central banks reiterated how far they are willing to go to get inflation back to long-term target levels. For example, in the US, this caused interest rates on bonds to rise by around 0.70%, weighing on the returns of bond investments. Share markets were also volatile, as investors came to grips with higher interest rates and slowing economic growth.
While volatility like this can be unnerving for investors, financial markets experience these kinds of events from time to time.
The New Zealand dollar tends to fall during periods when financial markets are volatile, supporting the value of unhedged overseas investments. This is exactly what has happened this time, with the falling New Zealand dollar resulting in unhedged global share investments performing 15% better over the past 12 months than if the foreign currency was hedged or locked in.
Lifetime now part of the Booster group
We're delighted to share some exciting news. On 30 October 2026, Booster became Lifetime's parent company.
First Home, Next Home or Another Property: Getting Financially Prepared
Buying a home is a major financial decision. Whether you're purchasing your first home, looking to move or considering an additional property, understanding your financial position is an important place to start.

