Fixed income investments make up a large proportion of the investment universe and can form a significant part of a diversified portfolio but investors are often much less familiar with how fixed income works, than how shares work. The purpose of this article is to provide investors with a better … [Read more...]

In the September 2014 edition of Market Update: Heightened geopolitical tensions in Ukraine and the Middle East continue to dominate global equity markets. Economic growth in the US remains strong, with Q2 GDP revised upwards from 4.0% to 4.2%. European data remains weak, particularly … [Read more...]

In the latest update, Brian reviews events in markets during August. He discusses: how global share markets have continued to deliver decent returns, despite the uncertain geopolitical environment why the actions of central banks continue to be a key factor driving markets whether … [Read more...]

In the August 2014 edition of Market Update: Ukrainian and Middle Eastern geopolitics, and an Argentinian default, dominate global equity markets. Strong rebound in US economic growth with Q2 GDP at 4% Chinese economy continues to stabilise, with a further improvement in manufacturing … [Read more...]

This month, Brian reviews events in markets during July. He discusses: How Australia's market had a very strong month, while world share markets delivered mixed performance Why economic news from the US and recent data from China are positive, but Europe's recovery remains very … [Read more...]

In this article, Brian Parker looks at why geopolitical risks are front of mind for many investors right now. News headlines and television coverage are truly frightening. In particular, hopes that the Arab spring would lead to a flowering of secular democracy across the Middle East, which were … [Read more...]

In this article, Kajanga Kulatunga looks at why, until very recently, investors have relied on bonds as a solid source of income; why these factors aren‟t likely to deliver in the next three years; and what the options are for bond investors. You can read the full Investment Insight 2014 … [Read more...]

The July 2014 report, MLC’s scenario insights & portfolio positioning, states: “We continue to invest in extraordinary times. Rising financial markets give us the impression of a return to normality, but we have seen before that this can be illusory.” At Godfrey Pembroke we put investors … [Read more...]

This month, Brian reviews events in markets during June.  He discusses: why central banks’ actions remain critical for financial markets how monetary policy generally remains very loose, with very low interest rates creating a positive environment for share markets whether Australia’s … [Read more...]

In the July 2014 edition of Market Update: Continued improvement in US economic growth following a revised down Q1 GDP of -2.9%. European economic data impacted by the Iraq civil war crisis. Chinese economy stabilising, with manufacturing data at a six month high. Australian economic data … [Read more...]