Europe market review: “All necessary steps”
European countries continued to ease their lockdown measures during June; nevertheless, the World Health Organisation (WHO) warned that the region was experiencing a weekly increase in COVID-19 cases...
Adviser-Hub 5th Aug 2020
Emerging markets review: Bleak outlook for Brazil
During June, the World Health Organisation (WHO) warned that the coronavirus pandemic had entered “a new and dangerous phase” as cases continued to surge in Brazil and the US.
Asia Japan market review: Recovery remains far off
Bank of Japan Governor Haruhiko Kuroda warned during June that a second wave of COVID-19 infections could cause “considerable” harm to Japan’s economy.
US market review: “Persistent fragilities”
As US businesses reopened their doors, retail sales surged during May following steep falls in March and April, rising by 17.7%.
UK equity income: Clouded prospects for UK dividends
Although UK share prices generally strengthened over June as lockdown measures continued to ease, the outlook for dividend payments remained uncertain.
UK equity market review: Opening up
The UK’s leaders announced a further easing in lockdown measures to take effect in July, allowing a large proportion of the country’s leisure and tourism sector to reopen, albeit with strict guideline...
UK bond market review: “Living in unusual times”
Gilt yields continued their decline over June as demand for government bonds was boosted by expectations that the Bank of England (BoE) would expand its programme of quantitative easing measures.
Global bond market review: Central banks go further
New quantitative easing measures are forecast to reach 20% of GDP in the US, 9% in the UK, and over 7% in the eurozone, according to credit ratings agency Fitch, which reported that macro policy easin...
Adviser-Hub 4th Aug 2020
Global update: Fears over a possible ‘second wave’
June proved to be a choppy month for investors as hopes of economic recovery were tempered by fears of a second wave of infection as instances of COVID-19 surged in parts of the US.
Adviser-Hub 6th Jul 2020
US market review: US/China relationship sours again
Relations between the US and China deteriorated further during May as the US blamed China and the World Health Organisation (WHO) for the pandemic.
Adviser-Hub 10th Jun 2020
UK equity income market review: Companies continue to cancel dividends
The outlook for income-seeking investors continued to deteriorate during May as companies sought to shore up their balance sheets by cancelling dividend payouts
UK equity market review: UK retail sales plunge
UK share prices continued to rally during May as investors became more hopeful that the lockdown would lift, and the economy could restart.
UK bond market review: BoE keeps its options open
Demand for gilts remained strong during May as the economic outlook continued to deteriorate. The coronavirus pandemic is expected to take a heavy toll on UK and global growth.
Global bond market review: Corporate defaults on the rise
US Treasury bond yields rose during May: government spending continued to rise and central bank policy showed signs of shifting as Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell emphasised that the Fed would tak...
Asia Japan market review: Concerns over Hong Kong’s future
Share prices in Hong Kong dived during May on the news that China was set to make national security laws for the territory, clamping down on dissent and raising questions over Hong Kong’s special econ...
Europe market review: Is Europe heading for deflation?
During May, the Dax Index rose by 6.7% while the CAC 40 Index climbed by 2.7%.
Emerging markets review: Clouded outlook for China’s growth
China’s National People’s Congress announced that it would not set an economic growth target for the country this year as it addresses the impact of the coronavirus pandemic.
Market briefings looking back at May
A selection of articles, written by our expert investment writers that cover the markets looking back through May.
UK bond market review: The economic outlook deteriorates
Although sentiment showed signs of improvement in April after March’s plunging stock markets, investors remained nervous. A survey conducted by GfK found that consumer confidence slumped to its lowest...
Adviser-Hub 19th May 2020
Global bond market review: A bleak outlook
Although equity markets recovered to some extent during April, investors’ appetite for risk remained weak. Bond yields picked up towards the beginning of the month amid cautious optimism.
Europe market review: European economies shrink in Q1
European equity markets generally rebounded in April after sustaining steep falls in March.
Emerging markets review: All eyes on China
Demonstrating the economic impact of the coronavirus pandemic, China’s economy contracted at an annualised rate of 6.8% during the first quarter of 2020, compared with growth of 6.4% in the same perio...
Asian Japan market review: “A crisis like no other”
Asia is facing “a crisis like no other”, according to the IMF, which warned that the coronavirus pandemic’s impact on the region will be “severe and unprecedented” and will outstrip that of the Global...
Market briefings looking back at April
A selection of articles, written by our expert investment writers that cover the markets looking back through April.
UK equity income market review: Dividend cuts continue
Having experienced a difficult March, in which share prices plunged and dividends were cancelled, income-seeking investors experienced fresh pain in April as more companies opted to suspend their payo...
Adviser-Hub 18th May 2020
US market review: US economy shrinks
Despite the news that the US economy had contracted for the first time since 2014 during the first quarter, US equity markets ended April in positive territory in April as investors began to focus on...
UK equity market review: UK plc on the back foot
Although UK share prices picked up slightly in April, the coronavirus continued to take a heavy social, corporate and economic toll and the UK overtook Spain to become the third-worst affected country...
Global update: Painful consequences
Following March’s collapse in share prices, global stock markets made a partial recovery in April, although most major indices still sustained double-digit losses compared with the start of the year....
Adviser-Hub 11th May 2020
UK equity income market review: UK companies cancel dividends
Although March was painful for most investors, income-seeking investors probably felt an additional level of pain.
Adviser-Hub 20th Apr 2020
UK equity market review: On the back foot
UK share prices plunged during March as the coronavirus continued to sweep the world.
UK bond market review: UK interest rates reach all-time low
Against the backdrop of heightened uncertainty caused by the intensifying coronavirus crisis, investors continued to lose their appetite for risk during March.
Global update: March meltdown
The extended bull run came to an abrupt end in March as the coronavirus continued to spread into Europe and America, and a collapse in confidence pushed share indices into bear-market territory.
Emerging markets review: China bucks the trend
Share prices in China generally fell less heavily in March than other major equity markets. While most share indices posted double-digit losses during the month.
Market briefings looking back at March
A selection of articles, written by our expert investment writers that cover the markets looking back through March.
Global bond market review: Bond yields fall to new lows
Having fallen steeply during February, global bond yields continued their decline in March.
Adviser-Hub 17th Apr 2020
Europe market review: Extraordinary times
European investors experienced a torrid March as the coronavirus spread and intensified across the region. Major equity markets posted double-digit losses over the month.
Asian Japan market review: Fears grow over Japan’s longer-term outlook
As the coronavirus intensified its grip, officials at the Bank of Japan increased monetary stimulus measures in an emergency meeting in a bid to soothe investors’ jitters.
US market review: US rates fall to near-zero
Share prices fell sharply in the US during March as the coronavirus pandemic continued its spread, and the yields on ten-year and 30-year Treasury bonds fell to all-time lows. President Donald Trump d...
Market briefings looking back at February
A selection of articles, written by our expert investment writers that cover the markets looking back through February.
Adviser-Hub 5th Mar 2020
Global bond market review: Bond yields hit record lows
Global bond yields extended their January declines into February as investors became increasingly worried about the potential economic impact and human cost of the coronavirus.
Global update: Investors take fright as coronavirus takes hold
As the spread of coronavirus gathered pace across the world during February, investors became increasingly concerned that the economic impact could trigger a global recession. Share prices plunged ove...
Emerging markets review: China moves to support its financial system
Having been shut from 23 January to combat the continuing spread of coronavirus, China’s stock market reopened on 3 February and the benchmark Shanghai Composite Index promptly fell by almost 8% in a...
UK equity market review: Companies warn on profits as coronavirus bites
Share prices tumbled during February as the extent and severity of coronavirus continued to intensify. By the end of the month, 85,403 cases had been confirmed worldwide, with 23 cases in the UK.
Adviser-Hub 4th Mar 2020
UK bond market review: Gilt yields fall as investors head for the hills
Government bond yields dropped sharply during February as the coronavirus continued to spread across the world, fuelling concerns over the impact on global economic growth.
Europe market review: European markets fall in February
Coronavirus continued its spread into Europe during February, with Italy the hardest hit country by a significant margin.
Asia Japan market review: Double-digit falls in Japan
Asian markets came under pressure during February as coronavirus continued to tighten its grip. By the end of February, South Korea was second only to China in terms of diagnosed cases of coronavirus,...
Asia Japan market review: Japan’s policymakers remain cautious
Although the Bank of Japan raised its forecast for economic growth in the fiscal year 2020 from 0.7% to 0.9%, policymakers are not yet ready to scale back their current stimulus programme.
Adviser-Hub 13th Feb 2020
Emerging markets review: Coronavirus hits markets
January proved to be a month of two halves for China. Although investor sentiment received a boost from the “Phase One” trade agreement with the US.
Global bond market review: Seeking safe havens
Global bond yields declined during January as investors sought safe havens against a backdrop of rising worry over the Coronavirus.
UK equity income market review: Brexit, trade… and the Coronavirus
In common with most major equity markets around the world, UK equity indices fell during January as concerns over the rise of Coronavirus outweighed optimism.
Market briefings looking back at January
A selection of articles, written by our expert investment writers that cover the markets looking back through January.
Europe market review: ECB launches review of its monetary policy strategy
The eurozone’s economy expanded by only 0.1% during the fourth quarter of 2019.
Adviser-Hub 12th Feb 2020
UK bond market review: Flight to safety
Gilt yields fell during January as investors sought the perceived safety of government bonds
UK equity market review: The transition period begins
Brexit finally “got done” in January as the UK left the EU on 31 January. However, with a transition period of only 11 months, the Government is now under pressure to negotiate its new relationship wi...
US market review: US and China sign their “Phase One” deal
2020 began with fresh geopolitical tensions amid signs of rising hostility between the US and Iran.
Global update: Coronavirus hits investor sentiment
Investor sentiment was initially buoyed in January as the US and China signed their interim trade deal, driving US share indices to new all-time highs.
Adviser-Hub 4th Feb 2020
US market review: Trade breakthrough?
Signs of progress in the long-running trade conflict between the US and China lifted investor sentiment in the US and around the world during December.
Adviser-Hub 15th Jan 2020
UK equity market review: Brexit’s turning-point
December provided a turning-point for the UK as the Conservative Party won the General Election. Prime Minister Boris Johnson succeeded in securing an 80-seat majority in the House of Commons.
UK equity income market review: A defining moment for Brexit
The UK General Election proved to be a defining moment for Brexit in the UK as Boris Johnson’s decisive victory – with an 80-seat majority – paved the way for his Brexit deal to clear the House of Com...
UK bond market review: Optimism returns as 2019 ends
Investor confidence rallied during December following the Conservative Party’s decisive victory in the General Election.
Global bond market review: Investors eye riskier assets in December
A mood of tentative optimism blunted the attractions of government bonds during December.
Europe market review: Germany puts the brakes on the eurozone
The eurozone’s economy remained sluggish in December as improved activity in the services sector failed to mitigate a deepening contraction in the manufacturing sector.
Emerging markets review: US and China agree “Phase One” trade deal
Investor sentiment was lifted during December by the news that the US and China had reached a preliminary “Phase One” trade agreement in its long-running trade war.
Asia Japan market review: Japan’s consumption tax takes its toll
Japan’s economic expansion proved to be better than first calculated during the third quarter of 2019; however, this better-than-expected performance does not reflect the impact of October’s increase...
Market briefings looking back at December
A selection of articles, written by our expert investment writers that cover the markets looking back through December.
Global update: Double-digit gains in 2019
Despite a year that was filled with political and social upheaval – from the trade war between the US and China, through Brexit, to the civil unrest in Hong Kong – many world markets achieved double-d...
Adviser-Hub 9th Jan 2020
US market review: No resolution to the trade conflict
US share prices were boosted during November by hopes that the US and China might find a resolution to their protracted trade conflict.
Adviser-Hub 20th Dec 2019
UK equity market review: Election dominates sentiment
November in the UK was largely taken up by the impending General Election. Having dominated the headlines for many months, Brexit relinquished the spotlight as the different parties’ manifestos focuse...
UK bond market review: Politics drives gilts in November
UK government bonds experienced a choppy November as General Election campaigning got under way.
Europe market review: Germany avoids recession
The eurozone’s economy almost stalled during November, according to IHS Markit, which reported the lowest level of activity for two months.
Asia Japan market review: Retail sales plummet in Japan
During November, Japan’s government came under intensifying pressure to support the country’s economy by boosting fiscal spending.
Market briefings looking back at November
A selection of articles, written by our expert investment writers that cover the markets looking back through November.
Global update: Brexit takes a back seat
Although politics continued to dominate newsflow and sentiment in the UK during November, Brexit was superseded by the General Election as the focal point.
Adviser-Hub 10th Dec 2019
US market review: Fed cuts rates for a third time this year
Policymakers at the US central bank opted to cut the key federal funds rate by 25 basis points to a range of 1.5% to 1.75% during October.
Adviser-Hub 7th Nov 2019
UK equity income market review: Underlying dividend growth slows
The FTSE 100 Index fell and its yield rose during October as Brexit uncertainty continued.
UK equity market review: Brexit “flextension”
Seven months after the first Brexit delay, the Hallowe’en deadline came and went with the UK’s Brexit predicament unresolved.
UK bond market review: Teetering on the edge
Having surged earlier in the month, amid rising hopes of a Brexit deal, gilt yields subsequently dipped later in October when it became clear that Brexit remained unresolved.
Global bond market review: Fed cuts rates once again
Following a raft of interest-rate cuts in the third quarter of 2019, the loosening monetary trend continued into the fourth quarter as central banks reduced their key rates.
Europe market review: Waiting for Brexit
The Brexit deadline was shifted once again, this time from 31 October to 31 January 2020. The EU’s chief Brexit negotiator Michel Barnier called for a close post-Brexit relationship between the UK and...
Asian Japan markets review: Japan raises consumption tax
Japan’s much-anticipated rise in consumption tax finally took place on 1 October.
Market briefings looking back at October
A selection of articles, written by our expert investment writers that cover the markets looking back through October.
US market review: Fed cuts rates in September
As expected, the US central bank implemented its second cut in interest rates since 2008 during September.
Adviser-Hub 15th Oct 2019
UK equity income market review: Politics dominate in September
UK investors’ attention was largely absorbed by Brexit during September.
UK equity market review: Counting down to Hallowe’en
As Brexit rumbled towards its Halloween deadline, investors’ attention during September was absorbed by a series of political developments.
UK bond market review: Deal or no deal?
Gilts experienced a choppy September as speculation over the likelihood of a Brexit deal ebbed and flowed in response to political developments.
Global bond market review: Further monetary easing in September
Following interest-rate cuts in India, Thailand and New Zealand in August, central banks in Russia and Brazil cut their key interest rates during September.
Europe market review: ECB restarts QE
During September, the European Central Bank (ECB) announced another programme of economic stimulus measures designed to shore up the eurozone’s faltering economy.
Emerging markets review: Trade conflict hits China’s exports
The People’s Bank of China cut its reserve ratio – the amount of cash that banks have to hold in reserve – during September, releasing liquidity totalling 900 billion yuan.
Asian Japan markets review: Japan’s economic growth disappoints
Japan’s second-quarter economic growth proved disappointing for investors, as initial calculations of annualised growth of 1.8% were downgraded to a more muted 1.3%. On a quarter-on-quarter basis, the...
Market briefings looking back at September
A selection of articles, written by our expert investment writers that cover the markets looking back through September.
Global update: What next for Brexit?
The long-running Brexit saga took a new twist in September as the clock continued to tick towards its Hallowe’en deadline.
Adviser-Hub 3rd Oct 2019
Global bond market review: Bond yields plunge in August
Bond yields slid during August as nervous investors headed for perceived “safe-haven” assets such as government bonds and gold.
Adviser-Hub 16th Sep 2019
Europe market review: Storm clouds gathering over Germany
Confidence over the outlook for Europe’s economy continued to deteriorate during August amid mounting concerns over Germany’s prospects.
Emerging markets review: Renminbi falls to lowest level since 2008
China’s renminbi fell to its lowest level against the US dollar for 11 years during August.
Asian Japan markets review: What next for Japan’s monetary policy?
Japan achieved its third straight quarter of economic growth during the three months to June, growing at an annualised rate of 1.8% and easing pressure on the Bank of Japan to implement further moneta...
Market briefings looking back at August
A selection of articles, written by our expert investment writers that cover the markets looking back through August.
US market review: Fresh salvoes in the US/China trade conflict
The trade war between the US and China continued to rage in August. President Trump revealed further tariff increases on Chinese imports to the US; in response, China announced that it would impose ad...
UK equity income market review: Equity income remains out of favour
Although bond yields have continued to fall to record lows, income-seeking investors do not appear to be moving towards UK equity income, daunted by a backdrop of ongoing political and economic uncert...
UK equity market review: Uncertainties drive down share prices
August proved both busy and controversial for UK investors, and share prices remained unsettled throughout the month.
UK bond market review: Gilt yields plummet in August
Gilt yields plunged during August as nervous investors sought the perceived safety of government bonds and gold.
UK equity income market review: Weak pound boosts share prices in July
UK equity prices generally rose during July as intensifying speculation over the possibility of a no-deal Brexit drove down the pound’s value against the US dollar and the euro.
Adviser-Hub 19th Aug 2019
UK equity market review: Sterling falls on no-deal speculation
Sterling fell sharply against the US dollar and euro during July as the prospect of a no-deal Brexit began to appear increasingly possible.
UK bond market review: No-deal plans drive down gilt yields
Mounting fears that the UK will leave the EU without a deal on 31 October drove down the value of the pound against the US dollar and the euro during July.
Global bond market review: Central banks around the world cut rates
Investors saw a raft of interest-rate cuts during July, as central banks sought to address slowing economic growth and subdued inflationary pressures.
Emerging market review: China’s slowdown continues
China’s economy continued its slowdown during the second quarter of 2019, expanding at an annualised rate of 6.2%. The country’s economy grew by 6.4% during the first quarter.
Market briefings looking back at July
A selection of articles, written by our expert investment writers that cover the markets looking back through July.
Asian Japan market review: Australia and South Korea cut interest rates
Confidence amongst large Japanese manufacturers continued to deteriorate, according to the Bank of Japan’s quarterly Tankan survey.
Europe market review: Deteriorating outlook for Europe
The outlook for economic growth in the eurozone has continued to weaken.
US market review: Fed cuts rates for the first time since 2008
US equity markets reached new closing highs during July, and the S&P 500 Index breached 3,000 points for the first time ever.
Global update: Possibility of “no deal” moves closer
Boris Johnson beat Jeremy Hunt during July to become the new leader of the Conservative Party and the UK’s new Prime Minister.
Adviser-Hub 1st Aug 2019
UK equity funds move back into favour
UK share prices rose and equity yields fell in June in the face of ongoing political uncertainty. The unfolding story of Brexit entered a new chapter during the month as the Conservative Party.
Adviser-Hub 10th Jul 2019
Asian Japan markets review: Trade tensions hit growth in Asia
Economic growth picked up in Japan during the first quarter of 2019, despite the continuing trade tensions between the US and China.
Emerging markets review: Trade negotiations reopen
The trade relationship between China and the US continued to dominate investor sentiment during June.
Europe market review: Further stimulus to come?
Following the extension to the Brexit deadline, the European Commission urged companies to ‘take advantage of the extra time” to make their preparations.
Global bond market review: Central banks start to ease
Bond yields continued their decline into June: prices rose as several central banks loosened their monetary policy stance.
UK bond market review: Gradual tightening strategy remains intact
UK government bond yields fell over the first six months of 2019, boosted by rising demand for gilts driven by political uncertainty.
UK equity market review: Political distraction
Three years on from the Brexit referendum – and three months after the Brexit deadline was extended – the issue of Brexit remained unresolved.
UK equity income market update: UK equity funds move back into favour
US market review: Rate cut on the horizon
Trade developments continued to absorb attention during June. Having imposed tariffs on Mexican imports in May President Donald Trump suspended them “indefinitely”.
Market briefings looking back at June
A selection of articles, written by our expert investment writers that cover the markets looking back through June.
Asian Japan markets review: Economic outlook dims for Japan
Notwithstanding some encouraging economic data, Japan’s Government downgraded its view on the country’s economy during May.
Adviser-Hub 12th Jun 2019
Emerging markets review: Trade wars bite
Although the US and China had been widely expected to agree a trade deal, US President Donald Trump instead confounded hopes.
Europe market review: Slowing European growth
Although European investors generally welcomed the results of the European Parliamentary elections, share prices across the region generally fell heavily amid concerns over Europe’s economic outlook a...
UK bond market review: Brexit worries fuel demand for gilts
Amid rising speculation over the likelihood of a no-deal Brexit, gilt prices surged and yields plummeted in May as investors scrambled for investments perceived to be safe havens.
UK equity market review: Brexit tensions intensify in May
Escalating political upheaval knocked investors’ confidence in May, and share prices suffered.
US market review: The “Tariff Man” strikes again
Having hit new highs during April, share prices plummeted in May as the trade war between the US and China took an unexpected turn.
Global update: US/China trade war escalates
Prime Minister Theresa May finally announced that she was resigning as leader of the Conservative Party on 7 June. Her decision triggered a leadership contest alongside rising concerns over the possib...
Adviser-Hub 4th Jun 2019
US market review: US share indices hit fresh highs
Economic growth picked up in the US during the first quarter of 2019. Having expanded by 2.2% year on year in the final quarter of 2018, the US economy grew.
Adviser-Hub 14th May 2019
UK equity income market review: UK dividend growth set to continue
Dividend payouts from UK companies reached a new first-quarter record during the first three months of 2019.
Global bond market review: Europe weakens
Demand for government bonds generally rose during April against a backdrop of intensifying concerns over the global economic outlook.
Europe market review: Eurozone stages a rally
The eurozone’s economy rebounded during the first three months of 2019, posting quarter-on-quarter growth of 0.4%. Italy emerged from recession, supported by export activity.
Emerging markets review: Dovish Fed boosts sentiment towards emerging markets
Sentiment towards emerging markets has improved recently, boosted by a more dovish rhetoric from the US Federal Reserve.
Asian Japan markets review: Bank of Japan provides additional guidance
Japan’s interest rates will remain unchanged until the beginning of 2020 at the earliest, according to the BoJ’s updated guidance.
UK equity market review: Another six months …
The new Brexit deadline of 31 October has given UK MPs an additional six months to reach agreement.
Adviser-Hub 13th May 2019
UK bond market review: Brextension eases demand for gilts
Demand for UK government bonds slipped during April: prices fell and yields rose as a six-month extension to Brexit allayed investors’.
Global update: Brextension
Having delayed Brexit from 29 March to 12 April, Prime Minister Theresa May agreed a new Brexit deadline of 31 October with EU leaders.
Adviser-Hub 2nd May 2019
US market review: Bull market celebrates its tenth birthday
The US bull market became the longest bull market in the history of the S&P 500 Index during March, celebrating its ten-year anniversary on 9 March.
Adviser-Hub 17th Apr 2019
UK equity income market review: “Hope dies last”
Having tried – and failed – to get her Brexit deal through the House of Commons three times, Prime Minister Theresa May was obliged to seek an extension to the Article 50 process.
UK equity income market review: Brexit puzzle remains unsolved
The Brexit conundrum remained unsolved as March drew to a close, and the UK remained in the EU as Brexit Day was pushed out to 12 April. The yield on the FTSE 100 Index declined over March.
Global bond market review: European slowdown drives demand for bonds
Fears of an economic slowdown in Europe rattled investors during March, and European government bond yields fell as investors sought perceived safe havens.
Europe market review: European slowdown
Interest rates in the eurozone are not expected to rise until next year at the earliest, according to the European Central Bank (ECB).
Emerging markets review: China cuts economic forecast
China’s leaders cut their economic growth forecast for 2019 to 6% to 6.5%, compared with last year’s target of around 6.5%.
Asian Japan markets review: Clouds over Japan’s economy
Confidence amongst Japanese businesses deteriorated over the first three months of 2019, according to the Bank of Japan’s (BoJ’s) quarterly Tankan survey of business sentiment.
A selection of articles, written by our expert investment writers, covering the markets looking back through March.
Global bond market review: Italian bond yields rise
Government bond yields in Italy rose sharply during February as a decline in confidence pushed up borrowing costs. Sentiment was knocked by a combination of factors...
Adviser-Hub 7th Mar 2019
UK equity income market review: Brexit question remains unanswered
UK share prices generally rose during February, despite the fact that the pressing issue of Brexit remained unresolved.
US market review: Hopes of a trade deal
US equity markets rose during February as investor sentiment was buoyed by hopes that the US and China will finally manage to reach agreement on their long-running trade dispute.
Adviser-Hub 6th Mar 2019
A selection of articles, written by our expert investment writers, covering the markets looking back through February.
Emerging markets review: End of trade dispute within sight?
Despite signs of an ongoing economic slowdown in China, share prices performed strongly during February. The US announced that it would postpone its planned tariff increases on Chinese exports.
Europe market review: “No breakthrough in sight”
Further “robust but constructive” Brexit talk between Prime Minister Theresa May and European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker yielded no change in February.
A selection of articles, written by our expert investment writers, covering the markets looking back through January.
Adviser-Hub 4th Feb 2019
A selection of articles written by our expert investment writers, covering the markets looking back through December.
Adviser-Hub 18th Jan 2019
Asian Japan markets review: Japan faces economic headwinds in 2019
Japan’s economy contracted at an annualised rate of 2.5% during the third quarter of 2018, compared with an earlier calculation of -1.2%. Activity was curtailed during the year by a series of natural...
Adviser-Hub 18th Dec 2018
Emerging markets review: Emerging markets underperform over 2018
Emerging markets performed better than broader world markets during December, but underperformed global markets over 2018. Following a protracted war over trade tariffs, China and the US finally agree...
Europe market review: EU initiates Brexit contingency measures
Despite concerns that the eurozone’s economic expansion is showing signs of faltering, the European Central Bank confirmed that its programme of quantitative easing measures was ending at the end of 2...
Global bond market review: Rising risks to sovereign ratings
After a challenging 2018, risks to sovereign ratings are set to intensify in 2019. According to credit ratings agency Fitch, global financial conditions are tightening, political and geopolitical fact...
UK bond market review: Choppy December for UK gilt yields
UK government bonds endured a choppy December as investor sentiment was dictated by Brexit and mounting fears of a no-deal scenario. Parliament was scheduled to hold a “meaningful vote” on Prime Minis...
Adviser-Hub 17th Dec 2018
UK equity market review: Mounting fears of a no-deal Brexit
Newsflow and investor sentiment were dominated by Brexit in December. Having managed to agree a Brexit deal with the EU in November, Prime Minister Theresa May later took the controversial decision to...
UK equity income market review: UK equity yields surged over 2018
UK equity markets continued their downward trend into December amid intensifying speculation over the possibility of a no-deal Brexit. Although the government managed to reach an agreement with the EU...
US market review: Partial shutdown for the US government
Although US equity markets hit record highs during 2018, they ended the year in negative territory, pulled down by concerns over trade tensions, rising interest rates, a partial shutdown of the federa...
Adviser-Hub 10th Dec 2018
A selection of articles, written by our expert investment writers, covering the markets looking back through November.
Adviser-Hub 7th Dec 2018
Market briefings looking back through October
Adviser-Hub 13th Nov 2018
UK equity market review: A Brexit deal remains elusive
UK share prices fell sharply during October as investors became increasingly rattled by a combination of factors, including concerns over global growth and worries over Brexit.
Adviser-Hub 9th Nov 2018
US market review: Sharp falls in US share prices
Having risen by over 25% over 2017, the Dow Jones Industrial Average Index fell during February to levels last seen at the end of November.
Adviser-Hub 23rd Oct 2018
A selection of articles have been written by our expert investment writers that cover the markets looking back through September.
Adviser-Hub 9th Oct 2018
UK equity income market review: Mining sector fuels Q2 dividend growth
The second quarter is an important one for UK equity income investors, as it accounts for one-third of total annual dividends. Underlying dividend growth rose at an annualised rate of 7.1% during the...
Adviser-Hub 14th Aug 2018
Global bond market review: Trade fears stoke bond yields
Global bond yields generally rose during July as escalating trade tensions undermined investors’ confidence. Nevertheless, despite concerns over the possible impact of the deepening trade wars, Federa...
Asia Japan markets review: Trade fears dampen confidence
July 2018 Concerns over the impact of trade wars is starting to affect confidence amongst Japanese companies, according to the Bank of Japan’s quarterly Tankan survey of business sentiment. O...
Emerging markets review: No winners in a global trade war
July 2018 During July, President Donald Trump imposed US$34 billion in tariffs on Chinese goods, prompting China to respond with US$34 billion of levies on US imports. The US announced plans to imp...
Europe market review: Junker and Trump discuss trade
As the US imposed controversial tariffs on Chinese imports – and China responded in kind – President Donald Trump met with European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker. The two parties agreed to...
Adviser-Hub 9th Aug 2018
US market review: Trade tariffs start to bite
Some US businesses have “scaled back or postponed” plans for capital spending amid mounting concern over the potential consequence of President Donald Trump’s controversial new trade tariffs. Accordin...
A selection of articles written by our expert investment writers, covering the markets looking back through July.
UK bond market review: Sterling wobbles in July
July 2008 Gilt yields rose and gilt prices fell during July amid expectations that the Bank of England (BoE) would increase its key interest rate at the Monetary Policy Committee’s (MPC&rsquo...
UK equity market review: Brexit pressure builds
July 2018 With less than eight months to go before the UK leaves the EU, the possibility of a “no-deal” Brexit became a hot topic during July. The Government was thrown into disarray ea...
A selection of articles written by our expert investment writers that cover the markets looking back through June.
Adviser-Hub 16th Jul 2018
UK equity market review: “Cards on the table”
June 2018 UK equity markets were blighted during June by Brexit, amid rising concerns over the UK’s lack of progress as the deadline moves closer. EC President Donald Tusk called on the UK to...
UK equity income market review: Brexit continues to cast a shadow
June 2018 Although escalating trade tensions dominated global investor sentiment in June, the UK also had to contend with Brexit-related issues against a backdrop of criticism over the Government&r...
UK bond market review: UK rates to rise in August?
June 2018 June proved to be another uneven month for UK government bonds. Investor sentiment was at the mercy of macroeconomic factors, from US President Donald Trump’s introduction of puniti...
Adviser-Hub 13th Jul 2018
Europe market review: ECB unlikely to raise rates before summer 2019
June 2018 Although the eurozone’s rate of inflation has moved closer to target, the ECB does not expect to tighten interest rates until “at least through the summer of 2019”. Else...
Emerging markerts review: Sino-US relations continue to sour
June 2018 June proved to be a challenging month for emerging market investors as trade tensions between the US and China continued to escalate. Following US President Donald Trump’s decision...
Asian Japan Markets Review: Trade wars cloud the outlook for exporters
June 2018 Escalating trade wars between the US and some of the world’s largest economies have raised fears that new trade tariffs could undermine the economies of major exporting nations in A...
Asian Japan markets review: Asian economies vulnerable to trade tensions
May 2018 Economic growth in Asian countries – particularly Singapore and Hong Kong – is still heavily reliant on merchandise exports, according to Moody’s Investors Service, and e...
Adviser-Hub 11th Jun 2018
Emerging markets review: Argentina raises rates to 40%
May 2018 Sentiment towards emerging markets was undermined during May by speculation that US monetary policy is likely to tighten more aggressively than previously anticipated, and by escalating co...
Europe market review: EU hit by US levies
May 2018 Trade tensions and political instability unsettled European investors during May. Markets were dealt a blow by the news that US President Donald Trump had decided, after all, to impose tar...
Global bond market review|: Political turmoil in Italy
May 2018 Having breached 3% for the first time since 2011 in April, the ten-year US Treasury Bond yield rose above 3.10% in May. As the month progressed, however, Treasury bond yields subsided, dam...
UK equity income market review: UK equity indices rise above the tension
May 2018 Despite escalating trade tensions, uncertainties over Brexit, and political instability in Italy, UK equity markets rose during May. The FTSE 100 Index increased by 2.2% and reached a new...
US market review: Escalating trade tensions
May 2018 The prospect of global trade wars moved closer during May. The US announced that it would start imposing tariffs on steel and aluminium imports from the EU, Canada and Mexico, and also on...
Adviser-Hub 8th Jun 2018
UK equity market review: Macroeconomic issues drive sentiment
May 2018 UK equity markets rose over May as a whole, but investors’ attention was absorbed by Italy’s ongoing political problems, question-marks over the UK Government’s commitmen...
UK bond market review: Gilt yields driven down by demand for safe havens
May 2018 UK gilts experienced a choppy month during May. The yield on the benchmark ten-year government bond rose above 1.55% during the middle of the month, but plummeted towards the end of May as...
Adviser-Hub 23rd May 2018
US market review: Strong beginning to the Q1 earnings season
April 2018 Strong first-quarter earnings reports provided a boost for investors who have been distracted by ongoing political developments and concerns over possible trade wars. Of the companies th...
Adviser-Hub 22nd May 2018
UK equity market review: Corporate activity dominates the FTSE 100
April 2018 UK markets in April were notable for a flurry of corporate activity that was concentrated in the FTSE 100 Index, and large companies generally outperformed their medium-sized counterpart...
UK bond market review: UK economic growth disappoints
April 2018 Mounting speculation over inflation drove up government bond yields around the world in the middle of April, and the benchmark UK gilt yield closed as high as 1.54% during April. Sterlin...
Global bond market review: 10-year Treasury bond yields breach 3%
April 2018 The ten-year US Treasury Bond yield rose above 3% for the first time since 2011 during April, stoked by mounting concerns over the outlook for inflation. The price of oil continued to cl...
Europe market review: ECB remains supportive
April 2018 During April, the ECB confirmed that it would continue with its planned programme of monthly bond purchases until the end of September, and that asset purchases would carry on beyond thi...
Adviser-Hub 21st May 2018
Emerging markets review: Oil price continues its rise
April 2018 China posted encouraging annualised economic growth of 6.8% during the first three months of the year, beating the official target of “around 6.5%”. Nevertheless, there are p...
Asian Japan markets review: Ongoing concern over trade tensions
April 2018 Confidence amongst large Japanese manufacturers deteriorated during the first quarter of 2018, according to the Bank of Japan’s (BoJ’s) quarterly Tankan survey. Meanwhile, Ja...
Asian Japan markets review: Yen spikes in March
President Trump’s proposed trade tariffs on steel and aluminium knocked investor sentiment in Asia during March, amid fears of a trade war.
Adviser-Hub 17th Apr 2018
Europe market review: Europe reacts to a possible trade war
European markets were rattled during March over the prospect of a possible trade war with the US following President Donald Trump’s decision to impose a 25% levy on steel imports and a 10% levy on alu...
UK share prices knocked by trade war concerns
In common with other major equity markets around the world, UK share prices declined during March.
Global bond market review: High demand for safe-haven assets
Government bond prices generally rose in March as investors faced the possibility of a trade war.
Emerging markets review: Looming trade war knocks sentiment
China’s relationship with the US deteriorated during March following President Donald Trump’s decision to impose a series of new tariffs intended to safeguard US interests.
Global update: Rising US protectionism knocks sentiment
Investor sentiment during March was marred by mounting levels of US protectionism.
Adviser-Hub 6th Apr 2018
Adviser-Hub 5th Apr 2018
US market review: Trump threatens trade war
March was a controversial month for the US as President Donald Trump implemented a range of measures designed to protect America’s interests
UK equity market review: Progress on Brexit transition agreement
UK share prices generally fell during March amid expectations of tightening monetary policy and concerns over rising US protectionism.
UK bond market review: Concerns over gilt supplies
UK gilt yields fell over March as a whole amid concerns over future supply as the DMO announced it would reduce gilt issuance in 2018/19 to its lowest level since 2007/2008.
UK equity market review: FTSE 100’s yield rises above 4%
The UK equity market experienced a volatile February.
Adviser-Hub 14th Mar 2018
Global bond market review: US bond yields continue to rise
Global bond investors experienced an eventful February as investors faced up to the possibility that interest rates in the US might rise sooner than anticipated.
Europe market review: Post-Brexit future of Northern Ireland remains in doubt
February 2018 European share prices generally fell in February, undermined by speculation that major central banks may be poised to tighten monetary policy more quickly than previously anticipated....
Emerging markets review: Brazil cuts interest rates again
February 2018 Emerging equity markets were not immune to the heavy declines experienced by developed share indices during February. Investors around the world were rattled by signs that the end of...
Asian Japan market review: Asian markets weakened in February
February 2018 Like many other major equity markets around the world, stock indices in Asia fell sharply during February amid speculation that US monetary policy might begin to tighten more quickly...
A selection of articles written by our expert investment writers that cover the markets looking back through February.
Adviser-Hub 9th Mar 2018
UK equity market review: UK shares joined February’s global sell-off
UK share prices dropped sharply at the beginning of February amid mounting speculation that central bank policymakers – not only in the UK, but also in the US.
UK bond market review: Gilt yields continued their rise in February
Having risen strongly during January, gilt yields continued their upward journey in February.
A selection of articles, written by our expert investment writers and cover the markets looking back through January.
Adviser-Hub 14th Feb 2018
Emerging markets review: The price of oil reaches US$70 in January
The price of oil rose to US$70 per barrel for the first time in over three years during January as OPEC members confirmed that they would continue to limit output until the end of 2018.
Asia Japan market review: The Nikkei 225 Index hits its highest level since 1991
Following the US’s rejection of the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), the remaining 11 participants have agreed to sign a trade deal in Chile in March.
Global bond yields rise sharply in January
Bond yields generally rose sharply in January as investors moved away from global fixed income, triggering speculation over the possibility of a bear market for bonds.
UK equity income market review: Stronger pound could dampen UK dividend payouts
UK equity indices fell over January as a whole, dampened by a rally in the value of the pound.
US market review: Government shutdown hampers US sentiment
A three-day shutdown of the US federal government dampened investor sentiment as politicians reached deadlock over immigration policy.
UK bond market review: Gilt yields soar in January
Despite a rally in the value of the pound, UK government bonds experienced a drop in demand during January, sending yields sharply higher.
Europe market review: The EU sets out its Brexit stall
The EU outlined its requirements for the UK during the post-Brexit transition period that will take place from March 2019 to the end of 2020.
Global update: A strong 2017 for global equity markets
December 2017 Although global equity market returns were relatively muted during December, annualised performance from leading equity indices was very strong. The US, Germany, Japan, Brazil and Ind...
Adviser-Hub 10th Jan 2018
Global update: Stable outlook for sovereigns
The outlook for sovereign creditworthiness in 2018 is generally stable, according to credit ratings agency Moody’s, underpinned by expectations that the “healthy” and “synchronised” global economic gr...
Adviser-Hub 12th Dec 2017
Oil reaches its highest level for over two years
The price of oil reached its highest level since the middle of 2015 in November, following a sudden anti-corruption purge in Saudi Arabia.
Adviser-Hub 11th Dec 2017
Asia Japan market review: Japan shrugs off fresh hostility from North Korea
Despite a fresh display of aggression from North Korea towards Japan, the share prices of large Japanese companies generally rose during November.
Adviser-Hub 5th Dec 2017
A selection of articles written by our expert investment writers, covering the markets looking back through October.
Adviser-Hub 7th Nov 2017
A selection of articles written by our expert investment writers that cover the markets looking back through August.
Adviser-Hub 28th Sep 2017
Technology provided a boost for US equity indices
Investor sentiment was impaired during August by concern over North Korea’s relationship with the international community and worries about the impact of Tropical Storm Harvey, which hammered the US G...
UK bond market review: Demand for gilts rises during August
During August, investors’ appetite for risk deteriorated, undermined by further deterioration in relations between North Korea and the rest of the world.
Global bond market review: Strong demand for highly rated government bonds
Investors’ appetite for “safe haven” assets rose during August against an increasingly unsettled global backdrop.
Emerging markets review: IMF warns on China’s credit boom
China’s credit growth continued to pose a problem in August.
Asia Japan market review: Tensions with North Korea put pressure on Asian markets
An increasingly strained relationship between North Korea and the international community culminated in North Korea’s decision to fire a ballistic missile over Japan.
US market review: The Fed is poised to pare back its balance sheet
Despite a raft of fresh problems for President Trump’s administration, US equity markets rose during July and the Dow Jones Industrial Average Index reached a new closing high at the end of the month.
Adviser-Hub 14th Aug 2017
Inflation continues to pose a problem
July 2017 UK consumer price inflation remained well above its 2% target, although it eased slightly in June. Although the unemployment rate fell to its lowest level since 1975, wage growth continue...
UK equity income market review: UK equity yields fell during July
UK equity indices generally rose during July and yields fell. Dividend payouts hit a new second-quarter record in 2017, according to Capita Asset Services, reaching a total of £33.3 billion.
Global bond market review: Bond and currency markets remain under pressure
Despite a backdrop of persistently low inflation, speculation over the likelihood of tighter monetary policy continued to put pressure on global bond and currency markets during July.
Europe market review: Economic sentiment improves in the eurozone
The European Central Bank continued to play down speculation that it is poised to begin winding down its programme of stimulus measures.
Emerging markets review: China posts stronger-than-expected economic growth
China’s economy grew by 6.9% YoY during Q2, outstripping the Chinese government’s official annual economic growth target.
Asia Japan market review: Japan’s inflation to remain below target
Although Japan’s economy appears to be strengthening in some areas, the outlook for inflation remains subdued.
A selection of articles written by our expert investment writers that cover the markets looking back through July.
UK bond market review: Gilt yields declined in July
Gilt yields fell over July as a whole, dampened by an unexpected drop in the UK’s annualised rate of inflation.
Europe market review: Observations on the French election
Observations on the French election Emmanuel Macron and Marine Le Pen have won the first round of voting in the French presidential election and will face each other in the final round on May 7. Th...
Adviser-Hub 2nd May 2017
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