In this video, Brian Parker, Head of Portfolio Specialists Group at MLC 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 improvements in Australia’s non-mining economy…
Highlights Heightened geopolitical tensions in Ukraine and the Middle East continue to dominate global equit markets. Economic growth in the US remains string, with Q2 GDP revised upwards from 4.0% to 4.2%. European data remains weak, particularly impacted by the Ukraine crisis. A slowdown in Chinese economic growth in Q2 as a result of a…
With quantitative easing set to end next month, the Fed is on track to start raising interest rates next year, most likely in the June quarter. The anticipation and then reality of this could cause some volatility in shares. · However, once it gets underway Fed tightening is likely to be gradual and history tells…
The profit reporting season that just ended was reasonably good with profit growth expectations affirmed. · While June quarter GDP growth slowed, it reflects pay back for unbelievably strong March quarter growth. Forward looking indicators point to a gradual pick-up in demand driven by a rebalancing in the economy. · The combination of improving growth…
As at March 2014, there were 528,701 SMSFs in Australia, with a total of $558,553 million worth of assets.[1]There are many compelling reasons why SMSFs are so popular — and equally persuasive reasons as to why they don’t suit everyone. The pros If you’re a keen, experienced investor, with at least $200,000 to invest —…
The Pulse 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 data Modest improvement in Australian economic data suggests lower interest rates having a positive impact Global economies…
Susan Gosling, Head of Investments at MLC, examines how well diversified funds meet real, or purchasing power-related, investment objectives. Looking back at the past we can observe periods… Download will my portfolio give me an inflation plus return article
Susan Gosling, Head of Investments at MLC, discusses ‘Inflation, uncertainty and portfolio management: protecting the real value of investors’ portfolios’ Robust investment processes recognise that the future is uncertain. We can never be sure what the future will hold. Risk is not an abstract concept… Download Inflation uncertainty and portfolio management article
Brian Parker, Head of the Portfolio Specialists Group at MLC, 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 fragile Whether Australia’s exports…
An essential part of every financial plan is having personal insurance. But it’s also important to make sure you buy it in a tax-effective way. Benefit from up-front tax concessions If you buy personal insurances such as Life and Total and Permanent Disability through a super fund, you may be able to take advantage of…