Investments

The Essential Income Fund

Four years of disappointing equity market returns have left many investors feeling anxious about their financial futures. The common narrative used to ease concern is that investing is about the long-term and that better returns are around the corner. This is all good and well pre-retirement when investors are continuously making contributions. However, it is not so simple for retired investors who need income from their investments for 20 to 30 years.

April Market Review 2019

Global markets did well on the back of a good earnings season. The S&P 500 had reached over 15% in returns by the end of April, for the year to date. Trump suggested that the sanctions against Iran’s oil production would be reinforced following May, giving oil strong gains (over 6%). The US also slapped Venezuela with oil sanctions this month, causing crude oil and Brent prices to rise as well. The IMF downgraded the world’s economic growth forecast near mid-month, resulting in a more cautious investor atmosphere, and the Federal Reserve similarly opted to keep rates the same. JPMorgan opened a surprisingly positive earnings season with strong results, but poor results from Goldman Sachs led to a 4% drop in their share price. As the month drew to a close, the NASDAQ rose to its highest point in half a year and the S&P 500 hit a new record high.

ANC are given one last chance to implement reforms, as likely election victory emerges

Better than expected start to 2019 beckons cautious optimism