The strength of the US economy and the AI theme are outweighing concerns about the impact of oil prices. Market psychology continues to be optimistic but there are signs of increasing pessimism. This month our interest piece is about investment opportunities in Europe – our summary of an interesting article written by Matt Reynolds, Investment Director at Capital Group (one of our Fund Managers)….

Investment returns tapered off in March following the US/Israel invasion of Iran, and our client portfolios ended with below average (but positive) returns for the year. This month we share an opinion piece from T. Rowe Price (one of our fund managers) exploring where we are in the market cycle and the five things they are watching.

Our client portfolio returns continue to be strong, but the title of standout performer for the year to 28 February has shifted from international shares to infrastructure (20% for the year and 14% over the last six months). We take a closer look at recent developments and the market outlook…

So, you're at that stage where you're planning for retirement or perhaps you’ve already traded the 9-to-5 for a bit of R&R. It's a pretty exciting time, but also one where your financial decisions matter a whole lot…

Overall out client portfolio returns continue for be steady both for the last 6 months and year led by the US share market. There is greater volatility with concerns over an AI bubble, but Federal Reserve interest rate cuts and strong corporate earnings have eased tensions…

Like the weather 2025 was an unpredictable (and somewhat worrying) year with “Liberation Day” tariffs, geopolitical tensions, and the rapid rise of AI. But investment returns have been solid. If the first few days are anything to go by, we’re in for another year of drama and surprises… “buckle up, we’re in for a hell of ride in 2026”….

Performance wise, the year to the end of Nov was a game of two halves. In the first half our client portfolio returns were subdued with negative returns from Australasian shares and infrastructure being offset by positive (albeit low) returns from international shares and fixed interest. In the second half, markets came alive with positive returns from all investment classes…

Share markets continue to climb to record highs. New Zealand, which has lagged the rest of the world, has finally got back to where it was in January 2021. Our international equity strategy continues to perform strongly…

Our portfolio returns are following a consistent pattern over the last year, 6 months, and even the last 2 months. Returns are positive in all areas (shares, infrastructure, fixed interest). International shares are consistently the stand-out performer…

It’s all action and reaction in investment markets so far this year and the US is centre stage causing consternation and uncertainty in trade and international relations. In these times of great uncertainty, we’re pleased with our investment performance…

Returns for the full year are strong despite ordinary returns over the last 6 months. This is pleasing given the uncertain market environment. International shares continue to be the standout performer with returns around the 10% mark. Prices are elevated and investor sentiment remains optimistic…

While share prices have fallen over the last few months, strong returns from fixed interest have offset a good portion of this unrealised loss. This is diversification at work as investors move out of shares into safer investments like bonds. It’s good to see that our client portfolio returns for the last year have been strong…