Client Blog | Netwealth
Client Blog
A lot has happened in markets over the past two years, and we have received a number of questions from clients asking to put their portfolio returns into context. To do this, we have laid out the market conditions affecting different asset classes during this period and measures taken to manage the environment. We reflect on portfolio returns, before outlining key considerations behind current portfolio positioning and our outlook.
When will the Bank of England know it has done enough to curb inflation? Developments during the last week have reinforced the market’s view that the policy rate will rise from 5% to at least 6.25%. This follows data showing a further rise in wage growth and hawkish comments on curbing wage inflation from both the Governor and Chancellor.
In treating clients fairly and looking after their interests, all financial firms must go further to assess whether a service is suitable for them and their circumstances. It’s not always obvious when an individual is potentially vulnerable. And while new rules come into force this year stating that firms must do more, we think it is only right to always treat others with care.
As the end of the tax year approaches you may be thinking more about how best to fund your retirement and considering making the most of your tax-free allowances. While pensions are rightly thought of as the most effective way to build a meaningful retirement pot, the benefits of ISAs should also not be ignored in giving you more freedom for your future.
Social media fraud is increasingly an unfortunate reality of life. According to the National Fraud Intelligence Bureau, UK cybercrime in total cost over £3 billion in the year to March 2022, with more and more incidences of social media fraud.
In 2022 there were many challenges for investors and those planning ahead. To help readers make better financial decisions, we wrote about what our experience has shown us, and highlighted themes and thinking that may ease their concerns. The pieces below are among those that have been read and shared the most.
UK monetary policy leaves much to be desired – and we should examine the reasons why. The last week has seen both the US Federal Reserve and the Bank of England raise policy rates by 0.75%. There, however, the similarity ends.
Getting the right financial advice can help you stay on track to meet your wider goals in life. But under what circumstances should you seek advice – and how can you tell if you need it on an ongoing basis?
This column is not going to comment on the political problems engulfing the UK. You will be able to draw your own conclusions from that ever-changing environment. But political uncertainty is hanging over the UK outlook, although the risk-premium that was attached by the markets to UK assets in the wake of the mini-Budget has all but gone. Instead, here, the focus is on the economic and policy environment.
It’s been a tumultuous year for investors to say the least. While the reasons are many and varied, it often feels like there is little respite – a shard of good news can be swiftly pared by an alarming day for stock or bond markets. Yet while negative narratives may seem relentless, you should still address the factors that will help you achieve your long-term objectives.
Team Contributors
Gerard Lyons
Iain Barnes
Simon McConnell
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