I hope you had a good Christmas and New Year - I know I did.
I’ve been back in the office for the past week preparing for the year ahead, and I’m very excited about some of the new initiatives we are planning which will improve our service to you.
Unfortunately, Santa didn’t bring me a replacement crystal ball for Christmas, so I still can’t tell you what is going to happen this year with your investments. Obviously, the end of last year was a difficult time for markets, but we have seen a bit of a recovery in recent weeks.
I think it could continue to be a bit of a bumpy ride this year. If we look at what is ahead of us in the next 6 months we face:
- The finalisation of Brexit (although markets currently seem to be indicating their belief that the UK will remain in the EU rather than risk crashing out with no deal in place)
- A Federal election in Australia, plus an NSW state election.
- The release of the final report from Commissioner Hayne, and the impact this may have on (among other things) the lending policy of the banks and the flow on from this into the broader economy.
- The continued uncertainty in our major property markets.Having said that, none of these issues are unknown, meaning they have already been factored into prices in investment markets.
Having said that, none of these issues are unknown, meaning they have already been factored into prices in investment markets.
I’m also heading back to school this year. Under the new regulations that came into effect on 1 January I need to do some additional formal study so I’m going back to school to do a Masters in Financial Planning.
We are continuing with our podcast series, and are currently interviewing guests for the second series. If you know someone who would be a good fit for the show, please introduce me to them.
I look forward to working with you again over the course of the next year.
