The Lowdown on Markets to 16th June 2017   In this week’s issue   This was a week for central bank announcements and less political rhetoric. In the US the Federal Reserve Bank raised interest rates by a further quarter of a point. The Fed provides more details about the unwinding of the US$4.5 trillion […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 9th June 2017    

The Lowdown on Markets to 2nd June 2017

The Lowdown on Markets to 19th May 2017 World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue   Global markets end the week in a positive mood but some frustrations were visible. The Vix records a 23-year low and biggest one-day rise for 11 months in the same week. Wall Street recovers from a […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 21st April 2017 World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue   Geo-political events in Syria and North Korea make way for the French election Global markets adopt a cautious stance ahead of European political developments Macron and Le Pen win the first round of voting and so […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 7th April 2017 World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue   The US launches a missile attack on a Syrian airbase after Syria’s chemical attack. Russia’s president Putin condemns the US action saying Russian-US relations damaged. The US and Chinese presidents hold talks in Florida with North […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 31st March 2017 World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue Global stock markets record yet another strong quarter helped by the Trump trade. Equally the US President fails to gain sufficient support for his healthcare reforms. Over the quarter the emerging markets outperform those of the developed. […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 24th March 2017 World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue Equity markets wobble over pace of US reforms with Obamacare taking centre stage. The S&P 500 Index records its biggest one day fall since October as the Vix Index rises. Europe, Asia and the emerging markets still […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 17th March 2017 World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue   The Federal Reserve Bank raises rates by 0.25% but remains dovish on future rate hikes. In the UK the Bank of England votes to keep interest rates unchanged. In Europe the financial markets act favourably to […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 10th March 2017 World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue The global economy has started 2017 with strong momentum and conviction. In the US the latest non-farm payroll figures support the recovery within their economy. Even in Europe the ECB president, Mario Draghi, seems to have become […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 3rd March 2017 World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue Whilst global markets adopt a wary stance, Wall Street hits a new peak. President Trump addresses Congress, whilst Fed chair, Janet Yellen, talks hawkishly. So far this year the developing markets continue to out-perform those of the […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 24th February 2017 World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue   The bull market remains intact as we edge nearer to its eight year anniversary in March. Clearly, the most important thing to watch for is valuations especially in certain markets. Equally stocks still look cheaper than […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 17th February 2017 World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue   Financial markets continue to rise but a note of caution might be evident The “Trump trade” and “Trumponomics” remains the key driver to daily market moves Clearly the US economy is recovering but growth remains modest […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 10th February 2017 World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue   Global equity markets continue to react positively to Trumponomics Wall Street’s Dow Jones Industrial and Nasdaq Composite trade at all-time peaks. Investors pile into junk bonds on promises of a phenomenal announcement in US taxes. Share […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 3rd February 2017 World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue Global equity and bond markets continue to rise but maybe the “Trump trade” is fading. The Fed and the White House seem poles apart on their future strategy forecasts. Transatlantic accord between the US and Germany seems […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 27th January 2017 World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue   The US president completes his first week in the Oval office declaring his intent. Trade protectionism, immigration, Obamacare, and infrastructure are on the agenda. UK Prime Minister, Theresa May meets US President Donald Trump at the […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 20th January 2017 World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue   “America First” was the pledge given by President Trump in his inaugural speech. President Trump’s proposed policies will now try and re-shape the US and its economy. Market watchers and the media will now focus on […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 13th January 2017 World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue Global equity markets continue to rise aided by the Trump trade and the financial sector President Barack Obama makes his farewell speech to the US citizens and the world We are now on the cusp of change […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 6th January 2017 World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue Throughout 2016 global investors had to endure a roller coaster ride from the markets. UK Investors with a global asset allocation benefitted from the depreciation in sterling. Both Brexit and the US Presidential Election acted as a […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 17th December 2016 World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue Global equity markets continue to Rally from the Trump effect and the Santa Claus Rally. Wall Street records yet more highs whilst the US dollar hits a 14-year high. The FTSE 100 Index closes above 7,000 securing […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 9th December 2016 World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue   This year will be heralded as the year when populism and nationalism flexed its muscles. Unequivocally, this was a “November to remember” with a probable path of change. Wall Street continues to climb from the euphoria […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 11th November 2016 World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue Donald Trump triumphs in the US presidential election after lagging in the polls. This result reverberated around the world giving the markets a few days of volatility. We have seen two election shocks this year with Brexit […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 4th November 2016 World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue Markets suffer a “Brexit moment” as woes mount over the US presidential election. Cash levels rise as investors take a more risk adverse stance ahead of important events. A UK High Court hearing rules that parliament should […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 21st October 2016 World Markets at a Glance     In this week’s issue Divergence across central banks continues to provide markets with directional issues. In Europe the ECB gives a non-committal statement on their QE programme extension. Equally, the Federal Reserve Bank is holding back from any interest rate […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 14th October 2016 World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue Chinese economic data and US corporate earnings keep equity markets cheerful. The FTSE 100 Index continues to rally on the back of continued sterling weakness. Britain is the country of preference for overseas tourists and exporting companies. […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 7th October 2016 World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue   Sterling has another bad day at the office as woes return over comments on Brexit. The FTSE 100 Index rallies on benefits that UK earners will get from a weaker pound. UK investors seeking income get […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 30th September 2016 World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue   Global markets respond to the news about Deutsche Bank and contagion fears. Clearly worries about Germany’s biggest lender were identified by the IMF back in June. At present the banks liquidity is not an issue but […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 23rd September 2016 World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue   The Federal Reserve Bank hold interest rates at their current level but hikes are looming. The BoJ leaves interest rates unchanged but decide to tweak and cap bond purchases. Both the Fed and BoJ are watching […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 16th September 2016 World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue   Global equity and bond markets continue to react to central bank policy triggers. If the Fed raises rates in September will the markets over react creating a flash crash? Have the authorities begun to focus more […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 9th September World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue Global equity and bond markets stutter as impending monetary policies become blurred. In Europe the ECB avoid giving the markets any real forward guidance on future actions. The Federal Reserve Bank continues to ponder over the timing for […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 2nd September 2016 World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue Whilst the Fed continues to talk about raising short-term rates will that happen this year Another disappointing month for US jobs could discourage the Fed in taking any action Both global equity and bond markets continue to […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 26th August 2016 World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue   Fed chair, Janet Yellen, says there is a case for an increase in short-term interest rates. The customary caveat is that any decision would depend on further positive data. When the interest rate trigger is pulled […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 19th August 2016 World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue   Global equity markets experience a mixed week seemingly correlated to the oil pullback. The markets will now focus on Janet Yellen and the forthcoming Jackson Hole seminar. A positive surprise in the UK retail sales figures […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 12th August 2016 World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue   The Bank of England’s latest bond buying programme suffers from liquidity issues. Fears mount for the pension fund industry as gilt yields touch negative territory. Wall Street’s three leading equity market indices hit simultaneous highs. Disappointing […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 5th August 2016 World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue   Central banks continue to offer their support through additional QE and monetary policy The governor of the Bank of England delivers a stark warning followed by more stimulus In the US the latest jobs numbers shocks […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 29th July 2016 World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue The bull market remains intact but is showing some signs of fatigue. August can be an unpredictable month for markets but the trend is still your friend. The Bank of Japan latest stimulative measures disappoints the markets. […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 22nd July 2016 World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue Global equity markets are starting to show some signs of fatigue but the trend is still up. The driving force behind the markets rests with Wall Street as the S&P hits new high. The European Central Bank […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 15th July 2016 World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue Global equity markets continue to nudge higher supported by central bank policies. Better-than-expected US economic data and Chinese GDP growth figure help the cause. Low interest rates and bond yields sees demand for income intensify. Whilst sterling […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 8th July 2016 World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue Global equity markets have become very unpredictable buoyed up by central banks. Every week the capital markets continue to set new records on huge sentiment swings. The question is asked “are both global equities and bonds now […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 1st July 2016 World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue   Global equity markets continue to rally on the post Brexit vote. The FTSE 100 Index records its best weekly performance since 2011 rising by over 7.0% Bank of England Governor, Mark Carney, talks of further monetary […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 24th June 2016 World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue The British electorate votes to leave the European Union severing a 43-year membership The prime minister, David Cameron, steps down leaving others to negotiate with the EU A number of labour cabinet members resign doubting Jeremy Corbyn’s […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 17th June 2016 World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue Global investors remain cautious in the lead up to the European Referendum vote. The German 10-year benchmark bond dips into negative yield territory for the first time. Both the UK and US central banks keep interest rates […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 10th June 2016 World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue The “Brexit” polls show a notable 10 point lead over “Bremain” but are they reliable. Global equities, crude oil and industrial metal prices retreat as investors buy bonds. Government benchmark bond yields continue to fall as central […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 3rd June 2016 World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue Weaker than expected US economic data dominates last week’s stock market moves. Negative yielding global government debt has now risen to over US$10.0 trillion. Likewise there is now US$380.0 billion worth of corporate bonds with sub-zero yields. […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 20th May 2016 World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue The markets begin to focus upon a possible change in the Feds monetary policy. Likewise, the polls still echo a tight outcome from the EU referendum. In the energy market the price of crude oil continues to […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 13th May 2016 World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue Better-than-expected economic data seems to have been ignored by the equity markets so far. The global equity markets seem to be drifting and are lacking in any real direction. Money flows have seen a withdrawal out of […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 6th May 2016 World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue Global equity markets retreat to their lowest levels in the past three weeks. The latest US non-farm payroll numbers fall short and disappoint the markets. Any future US interest rate hikes are likely to be delayed until […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 29th April 2016 World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue Global equity markets suffer from corporate earnings frustrations and economic data. Whilst US corporate earnings numbers are mixed the technology sector disappoints. The latest US economic data dents investor confidence and leads to a broad sell-off. The […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 22nd April 2016 World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue US corporate earnings results disappoint the markets but the price of crude oil rises. In the currency markets the yen falls sharply on rumours of further action from the BoJ. The Federal Reserve Bank and Bank of […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 8th April 2016 World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue The global equity markets react to a rise in the crude oil price and strengthening yen. Will the Japanese authorities intervene on the back of a strengthening currency? Last months Fed policy minutes confirm that they remain […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 1st April 2016 World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue Reflecting on the quarter the global markets have experienced a V-shaped recovery. Government long dated bonds have delivered some excellent returns over the quarter. Both commodities and the emerging markets experience a turnaround in performance. The price […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 25th March 2016 World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue Stock markets appear to be range bound, even if wide, both on the up and down side. US equities and the price of crude oil move almost in perfect harmony so far this year A concern over […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 11th March 2016 World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue The European Central Bank unleashes a much bigger-than-expected fiscal package. As a result there is more QE, further interest rate cut, and incentives for bank lending. “NIRP” and “ZIRP” plus negative bond yields are becoming the new […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 4th March 2016 World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue   Global Equity markets continue to trend higher on improved sentiment. Better-than-expected US job numbers held market and investor sentiment. The markets await next week’s European Central Bank decision on further monetary policy. Commodities continue on their […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 26th February 2016 World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue Global equity markets rise for the second week on a more optimistic outlook. The crude oil price rises on supply disruptions affecting northern Iraq and Nigeria. Another important feature of the week was the meeting of G20 […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 19th February 2016 World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue Global equity markets rise on the back of an upsurge in the weekly price of crude oil. The Saudis and Russia agree output freeze but will other members accept to the terms. It would appear that the […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 12th February 2016 World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue Global equity markets end the week in a positive mood helped by banks and crude oil. The central banks look to further stimulus measures to boost global economic growth. Fed chair Janet Yellen has a grueling time […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 5th February 2016 World Markets at a Glance In this week’s issue Global equity markets continue to track the crude oil price and Chinese economic news. The US non-farm payroll numbers for January are below expectations but show promise. Are negative or ultra-low yielding government bonds signalling a global recession? […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 29th January 2016 World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue Central Banks inspire markets creating a rally and increasing risk appetite amongst investors. The US market records its worst start to a New Year ever with similar results elsewhere. In Japan the Bank of Japan cuts interest […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 22nd January 2016     World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue   Global stock markets remain volatile with many indices sliding into bear market territory. The European Central Bank helps lift the gloom with talk of additional stimulus packages. This weeks Fed Open Market Committee meeting […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 15th January World Markets at a Glance               In this week’s issue Sadly 2015 became a year of challenges for many of the global equity markets. Commodities delivered their fifth consecutive year of negative price returns. The developed markets out-performed the developing by a […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 11th December World Markets at a Glance                 In this week’s issue Global equity markets suffer from a weakening crude oil price and currency disturbance. As uncertainty returns to the market’s volatility rises in the form of the CBOE Vix Index. The price […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 4th December World Markets at a Glance             In this week’s issue Another month of positive US non-farm payroll numbers clears the way for a December hike. The European Central Bank disappoints as their latest measures fall short of expectations. The Federal Reserve Bank hints […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 27th November   World Markets at a Glance             In this week’s issue Global equity markets have difficulty building on their momentum from the previous week. China’s Shanghai Composite Index unnerves investors as it falls by 5.5 per cent. Turkey shoots down a Russian jet […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 21st November World Markets at a Glance                 In this week’s issue Another good week for global equity markets as investors accept a Fed rate hike is coming. The ECB president makes some forceful remarks regarding the prospects for additional QE. The Japanese […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 13th November World Markets at a Glance                   In this week’s issue Global equity markets suffer from another week of uncertainty about the global economy. The latest economic data from China and the US creates further doubt and indecision. Will the Fed […]

    World Markets at a Glance     In this week’s issue   The US non-farm payroll numbers surprise the markets beating consensus by a large margin. On the back of better US job numbers short-term Treasuries and the dollar hit new highs. Investors reduce their exposure to Government Bonds, Emerging Markets and Gold […]

            The Lowdown to 30th October 2015   World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue Global equity markets enjoy a relief rally as they benefit from central bank policy. The Fed leave interest rates unchanged but suggest that a rate hike is not far away. In Europe […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 23rd October World Markets at a Glance               In this week’s issue China’s central bank cuts interest rates again as their economy continues to slow. The European Central Bank threatens to take further QE action in December if deemed necessary. Both of these central […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 16th October  World Markets at a Glance               In this week’s issue Have global stock markets and Fed Fund futures begun pricing in no rate hikes this year? The US Federal Reserve Bank may have missed their opportunity to raise rates in 2015. Global […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 9th October                     In this week’s issue Global equity markets rebound on optimism reaching seven week highs. Commodity prices rally heralding a call that perhaps they are bottoming out. Even the Asian and emerging markets experience a better week recording the […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 2nd October             In this week’s issue Global equity markets record their worst quarterly period in four years. A dreadful set of US job numbers is likely to thwart any chance of any US interest rate hike. The Asian and emerging markets suffer the most […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 25th September               In this week’s issue Equities, treasury yields and the dollar rallies after Ms Yellen suggests a rate rise this year. Whilst the US economy looks strong enough for a rate hike the global economy looks less so. Figures in the US […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 18th September                  In this week’s issue The US Federal Reserve holds interest rates at their current historical all-time lows. Global events outside of the United States weigh heavily on the Feds overall decision. Other concerns that the US authorities took into account was […]

  The Lowdown on Markets to 11th September               In this week’s issue World stock markets stay in a cautious mood pending announcements from the Fed. Whilst the US labour market seems robust the outlook for inflation remains subdued. The emerging markets and commodity prices continue to suffer from […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 4th September 2015               In this week’s issue Global equity markets experience yet another disappointing and difficult week. The latest US non-farm payroll numbers disappoints but the jobless rate falls to 5.1% Will the Fed actually raise interest rates this month give the mixed […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 28th August 2015               In this week’s issue After a rather dramatic week calmer conditions return to the global equity markets. As equity markets sold off data showed that US$22 billion flowed into money market funds. In the FX market sterling fell to a […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 21st August 2015               In this week’s issue Stock markets retreat on nervousness about China’s economy, crude oil and the US dollar. In the rout the emerging markets and Asia suffer most on worries about “currency wars”. Will China devalue the yuan for a […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 14th August 2015   In this week’s issue The Greek government and their creditors agree to a third bailout of €86 billion. China surprises the markets with its biggest currency devaluation in two decades. Stocks, currencies and commodities react to the PBOC announcement of devaluation. The crude oil price dips […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 7th August 2015               In this week’s issue In the US the latest non-farm payroll numbers gives the Fed a further nudge. How good does it need to get before the Federal Reserve Bank begins to raise interest rates. The Greek stock market re-opens […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 31st July 2015

The Lowdown on Markets to 24th July 2015 World Markets at a Glance                 In this week’s issue Global equity markets trend lower as uncertainties and disappointments take their toll. A further sell-off across the board in commodities sees leading mining stocks retreat. Perceived disappointing corporate earnings and […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 17th July 2015                 In this week’s issue Global equity markets continue to react to what is happening in Greece and China. In the US and UK both central banks have indicated that rate hikes are on the horizon. In the FX market […]

World Markets at a Glance                       In this week’s issue The Greek government and its creditors continue to work on a meaningful solution. China’s stock market remains volatile with some 1400 stocks now suspended from trading. Optimism surrounding a resolution to the Greek crisis buoys […]

                World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue                               Global equity markets react nervously to events unfolding in Greece and China. Greece fails to pay back the €1.5 billion loan due to the IMF on the 30th Out flows from bond funds gain momentum as investors […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 26th June 2015             World Markets at a Glance for Private Clients   In this week’s issue   Last week’s financial markets were totally monopolised by events in Greece. It is unlikely that Greece will remain in the European Union or the euro over the long […]

            World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue Europe continues to struggle to reach an agreement with Greece Otherwise, the ECB is on track with inflation The UK continues to improve US policymakers appear to believe that interest rates should rise this year What does this mean […]

          World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue Global markets continue to show signs of nervousness over the fears surrounding Grexit. A continuation of strengthening US economic data would suggest that the Fed might tighten. The UK chancellor signals his willingness to start selling off the government stake […]

            World Markets at a Glance In this week’s issue Athens resorts to some extraordinary tactics by bundling their debt repayments for June. Whilst Greece has yet to officially default they are getting ever closer. Last month’s US non-farm payroll numbers surprise on the upside igniting talk of rate hikes. […]

  World Markets at a Glance The Lowdown on Markets to 29th May 2015           In this week’s issue Greece indicates that it will not default on its forthcoming loan repayment to the IMF. Gloomier economic news out of the United States takes its toll on global equity markets. In Asia […]

The Lowdown on Markets to 22nd May 2015             In this week’s issue Equity markets continue their march upwards but the Fed has their finger on the trigger. US treasury yields begin to factor in the first US interest rate hike for many years. The US dollar reacts to forthcoming […]

            The Lowdown on Markets to 15th May 2015 Is the recent sharp sell-off in bond markets a “bond tantrum” or something more sinister? Equally, we have now seen the Brent Crude Oil price rise by nearly 50% from the bottom. In Europe we are likely to see a continuation […]

                The Lowdown on Markets to 8th May 2015 Stock markets rally on the back of a Conservative win and goldilocks US jobs data. In the bond markets US Treasury yields fall on jobs data whilst German Bund yields rise. The Chinese central bank cuts rates for the […]

              The Lowdown on Markets to 1st May 2015 Global equity, bond, and currency markets react to signs of a slowdown in US growth. In the UK the Q1 GDP figure disappoints as we enter the week of the UK General Election. China cuts its reserve requirement ratio by […]

                    The Lowdown on Markets to 24th April 2015 Whilst equity markets remain mixed the NASDAQ composite returns to familiar territory. Understanding the “new tech world” from the “old tech world” might help. “Bad news is good news” and “good news is bad news”. Commodity markets: […]

          The Lowdown on Markets to 10th April 2015 Global equity markets trend higher as investor sentiment remains positive. Europe hits a 15-year high assisted by the ECB’s €1.1 trillion stimulus. The Nikkei in Japan hits 20,000 for the first time since the year 2000. In the FX market sterling falls […]

            The Lowdown on Markets to 3rd April 2015 Global equity markets deliver mixed performance results for the first quarter of the year. Europe and Japan out-performs the US and UK as their central bank policies decouple. A weaker than expected US jobs report spooks the markets and questions are […]

            The Lowdown on Markets to 27th March 2015 Global stock markets show some signs of quarter end jitters. Europe and Japan out-perform the US over the first 12 weeks of the year. Fed chair Jane Yellen indicates that interest rates will rise latter this year. In the forex market […]

          The Lowdown on Markets to 20th March 2015 Global equity markets rally on the dovish remarks from the US Federal Reserve Bank. The FTSE 100 Index finally pushes through the magical 7,000 barrier on positive sentiment. Likewise European bourses move higher and Japan’s Nikkei hits a new 15 year peak. […]

          The Lowdown on Markets to 13th March 2015 Global investors begin to switch their allegiance from the US to the eurozone. Wall Street suffers its third successive week of losses as anxiety mounts on rate hikes. In the forex market the US dollar continues to strengthen against the euro. The […]

          The Lowdown on Markets to 6th March 2015 In this week’s issue The global equity market bull market celebrates its six year anniversary on the 09th The ECB announces details of its long awaited sovereign bond quantitative easing package. In the US the latest non-farm payroll numbers outstrip market expectations. […]

          The Lowdown on Markets to 27th February 2015 In this week’s issue Global equity markets remain robust if not cautious as the focus shifts towards higher rates. The FTSE 100 Index records a new intraday and all-time high breaching the levels set in 1999. In Europe 10-year German bund yields […]

          The Lowdown on Markets to 20th February 2015 In this week’s issue Global equity markets around the world continue to rally higher on Greek debt deal. Greece and the eurozone cut an 11th hour deal avoiding bankruptcy and market turmoil. Markets will now focus upon this week’s two-day US Congressional […]

          The Lowdown on Markets to 13th February 2015 In this week’s issue Global equity markets continue to rise on positive news flow. A ceasefire agreement between Russia and the Ukraine helps market sentiment. Wall Street hits another record high as Germany’s Xetra Dax breaches 11,000. Treasury yields move higher on […]

            The Lowdown on Markets to 6th February 2015   In this week’s issue The recovery in the US labour market gains momentum in January with 257,000 new jobs. More than 1.0 million US jobs have been created in the past 3 months the most since 1997. In Germany bund […]

            The Lowdown on Markets to 30th January 2015   In this week’s issue Sovereign bond yields move lower with equity markets becoming more volatile. Concerns remain over Greece and their ability to finance their debt obligations. German chancellor, Angela Merkel, rules out any further Greek debt write offs. The […]

          The Lowdown on Markets to 23rd January 2015 In this week’s issue The European Central Bank unveils a €60 billion per month bond buying programme. This programme will include the purchase of both sovereign and private sector bonds. A further €1.0 trillion will be added to the ECB balance sheet […]

            The Lowdown on Markets to 16th January 2015 In this week’s issue The Swiss National Bank pulls the plug on the euro peg letting the Swiss Franc appreciate. It seems that the Swiss Franc has now become the new Deutschemark. Amazingly 6 out of the G10 members have short-dated […]

          The Lowdown on Markets to 9th January 2015 In this week’s issue A disappointing start to the year for global equity markets. Bond yields fall as investors worry about the disappointing US unemployment data. The US dollar gives up some of its recent gains clouded by uncertainty about rate hikes. […]

            The Lowdown on Markets to 2nd January 2015 In this week’s issue Government bonds outperform equities in 2014. Wrong-footing many investors. Amongst the developed equity markets Wall Street reigns supreme. Commodities remain subdued as global growth expectations disappoint. China and India benefit from government reforms and the fall in […]

              The Lowdown on Markets to 19th December 2014 In this week’s issue   The Santa Claus Rally arrives by courtesy of Federal Reserve Bank. Risk assets rally as the Fed chair, Janet Yellen, comforts the market. Arguably for many investors 2014 might have been a year of disappointment. […]

          The Lowdown on Markets to 12th December 2014 In this week’s issue The continuous fall in the price of crude oil spooks the markets and its investors.  Clearly there are serious ramifications for those that import and export crude oil. In the Eurozone there is a clear disappointment in the […]

            The Lowdown to 5th December 2014 World Markets at a Glance In this week’s issue The positive surprise in US non-farm payroll numbers supports the US economic recovery.  Understandably the Federal Reserve Bank might need to raise rates earlier than is expected. Amazingly OPEC left its production targets unchanged […]

            The Lowdown to 28th November 2014   World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue The thanksgiving celebrations followed by “Black Friday” creates a frenzy of buying. Energy stocks suffer as the crude oil price dips below US$70 a barrel. India scraps their restrictions on gold imports […]

            The Lowdown to 21st November 2014 World Markets at a Glance In this week’s issue ECB president, Mario Draghi, reiterates that they will do whatever it takes to raise inflation. In China the PBOC announce a reduction in their one year deposit and lending rates. Japans’ Prime Minister Calls […]

            The Lowdown to 14th November 2014   World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue In the US the University of Michigan Index of consumer confidence exceeds expectations. Conversely in the eurozone the latest economic data showed weakness and disappointment. At the G20 summit in Australia the […]

            The Lowdown to 7th November 2014 World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue The US unemployment rate falls from 5.9 to 5.8 per cent as October report stays positive. US corporate earnings meet expectations but with some absence of top line growth. Treasury yields fall as […]

            The Lowdown to 31st October 2014 World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue A fascinating week for equity markets as the Fed calls time on quantitative easing. Given the Fed’s shift in monetary policy the focus is now upon the first interest rate hike. In Japan […]

            The Lowdown to 24th October 2014 World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue Global equity markets regain some equilibrium whilst volatility subsides. The significance of next week’s FOMC meeting is of paramount importance to the markets. Overall the outcome of the ECB and EBA European bank […]

              The Lowdown to 17th October 2014 World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue Global equity markets suffer from a “flash crash” before returning to some normality. Clearly October has given investors a roller coaster ride as volatility picks up on uncertainty. As risk aversion returned […]

              The Lowdown to 10th October 2014   World Markets at a Glance    In this week’s issue   Some six years after the global economic meltdown and global growth is still a worry. We have now entered a further period whereby central bank policy will be crucial. We […]

          World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue Global markets become a tad jittery as investors focus upon the economic uncertainties. The ECB president Mario Draghi disheartens the market over quantitative easing stance. In the US better-than-expected US jobs data soothes market and growth concerns. In the FX […]

            The Lowdown to 26th September    World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue Markets remain perplexed against a backdrop of geo-political and economic uncertainties. UK government bonds continue to out-perform UK equity markets over the year. In the eurozone continued economic weakness points to Draghi firing […]

            The Lowdown to 19th September   World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue The US Federal Reserve Bank re-affirms their stance on interest rate policy. In the United Kingdom Scotland votes “no” for Independence. Alibaba see’s their shares close on Wall Street 38.0% higher than the […]

            The Lowdown to 12th September   World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue Some markets have become a tad weary held ransom to geo-political risks. In the United Kingdom the Scottish independence vote is too close to call.  Asian growth concerns re-emerge on a backdrop of […]

          The Lowdown to 5th September   World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue The August US jobs data disappoints the market as figures were below expectation. In Europe ECB President Mario Draghi cuts rates and pledges further monetary stimulus. And in Japan BoJ Governor Haruhiko Kuroda reiterates […]

  The Lowdown to 29th August   World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue The S&P 500 hits another record all-time high as recent US GDP figures continue to rise. In Europe we await ECB President Mario Draghi’s response to weaker euro economic data. Likewise, will the BoJ exercise further QE given […]

            The Lowdown to 15th August 2014   World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue Geo-political uncertainties still remain a real threat to global equity markets. By the same token it could be said that the global economic recovery continues to recover. In the UK the economy […]

          The Lowdown on UK Large, Mid and Small Caps   “Not all UK equity investments are the same, deciding between large, mid and small caps is a very important decision”. When constructing a portfolio, deciding upon the right balance between large, mid and small caps can make a big different  […]

              The Lowdown to 27th June 2014   World Markets at a Glance   In this week’s issue  •             Global equity markets trade lower on disappointing economic data from the US. •             Contrariwise, German inflation numbers beat forecasts. •             A demand for US Treasuries sees the yield on the […]

The Lowdown on UK Commercial Property as an asset class Welcome to our latest brief guide on investment themes. The Lowdown on UK Commercial Property deals with another asset class we utilise within clients’ portfolios.  As clients of Investment Quorum are aware, we construct investment portfolios of the main asset classes – cash, equities, fixed […]

  The Lowdown on Fund of Funds The latest in a series of short guides on investment themes and topics A fund that invests in other funds, where each fund is controlled by a different manager, is known as a Fund of Funds (FoF). Fund managers adopt this strategy because they believe that; few investment […]

The Lowdown on Fund Ratings As you would expect we take our due diligence very seriously when we conduct research on the many thousands of funds available to us when we are constructing client investment solutions.  One of the ways our investment committee is assisted in this is by utilising independent research which has been […]

Hedge Funds Welcome to the latest Lowdown which is part of a series of brief guides on investment themes and topics.  This one will deal with Hedge Funds. The original meaning of ‘hedging’ (in the context of investment) was the practice of attempting to reduce investment risk. Conversely, in today’s investment environment, hedge fund managers are […]

The Lowdown on Investment Trusts – some further thoughts Investment Trusts are listed companies that invest in other companies.  A fund manager will manage the underlying portfolio, usually on an active basis although, recently, a small number have appeared which are run on a passive basis.  Investment Trusts are described as close-ended collective investment vehicles […]

The Lowdown on Gold   Gold has retained its attraction since ancient times, and its importance to investors is probably greater today than it has ever been.  The importance and demand has never been in doubt as even in ancient times Egyptian pharaohs such as Tutankhamen were buried in grand style. When Howard Carter found […]

The Lowdown on Commodities The twentieth century has witnessed three major commodity bull markets: 1906 to 1923, 1933 to 1953 and 1968 to 1982. This current commodities bull market started at the beginning of this century as China began its industrial revolution, however, the global crisis experienced over recent years has seen the commodity markets suffer […]

World markets at a glance – The Lowdown on markets to 3rd January Whilst equity markets have begun 2014 in a fairly positive mood, sentiment can turn quickly. Further optimism about the recent economic data supports the current bullish stance. Western government bond markets suffer as bearish sentiment affects this asset class. In the FX […]

In this week’s issue once again we give you the lowdown on global markets Another week that saw most Global markets move higher on positive sentiment.              A belief that US monetary policy will stay accommodating is providing further support.       Some impressive US corporate earnings are due to cost cutting not accelerating revenues.      […]