INSIGHTS

Interest rates have increased over 4% in the past couple of years following the dramatic inflation spike in the US on 15 June 2022 (9.1%), causing cash flow pain and much uncertainty in certain areas of the market and economy affecting individuals, households and small business. However, a certain asset class has returned to significance and relevance, that is fixed interest. Fixed interest is around 10 times the size of the equity market so is meaningful, although widely misunderstood.

It is quite clear central banks are more concerned about their goals of inflationary control than the folding of some smaller US banks, Credit Suisse (now known for poor quality management) than your personal goals.

Here we are again
Does not seem long ago then
But something feels different
In what shape is this predicament

The global and domestic economic reopening remains on track as COVID-19 vaccination rates climb and containment processes improve. While rising inflation has become a concern, the spike in prices looks transitory so far. Ultimately, we still like the pandemic recovery trade that favours equities over bonds, value over growth, and non-U.S. stocks over U.S. stocks.

Superannuation is a way of putting money aside now so you can live comfortably when you are retired.

Investment planning involves buying into an asset class on the open market - cash, fixed interest, property or shares - with the expectation that the value will increase so you can sell for profit in the future. Therefore with successful investing, you are able to accumulate wealth.