April 2024 Insights
It’s already April, and as we return to work after Easter, we hope you enjoyed a peaceful and relaxing holiday weekend.
Expectations of interest rate cuts later this year in Australia and the United States fuelled activity in the markets last month. The S&P/ASX 200 ended March at another all-time high. Mining shares are driving the market, with gold, iron ore, and lithium all rebounding. Gold’s rise saw it close at its highest ever, reaching US$2,230 an ounce as investors seek a safe haven from geopolitical tensions and anticipated interest rate drops.
In the US, the month was slightly less active for markets, but since the beginning of the year, the S&P500 has gained just over 10%, the Nasdaq more than 9%, and the Dow 5.6%.
The Australian dollar continues to fall, with the just-released CPI figures for February unchanged from the previous two months at 3.4%. Meanwhile, the US dollar is strengthening.
Amid a mixed bag of economic indicators, household wealth has risen for the fifth straight quarter, up by 2.8%. This increase is largely due to house price rises but share market growth has also played a part.
Retail turnover rose by 0.3% in February, thanks to the Taylor Swift phenomenon, with her sell-out concerts in Sydney and Melbourne boosting spending. Excluding Swift’s impact, spending has stagnated after the excitement of the Christmas sales.
If there’s something affecting your financial situation that you’d like to discuss, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team.
More insights
5 tips for financial success in the new year
As we welcome the new year, it’s the perfect time to reflect on our financial goals and ensure we’re on the right track. This article is not only a timely reminder for you but also a valuable guide to share with your children, friends, or anyone who doesn’t yet work with a financial adviser…
Holiday Catch-Ups? Here Are the Questions Worth Asking.
The end of the year gives us rare breathing room. Long lunches, slower days, and time with the people we don’t see often enough. In those moments, the conversations we’ve been putting off can naturally surface, and these four questions can help you start the new year feeling clear and confident…
TPD Insurance: Why it matters and what’s changing
Life can change in an instant. An unexpected illness, injury, or mental health challenge can suddenly affect your ability to work and earn an income. That’s why Total and Permanent Disability (TPD) insurance exists, to provide vital financial protection when you need...